Many people assume washing up by hand is the cheaper, greener option. In most homes, a modern dishwasher actually uses less water and often less energy, as well as saving a lot of time.

Water

A modern full-size dishwasher uses roughly 9 to 12 litres of water for a full load of 12 to 14 place settings. Washing the same amount by hand, especially with a running tap for rinsing, can easily use several times that. Even filling a bowl twice, once to wash and once to rinse, often uses more.

Energy

Most of the energy in washing up goes into heating water. Because a dishwasher uses so little water and heats it efficiently, a full load on the eco programme is usually comparable to, or cheaper than, hand washing with hot water from the boiler.

Hygiene

Dishwashers wash at temperatures far hotter than hands can tolerate and finish with a hot rinse, which is better at removing bacteria. Sponges and cloths used for hand washing can also harbour germs if they are not changed often.

Time

Loading and unloading a dishwasher takes a few minutes. Washing, rinsing and drying by hand for a family can take 20 minutes or more after every meal. Over a year, that adds up to many hours.

When hand washing still makes sense

Sharp knives, wooden boards, cast iron pans, crystal, hand-painted china and some non-stick cookware are better washed by hand. Everything else can usually go in the machine.

Getting the most efficient results

• Run the dishwasher only when it is full.
• Use the eco programme for everyday loads.
• Scrape, but do not pre-rinse, your plates.
• Keep salt and rinse aid topped up and clean the filter regularly.

Built-in or freestanding?

A built-in dishwasher hides behind a kitchen door for a seamless look, while a freestanding model is easier to install and replace. Both offer the same efficiency. Browse our built-in dishwashers and freestanding dishwashers, or visit S&D Ireland in Ormskirk.