Built-In Dishwasher Bosch SHEM63W55N Review Sanitize Option and PureDry Performance

Description

Strengths of the Bosch SHEM63W55N Dishwasher

Testing the Bosch SHEM63W55N 24″ 300 Series Built In Full Console Dishwasher gave me a clear idea of why it’s a favorite for many homeowners. One standout feature is the third rack, which offers 30% more loading area compared to two-rack dishwashers. This extra space is perfect for large utensils, flatware, and measuring cups, something I found invaluable during family dinners when the kitchen gets busy. The V-shaped design of the rack cleverly leaves room for taller dishes underneath, so you don’t have to juggle what fits where.

The stainless steel tall-tub interior also impressed me. It’s not just about durability but also about hygiene and odor control. I noticed that dishes come out smelling fresh and clean, unlike some plastic interiors I’ve dealt with before. Plus, the PureDry drying system really cuts down on the need to hand dry. My wife appreciated this a lot since she’s never been a fan of extra kitchen chores.

Another strong point is the Sanitize option. This cycle goes beyond regular washing by thoroughly killing bacteria—a big plus for households with kids or anyone who takes cleanliness seriously. I was curious about the energy efficiency, and this dishwasher is Energy Star certified, which means it’s designed to save water and electricity without compromising performance. The 1.1 gallons of water consumption per cycle is impressively low, making it eco-friendly.

Drawbacks Encountered with this Model

Despite its many perks, this dishwasher isn’t without flaws. One issue I bumped into was the noise level. Although rated at 44 dB, which is generally quiet, the sound was somewhat noticeable during the delicate cycle in my open-concept kitchen. If you’re someone who prefers whisper-quiet appliances, this might be a bit distracting.

The full console controls require bending down to see and adjust, which isn’t the most ergonomic design. I found myself wishing for more easily accessible or even smart controls that could be managed remotely. Another minor gripe was the adjustable plate spike feature. While it does help with fitting oddly shaped plates, it took some trial and error to figure out the best configuration for my dishes, and sometimes the spikes didn’t stay firmly in place.

Finally, the cycle options—although varied—could be overwhelming at first. There are nine settings in total with five wash cycles and four option cycles like Half Load and Extra Dry. It’s great to have choices, but it took me a bit to understand which cycle worked best for different loads.

Versatile Loading and Capacity

I appreciated the 16 place settings capacity, which suits large families or those who host guests regularly. The adjustable racks allow for flexible loading of various dish sizes, pots, and pans. The extra third rack is a game-changer; it’s perfect for loading more flatware and small items without cluttering the main racks. This design means I can fit everything from large casserole dishes to delicate glassware in one go.

The stainless steel interior is also a big factor in longevity and cleanliness. It’s less prone to stains or odors, unlike plastic interiors I’ve seen on budget models. This dishwasher feels like it was built to last, which is important since dishwashers aren’t something you replace often.

User Experience and Practical Features

Operating this dishwasher has been fairly straightforward. The full console is intuitive after a quick read of the manual, but I found myself double-checking settings during my first few uses. The option cycles like SaniWash and Extra Dry provide extra cleaning power and effective drying, which is handy depending on what I’m washing. The Half Load option is a smart feature for smaller loads, saving water and energy.

Loading the dishwasher is comfortable thanks to the adjustable plate spikes and movable racks. However, I sometimes struggled with fitting large pots on the bottom rack while also using the third rack fully. It’s a minor inconvenience, but worth mentioning for those with bulky cookware.

Comparison to Competing Brands

Compared to other built-in dishwashers in the same category, this model stands out for its energy efficiency and loading flexibility. Brands like Whirlpool and GE offer similar capacity, but I found their drying systems less effective, often requiring extra hand drying. The PureDry system here really cut down on that hassle.

Noise-wise, some competitors like Miele and KitchenAid are quieter, but those usually come at a higher price point. Bosch’s 44 dB noise rating is a fair compromise between cost and quiet operation. The stainless steel tall tub also gives it an edge over plastic interiors from some rivals, enhancing durability and cleanliness.

One area where this model falls short is smart connectivity. Competitors like Samsung and LG offer Wi-Fi enabled dishwashers, which Bosch lacks in this range. For tech-savvy users wanting app control or notifications, this might be a dealbreaker.

Price Performance of the Dishwasher

Evaluating the cost in relation to features, I think this dishwasher offers a fair value proposition. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but its energy efficiency, capacity, and drying technology justify the investment. The sanitizing feature adds a layer of hygiene that’s often found in pricier models.

Some cheaper dishwashers may offer similar wash performance but lack the robust build quality and thoughtful design elements like the third rack or stainless steel tub. On the other hand, ultra-premium models boast extra tech features but at a significant price jump. I’d say this model sits in a comfortable middle ground where you get reliable performance and durability without breaking the bank.

Installation and Design Considerations

Fitting this built-in dishwasher was straightforward, but I had to make sure my kitchen cabinet dimensions matched the 23.75” width and 33.88” height exactly. The 67-inch cable length is generous, making installation flexible even if your power outlet is a bit farther away.

The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, complementing most kitchen decors. Fingerprints do show up a bit, so expect to wipe it down occasionally to keep it looking pristine. The full console design gives a clean look on the front, but as mentioned earlier, it means controls aren’t visible without opening the door.

Practical Use and Household Fit

This dishwasher handled everything from heavily soiled pots to delicate glassware with ease. The extra dry option meant glasses and plastics came out ready to use, which is a relief after dealing with damp dishes in other units. My kids even noticed how quietly it runs compared to our old dishwasher, though it’s not silent by any means.

Households with variable dishwashing needs will appreciate the variety of cycles and options. I’ve used the SaniWash cycle for baby bottles and cutting boards, feeling confident about the sanitization. The Half Load option saves resources during smaller cleanups, which is a nice touch for sustainability.

Key Benefits:

• Third rack providing 30% more loading space for utensils and small items
• Energy Star certified with low water consumption (1.1 gallons per cycle)
• Effective PureDry drying system reducing hand drying effort
• Sanitize option for thorough cleaning and hygiene
• Durable and hygienic stainless steel tall tub interior

Areas for Improvement:

• Noise level of 44 dB can be noticeable in quiet settings
• Full console controls require bending to operate
• Adjustable plate spikes can be fiddly and sometimes unstable
• Cycle options might be confusing initially for some users
• Lacks smart connectivity features found in some competitors

Additional information