Bosch Freestanding Dishwasher
SMS6HAI01A
Product information
$2,179
Finance Options
Long term interest-free available
Interest-free available
14 place settings
6 wash programs
HygienePlus and SpeedPerfect options
Noise level 44 dBA
Rackmatic upper basket
DosageAssist and Sensor technology
AquaStop Plus and Child lock
5 Star Water rating
4 Star Energy rating
H 845 x W 600 x D 600 mm
Manufacturer's Warranty:
2 year warranty.
There are pros and cons for both, it depends on personal choice and budget.
Most modern or minimalist kitchens have built-in cooking appliances as part of the design. They offer space-saving benefits and a sleek, seamless appearance, yet they do tend to be more expensive to both buy and repair. Plus they are permanently installed in the kitchen so can’t be relocated.
Free-standing appliances are better suited to a more traditional or industrial kitchen design. These appliances require more floor space, but are generally more affordable and easy to install. Access for repairs is simple and if you move, you can take your favourite kitchen appliances with you.
No, freestanding dishwashers are not designed to be integrated or built-in.
A freestanding dishwasher comes with a fitted, moulded front door in a white, black or stainless steel finish and offers features like anti-flood protection for added peace of mind.
The built-in dishwasher has a full-sized kitchen cabinet door attached to the front of the appliance which completely hides the machine and gives a seamless look to the kitchen. This compact dishwasher doesn’t usually have a top panel as it is not designed to be freestanding, and is manufactured to fit under the kitchen bench with adjustable racks and a child-lock feature for added safety in homes with young children.
Although the double-drawer dishwasher provides more flexibility, the choice totally depends on the household set-up and how people like to do the washing up.
A single door standard dishwasher will probably have a bit more space inside, so if there are 4 or more people in the household frequently entertaining, or baking with lots of bowls and dishes, this type of dishwasher may be more useful.
A couple or small family is better suited to the double drawer dishwasher as they might only fill and use one of the dishwasher drawers daily which is ideal for busy households. There is no rush to unload as another drawer is still available to stack. In a small kitchen where space is limited, this type of dishwasher provides options as you can choose to install a single drawer dishwasher only.
There is no easy answer as people are motivated by different things.
A brand promotion with cost-savings may prompt a purchaser to buy only that brand’s appliances. One brand may have a particular type of refrigerator, another offers certain multi-function oven or freestanding cooker with must have gas cooktop features, or there’s a type of dishwasher required to upgrade your dishwashing game, so the discerning buyer may choose to mix and match.
If opting for integrated or built-in appliances, different brand choices don't matter from a design perspective as many of the appliances will be hidden within kitchen cabinetry. With free-standing appliances, the look of different brands is more obvious particularly the stainless steel finishes or handle styles, so check these out before you buy.
Dishwashers
Buying Guide
A dishwasher can be one of the most useful and time-saving appliances in your home. However, there are so many models on the market offering different technologies, how do you find the right one to suit you, your lifestyle and your wallet? Our comprehensive dishwasher buying guide will help you make the right choice when looking for a new dishwasher.
Essential things to consider
Determine your needs
Before you start your dishwasher buying journey, take a moment to reflect on your specific needs. Think about your household size and daily routine, for example, will a compact or DishDrawer dishwasher suffice, or do you have a larger family and frequently entertain, therefore need a higher capacity? Do you need a quiet dishwasher? Do you prefer a cutlery drawer or a cutlery basket? Do you want an integrated, under-bench or freestanding dishwasher? Knowing these preferences will help you select the right features.
Budget
Dishwashers can range in price from as low as $779 to over $3,000. Establishing a clear budget for your new dishwasher will help you narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Keep in mind that while the initial cost is important, considering long-term savings from energy-efficient models and reliable dishwasher brands with robust warranties is equally crucial.
Size and capacity
When selecting a dishwasher, size and capacity are crucial factors to consider. Do my platters or pots fit in the dishwasher; are those lovely white dinner plates too big? Standard built-under or integrated dishwashers usually hold between 12-16 place settings and are on average about 600mm mm wide. A single dishdrawer which holds about 7 place settings is also around 600mm wide but the height depends on whether you have opted for a single or tall model. A compact dishwasher at 450mm wide, can deal with 10 – 12 place settings.
Energy and water efficiency
The stars on the Energy Rating Label show how efficient a particular model is compared to other models of the same size/capacity. The more stars, the more efficient it is. The kilowatt/hour rating assumes that the dishwasher is used 365 days a year – the lower this kWH, the cheaper it will be to run. Like the energy star rating, the Water Rating is measured out of six stars. The more stars a dishwasher has, the more efficiently it uses water.
Cleaning performance
At the very least, a good dishwasher has to clean and dry your dishes and glasses really well. But nowadays with advancements in technology there are lots of additional features and smarts that your dishwasher can offer to make your life even easier. Some key things to look out for are models with multiple spray arms to ensure thorough coverage, reaching every corner of the dishwasher and those equipped with sensors which detect the level of dirt on your dishes and adjust the cycle accordingly, optimising cleaning performance while conserving water and energy.
Innovative features
One thing dishwashers haven’t always got right is the ‘drying’ performance, particularly as regards plastic items. Nowadays there are models that offer special drying features designed to deal with this issue, so look at Fisher & Paykel models which offer a Dry+ Modifier feature, or Bosch models which have the Extra Dry feature. Other innovations offered by top brands include a sanitising wash which uses high temperatures to kill bacteria and germs, making it ideal for baby bottles and cutting boards, a quick wash cycle for lightly soiled dishes, or a half-load option which allows the dishwasher to run efficiently even when it’s not full.
Noise levels
Dishwasher noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). With our modern penchant for open plan living, noisy dishwashers can be a real nuisance, so look for dishwashers with noise levels between 40-50 dB. These models operate quietly and won't disrupt conversations or sleep. Most of the top dishwasher brands offer models consistently under 44dB.
Installation
The installation process varies depending on the type of dishwasher you choose. Built-under and Integrated Models will require professional installation to ensure proper setup and avoid potential issues such as leaks or incorrect connections. A portable or freestanding dishwasher can typically be set up without professional help. Ensure you have the necessary connections and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Additional Considerations
Brand Reputation
Research the reputation of the dishwasher brand for brands that are known for durability, reliability and responsive customer service and support. Read reviews to see how well the company handles issues and repairs.
Warranty
Investing in a dishwasher is a significant decision, so consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. Most dishwashers come with two-year manufacturer’s warranty covering parts and labour. However, Beko is the exception, offering a five-year warranty on all their models.
Design Aesthetics
The design of your dishwasher should complement your kitchen's aesthetic. Obviously, the integrated dishwasher will match cabinetry, but if you’re opting for an under-bench or free-standing model, common finishes include stainless steel, black, and white. Many models also come with visible or hidden control panels as well as touch controls vs traditional buttons.
Exploring different types
These are the most common dishwashers found in kitchens. Installed under the countertop, they are permanently connected to your plumbing system, requiring professional installation. Look out for models with adjustable or removable racks and fold-down tines. These features provide flexibility to accommodate larger items like pots, pans, and serving platters. Some high-end dishwashers include a third rack at the top for utensils and small items, freeing up more space in the main racks.
Built-under Dishwashers
These are the most common dishwashers found in kitchens. Installed under the countertop, they are permanently connected to your plumbing system, requiring professional installation. Look out for models with adjustable or removable racks and fold-down tines. These features provide flexibility to accommodate larger items like pots, pans, and serving platters. Some high-end dishwashers include a third rack at the top for utensils and small items, freeing up more space in the main racks.
Integrated Dishwashers
An integrated dishwasher is also a built-under dishwasher and is available in a variety of sizes and features. It comes without a front panel which allows your cabinetry to be affixed and requires professional installation. This dishwasher offers a seamless integration with your kitchen design and is of particular interest to those opting for a modern minimal look. It offers the same capacity as most standard built-under dishwashers but do look for models that have adjustable or removable racks and fold-down tines, as well as a third rack at the top for utensils and small items.
Freestanding Dishwashers
A freestanding dishwasher is ideal for small kitchens or rented spaces. Offering flexibility, these units can be moved around and connected to your kitchen tap when needed. No professional installation is usually required for a freestanding dishwasher. The top which usually lines up with most bench heights, can also be used to create additional bench top space.
Dishdrawers
The most flexible of all dishwasher options – there are single, double or even tall dishdrawers to choose from. These are either built-under or integrated and can be installed as a single unit, one double unit, two side by side or two completely separate units. These dishwashers feature pull-out drawers instead of a traditional drop-down dishwasher door, allowing for more flexible loading and the option to run smaller loads independently. Easy to load and unload these dishwashers do require professional installation.
Compact Dishwashers
Measuring around 450mm wide, these space-saving dishwashers are perfect for small kitchens or apartments. Although they have less capacity, they can hold about 8 to 10 place settings, so perfectly suitable for the needs of smaller households.
Tall models
Fisher & Paykel also have a number of ‘tall’ models to suit any kitchen configuration. These dishwashers can be freestanding, built-under, integrated or even dishdrawer and are either taller than the standard or offer height adjustments from 857 – 917mm. The dimensions are the same as standard dishwashers in terms of the width and depth, it’s the height that varies. Offering a large capacity of up to 15 place settings, this makes the tall dishwasher range ideal for families and frequent entertainers.
Additional items to consider
Sanitising Wash
This feature uses high temperatures to kill bacteria and germs, making it ideal for baby bottles, cutting boards, and other items that require extra hygiene.
Quick Wash
A shorter cycle for lightly soiled dishes, perfect for when you need clean dishes in a hurry.
Half-Load
This feature offered on some dishwashers allows you to run the dishwasher efficiently when it’s not full but you need the items to be washed.
Delay Start
Allows you to set the dishwasher to run at a later time, convenient for running it during off-peak energy hours or when you're out of the house.
Drying Features
A few models offer additional drying features which help with drying plastic – a pet peeve for families with small children who use a lot of plastic bowls and storage containers.
Kid Safe Features
Important for families with small children to prevent little hands opening dishwashers.
Knock to Pause
Fisher & Paykel have introduced a ‘Knock to Pause’ function on some of their DishDrawer dishwashers. A knock on the front panel will pause the dishwasher, which can be restarted by using the start button.
Smart Options
Many dishwashers are WiFi enabled and can link to your smartphone allowing for remote control and notifications
Tips to get the most out of your dishwasher
Proper maintenance and care will extend the lifespan of your dishwasher and ensure optimal performance:
Regular Cleaning
Filter and Spray Arms
Clean the filter and spray arms regularly to prevent clogs and maintain cleaning efficiency. Refer to your dishwasher's manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Door Seals
Wipe down the dishwasher door seals to prevent mould and mildew buildup. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent as needed.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Surfaces: When cleaning a Stainless Steel appliance, using a microfiber cloth is the best option as they do not scratch the surface. They also absorb as much water as possible. For limescale, use diluted vinegar.
Using the Right Detergent
Dishwasher-Specific Detergents
Use dishwasher detergents specifically formulated for dishwashers to avoid residue and ensure effective cleaning.
Rinse Aids
Consider using rinse aids to prevent water spots and enhance drying performance.
Run Hot Water
Pre-Run Tip
Run the hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher. This ensures the dishwasher starts with hot water, improving cleaning performance.
For many modern families, having a functional, reliable modern dishwasher is a crucial part of their daily lives. Not only does it make light work of the chore of washing and drying dirty dishes, it also saves time and hassle. However, a dishwasher is a big-ticket appliance and so the purchasing decision is one you will need to make carefully, doing your research to ensure that you get the best dishwasher model for your budget.
Bosch Freestanding Dishwasher
$2,179
Bosch Freestanding Dishwasher
$2,179