There are so many different factors to consider when choosing the right dishwasher. So many, in fact, that it can be difficult to settle on just one. Not only do you have to think about the size, shape, and style of your new dishwasher, but also the materials and features it boasts.

One of the things you will have to carefully consider when looking for the perfect dishwasher is the material used in the central tub. The two most common tub materials are plastic and stainless steel. But which of the two is really the best option? How do you choose between the two? And which of the two will help you save the most money?

If you want to skip the guesswork and find a dishwasher that perfectly suits your needs, then you’ll want to keep reading below. Everything you need to know about dishwasher tub materials is catalogued below!

Is It Better To Have A Plastic Or Stainless Steel Dishwasher Tub?

In pretty much every way, stainless steel dishwasher tubs are better than plastic dishwasher tubs. The most important consideration that differentiates stainless steel tubs from plastic tubs are their durability. Dishwashers are constantly subjected to high temperatures from the water that splashes around inside of them. Stainless steel is better equipped to deal with these high temperatures than standard plastic. Plastic runs the risk of warping at higher temperatures.

Stainless steel dishwasher tubs are also preferred thanks to their noise absorption properties. When you run your dishwasher, the sound of water splashing around inside of the tub will naturally travel. Stainless steel is better able to keep the sound trapped inside the tub. Plastic tubs, on the other hand, tend to be 10 decibels louder. This means that they can be very disruptive. If you want to have a conversation in the same room as your dishwasher, it’s best to have one with a stainless steel tub.

Stainless steel dishwasher tubs are more durable and quieter than plastic dishwasher tubs. While they cost much more, they offer a number of essential benefits that can make them more efficient.

Finally, stainless steel tubs are simply much easier to clean. It’s in the name! When it comes time to clean your dishwasher, it will only take a quick cycle and a small scrub by hand. Plastic, on the other hand, runs the risk of being stained by dirt and grime.

Why Do Stainless Steel Dishwashers Cost More?

One thing you might notice when browsing through dishwashers is that dishwashers with stainless steel tubs usually cost a lot more than ones with plastic tubs.

Generally, this higher price tag is a result of the cost of the materials. Stainless steel costs much more than simple plastic, and needs to be shaped specifically for installation in specific dishwashers.

Luckily, stainless steel dishwasher tubs more than pay for themselves. Though you might be unwilling to fork that much money over for one, the durability of a stainless steel dishwasher helps it to last much longer.

Plastic tub dishwashers may cost much less, but they are much less durable. You’d be more likely to have to send a plastic dishwasher in for repairs than a stainless steel one. This means that you could end up spending far more on a plastic dishwasher in the long run!

Are Plastic Dishwasher Tubs Bad?

While stainless steel dishwasher tubs are preferable, this does not mean that plastic dishwasher tubs are totally awful. Plastic dishwasher tubs are great for those who may live alone and only need to use their dishwasher every now and again. To lessen the noise from a plastic tub dishwasher, the user can simply close the door to the kitchen.

Dishwashers with plastic tubs aren’t all bad! In fact, they’re a great option for those who want a simple but effective dishwasher for a small kitchen space. They cost less but use high-quality plastic to ensure a safe clean.

Plastic tub dishwashers are also much more affordable, making them a perfect option for anyone who needs a simple bare-bones dishwasher to get the job done. Despite being cheaper, plastic tub dishwashers don’t skimp on quality. They employ high-quality and durable plastic that can easily stand up to high temperatures and heavy use. The plastic is also designed to be incredibly sanitary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Better To Have A Plastic Or Stainless Steel Dishwasher Tub?

Generally, it’s best to opt for a dishwasher with a stainless steel tub. Stainless steel is far more durable and can minimise noise for a more pleasant dishwashing experience. Plastic dishwasher tubs, on the other hand, are much louder. These dishwashers are best for those who need a very basic dishwasher that can perform the most essential tasks.

Should You Put Stainless Steel In The Dishwasher?

It’s totally safe to put stainless steel kitchen utensils into the dishwasher. There are only some materials that you should not put into a dishwasher. These include thin plastics, wood, and specific metals like silver, amongst others. The reason is that these materials may melt, rust, or fall apart when subjected to water at such a high temperature.

Are Tupperware Dishwasher Safe?

Kitchen products manufactured under the Tupperware brand are commonly dishwasher safe. In fact, all products under the name are dishwasher safe and have been since September of 1979. However, a few specific products are not dishwasher safe. These will be labelled accordingly so that you don’t accidentally place them in there!

How Can You Tell If A Plastic Container Is Dishwasher Safe?

You can usually tell if a plastic container is dishwasher safe by seeing if it has been marked as reusable. Most plastic kitchen products will come with some kind of label that will let you know if the product is safe for insertion into your dishwasher. Be sure to heed this label!