Across the board, dishwasher controls have become simpler to use. For example, Whirlpool has a One-Touch control that requires just what the name implies—pushing one button.

Although electronic controls are trendier, they are more expensive and don’t offer any particular advantages over mechanical controls. They are the easiest to set but can be slower to reset than a dial. Push buttons are also easy to set but can leave you wondering what part of the cycle you’re on if you have to reset them.

Three basic cycles are important: light, normal, and heavy. People who are brave enough to wash china and crystal in a dishwasher will want a delicate cycle. Delay start is a popular feature because it allows you to set the dishwasher to start automatically at a later time.

Stunningly simple is the preferred look. European-style models such as Creda’s do a beautiful job of integrating the control panel into the face panel. For the ultimate in clean design, check out the ASKO 1805, which has no visible controls on the front—instead, they’re located along the top edge of the door.

Finishes include stainless steel, white, black, and—with some—custom panels that match your cabinetry. In its Designer Series, ASKO, for example, offers deep rose, teal, plum, and slate blue. The company will even paint the control panel to match any color sample provided by a customer.