The Bosch Evolution SHE55M02UC built-in dishwasher bucks the stainless steel trend with its white finish. For those who wish to outfit their kitchens with the clean and simple appeal of white appliances, the Bosch is a sure bet. It has many of the latest convenience features we look for with built-in dishwashers, including a child lockout to keep tiny fingers from resetting the dishwasher's controls.

The Bosch Evolution has a delayed start but runs so quietly you probably won't often use this feature. It is Energy Star rated and uses waterpower to muscle off baked-on bits, yet has water-saving "sense." A wash cycle, known as "ecosense," relies on a sensor to determine if a second fresh-water rinse is needed. For example, if you've filled the Bosch with pots and pans, they are likely to require an additional rinse, and the sensor will automatically kick-in this secondary cycle.

We especially like the Bosch's special cycle that targets the top-rack only or bottom-rack only for a half-load wash. If you've ever tired of hand-scrubbing platters after a dinner party, you'll like the Bosch Evolution. It has adjustable top and bottom racks with flip-down tines. Thus, the racks can handle odd-sized dishes, platters and baking sheets. Even when we're not arranging large items in the racks, we're pleased with them. The racks effortlessly hold a host of cereal bowls, dessert plates and glasses.

Like most people who want kitchen appliances that perform, we were pleased to learn the Bosch Evolution has an internal heating chamber that ratchets up its cleaning power. As water passes through this heating chamber, it reaches up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. With this much hot water, you might expect to get a face full of steam if you open the dishwasher before it has cooled. However, like most Bosch dishwashers, the Evolution has a system to drain this condensation so it doesn't stay behind on clean dishware.

Although we are big fans of the Bosch Evolution, it's important to note that it does not have a built-in disposal to clear food particles. In addition to rinsing items before loading them into the dishwasher, homeowners should occasionally empty the dishwasher's filter. This is true not only for the Bosch, but for any dishwasher without a disposal.

We tested the white version, but the Bosch Evolution also comes in black and stainless steel. At about $900, the Bosch Evolution SHE55M02UC is a solid performer with water-saving features we appreciate.


Pros: Water-saving cycle, flip-down tines, internal heating chamber
Cons: Lacks a built-in food disposal

Warranty
1 year, full