Searching for a dishwasher with built-in humidifier or steam features? While there’s no true “humidifier” in any modern dishwasher, some advanced models use **steam cleaning** and steam-assist functions that provide similar benefits—gentle, high-temperature steam loosens tough food, reduces water spots, and is excellent for sanitising dishes. This makes steam-equipped dishwashers perfect for cleaning baby bottles, glassware, or removing baked-on messes without harsh scrubbing. Here’s your guide to the best dishwashers with steam or humidifying features for 2025.
Quick Picks: Best Dishwashers with Steam or “Humidifier” Features
- LG QuadWash TrueSteam Series – View Price
Best Overall: TrueSteam cycles use pure steam for better hygiene, less water spotting, and sparkling glassware. - Bosch Serie 8 with Extra Clean & HygienePlus – View Price
Best for Hygiene: HygienePlus uses steam-like hot rinses, while “Extra Clean Zone” targets heavily soiled items. - Samsung WaterWall & AutoRelease Dishwashers – View Price
Best for Auto Steam & Drying: Steam cycles and AutoRelease drying reduce water spots and improve sanitation. - Whirlpool PowerClean Pro – View Price
Best Value: PowerClean and steam options for deep cleaning stubborn messes and enhanced hygiene.
Why Steam (or “Humidifying”) Matters in a Dishwasher
- Better stain removal: Steam loosens tough food, making pre-rinsing almost unnecessary.
- Reduces water spots: Humid, high-temp rinses help glassware dry sparkling clean.
- Gentler on dishes: Safer for plastics, baby bottles, and delicate glassware than scalding hot water alone.
- Superior sanitation: Steam cycles kill more germs—ideal for allergy-prone households or young children.
- Less detergent needed: The power of steam means you often use less detergent and rinse aid per cycle.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing a Dishwasher with Steam/Humidifier Functions
- Dedicated steam/TrueSteam cycle: Look for models specifically advertising steam cleaning, not just “hot” cycles.
- Auto Dry or Hygiene settings: Some dishwashers use residual humidity or steam for superior drying and sanitisation.
- Flexible racks: Adjustable for glassware, bottles, or baby items to maximise the benefit of steam cycles.
- High-temp rinse: For best hygiene, pick models with >70°C rinse or “sanitise” options.
- Brand reputation: LG, Bosch, Samsung, and Whirlpool lead in steam/hygiene features.
Detailed Reviews: Best Dishwashers with Steam/Humidifier Technology
LG QuadWash TrueSteam Series
Who it’s for: Households wanting spotless glassware, sanitized baby items, and fewer water spots—plus easy maintenance.
- Key Benefits:
- TrueSteam delivers pure, high-temp steam at the start and end of cycles.
- QuadWash four-arm system ensures steam reaches every corner.
- Helps reduce water marks on glass, and is ideal for allergy-prone families.
- Multiple steam and hygiene programs, including Turbo and Gentle.
- Pros:
- Noticeably better glassware shine and hygiene.
- Great for baby bottles, plasticware, and tough baked-on food.
- Cons:
- Slightly higher price, but the best for steam/humidifier performance.
- Final Verdict: The best all-round “humidifier”/steam dishwasher—great for families, glassware, and health-focused homes.
Bosch Serie 8 with Extra Clean & HygienePlus
Who it’s for: Anyone who values top hygiene, sparkling results, and needs a boost for tough messes or allergies.
- Key Benefits:
- HygienePlus uses ultra-hot, steam-like final rinses for sanitation.
- Extra Clean Zone with three rotating spray arms for stuck-on food.
- Flexible racks and large capacity (15 settings).
- Eco and Express cycles with HygienePlus as an option.
- Pros:
- Very quiet, energy efficient, and powerful hygiene options.
- Superb for allergy-sensitive homes or baby care.
- Cons:
- Doesn’t have visible steam like LG, but offers true steam-effect hygiene.
- Final Verdict: The hygiene king—ideal for sanitizing and perfect glassware drying.
Samsung WaterWall & AutoRelease Dishwashers
Who it’s for: Modern homes wanting fast, hygienic, and ultra-dry results—with a focus on family health.
- Key Benefits:
- Steam Clean cycles kill germs and loosen grime.
- AutoRelease opens the door at the end—using humid air for faster drying.
- Zone Booster for extra-heavy-duty messes.
- Flexible racks, quiet, and highly efficient.
- Pros:
- Extra drying and fewer water marks.
- Great for households with allergies or kids.
- Cons:
- Not available in all regions—double-check availability.
- Final Verdict: The most “high-tech” steam option for fast, healthy drying and cleaning.
Whirlpool PowerClean Pro
Who it’s for: Those needing a value-packed machine with steam and deep-clean cycles for tough family messes.
- Key Benefits:
- Steam and PowerClean cycles for sanitising and stubborn food.
- Eco options and rapid wash cycles for daily use.
- Adjustable racks for flexible loading.
- Affordable for a steam-featured dishwasher.
- Pros:
- Best value for families wanting a hygiene boost.
- Easy to use and reliable.
- Cons:
- Not as advanced as LG or Bosch in steam, but very effective for the price.
- Final Verdict: A strong budget choice for steam/humidifier cleaning.
Comparison Table: Best Dishwashers with Steam/Humidifier
| Model | Steam Feature | Capacity | Key Programs | Smart? | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG QuadWash TrueSteam | TrueSteam | 14–15 place | Steam, Turbo, Gentle, Hygiene | Yes (select models) | See Price |
| Bosch Serie 8 | HygienePlus, Extra Clean | 15 place | Hygiene, Intensive, Glass | Yes | See Price |
| Samsung WaterWall | Steam, AutoRelease Dry | 14–15 place | Steam Clean, Zone Booster | Yes | See Price |
| Whirlpool PowerClean Pro | Steam, PowerClean | 14 place | Steam, Intensive, Eco | No | See Price |
FAQ Section
Are steam dishwashers safer for baby bottles and plastics?
Yes—steam cycles sanitize bottles and plastics gently, reducing the risk of leftover detergent and water spots.
Is steam the same as a humidifier in dishwashers?
Not exactly—steam cycles create high-humidity environments for cleaning, which is the closest to a “humidifier” feature available in modern dishwashers.
Can steam dishwashers remove baked-on food?
Absolutely—steam and power wash cycles are specifically designed for burnt-on or dried food residue.
Do all brands offer steam features?
No—LG, Bosch, Samsung, and Whirlpool are leaders. Not all budget models offer true steam or high-temp sanitizing.
Conclusion & Call to Action
If you want the ultimate in hygiene, glassware shine, and easy cleaning for baby items or tough messes, a dishwasher with steam or “humidifier” features is the smart upgrade. LG, Bosch, Samsung, and Whirlpool all offer strong options for every budget. See today’s steam dishwasher deals and enjoy a sparkling, healthier kitchen!