Best Dishwasher with Top Rack Wash Option

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Sometimes you don’t have a full load of dishes—just a handful of mugs, bowls, or glassware on the top rack. That’s where the top rack wash option comes in. This brilliant feature lets you run a fast, efficient cycle using only the upper rack, saving water, energy, and time. If you want more flexibility in your kitchen, here are the best dishwashers with a top rack wash option for every budget and lifestyle in 2024.

Quick Picks: Best Dishwashers with Top Rack Wash Feature

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Dishwasher with a Top Rack Wash Option

  • Dedicated Top Rack Wash: Make sure the model has a true top-rack only or “Zone Wash” function, not just spray arms for the upper rack.
  • Spray Arm Design: Look for dishwashers with a dedicated spray arm or nozzle for the upper rack to ensure effective cleaning.
  • Adjustable Racks: Models with adjustable or removable top racks offer more flexibility for taller glassware or mixing bowls.
  • Quiet Operation: Dishwashers under 50 dB are ideal for open kitchens and nighttime use.
  • Capacity: Consider how many place settings you need, especially if you frequently run partial loads.
  • Drying Features: Look for models with heated or auto-opening dry to avoid hand-drying plastics or delicate items.
  • Controls: Easy-to-use control panels with clear labeling make it simple to select top rack wash.
  • Warranty & Support: Choose a brand with strong customer support and at least a 1-year warranty.

Detailed Reviews: Best Dishwashers with Top Rack Wash Option (2024)

1. KitchenAid KDTE204KPS Dishwasher

  • Who It’s For: Home chefs, entertainers, and busy families who want premium cleaning and real flexibility.
  • Key Benefits:
    • True “ProWash” sensor adjusts cycle for heavy or light soil
    • Dedicated top rack wash function—run small or delicate loads only
    • FreeFlex third rack holds mugs, bowls, and long utensils
    • Ultra-quiet at 44 dB
  • Pros:
    • Top rack-only wash saves water and energy
    • Flexible loading, perfect for glassware or baby bottles
    • Stainless tub and adjustable racks
  • Cons:
    • Premium price (often $1,000+)
    • Some cycles can run long
  • Final Verdict: KitchenAid offers top cleaning, durability, and real partial-load options.
    See KitchenAid KDTE204KPS on Amazon
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2. Whirlpool WDT730PAKZ

  • Who It’s For: Budget-conscious buyers and renters who want a trusted brand and solid cleaning with less water use.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Zone Wash system for targeted upper rack cleaning
    • Soil sensor and 1-hour wash options
    • Easy, front-facing control panel
    • Energy Star certified
  • Pros:
    • Great for quick or small loads
    • Affordable (often $600–$700)
    • Reliable performance and easy to use
  • Cons:
    • Basic rack layout
    • A bit louder (51 dB) than some premium models
  • Final Verdict: Whirlpool delivers excellent value and the flexibility to run smaller, efficient cycles.
    See Whirlpool WDT730PAKZ on Amazon

3. Bosch 800 Series SHPM78Z55N

  • Who It’s For: Perfectionists, entertainers, and glassware lovers who demand the cleanest, driest results.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Flexible third rack and adjustable tines
    • CrystalDry for spot-free drying—even plastics
    • PrecisionWash sensors and extra upper spray arm
    • Upper rack only wash option
    • Ultra-quiet (42 dB)
  • Pros:
    • Excellent for small loads or just glassware
    • Industry-leading drying power
    • Flexible, ergonomic rack system
  • Cons:
    • Higher price point ($1,200+)
    • Controls are all hidden (top of door)
  • Final Verdict: Bosch is the gold standard for top rack wash flexibility and spotless drying.
    See Bosch 800 Series SHPM78Z55N on Amazon

4. GE GDT665SSNSS Dishwasher

  • Who It’s For: Large families or entertainers who need maximum rack flexibility and targeted cleaning.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Dedicated top or bottom rack wash zones
    • Adjustable racks and bottle jets
    • Steam prewash for stuck-on messes
    • Hard food disposer
    • Ultra-quiet at 46 dB
  • Pros:
    • Can run top, bottom, or both racks only
    • Great for bottles and baby gear
    • Spacious and easy to load
  • Cons:
    • Some cycles are lengthy
    • Price often around $900–$1,000
  • Final Verdict: GE’s Zone Wash offers the most customizable rack cleaning—perfect for busy homes.
    See GE GDT665SSNSS on Amazon
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5. LG LDT7808SS Dishwasher

  • Who It’s For: Modern kitchens and tech-forward buyers wanting quiet, efficient top-rack-only cycles.
  • Key Benefits:
    • QuadWash multi-arm spray covers every corner
    • TrueSteam sanitizes and dries dishes
    • Top or bottom rack wash option
    • Flexible 3rd rack
    • Ultra-quiet (42 dB)
  • Pros:
    • Superb cleaning for glassware and mugs
    • High-capacity and easy to load
    • Energy and water efficient
  • Cons:
    • High-tech controls may have a learning curve
    • Premium price ($1,200+)
  • Final Verdict: LG gives you advanced cleaning and partial load flexibility in a sleek package.
    See LG LDT7808SS on Amazon

6. Maytag MDB8959SKZ Dishwasher

  • Who It’s For: Households that want muscle, reliability, and the ability to save water with smaller loads.
  • Key Benefits:
    • Dual PowerFiltration system for stubborn messes
    • Top rack or bottom rack wash options
    • Adjustable racks, strong heated dry
    • 50 dB operation—quiet for the price
  • Pros:
    • Excellent for running just a half load
    • Durable stainless tub and racks
    • Affordable for a feature-rich model (often $800–$900)
  • Cons:
    • Not as quiet as the most premium brands
    • Simple front controls (no hidden top panel)
  • Final Verdict: Maytag offers true American reliability with flexible top-rack cycles.
    See Maytag MDB8959SKZ on Amazon

Comparison Table: Best Dishwashers with Top Rack Wash Option

Name Top Rack Wash Noise Level Capacity Key Features Price
KitchenAid KDTE204KPS Yes 44 dB 16 FreeFlex rack, ProWash sensor, stainless tub View
Whirlpool WDT730PAKZ Yes 51 dB 15 Zone Wash, soil sensor, 1-hr wash View
Bosch 800 SHPM78Z55N Yes 42 dB 16 CrystalDry, PrecisionWash, 3rd rack View
GE GDT665SSNSS Yes 46 dB 16 Bottle jets, steam, hard food disposer View
LG LDT7808SS Yes 42 dB 15 QuadWash, TrueSteam, flexible racks View
Maytag MDB8959SKZ Yes 50 dB 15 Dual PowerFiltration, adjustable racks View
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FAQs: Top Rack Wash Dishwashers

  • How does the top rack wash option work?
    The dishwasher uses targeted spray arms and only runs water through the upper rack—saving water, energy, and time for small loads.
  • Will I get the same cleaning power as a full cycle?
    Yes, as long as you don’t overload the top rack. Perfect for glassware, mugs, and small plates.
  • Is it okay to run just the top rack daily?
    Yes! These dishwashers are designed for frequent small loads, making life easier for singles, couples, or busy families.
  • Do all premium dishwashers offer top rack wash?
    No—double-check before buying, as only select models feature dedicated upper rack or “zone wash” cycles.
  • Does top rack wash work for delicate items?
    Absolutely. This feature is excellent for baby bottles, wine glasses, or anything you want extra protection for.

Conclusion: Save Time, Water, and Effort—One Rack at a Time

Choosing a dishwasher with a top rack wash option adds real flexibility to your kitchen routine. Run a quick cycle for cups, glassware, or small plates without waiting for a full load—saving water

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