Criterion Dishwashers Buying Guide:

Why Choose Criterion for Quality, Efficiency, and Value

When selecting a dishwasher, finding a model that combines affordability, reliability, and energy efficiency is crucial. Criterion, exclusive to Menards, is a trusted appliance brand known for offering quality products at budget-friendly prices. Criterion dishwashers deliver on performance, durability, and essential features, making them an excellent choice for households seeking a dependable appliance without the high price tag. In this guide, we’ll explore the advantages of Criterion dishwashers, their features, and how they compare to other brands on the market.

1. Overview of Criterion Dishwashers

Criterion is an exclusive Menards brand that provides a variety of home appliances, including reliable and cost-effective dishwashers. Criterion dishwashers stand out due to their competitive pricing and high-quality construction, offering a practical solution for many households. With Criterion, you can expect a blend of affordability and function, making it easy to find a dishwasher that meets your needs without compromising on quality.

2. Benefits of Choosing Criterion Dishwashers Over Other Brands

Affordable Performance

Criterion dishwashers offer performance comparable to many more expensive models from other brands. This makes them an attractive option for homeowners looking to save on upfront costs while still investing in a dependable appliance. Criterion’s affordable price point does not come at the expense of performance, as these dishwashers are designed with quality materials and durable components.

Energy Efficiency

Many Criterion dishwashers meet Energy Star standards, providing an energy-efficient option that helps reduce electricity and water usage. This energy-saving design benefits the environment and lowers monthly utility costs, making Criterion a smart choice for households seeking to reduce their environmental footprint.

Multiple Wash Cycles and Options

Criterion dishwashers come equipped with a variety of wash cycles and customizable options, allowing users to tailor the wash to different levels of dirtiness or types of dishes. With options like heavy, normal, quick wash, and eco-friendly cycles, these dishwashers can handle everything from heavily soiled pots and pans to lightly used glassware with ease.

Quiet Operation

Criterion dishwashers are designed to operate quietly, with many models featuring sound-dampening technology. This makes them suitable for open-plan kitchens or homes where noise levels are a concern, allowing you to run the dishwasher at any time without disturbing the household.

3. Key Features of Criterion Dishwashers

Stainless Steel Interiors for Durability

Criterion dishwashers often feature stainless steel interiors, which are more resistant to stains, odors, and wear over time than plastic. The stainless steel interior also contributes to quieter operation, making Criterion dishwashers a lasting investment in both quality and peace of mind.

Adjustable Racks and Loading Flexibility

Many Criterion dishwashers come with adjustable racks and foldable tines, making it easy to customize the interior layout to fit dishes, pots, pans, and larger items. This flexibility is beneficial for households that need a dishwasher to accommodate a variety of dish sizes and shapes.

Heated Drying Options

Criterion dishwashers feature heated drying options to ensure dishes come out clean and dry without water spots. Some models include a heated drying function that can be turned on or off, allowing you to save energy on loads that don’t require drying.

Convenient Control Panels

Criterion dishwashers often have user-friendly, front-facing control panels with LED indicators, making it easy to choose wash settings and track the progress of each cycle. Simple touch controls allow for quick and intuitive operation, which is particularly helpful for households with multiple users.

Sanitizing Wash Cycles

For added hygiene, some Criterion dishwasher models come with a sanitizing wash cycle that uses high temperatures to eliminate bacteria. This feature is ideal for families with young children or anyone who prioritizes ultra-clean dishes and kitchenware.

4. Popular Criterion Dishwasher Models

Criterion 24-Inch Built-In Dishwasher (Stainless Steel)

This full-size Criterion dishwasher model is a great choice for standard kitchens, offering versatile wash cycles, quiet operation, and energy-efficient performance. It provides plenty of space and an adjustable rack system, making it perfect for everyday dishwashing needs.

Criterion 18-Inch Slimline Dishwasher

Ideal for smaller kitchens or households needing a compact design, this 18-inch model provides the same efficiency and cleaning power in a smaller footprint. Despite its size, it includes essential features such as a variety of wash cycles and a stainless steel interior.

5. Criterion Dishwashers vs. Competing Brands

Competitive Pricing Without Sacrificing Quality

Compared to other brands, Criterion dishwashers are affordably priced while delivering solid performance and durability. Many other brands with similar features and specifications are often priced higher, making Criterion an excellent value for those on a budget.

Consistent Energy Efficiency

Criterion’s focus on energy efficiency and water-saving designs helps reduce monthly energy and water bills, making these dishwashers cost-effective to operate. Brands at a similar price point may not offer the same energy efficiency, which gives Criterion an advantage in long-term savings.

Convenient and Durable Design

Criterion dishwashers are built with durability in mind. The use of stainless steel interiors in many models not only contributes to quiet operation but also resists stains, smells, and scratches, which can be an issue with plastic interiors found in other budget brands.

User-Friendly Control Options

Criterion dishwashers often feature easy-to-use, intuitive control panels, which is not always the case with other affordable brands. The clear and accessible controls make Criterion a great choice for families, especially when multiple people will be using the dishwasher.

6. Choosing the Right Criterion Dishwasher for Your Needs

Consider Your Kitchen Layout and Space

Measure your available space to ensure you select the right model. If you have a smaller kitchen, Criterion’s 18-inch slimline dishwasher offers a compact solution without sacrificing essential features. For standard kitchens, a 24-inch built-in model provides full functionality with more capacity.

Think About Capacity and Loading Needs

If you frequently wash large items, look for a Criterion model with adjustable racks and foldable tines to maximize loading flexibility. For smaller households, a compact model with fewer place settings may be adequate and even more energy-efficient.

Evaluate Sound Levels

Consider the noise level if you prefer a quieter dishwasher. Criterion dishwashers often operate at 55 dBA or lower, which is ideal for open kitchen designs or homes where quiet operation is preferred.

Check for Special Features Like Sanitizing and Heated Drying

Look for Criterion models with sanitizing cycles if you prioritize hygiene, especially if you frequently wash baby bottles, cutting boards, or items that require extra sterilization. Heated drying options are also beneficial if you want spotless, dry dishes after each cycle.

7. Recommended Accessories for Criterion Dishwashers

To get the most out of your Criterion dishwasher, consider these helpful accessories available at Menards:

  • Dishwasher Cleaner and Deodorizer – Helps maintain your dishwasher’s performance and prevent odors, keeping it running smoothly over time.

  • Rinse Aid – Reduces water spots and improves drying performance, especially helpful for glassware.

  • Dishwasher Basket for Small Items – Keeps smaller items like lids and utensils secure, ensuring they stay in place and get thoroughly cleaned.

Conclusion

Criterion dishwashers offer a practical solution for households seeking an affordable, energy-efficient, and reliable dishwasher. With a variety of models, wash cycles, and user-friendly features, Criterion provides excellent value, making it an ideal choice for families, budget-conscious buyers, and anyone seeking a durable, efficient appliance. From compact slimline models to full-size dishwashers with adjustable racks, Criterion makes it easy to find a model that meets your specific kitchen and cleaning needs.

Explore the full range of Criterion dishwashers at Menards.com and find the perfect model for your home today.