Exterior Finish
Dishwashers are available in white, black, slate, stainless, brushed, black stainless, and even in color. Some finishes, such as brush stainless steel, are more fingerprint-resistant than other finishes. The finish should match or complement the finishes of your existing appliances in your kitchen. Although the exterior finish is purely cosmetic, it does help unify the look and feel of your kitchen decor.
Control Panel Location
Most dishwashers feature controls mounted on the front of the door. However, control panels along the top edge of the door will be hidden when the door is closed. This option is purely cosmetic and offers a streamlined, modern look. The main downside of a hidden control panel is that you can not see how much longer the cycle is at a glance.
Tub Material
Dishwasher tubs are either stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel tubs resist stains and odors, dry out faster, and are more durable. However, they are also more expensive. Plastic tubs are just as durable but are not as stain-resistant. The exterior finish does not indicate whether the tub is stainless steel or plastic. However, the tub material does not affect cleaning performance.