Consumer Reports reveals best drying dishwashers

7 On Your Side's Michael Finney partnered with Consumer Reports for a look at better drying dishwashers.

Wet dishes from the dishwasher is not necessarily something you think about when buying a one. However, Consumer Reports found some dishwashers that dry better than others. "We actually rate dishwashers on how well they dry." Consumer Reports spokesperson Dan Diclerico said.

After testers loaded the dishwashers up with grimy plates and cups caked with all sorts of tough-to-clean foods, they also placed two plastic cups inside the top rack of the dishwasher. "We use plastic because it's harder to get completely dry," Diclerico said. "Manufacturers use different methods to dry dishes. Some use heating coils. Others use a fan. Others heat the water up at the end of the cycle and use the residual heat to dry dishes."

Consumer Reports found you can't tell by the drying method of which dishwasher will do the best job. Some good choices include a Kitchenaid for $1,000 that offers excellent drying and cleaning, and a Bosch Ascenta for $700. It cleans just as well as the KitchenAid and offers very good drying.

Whatever dishwasher you have, Consumer Reports recommends using a rinse aid because that will help get your dishes drier. "Rinse aid helps break the bond between the water and the dishes. Plus, it helps prevent spotting," Diclerico said.

Here are some tips that will also help get your dishes drier: When loading, place dishes so they don't touch and try using the high-heat option on your dishwasher. And as soon as the cycle is finished, open the door a crack and let the moist air escape to help with drying.

Consumer Reports is published by Consumers Union. Both Consumer Reports and Consumers Union are not-for-profit organizations that accept no advertising. Neither has any commercial relationship with any advertiser or sponsor on this site.

(All Consumer Reports Material Copyright 2014. Consumers Union of U.S. Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)