Black and Decker 6-Place Dishwasher Review

The Black and Decker 6-Place Dishwasher is one of the most popular countertop dishwashers on the market, and for good reason. It offers a compact design, six wash programs, and a price that undercuts many competitors. But is it the right fit for your kitchen? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest assessment.

Design and Build Quality

The unit measures about 20 inches wide, 17 inches deep, and 17 inches tall, which is small enough to fit on most countertops. The exterior is made of stainless steel, giving it a modern look that matches many kitchens. The control panel is simple: a dial for selecting the cycle and a few buttons for options like start and delay. The build quality is decent for the price, though some users note that the plastic interior feels less premium than full-size dishwashers.

The door opens downward, and the interior has a single rack with fold-down tines to accommodate different dish sizes. There is also a small cutlery basket. The capacity is officially six place settings, but in practice, you can fit about four dinner plates, four bowls, and a few glasses, along with silverware. It is not designed for large pots or baking sheets.

Performance and Cleaning

In terms of cleaning, the Black and Decker performs admirably for its size. It uses a spray arm that rotates and directs water at the dishes. On the normal cycle, most everyday food residue is removed without pre-rinsing, though heavily soiled items may need a quick scrape. The heavy cycle is effective for baked-on food, but it runs long, often around three hours. The speed cycle is a nice option when you are in a hurry, but it is less thorough.

One thing to note is that the machine requires hot water from your faucet. If your water heater is set low, cleaning performance can suffer. Many users recommend running the water until it is hot before starting the cycle. The dishwasher uses about 2.1 gallons per cycle, which is less than hand washing, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Ease of Use and Installation

Setting up the dishwasher is straightforward for most people. It comes with a quick-connect adapter that attaches to your kitchen faucet. You simply screw the adapter onto the faucet, connect the hose, and plug in the unit. The drain hose can be placed over the sink edge or connected to the drain. Some users with pull-out or sprayer faucets may find the adapter incompatible, but universal adapters are available.

Operating the machine is intuitive: load the dishes, add detergent, select a cycle, and press start. There is a delay start option (up to 8 hours) and an indicator light that shows when the cycle is done. The noise level is around 52 dB, which is quieter than many full-size models, though you may still hear it in an open kitchen.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping the dishwasher clean is easy. The filter is removable and should be rinsed periodically to prevent food particles from clogging the spray arm. The interior can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Some users recommend running an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar once a month to remove mineral buildup, especially if you have hard water. There is no built-in water softener, so hard water stains may appear over time.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the overall rating is positive, there are some recurring complaints. The most common is the drying performance. Because there is no heating element or fan, dishes often come out wet, especially plastics. Many users solve this by opening the door and letting the dishes air dry, but it is an extra step.

Another issue is the capacity. If you have a family of three or more, you will likely need to run it twice a day. Also, the cycle times are longer than expected: even the normal cycle takes about two hours. Some users also report that the faucet adapter leaks if not tightened properly, so make sure to check the seal.

Comparison with Alternatives

When compared to other countertop dishwashers, the Black and Decker stands out for its balance of price and features. The hOmeLabs Compact Countertop Dishwasher offers a similar capacity but has a stainless steel tub and a better drying system, though it costs more. The SPT Countertop Dishwasher is cheaper but has fewer programs and a smaller capacity. The Farberware Countertop Dishwasher is another option, but it has a smaller interior and less consistent cleaning performance.

For those who need more capacity, a portable dishwasher on wheels might be a better choice, but it takes up more floor space. The Black and Decker is best for apartments, RVs, or small kitchens where space is at a premium.

Value and Verdict

At its price point, the Black and Decker 6-Place Dishwasher offers good value. It saves time and water compared to hand washing, and it is compact enough to fit almost anywhere. The cleaning performance is reliable for everyday loads, and the six programs give you flexibility. The main trade-offs are the small capacity, long cycle times, and weak drying. If you can live with those, it is a worthwhile investment.

For a couple or single person, this dishwasher can be a game-changer. It is also popular among RV owners and people with tiny homes. Just be prepared to adjust your expectations regarding drying and load size. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pods in this dishwasher?

Yes, you can use dishwasher pods, but they are designed for full-size machines. Because the Black and Decker uses less water, a pod may not dissolve completely. It is better to use powder or gel detergent in smaller amounts.

Does it come with a faucet adapter?

Yes, it includes a quick-connect adapter that fits most standard faucets. If your faucet is unusual, you may need to purchase an additional adapter.

How long does the delay start go up to?

The delay start can be set from 1 to 8 hours, allowing you to run the dishwasher when you are away or during off-peak hours.

Is it safe for all types of dishes?

It is safe for most dishes, but avoid putting wooden items, fine china, or hand-painted ceramics in it, as the water pressure and heat can cause damage.

Can I install it myself?

Yes, installation is DIY-friendly. It requires no plumbing changes, just a faucet connection and a power outlet. Most users can set it up in under 20 minutes.