THANKS to a larger internal capacity, the latest dishwasher from Siemens can wash up to 14 place settings compared with the standard 12 settings. However, it still fits in a standard 600mm wide cavity.

The freestanding machine (SN26M890GB) also features, for the first time, a ‘Vario Drawer’ – a third basket option situated at the top of the appliance, where small utensils, cups and cutlery can be neatly placed for washing.

Other highlights include a low water consumption of just 12 litres, a triple ‘A’ rating for wash, dry and energy performance, and ultra-quiet operating levels of around 46dB. Probably quieter than listening to its human counterpart complaining about doing the dishes.

Users can choose from a total of six wash programmes including ‘delicate’ and ‘intensive’ as well as five temperature settings. A special programme called ‘HydroSensor III’ has also been included, where sensors detect the level of soiling and automatically adjust the amount of water and detergent to suit the wash – ensuring none is wasted.

Users can save further water and electricity by pressing the ‘Eco Option’, which slows down the programme, or the half load button, which reduces water consumption by up to 30 per cent per wash.

The appliance is finished in fingerprint free stainless steel and features a stainless steel interior with adjustable baskets and foldable plate racks for flexible storage. A child lock and ‘HydroSafe’ anti-flood protection have also been included for peace of mind