Bosch SMV46KX14E built-in dishwasher, 60 cm, 13 place settings, class E

A capacity of 13 place settings means one load handles a whole day of dishes for several family members, or most of the tableware after a dinner with guests. When a lot fits in at once, you run the machine less often and the electricity and water use per plate goes down. A width of 60 cm is the usual size for a full-size dishwasher; slimmer models hold less.

Alongside the six programmes, the machine has a quick wash option, which helps when the dishes have to be clean fast after breakfast or before guests arrive. A quicker wash is mainly meant for lightly soiled dishes; for burnt-on pots it is better to choose a longer programme. AquaSensor monitors how cloudy the water is and helps the programme adjust wash time and water quantity to the soiling.

The noise level is 46 dB, noise class C on the A–D scale, a normal level for an everyday kitchen that still lets you hold a conversation while the machine runs. On the EU energy label scale from A to G, the SMV46KX14E is rated class E, and the Eco programme uses 94 kWh per 100 cycles. If lower electricity use matters to you, models of the same size with a higher energy class are available.

AquaStop protects the kitchen from water damage: if a leak occurs in the machine or the inlet hose, the system cuts off the water supply. For a built-in machine this matters especially, because a leak under the kitchen units could otherwise go unnoticed for a long time and damage the floor and cabinets. That makes it easier to leave the machine running when you are not in the kitchen.

The machine is 60 cm wide, 55 cm deep and 82 cm high, and weighs 35.8 kg. It is a built-in model installed between kitchen cabinets under the worktop. The controls are electronic, and this model has no display. Exact niche dimensions and the adjustment range of the feet are in the Bosch installation instructions – compare them with your kitchen before fitting.

The SMV46KX14E suits a household that needs a roomy 60 cm built-in machine without extras it would never use. Quick wash helps on hectic weekdays, AquaStop gives peace of mind, and room for 13 place settings means the machine does not have to run every day. If you need a display or lower electricity use, look at models from a higher series.