Behind the tests

For our washing test, lab technician Nilda Adell applies more than 20 foods, including peanut butter, preserves, and corn flakes, to dishes in each 113-item load. After sitting overnight in the dishwasher, dishes are washed (auto or normal cycle) using a measured amount of detergent, then judged. The best dishwashers remove most of the mess; the worst leave more food on dishes.