If you've lived
without one for any length of time, you know what a pleasure a 
dishwasher
can be. Dishwashers are typically installed as built-in appliances
adjacent to the main sink.
Sound ratings vary, but today's dishwashers are quieter than their ancestors. Typically, the European models are quietest, but they're also the most costly. As with other appliances, you can get door panels to match your cabinets for a real hidden look. Even base-priced models have a reversible front panel that gives you the option of a black or white surface.
While you're planning your kitchen, make sure the open door of your dishwasher won't block nearby cabinet and appliance doors or bang into things opposite it. You can also try installing it 6 to 12 inches above the floor to make loading and unloading easier.
When it comes to construction and maintenance, smooth, sealed-panel controls are easier to wipe off than push buttons. And plastic and stainless-steel interiors are more durable than enameled steel.
Lower-priced models include a black or white front panel and use 7 to 9 gallons of water per cycle. They're basic, but they get the job done. Medium-priced dishwashers afford quieter operation, adjustable racks, stainless steel interiors, and stainless exteriors or the ability to accept cabinet front panels. Go for the high-budget washer and you'll get the quietest European models. They use only 5 gallons of water per cycle, have no exposed coil at the bottom to melt plastic dishware, and have a leak-proof catch basin built into the base.
Garbage disposers can provide a handy way to eliminate most food waste. But if you're considering one, you should do two things. First, check your local codes to verify if you can use one. Second, if you have a septic system, consult with your plumber about the need for increased capacity or more frequent cleaning.
Inside, most disposers work essentially the same way, but there are a few details to look for. You'll pay more for higher horsepower but get fewer clogs, faster grinding, lower noise, and longer life. Look for stainless steel or cast nickel grinding components in the better models. Galvanized steel components are not as rust resistant over time. Look for a model with an automatic reversing switch to clear inevitable jams.
Stainless steel sinks will amplify disposer noise, so get a heavier, 1 horsepower disposer to dampen the racket. And always resist the urge to run hot water with your disposer. Cold water hardens fat, then grinds and moves it away with other waste so it won't cling to pipes.
- Continuous feed disposers are the most common. They have a rubber splatter guard to keep the food waste down where it belongs during operation. You turn the disposer on with a wall switch while the water runs.
- Batch feed units have a plastic cover as a safety measure. You insert the cover in the drain opening to start and stop the disposer. Use these if you can't mount a wall switch.
Costs will vary based on horsepower and warranty. The lowest investment will afford a 1/2 horsepower unit with a one to two year warranty. These disposers won't handle items like raw broccoli stems. Mid-range pricing will get you a 3/4 horsepower unit with a five year warranty, stainless steel guts, and an auto reverse mechanism. Go top-of-the-line and you'll get 1 horsepower, a seven year warranty, stainless steel guts, and an auto reverse.
If your second trash can is always overflowing at week's end and you already recycle what you can, you may want to consider a trash compactor. It could reduce your kitchen garbage to about a quarter its uncompressed size and bring you back down to one garbage can. Otherwise, it's better to reduce, reuse, and recycle—and keep the cabinet space.
Compactors come in 12, 15, and 18 inches wide sizes. You can open most models with a toe latch even when your hands are full. The unit may have a charcoal filter system or use a deodorizer to minimize odor. (But it's still wise to rinse all containers before putting them in the trash.)
On a medium budget, you'll be able to find a compactor with a white or black finish. Bigger spenders will be able to afford a stainless exterior.