Whirlpool

Maytag

Stop settling for basic cycles! Discover innovative dishwasher upgrades that can handle tricky loads and save you time.

The kitchen may be the heart of the home, but let&rsquo;s be honest&mdash;after a big meal, it can feel more like a crime scene. You load up the dishwasher, press a button, and hope for the best. The next morning, you&rsquo;re pulling out dishes that still have crusty spots, awkwardly placed pans that didn&rsquo;t get clean, and glassware that looks foggy. Frustrating, right?
That&rsquo;s because your dishwasher isn&rsquo;t just a set-it-and-forget-it machine&mdash;it&rsquo;s a tool that can work smarter if you know what to look for. Our experts at&nbsp;Watson's Furniture, Flooring & Appliances have the inside scoop on features that make dishwashing easier, faster, and less stressful. Because trust us, you deserve clean dishes without the hassle.
<img alt="A hand chooses wash cycles on their dishwasher." src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_appliances/Q1_2025/Appl_surprising-dishwasher-features/Appl_surprising-dishwasher-features_1.jpg" />
<h2>1. Customizable Wash Cycles for Specialized Cleaning</h2>
Let&rsquo;s face it: not every meal ends in the same mess. Some nights, you&rsquo;re loading up greasy baking pans after a lasagna masterpiece; other nights, it&rsquo;s just wine glasses and salad plates. Why should your dishwasher treat every load the same? Customizable wash cycles (delicate, tough, eco-friendly, and more!) are here to make sure you&rsquo;re not over-washing the simple stuff or under-washing the tough messes.
The best part? You don&rsquo;t have to overthink it. Many dishwashers now have an &ldquo;auto&rdquo; cycle that senses the mess and adjusts everything for you. It&rsquo;s like having a little cleaning genius built right in.
<h2>2. Adjustable or Foldable Tines for Flexible Loading</h2>
We&rsquo;ve all been there&mdash;trying to cram a giant casserole dish into the dishwasher like it&rsquo;s a game of Tetris, only to give up and wash it by hand. But adjustable tines are the unsung heroes of modern dishwashers, giving you the flexibility to load everything without frustration or water spots.
<ul>
<li>Fold them down to fit large pots, baking sheets, or mixing bowls without awkward stacking.</li>
<li>Adjust them to create more space for wine glasses, tall mugs, or oddly shaped containers.</li>
<li>Use them to prevent items from crowding together, ensuring water flows properly for a thorough clean.</li>
</ul>
And don&rsquo;t think it&rsquo;s just about big cookware. Adjustable tines can help with smaller items, too, like creating pockets for lids or utensils that usually get lost in the shuffle.
<img alt="A woman loads a half-full dishwasher." src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_appliances/Q1_2025/Appl_surprising-dishwasher-features/Appl_surprising-dishwasher-features_2.jpg" />
<h2>3. Half-Load Options for Smaller Washes</h2>
It&rsquo;s the end of the day and your dishwasher&rsquo;s only half-full. Do you let the dishes sit overnight, hoping they don&rsquo;t turn into a crusty nightmare by morning? Or do you scrub them by hand because you don&rsquo;t want to waste water? What if you didn&rsquo;t have to choose? Half-load options are here to save you from the dreaded waiting game!
This setting lets you wash a smaller load&mdash;just the top rack, the bottom, or sometimes both with reduced water and energy. It&rsquo;s perfect for when you&rsquo;ve got a few dishes after breakfast or a light dinner for two. You don&rsquo;t have to feel guilty about running a cycle because it often uses less water than a full load.
<h2>4. Steam Pre-Wash for Stubborn Stains</h2>
We&rsquo;ve all been there&mdash;scraping dried spaghetti sauce off plates or soaking a casserole dish overnight because the baked-on mess won&rsquo;t budge. But what if your dishwasher could handle that for you? Enter the steam pre-wash, your new kitchen hero.
Here&rsquo;s how it works: before the main wash cycle starts, steam softens and lifts tough, dried-on food. That means no scrubbing, soaking, or awkward pre-rinsing at the sink. The steam gently breaks down the mess, making it easier for the regular wash to do its job. Even that stubborn baked-on cheese doesn&rsquo;t stand a chance.
<img alt="A family does the dishes together at home. " src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_appliances/Q1_2025/Appl_surprising-dishwasher-features/Appl_surprising-dishwasher-features_3.jpg" />
<h2>5. Quiet Operation with Advanced Soundproofing</h2>
Remember when running the dishwasher meant turning up the TV or shouting across the kitchen? Those days are long gone. Modern dishwashers are equipped with advanced soundproofing technology that makes them whisper-quiet, so you can run a load at any time without disrupting the household.
<ul>
<li>Sound-absorbing insulation: Thick layers keep motor noise contained.</li>
<li>Vibration reduction: Minimizes rattling and hums, even when running high-power cycles.</li>
<li>Whisper-quiet motors: Designed to reduce the clunk and grind of older models.</li>
</ul>

<figure class="dsg-bg-box">
 <blockquote>
Pro Tip:
 
Check the dishwasher&rsquo;s decibel rating when upgrading. Anything under 44 dB is virtually silent&mdash;perfect for open-concept kitchens!
 </blockquote>
</figure>

<h2>Clean Dishes, No Dirty Secrets</h2>
A <a href="https://www.watsonsonline.com/catalog/dishwashers" target="_blank">dishwasher</a> should do more than just &ldquo;get the job done.&rdquo; It should save you time, energy, and a whole lot of headaches. Whether you&rsquo;re using steam to melt away stubborn stains or running a quiet cycle while the baby sleeps, these smart features are the difference between a kitchen chore and a kitchen win.
If you&rsquo;re not sure what features your current dishwasher has&mdash;or if you&rsquo;re thinking it&rsquo;s time to upgrade&mdash;our experts at&nbsp;Watson's Furniture, Flooring & Appliances are here to help. Stop by, <a href="https://www.watsonsonline.com/contacts" target="_blank">ask us your questions</a>, and explore our selection of dishwashers designed to make your life easier because, let&rsquo;s be real&mdash;life&rsquo;s too short to fight with dirty dishes.
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5 Surprising Dishwasher Features That Make Life Easier

Give neutral rooms a stylish update with simple pops of color. From accent chairs to plants, a few changes will liven up your space.

Has your living room felt more like a waiting room lately? Neutral color schemes can be calming, but too much beige, gray, or white can leave a space feeling flat and uninspired. Adding color doesn't have to mean overwhelming your room or committing to a drastic change. With the right accents and smart choices, you can wake up your space and give it personality. Our experts at&nbsp;Watson's Furniture, Flooring & Appliances have plenty of creative ideas to help you get started.
<img alt="A neutral couch with throw pillows in bright colors." src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_furniture/Q1_2025/Furn_pop-of-color-furniture/Furn_pop-of-color-furniture_1.jpg" />
<h2>1. Accent Furniture</h2>
If your room feels flat, a bold piece of accent furniture is like adding a cherry on top of plain ice cream&mdash;it's the flavor boost your space craves. You don't need to swap out your sofa or repaint the walls; just let one standout piece steal the show.
<ul>
<li>Accent chairs: Choose a vibrant color like teal, mustard, or burnt orange to create a striking focal point.</li>
<li>Ottomans or benches: For a practical yet stylish twist, choose fabric-covered options in bold patterns or jewel tones.</li>
<li>Side tables or cabinets: Choose colorful finishes or painted wood to sneak in pops of color without being overpowering.</li>
</ul>

<figure class="dsg-bg-box">
 <blockquote>
Pro Tip:
 
If you're nervous about committing to color, start with a small statement piece. Swapping out later is easy but still delivers a splash of personality.
 </blockquote>
</figure>

<h2>2. Throw Pillows and Blankets</h2>
Throw pillows and blankets are the easiest way to give your room a quick personality boost without breaking the bank. Think of them as accessories for your outfit&mdash;switch them up, mix patterns, or go bold with colors you wouldn't typically try.
<ul>
<li>Layer with patterns: Stripes, florals, or geometric designs can create a playful mix of texture and color.</li>
<li>Contrast with your base: If your sofa is neutral, go for jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue. For a gray couch, warm colors like rust or mustard can add a cozy touch.</li>
<li>Experiment seasonally: Swap out pillows and throws based on the time of year&mdash;cool blues in summer, warm oranges and reds in fall.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="A colorful rug on the floor of a neutral living room." src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_furniture/Q1_2025/Furn_pop-of-color-furniture/Furn_pop-of-color-furniture_2.jpg" />
<h2>3. Rugs or Floor Coverings</h2>
A rug isn't just something you walk on&mdash;it's the perfect way to anchor your room and introduce a burst of color from the ground up. Whether a bold pattern or a rich, solid hue, a rug can tie your space together while breaking up all those neutral tones.
<ul>
<li>Go bold with patterns: To inject life into the space, Try Moroccan-inspired designs, geometric prints, or floral patterns.</li>
<li>Layering rugs: For added depth and texture, pair a smaller, colorful rug with a neutral jute or woven rug.</li>
<li>Color coordination: Match or contrast your rug's colors with accents like pillows, throws, or artwork to create a cohesive look.</li>
</ul>

<figure class="dsg-bg-box">
 <blockquote>
Pro Tip:
 
If you have neutral furniture, opt for a rug with multicolored designs&mdash;this gives you more flexibility when adding or swapping other accents later on. 
 </blockquote>
</figure>

<h2>4. Plants and Greenery</h2>
A pop of color doesn't always have to come from fabrics or furniture&mdash;nature's got you covered! Plants are an effortless way to add a vibrant, organic touch that livens up any space. Plus, you get the bonus of cleaner air and a more calming atmosphere.
<ul>
<li>Lush greenery: Use leafy plants like ferns, monsteras, or snake plants to bring soothing green tones into the room.</li>
<li>Flowering plants: Try colorful blooms like orchids or peace lilies for an extra burst of natural color.</li>
<li>Statement planters: Let the pots do the work if your plants are already green! Choose bright ceramic planters or woven baskets with pops of color.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="A man and woman hang a colorful piece of art on the wall. " src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_furniture/Q1_2025/Furn_pop-of-color-furniture/Furn_pop-of-color-furniture_3.jpg" />
<h2>5. Wall Art or Decorative Pieces</h2>
Blank walls can make a neutral room feel cold and unfinished. Adding wall art or colorful decor is like putting up personality on display&mdash;it's an easy way to energize your space without taking up floor space.
<ul>
<li>Bold artwork: Hang large, colorful paintings, abstract prints, or photography to create a statement wall.</li>
<li>Gallery wall: Mix smaller framed pieces with different color themes for a creative, collected look.</li>
<li>Decorative accents: Use wall-mounted shelves with colorful vases, clocks, or decorative plates to subtly infuse color.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Bring Your Space to Life with Color</h2>
A splash of color can make all the difference between a bland room and a space that feels alive. The possibilities are endless, whether you choose to brighten things up with a bold <a href="https://www.watsonsonline.com/catalog/accent-tables" target="_blank">side table</a>, vibrant <a href="https://www.watsonsonline.com/catalog/wall-art" target="_blank">wall art</a>, or something else! If you're unsure where to begin, our experts at&nbsp;Watson's Furniture, Flooring & Appliances are happy to answer <a href="https://www.watsonsonline.com/contacts" target="_blank">any questions</a> to help you find the perfect pieces. Stop by and explore our selection of colorful furniture and decor options today!
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From Blah to Bold: 5 Ways to Bring Color Into a Neutral Space

Sometimes a mattress has done its due diligence and it is past time for a new one, but throwing it away just seems like a waste. Fear not! There are plenty of useful ways to dispose of that old mattress, leaving you guilt free and with plenty of space for that brand-new mattress you’ve been eyeing. 

<img alt="7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress" height="384" src="https://cdn.avbportal.com/magento-media/blog/2018/Mattress _ 7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress1.jpg?w=700" style="width: 613px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress
Sometimes a mattress has done its due diligence and it is past time for a new one, but throwing it away just seems like a waste. Fear not! There are plenty of useful ways to dispose of that old mattress, leaving you guilt free and with plenty of space for that brand-new mattress you&rsquo;ve been eyeing.
1. National Furniture Bank Association
The National Furniture Bank Association is a non-profit organization that partners with numerous furniture banks to give out pieces of furniture for little or no cost. It works through referrals from schools, churches, and other agencies to deliver pieces of furniture to those who desperately need them. There are many people who need mattresses to sleep on, and your donation would go a long way to help them out.
2. Religious Charities
Religious charities provide material necessities including food, clothes, and even your old mattress to help those in desperate need. Donations to such local charities in your community would go a long way to make their mission effective.
3. Mattress Removal Service
For a small fee, you could also use a local mattress removal service in your area. Online services typically allow you to schedule a date for pickup and receive a free quote for the cost. This is an excellent and seamless way to get rid of your used mattress. What&rsquo;s even better is some companies will also remove old furniture, electronics, appliances, and much more. And you know what that means &hellip; more room for new stuff!
<img alt="7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress" height="400" src="https://cdn.avbportal.com/magento-media/blog/2018/Mattress _ 7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress2.jpg?w=700" style="width: 600px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
4. Give to a Friend
You might know someone who is great at DIY projects, or maybe a friend that can repurpose your mattress padding into a dog bed. Check with your social circle &ndash; or even try posting on social media -- just in case anyone is need of a used mattress.
5. Donate
While recycling mattresses reduces and repurposes mattress content, donation through reuse helps the environment, while also helping others. One option is to contact local thrift stores, food pantries, or shelters. Sometimes if the company doesn&rsquo;t have a facility large enough to store items as large as a king size mattress or box spring, they might instead take your phone number and contact you when they find a new home for your bed.
<img alt="7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress" height="409" src="https://cdn.avbportal.com/magento-media/blog/2018/Mattress _ 7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress3.jpg?w=700" style="width: 614px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
6. Recycle
Mattresses are quite recyclable. Mattresses and box springs are created from materials including wood, metal, fabric, and plastic, all of which can be recycled once they are separated. The recovery rate of recyclable bed materials is over 95 percent.
7. Repurpose
Most of the materials in a mattress can be reused. Parts of the mattress including the foam padding, buttons, mattress padding, springs, fabric, and wood frames can all be repurposed. The foam padding is durable but soft, making it perfect for stuffing pillows, filling cushions, as shipping materials, or even reusing for small insulation projects. If taken off carefully and without damage, buttons can be reused for any sewing project.
If it&rsquo;s not too damaged, the actual padding at the top of the mattress can be cut, washed, and re-sewn for pet beds, kneeling pads, or small scrubbing pads. Because they&rsquo;re so durable, springs can be used in many outdoor settings. If you have a queen or king mattress, you can usually remove the fabric in one piece, and use it as a drop cloth for painting or other messy projects. Smaller pieces can be washed and used for cleaning rags or sewn into sacks for groceries or other goods.
Don&rsquo;t be afraid to get creative and make something unique and fun or donate the scrap pieces to friends who enjoy crafts and woodworking!

<img style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;" alt="7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress" src="https://cdn.avbportal.com/magento-media/blog/2018/Mattress _ 7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress1.jpg" width="205" />

Sometimes a mattress has done its due diligence and it is past time for a new one, but throwing it away just seems like a waste. Fear not! There are plenty of useful ways to dispose of that old mattress, leaving you guilt free and with plenty of space for that brand-new mattress you’ve been eyeing&hellip;

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7 Places to Donate Your Old Mattress