Certification for Antibacterial and Sterilization of Household Dishwashers

Core Certification Content

The household dishwasher antibacterial and sterilization certification focuses on the microbial removal capability of the dishwasher and its components, with the following key dimensions:

Sterilization Performance: Based on the QB/T 5133-2023 standard, the sterilization capability of the entire dishwasher is tested. The sterilization rate must be no less than 99.99%, with a sterilization log reduction value of no less than 4.0. The test is conducted after the dishwasher completes the declared sterilization cycle, and the sterilization rate is calculated by comparing the microbial load on carriers before and after washing. The sterilization rate formula is: (average colony count of the control group minus average colony count of the test group) divided by the average colony count of the control group, multiplied by 100%. The sterilization log reduction value is the base-10 logarithm of the ratio of the average colony count of the control group to that of the test group.

Virus Removal Performance: The new version of the standard adds requirements for virus removal performance, applicable to dishwasher products that explicitly claim virus removal functionality. The testing method follows the specified test procedure in the standard to evaluate the virus removal capability of the dishwasher.

Antibacterial Performance: This involves testing antibacterial materials used in the dishwasher, including components such as the inner tub, door liner, sealing strip, buttons (switches), surface coatings of metal inner and outer shells, and spray arms. The reference bacterial strains are Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The antibacterial rate against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus must be no less than 99.0%.

Anti-Mold Performance: This involves testing the anti-mold grade of materials used in the dishwasher. The reference mold strains include six types: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, Paecilomyces variotii, Penicillium funiculosum, Aureobasidium pullulans, and Chaetomium globosum. The anti-mold grade of relevant materials must reach Grade 0 or Grade 1. Grade 0 means no mold growth, i.e., no mold observed on the tested surface after a specified anti-mold test period; Grade 1 means only a small amount of mold growth, with a minimal area ratio that does not affect the normal function or hygiene of the dishwasher.

Antiviral Performance: The new version of the standard adds requirements for antiviral performance, applicable to products that explicitly claim antiviral functionality. The testing method follows the specified test procedure in the standard.

Release of Hazardous Substances: For products applying for antibacterial certification, non-metallic materials must undergo testing for the release of hazardous substances. After immersion in water or acid, the levels of hazardous substances in the immersion liquid must meet the limit requirements specified in GB 21551.1.

Certification Mode and Unit Division

The household dishwasher antibacterial and sterilization certification typically adopts the following certification modes:

Mode 1 (Product testing plus post-certification supervision): Applicable to manufacturers holding a valid CQC-issued dishwasher safety certification. The basic certification steps include application, product testing, evaluation and approval of results, and post-certification supervision.

Mode 2 (Product testing plus initial factory inspection plus post-certification supervision): Applicable to other manufacturers. The basic certification steps include application, product testing, initial factory inspection, evaluation and approval of results, and post-certification supervision.

When applying for antibacterial certification, certification units are divided based on parameters such as the materials of each component (inner tub, door liner, sealing strip, buttons, surface coatings of metal inner and outer shells, spray arms, etc.) and the antibacterial agents, anti-mold agents used. All models with the same parameters belong to the same certification unit. When applying for sterilization certification, certification units are divided based on parameters such as control method, washing cycle, effective washing chamber volume, and sterilization method. All models with the same parameters belong to the same certification unit.

Certification Process

The household dishwasher antibacterial and sterilization certification typically consists of the following stages:

Application: The certification applicant submits an application to the certification body, fills out a product description form, and provides documents such as a business license, product manual, and safety certification (if available). The certification body reviews the application materials and, upon acceptance, sends a sample submission notice to the applicant.

Product Sampling and Testing: The certification body selects representative samples from the application unit for product testing. The number of samples required is 2 units for the main model and 1 unit for each covered model. Samples are sent to a designated testing institution for testing. For sterilization: test items include sterilization rate and release of hazardous substances. For antibacterial: test items include antibacterial rate, anti-mold grade, and release of hazardous substances.

Initial Factory Inspection (Applicable to Mode 2): The factory inspection includes an evaluation of factory quality assurance capability and product consistency. Inspectors conduct the inspection according to relevant requirements. During the factory inspection, product consistency checks are performed on the production line, including consistency of nameplate, packaging, structure, and key components with the submitted materials.

Rectification and Re-evaluation: If non-conformities are found during testing, the manufacturer must complete rectification within a specified period and resubmit samples for testing. Complete records and evidence of the rectification process must be retained.

Certification Decision and Issuance: After product testing passes and factory inspection is approved (if applicable), the certification body conducts a comprehensive evaluation, approves the certification decision, and issues the certificate. The certification is valid indefinitely.

Post-Certification Supervision: Regular supervision audits are conducted after certification to ensure the product continues to meet certification requirements. Supervision includes follow-up inspections, sample testing from the production site, and market sampling testing.

Value of Certification

Ensuring Tableware Hygiene and Safety: Through rigorous sterilization performance certification, the dishwasher can effectively remove bacteria and viruses from tableware, with a sterilization rate of no less than 99.99%, significantly outperforming manual cleaning. This is especially important for protecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children with weaker immune systems.

Enhancing Product Market Competitiveness: Certified products can display the certification mark on packaging and promotional materials, creating a differentiated advantage among similar products. Dishwashers with antibacterial and sterilization functions are more competitive in the market and can attract more consumers who prioritize health and hygiene.

Meeting Consumer Health Needs: Under the guidance of the Healthy China 2030 strategy, public demand for a healthy quality of life has significantly increased. Traditional manual cleaning methods can no longer meet the high standards for thorough cleanliness and disinfection of tableware in modern households. Certified dishwasher products provide stronger health protection for families.

Extending Product Lifespan: The use of antibacterial materials reduces bacterial growth inside the dishwasher, thereby reducing corrosion and damage to internal components and extending the dishwasher's service life.

Building Brand Trustworthiness: Through authoritative third-party certification, consumers are assured that the product's antibacterial and sterilization capabilities meet national standards, enhancing purchasing confidence and brand reputation. The results of dishwasher antibacterial tests can serve as a key selling point, increasing the product's market value and user trust.