If you’re looking for the best portable dishwashers for small apartments, I recommend models like the COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher, EUHOMY, NOVETE, and Midea that save space while offering multiple wash programs. Many of these units feature built-in water tanks, are lightweight, and connect easily to faucets. Some come with wheels for mobility, making setup hassle-free. To find the perfect fit for your space and needs, keep exploring these top options—you’ll discover more smart solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Compact sizes (around 16-18 inches) fit easily on countertops or small spaces, ideal for small apartments.
- Many models feature built-in water tanks or faucet hookups for flexible, installation-free use.
- Lightweight and portable designs with wheels or handles enable easy relocation and storage.
- Multiple wash programs and efficient cycles save time while maintaining cleaning performance.
- Space-saving features like integrated water tanks and slim profiles maximize capacity in limited areas.
COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher, Portable Dish Washer with 6 Settings
If you’re living in a small apartment or dorm and need an efficient way to keep your dishes clean without sacrificing space, the COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher is an excellent choice. It’s compact, measuring just 17.2 inches high, 21.6 inches wide, and 19.7 inches deep, fitting easily on a countertop or inside a cupboard. With six versatile settings, including Heavy, ECO, Glass, and Baby-Care, it handles up to 70 pieces of tableware, even plates up to 10 inches. Its energy-efficient design uses only 2.77 gallons of water per cycle, making it perfect for small households or tight spaces.
Best For: small households, dorm residents, or anyone with limited space seeking an efficient, compact dishwasher for everyday use.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily on countertops or inside cupboards, ideal for small spaces
- Versatile with 6 different wash settings, including Heavy, Eco, and Baby-Care programs
- Energy-efficient design using only 2.77 gallons of water per cycle, saving on utility costs
Cons:
- May have limited capacity for larger families or heavy daily dish loads
- Requires faucet connection with suitable adaptor, which may need additional setup
- Some initial water inside the unit upon delivery is normal but could be mistaken for a defect
EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs
The EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 6 programs is an excellent choice for small apartment dwellers who need a space-efficient and versatile cleaning solution. Its compact size—16.83 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches—fits easily on countertops, yet it can clean over 30 items at once, including large plates and bowls. With six wash programs like Normal, Quick, ECO, Baby Care, Fruit, and Dry, it covers all cleaning needs. It offers two water supply options: tank or faucet hookup, making installation simple. Its dual spray arms ensure thorough cleaning, while the drying feature keeps everything ready to use. Perfect for saving space without sacrificing performance.
Best For: small apartment residents, students, and RV travelers seeking a compact, efficient, and versatile countertop dishwasher.
Pros:
- Space-saving design fits easily on countertops in limited spaces
- Six versatile wash programs to handle various cleaning needs
- Dual water supply options for easy installation without plumbing modifications
Cons:
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers, may require multiple cycles for large loads
- BPA plastics are not suitable for washing in the dishwasher
- Initial setup and run-in procedures (like running empty) are necessary to ensure optimal performance
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Water Tank & LED Light
For small apartments where space is limited but convenience is essential, the NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out thanks to its compact size and versatile water supply options. Measuring just 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, it fits easily on countertops and holds enough for a family of 3-4, with space for 4 full place settings. It supports both faucet hookup and a built-in 5L water tank, with an automatic water level indicator. The transparent glass door with LED lighting makes monitoring simple, while the intuitive touch control panel ensures easy operation. It offers multiple wash cycles, including a quick 29-minute Speed mode and a Baby Care setting for thorough cleaning.
Best For: small families or individuals living in apartments, dorms, or other limited spaces seeking a compact, versatile, and easy-to-use countertop dishwasher.
Pros:
- Compact size (16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches) fits easily in small spaces and on countertops.
- Supports dual water supply options: faucet hookup and built-in 5L water tank for flexible use.
- Multiple wash modes including Quick, Baby Care, and Fruit cleaning, with a transparent LED-lit door for monitoring.
Cons:
- Limited capacity of 4 full place settings may require frequent runs for larger households.
- Minor residual water after operation is normal, which might need manual drying.
- No built-in water heating system, relying on external hot water sources or the dishwasher’s heating.
COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with 5L Water Tank
Designed for small spaces, the COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with its integrated 5L water tank offers a hassle-free cleaning solution without requiring plumbing connections. Its ultra-compact design fits over 30 items, including plates up to 9.5 inches, making it perfect for apartments, dorms, boats, or RVs. You can manually add water or connect it directly to your faucet with the included hose and adapter. It offers six wash programs, including quick and steam options, and heats water up to 192℉ for sanitizing. Plus, the AIR REFRESH feature keeps your dishes and machine dry and odor-free, ensuring convenience and hygiene in small living spaces.
Best For: individuals living in small apartments, dorm rooms, boats, or RVs seeking a compact, easy-to-use dishwasher without plumbing requirements.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design fits over 30 items, ideal for limited space
- Multiple wash programs, including steam and quick options, for versatile cleaning
- Can operate with manual water filling or direct faucet connection for convenience
Cons:
- Requires a countertop clearance of over 19.6 inches, which may be restrictive in very tight spaces
- Limited water capacity with a 5L built-in tank, not suitable for large loads
- No built-in water hookup, needing manual refilling or external connection, which may be less convenient for continuous use
Farberware Compact 6-Place Setting Dishwasher
If you’re living in a small apartment or frequently on the go, the Farberware Compact 6-Place Setting Dishwasher stands out as an excellent choice because of its space-saving design and versatile features. It’s perfect for tight spaces like apartments, dorms, boats, or RVs, with a capacity for six place settings and dishes up to 10 inches. The unit offers seven wash programs, including Eco and Baby Care, plus an extra-drying function for better results. Easy to set up with quick connect accessories, it combines reliable performance with user-friendly controls, making efficient dishwashing simple even in the smallest spaces.
Best For: Small-space dwellers such as apartment residents, dorm students, boaters, and RV travelers seeking efficient, compact dishwashing solutions.
Pros:
- Space-saving design ideal for tight areas with a capacity for six place settings
- Multiple wash programs including Eco and Baby Care for versatile cleaning needs
- Easy setup with quick connect accessories and user-friendly controls
Cons:
- Limited capacity for larger dishes or heavy-duty loads
- May require frequent refilling of water and detergent due to small size
- Not suitable for extensive or high-volume dishwashing needs
HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs and 5L Water Tank
The HAVA Countertop Dishwasher stands out with its versatile water supply options and compact design, making it perfect for small apartments where space is limited. It supports two water modes—adding water to its built-in 5L tank or connecting via the included hose to a faucet—offering flexibility and convenience. With dimensions of just 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, it fits easily into tight spaces. Weighing only 13 kg (28.6 pounds) and operating on 220V, it requires no installation. Its portability allows me to effortlessly move it around, making cleaning dishes quick, easy, and space-efficient.
Best For: Small households, apartments, dorms, RVs, and boats needing a compact, portable, and versatile dishwasher with easy water supply options.
Pros:
- Supports two water supply modes for added convenience and flexibility
- Compact size fits easily into tight spaces without requiring installation
- Energy-efficient with low water usage and multiple washing programs
Cons:
- Limited water tank capacity may require frequent refilling for larger loads
- Operates on 220V, which may not be compatible in some regions without adapters
- No built-in heating element control; heavy-duty or specialized cleaning may require additional settings
SPT 18-Inch Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher (SD-9263SS)
For small apartments where space and efficiency matter, the SPT 18-Inch Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher (SD-9263SS) stands out with its compact size and stainless steel interior, making it both durable and stylish. It offers six wash programs, including Heavy, Eco, and Rapid, and can handle up to eight place settings, perfect for families. Its quick-connect faucet adapter allows for easy setup, while features like adjustable racks, an automatic detergent dispenser, and a rinse aid indicator enhance convenience. Operating quietly at 52dB, it combines energy efficiency with effective cleaning, making it an excellent space-saving solution for modern, small kitchens.
Best For: small households or apartments seeking an energy-efficient, space-saving dishwasher with versatile wash options and durable stainless steel construction.
Pros:
- Compact 18-inch size ideal for small kitchens and limited space
- Six customizable wash programs for versatile cleaning needs
- ENERGY STAR rated for energy and water efficiency
Cons:
- Weighs 118 pounds, which may require assistance during installation
- Slightly higher water consumption per cycle compared to some models (up to 5 gallons)
- Noise level of 52dB might be noticeable in very quiet environments
Countertop Portable Dishwasher with Multiple Cleaning Modes
A countertop portable dishwasher with multiple cleaning modes is an excellent choice for anyone seeking versatility and convenience in a small space. Its compact size of just 17×15.3×18.1 inches makes it perfect for small kitchens, apartments, RVs, or offices. You don’t need to install it—just connect it to your faucet or use the 5000ML water bucket. It offers four washing programs: Quick Wash, Standard, Intensive, and Fruit Wash, plus a drying and disinfection cycle. Dual spray arms ensure thorough cleaning, while the drying function leaves dishes shiny, odorless, and dry. It’s an efficient, multi-functional solution to upgrade your kitchen without taking up much space.
Best For: individuals with limited kitchen space, such as apartment dwellers, RV owners, or office workers, seeking a portable, versatile dishwasher that requires no installation.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design fits small kitchens, RVs, or offices effortlessly
- Multiple cleaning modes, including quick, intensive, and fruit wash, for versatile use
- No installation needed; connects easily to faucet or water bucket for convenience
Cons:
- Limited capacity (holds 8 plates, bowls, and pieces of cutlery), not suitable for large households
- Relies on external water source, which may be less convenient in certain settings
- May have a longer cycle time compared to traditional dishwashers, especially for intensive wash modes
BLITZHOME Portable Countertop Dishwasher with WiFi and 5L Water Tank
If you’re looking for a compact dishwasher that offers smart control and flexible water options, the BLITZHOME Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out. It connects via an app, letting you monitor status and set timers remotely, making operation effortless. With six wash programs—including Quick, Eco, and Fruit modes—and a high-temperature drying cycle, it ensures thorough cleaning and hygiene. You can add water directly to the built-in 5L tank or connect to a tap, providing versatile water supply options. Its large capacity fits 4-6 place settings, while the 3D spiral spray technology guarantees powerful, all-encompassing cleaning in a space-saving design perfect for small homes and RVs.
Best For: individuals seeking a compact, WiFi-enabled dishwasher that offers flexible water supply options and multiple cleaning modes suitable for small spaces like apartments, RVs, or dorms.
Pros:
- Smart app control allows remote monitoring and timer setting for added convenience
- Versatile water supply options with both built-in tank and tap connection capability
- Multiple cleaning programs, including Quick, Eco, and Fruit modes, ensure thorough and tailored cleaning
Cons:
- Limited water capacity with a 5L tank may require frequent refilling for heavy loads
- Smaller size may not be suitable for larger households or extensive dishwashing needs
- Requires WiFi connection and app setup, which might be a hurdle for some users
COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher (Portable with 6L Water Tank)
The COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher stands out as an ideal choice for small-space dwellers seeking a compact yet capable cleaning solution. Its portable design with a 6L water tank means no installation is required—just add water or connect directly to your faucet using the included hose and adapter. It fits comfortably on countertops, yet it can load 10.5-inch plates thanks to its upgraded internal space. With seven washing programs, including hygiene and fruit modes, and features like auto-open drying and UV cleaning, it ensures thorough, efficient cleaning. Low water and energy consumption make it eco-friendly, perfect for maximizing small apartment space without sacrificing performance.
Best For: small-space dwellers such as apartment residents, dorm students, RV travelers, and those with limited kitchen or countertop space seeking a compact yet efficient dishwasher solution.
Pros:
- Compact design with a 6L water tank, ideal for small spaces without sacrificing loading capacity of 10.5-inch plates.
- Multiple washing programs including hygiene, fruit, and glass modes, plus auto-open drying for faster, thorough cleaning.
- Energy-efficient and water-saving operation, consuming only 0.35 kWh per cycle and 6L of water, making it eco-friendly.
Cons:
- Requires manual water filling if not connected directly to a faucet, which may be less convenient for some users.
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers, suitable mainly for small households or individual use.
- Slight residual water after shipping is normal, but may require initial setup and testing to ensure proper operation.
BLACK+DECKER 18” Portable Dishwasher with 8-Place Setting Capacity
For small apartments where space is at a premium, the BLACK+DECKER 18” Portable Dishwasher stands out with its impressive 8-place setting capacity and versatile design. It thoroughly cleans up to eight settings in a single cycle, featuring a durable stainless steel tub and an adjustable top rack to accommodate taller items. Weighing just 116 pounds and measuring about 17.64” x 23.62” x 35.63”, it fits easily into compact kitchens, dorms, or RVs. No permanent installation is needed—just connect it to your faucet with the quick connect hose. Plus, its built-in safety lock, multiple wash cycles, and mobility features make it a reliable, space-saving choice.
Best For: small households, dorms, RV owners, or those with limited kitchen space seeking a portable, efficient dishwasher with ample capacity.
Pros:
- Compact size with a capacity of up to 8 place settings, ideal for small spaces
- Easy to set up without permanent installation, using a quick connect hose to faucet
- Versatile with 6 wash cycles, adjustable top rack, and built-in safety features
Cons:
- Weighs 116 pounds, which may be heavy for some users to move frequently
- Noise level of 52 dB might be noticeable in very quiet environments
- Limited to 115V/60Hz power supply, not suitable for regions with different electrical standards
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Washing Programs
The Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher is an excellent choice for small space dwellers who need versatile cleaning options without sacrificing room. Its compact design measures just 16.85×16.73×18.03 inches, fitting easily into apartments, dorms, boats, or RVs. With five wash programs—Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit Cleaning—it handles various dishes and produce efficiently. Dual high-pressure spray arms ensure streak-free cleaning, while high-temperature drying keeps items dry and tasteless. The glass door allows you to monitor progress, and the top touch controls make operation simple. Plus, its built-in water tank offers flexibility without external hookups, making it a truly space-saving solution.
Best For: small space dwellers such as apartment residents, dorm students, boat or RV owners seeking versatile and efficient countertop dishwashing solutions.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design easily fits in tight spaces
- Multiple wash programs including ECO and Fruit Cleaning for versatile use
- Built-in water tank allows operation without external plumbing
Cons:
- Only suitable for up to 4 place-settings, limiting larger loads
- Slight residual water after testing is normal but may require drying before use
- Made of plastic and glass materials, which may be less durable than metal counterparts
Portable Dishwasher on Wheels with Worktop, 8 Place-Setting, Stainless Steel, Faucet Connection
If you’re looking to maximize space and convenience in a small kitchen, a portable dishwasher on wheels with a worktop offers a perfect solution. This 18-inch unit cleans up to 8 place settings per cycle, ideal for apartments, RVs, or dorms. Made of stainless steel, it features adjustable racks for taller dishes and doubles as a work surface when not in use. It connects easily to a faucet via a 59-inch hose, with no permanent plumbing required. With six wash cycles and child safety lock, it’s energy-efficient, practical, and versatile—perfect for those who need thorough cleaning without sacrificing space or style.
Best For: Small households, renters, and those with limited space seeking a portable, easy-to-use dishwasher that doubles as a work surface.
Pros:
- Compact 18-inch size with on-wheels design for easy mobility and storage.
- Connects directly to faucet without permanent plumbing, simplifying setup.
- Features adjustable racks and multiple wash cycles for versatile cleaning options.
Cons:
- Weighs 116 pounds, which may be heavy for some users to move frequently.
- Limited to 8 place settings per cycle, may not suit larger families.
- The average rating of 3.9 stars suggests some users may experience performance or durability issues.
AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Washing Programs
The AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out for its compact design combined with a surprisingly large capacity, making it perfect for small apartments, RVs, or campers. Despite measuring just 16.75W x 16.86D x 18.05H inches, it can wash over 40 items, including 12-inch plates at a slight angle. It doesn’t require installation thanks to its built-in 5-liter water tank and includes a hose for faucet connection. With five washing programs—Normal, Speed, Glass, Baby Care, and Fruit—it offers versatile cleaning. Its user-friendly LED touchscreen, efficient spray system, and energy-saving features make it an excellent space-saving choice.
Best For: Small households, RV travelers, and those with limited kitchen space seeking a portable, efficient dishwasher with versatile cleaning options.
Pros:
- Compact size with large capacity, fitting over 40 items including 12-inch plates at an angle
- No installation needed thanks to built-in 5-liter water tank and flexible faucet connection
- Multiple washing programs and features, including drying and ventilated storage, for versatile cleaning needs
Cons:
- Limited water capacity requires refilling after several cycles
- Slightly larger footprint for a countertop may require space planning in tight areas
- May not be suitable for very large families or high-volume dishwashing needs
Midea Portable Countertop Dishwasher (MDC22P2ASS)
Ideal for small households or those with limited space, the Midea Portable Countertop Dishwasher (MDC22P2ASS) offers a compact yet efficient cleaning solution. Its size of 17.25″H×22″W×20″D makes it perfect for dorms, RVs, and apartments. It holds up to six place settings and fits plates up to 10 inches in diameter, washing around 70 pieces of tableware. Easy to install, it connects directly to your faucet with an adaptor, and its water tank makes setup even simpler. With six cycles plus additional features like Power Wash and Extended Dry, it’s a versatile, energy-efficient choice for quick, thorough dishwashing in tight spaces.
Best For: small households, dorms, RVs, and apartments needing a compact, energy-efficient dishwasher with easy setup and thorough cleaning capabilities.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design ideal for limited space environments
- Easy faucet connection with included adaptor and water tank for simple setup
- Multiple wash cycles including Power Wash and Extended Dry for versatile cleaning
Cons:
- Cannot use Auto, Rapid, or MachineCare+ cycles, limiting options for certain cleaning needs
- Factory testing may leave residual water inside, which is normal but may concern some users
- Suitable primarily for small households (2-3 people), less ideal for larger families
Factors to Consider When Choosing Portable Dishwashers for Small Apartments
When selecting a portable dishwasher for a small apartment, I consider factors like size and capacity to guarantee it fits comfortably. I also look at water connection options and cycle features to match my daily needs. Ultimately, efficiency and ease of installation are key to making a practical, long-term choice.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right portable dishwasher for a small apartment starts with paying close attention to size and capacity. First, measure your available space carefully, including height, width, and depth, to ensure the unit fits comfortably without crowding your area. Most compact dishwashers are around 16 to 18 inches wide, making them ideal for tight countertops or cabinets. Next, consider your household’s dishwashing needs; a model supporting 4 to 8 place settings usually suffices for small households. Look for interior features like adjustable racks or fold-down shelves to maximize loading flexibility within limited space. Finally, match the dishwasher’s capacity to your typical load to avoid frequent cycles or overcrowding, ensuring efficiency and convenience in your small apartment.
Water Connection Options
Selecting the right portable dishwasher means considering how it connects to your water supply. Many models offer flexible options, including direct faucet hookups or internal water tanks. Some dishwashers support dual modes, allowing you to either fill a built-in tank—usually 5 to 6 liters—or connect directly to your household faucet. This versatility is ideal if you lack permanent plumbing or want a quick setup. Faucet connection adapters are typically included, but they might be sold separately, so checking compatibility with your faucet size is important. Understanding your water source and the connection method guarantees easy installation and smooth operation. Whether you prefer a tank-based system or direct connection, choosing the right option makes your dishwashing experience more convenient and hassle-free.
Cycle Selections and Features
To get the most out of your portable dishwasher, it’s essential to pay attention to its cycle options and features. Look for multiple wash cycles like Normal, Heavy, Eco, and Quick to cover different cleaning needs efficiently. Specialized programs such as Baby Care, Fruit, or Steam can offer targeted cleaning and sanitization, which is especially useful for specific items or health concerns. Drying modes like hot air drying or auto-open doors help ensure dishes come out dry and ready to use. Also, check for customizable cycles like delay start or extra rinsing, adding convenience and flexibility. Finally, consider whether the cycles accommodate delicate items like plastics or glasses, preventing damage and ensuring perfect cleaning for all your tableware.
Energy and Water Efficiency
Since small apartments often come with limited utility budgets, it’s essential to prioritize energy and water efficiency when choosing a portable dishwasher. I recommend looking for models with an ENERGY STAR certification, which guarantees they meet strict efficiency standards. Aim for dishwashers that use around 2.77 gallons of water or less per cycle to cut costs and minimize environmental impact. Opt for units with multiple wash cycles and adjustable settings to tailor water and energy use based on load size and soil level. Advanced spray technology and high water temperatures above 150°F ensure thorough cleaning without wasting resources. Checking the dishwasher’s energy and water ratings helps guarantee you get effective cleaning while keeping utility bills low.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation plays a key role in choosing the right portable dishwasher for small apartments. Most models require minimal setup—usually just connecting to a standard faucet or filling an internal water tank. Many come with quick-connect hoses and adapters, making it easy to attach them directly to existing plumbing without permanent modifications. For units with built-in water tanks, there’s no need to worry about external plumbing or drainage, which is perfect for rental or temporary spaces. Installation typically involves placing the dishwasher on a countertop or inside a cabinet, with only a power outlet and water connection needed. Clear instructions and included accessories make setup quick and straightforward, often completed in minutes without professional help. This simplicity is a major advantage for small apartment dwellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Energy-Efficient Are These Portable Dishwashers?
These portable dishwashers are generally quite energy-efficient, helping you save on utility bills and reduce environmental impact. I’ve found that many models are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they meet strict efficiency standards. They use less water and electricity compared to traditional dishwashers, which is great for small apartments. Plus, their compact size means they’re designed to operate efficiently without wasting resources, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious renters like you and me.
Can These Dishwashers Handle Heavy or Greasy Pots?
Yes, many portable dishwashers can handle heavy or greasy pots, especially models with higher wash cycles and powerful spray arms. I’ve found that selecting the appropriate cycle, like heavy or intensive, makes a big difference in cleaning stubborn, greasy cookware. Just make sure to scrape off excess food and use a good detergent. With the right settings, these dishwashers handle tough pots effectively, saving you time and effort.
Are Replacement Parts and Repairs Easily Accessible?
Yes, replacement parts and repairs are generally accessible for portable dishwashers. I’ve found that reputable brands have extensive online stores, customer service, and authorized repair centers, making it easier to find what I need. Sometimes, parts are shipped quickly, and I can even troubleshoot minor issues myself with online guides. Overall, I feel confident that I can maintain my dishwasher without much hassle if something goes wrong.
Do They Operate Quietly Enough for Small Apartment Living?
Yes, they operate quietly enough for small apartment living. I’ve found that most portable dishwashers are designed with noise reduction in mind, so they don’t disturb my daily activities or sleep. I recommend checking the decibel level before buying, but generally, they run smoothly without causing any disruption. It’s a relief to have a dishwasher that’s efficient and quiet, making my small space much more comfortable.
What Are the Water Consumption Rates for Each Model?
The water consumption rates vary by model, but most portable dishwashers use between 3 to 5 gallons per cycle. For example, some energy-efficient models use as little as 3 gallons, while others might use closer to 5. I always recommend checking the specifications before buying to make certain you’re choosing one that conserves water and fits your needs. This way, you save both space and resources effectively.
Conclusion
Choosing the right portable dishwasher is like finding a hidden gem that saves your space and time. With so many options tailored for small apartments, you can easily find one that fits your lifestyle without sacrificing efficiency. Whether it’s a compact countertop model or a wheeled wonder, these dishwashers turn cleaning into a breeze. So go ahead—make your kitchen smarter and your chores lighter, and enjoy the sparkle of a spotless home!
