If you’re looking for the best portable dishwashers for small apartments, I recommend options that are compact, versatile, and easy to install. Models like the EUHOMY, COMFEE, and NOVETE offer space-saving designs, multiple wash cycles, and flexible water supply options—whether built-in tanks or faucet hookups. They’re budget-friendly, energy-efficient, and user-friendly. Keep exploring these top choices, and you’ll find the perfect fit to keep your dishes sparkling without taking up too much space.
Key Takeaways
- Compact sizes (16-18 inches wide) fit easily into small kitchens, maximizing limited space.
- Flexible water supply options, including built-in tanks and faucet hookups, simplify installation in tight areas.
- Multiple wash programs and drying features ensure thorough cleaning and sparkling, odor-free dishes.
- Water and energy-efficient models reduce utility costs while maintaining high performance.
- User-friendly controls, space-saving designs, and affordable prices make these dishwashers practical for small households.
EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs
If you’re looking for a compact dishwasher that fits seamlessly into small spaces, the EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher is an excellent choice. Measuring just 16.83 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches and weighing 28.6 pounds, it’s perfect for apartments, RVs, or dorms. It features six wash programs, including quick, eco, and heavy-duty cycles, with dual spray arms for 360° cleaning. No installation is needed—just fill the built-in 5L water tank or connect to a faucet using the included inlet hose. Its LED display and drying options make operation simple, efficient, and user-friendly.
Best For: individuals living in small spaces like apartments, RVs, or dorms who need a compact, portable dishwashing solution.
Pros:
- Compact size and portable design make it easy to fit into tight spaces and move around.
- Six versatile wash programs, including quick and eco modes, for thorough cleaning of various items.
- No installation required, with dual water supply options (tank or faucet) for convenience.
Cons:
- Limited water capacity with a 5L tank, which may require frequent refilling for larger loads.
- Slightly heavier than some other portable dishwashers at 28.6 pounds, potentially affecting portability.
- May not accommodate very large dishes or cookware larger than 10.25 inches in diameter.
COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Place Settings and 8 Washing Programs
The COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher is an excellent choice for small households or those living in apartments, RVs, or dorms where space is limited but reliable cleaning is essential. Its compact size (H17.2″×W21.6″×D19.7″) fits easily on a countertop or in a cupboard, making it incredibly versatile. It can handle up to 70 pieces of tableware and features 6 place settings, perfect for 2-3 people. With 8 washing programs—including Heavy, Speed, Baby-Care, and ECO—it offers flexible cleaning options. Its energy-efficient design and easy faucet connection make it a practical, space-saving solution for sparkling dishes without sacrificing performance.
Best For: small households, apartment dwellers, RV owners, or dorm students seeking a compact, reliable dishwasher with versatile cleaning options.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily on countertops or in cupboards, ideal for limited space
- Offers 8 different washing programs including Heavy, Speed, Baby-Care, and ECO for flexible cleaning needs
- Energy Star rated with low water consumption, making it energy-efficient and eco-friendly
Cons:
- Weighs 46 pounds, which may be heavy to move frequently
- Limited capacity of 6 place settings may require multiple loads for larger households
- Installation requires a suitable faucet adaptor, which may involve additional setup steps
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher
For those living in small apartments or constrained spaces, the NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out as a top choice thanks to its compact size combined with a surprisingly large capacity. Measuring just 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, it holds up to 4 full place settings and fits 12 dishes at an angle, thanks to its double-layer design. It comes fully equipped with a storage rack, cutlery basket, and fruit basket, plus multiple wash modes including a Baby Care option. Its 3-in-1 drying, LED control panel, and no-install setup make it a convenient, space-saving solution for clean dishes in tight spaces.
Best For: small households, dorms, RV travelers, and anyone needing a compact yet spacious countertop dishwasher for limited spaces.
Pros:
- Compact size with a large capacity, fitting up to 4 full place settings and 12 dishes at an angle
- Fully equipped with multiple wash modes, drying functions, and convenient accessories like a fruit basket and storage racks
- No installation required, supporting both faucet hookup and water tank use for easy setup
Cons:
- Residual water after manufacturing tests is normal but may require initial cleaning cycles
- Limited to 5 liters water per cycle, which may be less suitable for heavy or large-volume loads
- Relatively higher power consumption at 950 Watts, which might impact energy use over time
COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with Built-in Water Tank
The COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with a built-in water tank stands out as an ideal choice for small households, RV owners, or anyone with limited space who needs a compact yet efficient dishwashing solution. Its sleek stainless steel design fits easily on countertops, measuring just 17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 inches and weighing around 37 pounds. It can handle over 30 items, including large plates, thanks to its adjustable rack and see-through window. With six wash cycles and a high-temperature hygiene option, it ensures thorough cleaning. The built-in 5L water tank allows for easy manual filling or direct hookup, making it super convenient for small spaces.
Best For: small households, RV owners, and anyone with limited space seeking an efficient, compact dishwashing solution.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact stainless steel design fits easily on countertops and small spaces
- Multiple wash cycles including high-temperature options for thorough cleaning and hygiene
- Built-in 5L water tank offers convenient manual filling or direct hookup without installation
Cons:
- Inner parts are made of plastic, which may affect durability over time
- Weighs approximately 37 pounds, which may be heavy for some users to move frequently
- Limited to handling about 30 items per cycle, possibly insufficient for larger households
COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with 6 Place Settings
If you’re living in a small apartment and need an efficient way to keep your dishes clean, the COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher is an excellent choice. It’s compact, measuring just 17.2 inches high and fitting comfortably on your countertop. With 6 place settings, it can handle up to 70 pieces of tableware, perfect for 2-3 people. It offers 8 wash programs, including Heavy, Baby-Care, and Eco, plus an extra-drying feature for sparkling dishes. Easy to install, it connects directly to your faucet and uses only about 2.77 gallons of water per cycle. Plus, its Energy Star rating guarantees energy efficiency and cost savings.
Best For: small households, dorms, or apartments seeking an energy-efficient, compact dishwasher that easily fits on countertops and handles daily dishwashing needs.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design perfect for small spaces and easy to move
- Offers 8 versatile wash programs, including heavy-duty and eco modes for thorough cleaning and energy savings
- Easy to install with direct faucet connection and includes childproof lock for safety
Cons:
- Limited capacity of up to 70 pieces, which may not suit larger families or heavy dish loads
- Water consumption of 2.77 gallons per cycle might be higher than some ultra-efficient models
- As a mini dishwasher, it may not accommodate very large or bulky cookware and utensils
Farberware Compact 6-Place Setting Dishwasher
Designed for small spaces, the Farberware Compact 6-Place Setting Dishwasher packs impressive cleaning power into a sleek countertop design. It measures just 21.7 x 19.7 x 17.2 inches and weighs only 52.9 pounds, making it easy to move and fit on any countertop. It can handle dishes up to 10 inches in diameter and accommodates six place settings, including glassware and pots. With seven wash cycles—like Heavy, Eco, and Baby Care—and an extra-drying feature, it offers versatility and thorough cleaning. Easy to operate with LED controls and quick faucet hookup, it’s perfect for efficient, space-saving dishwashing.
Best For: individuals with limited space such as apartment dwellers, students, RV owners, and small households seeking a compact yet effective dishwasher.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design easily fits on countertops and in small spaces
- Offers seven versatile wash cycles, including Eco and Baby Care options
- Includes convenient features like folding racks, a cutlery basket, and quick faucet hookup
Cons:
- Limited to six place settings, which may not suit larger households
- Operates at 680 Watts, potentially less powerful than full-sized dishwashers
- May require frequent emptying of the small cutlery basket and racks for larger loads
BLITZHOME Portable Countertop Dishwasher with WiFi, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray
For anyone seeking a compact dishwasher that offers smart connectivity and versatile cleaning options, the BLITZHOME Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out. It connects via an app, letting you monitor status and set timers remotely, saving time and effort. With dual water inlet modes—either from a built-in tank or tap attachment—you won’t need plumbing modifications, making it perfect for small homes, dorms, or RVs. It features six washing programs, including quick, strong, eco, and fruit modes, plus high-temperature drying at 167°F for hygiene. Its large capacity fits 4-6 sets, and the 3D dual spray arms ensure thorough, spotless cleaning every time.
Best For: those living in small spaces, such as apartments, dorms, or RVs, who need a portable, WiFi-enabled dishwasher with versatile cleaning options.
Pros:
- Smart app control for remote monitoring and timer setting, enhancing convenience
- Dual water inlet modes eliminate the need for plumbing modifications, suitable for various living situations
- Six cleaning programs including quick, strong, eco, and fruit modes for versatile cleaning needs
Cons:
- May have limited capacity for larger households or frequent heavy-duty dishwashing
- Requires WiFi connection, which might not be stable in all locations
- Compact size may limit the number of dishes cleaned at once compared to standard dishwashers
HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs
The HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with 6 programs stands out as an excellent choice for small households or individuals who need versatile cleaning options without sacrificing space. Its compact design measures just 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches and weighs only 13 kg, making it perfect for apartments, dorms, boats, or RVs. It supports two water supply modes: filling a built-in 5L tank or connecting directly to a faucet. With capacity for over 30 pieces, it uses only 5L of water per cycle—saving energy and water. Six programs, including Baby Care and Fruit, ensure thorough cleaning, while the LED display simplifies operation.
Best For: small households, apartments, dorms, boats, or RV owners seeking a compact, versatile, and water-efficient countertop dishwasher.
Pros:
- Space-saving compact design suitable for limited areas
- Supports two water supply modes for flexible installation
- Offers 6 washing programs, including Baby Care and Fruit modes for thorough cleaning
Cons:
- Relatively lightweight, which may affect stability during operation
- Slight residual water after quality testing, which is normal but may concern some users
- Limited capacity for larger households or heavy dish loads
COMFEE Portable Dishwasher with 5L Water Tank
If you’re living in a small apartment and need an easy, space-saving way to keep dishes clean, the COMFEE Portable Dishwasher with a 5L water tank is a smart choice. Its compact design fits easily on countertops and requires no installation. It can hold over 30 items, including large plates up to 9.5 inches, and offers six wash programs like Normal, Rapid, Hygiene, Fruit, Glass, and Air Refresh. With 360° dual spray arms and a high-temp cycle up to 162℉, it guarantees thorough cleaning and deep sanitation. Plus, the air-dry function removes moisture and odors, keeping your dishes fresh and spotless.
Best For: small apartment dwellers, students, or RV travelers seeking a compact, easy-to-use dishwasher that doesn’t require installation.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily on countertops without taking up much space
- No installation needed, ideal for renters or temporary setups
- Multiple wash programs including high-temp hygiene cycle for thorough cleaning
Cons:
- Limited water capacity with a 5L tank, requiring refills for multiple loads
- Plastic inner and basket materials may be less durable over time
- Slightly heavier weight at 36.6 pounds could be less portable for some users
COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher with 6L Water Tank
The COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher with its 6L water tank is ideal for small households or individuals who need a compact, versatile cleaning solution without permanent installation. It requires no setup—just add water manually or connect it to your faucet with the included hose and adapter. Despite its small footprint, it can handle a 10.5-inch plate comfortably. It offers five washing programs, including hygiene and fruit modes, plus features like auto-open drying and UV sterilization. With a low water consumption of only 6L per cycle and energy-efficient operation, it’s perfect for saving space, water, and power while keeping your dishes spotless.
Best For: small households, individuals, or those with limited space who need a versatile, portable dishwasher that offers multiple cleaning modes without permanent installation.
Pros:
- No installation required; easy to set up with manual water addition or faucet connection
- Compact design fits in small spaces while accommodating a 10.5-inch plate
- Multiple washing programs including hygiene and fruit modes with auto-open drying and UV sterilization
Cons:
- Limited water capacity with only 6L per cycle, suitable mainly for light to moderate loads
- May require manual water refilling after each cycle, which could be inconvenient for frequent use
- Slight residual water inside after shipment is normal, potentially requiring initial cleaning before first use
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Washing Programs
Ideal for small spaces like apartments, dorms, or RVs, the Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher offers five versatile washing programs that handle everything from everyday dishes to delicate produce. Its compact size (16.85×16.73×18.03 inches) and lightweight design (26.4 pounds) make it easy to move and fit on countertops. With dual high-pressure spray arms, it guarantees streak-free, deep cleaning across modes like Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit Cleaning. The built-in 5-liter water tank or faucet connection provides flexibility. Featuring top touch controls, a glass door, and hot wind drying, this dishwasher combines convenience and efficiency for small-space living.
Best For: those living in small apartments, dorm rooms, RVs, or boats seeking a compact, versatile dishwasher with multiple cleaning options.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design fits easily on countertops, ideal for limited spaces
- Five washing modes including Eco and Fruit Cleaning for versatile use
- Supports both built-in water tank and faucet connection for flexible water supply options
Cons:
- Residual water may remain after testing, requiring manual drainage if necessary
- Accessories like funnels may vary or be included inconsistently
- Limited capacity (4 place settings) may not suit larger households or frequent use
Silonn Portable Countertop Dishwasher with App Control
The Silonn Portable Countertop Dishwasher with App Control stands out for anyone seeking a convenient, tech-enabled way to keep dishes clean in small spaces. Despite its compact size (16.9 x 17.7 x 18.1 inches), it can handle up to 4 place settings, making it perfect for small households, RVs, or camping trips. It features triple spray jets for a thorough 360° clean and high-temperature washing at 167°F to remove stubborn grease and residues. The smart app allows remote control, cycle customization, and offers multiple wash modes, including eco, intensive, and delicate options. No plumbing is needed—just fill the built-in tank or connect to a faucet.
Best For: small households, RVs, apartments, or camping enthusiasts seeking a compact, tech-enabled dishwasher for convenient cleaning.
Pros:
- Compact design fits easily in small spaces while accommodating up to 4 place settings
- Advanced triple spray jet technology ensures a thorough 360° clean and high-temperature wash for stubborn residues
- Smart app control allows remote operation, cycle customization, and multiple wash modes for versatile cleaning needs
Cons:
- Limited capacity may not suit larger households or those with heavy dishwashing needs
- Requires periodic refilling of the built-in water tank or connection to a faucet, which might be less convenient for continuous use
- As a portable countertop model, it may not offer the same durability or capacity as built-in dishwashers
Countertop Portable Dishwasher with Multiple Modes
If you’re looking for a versatile solution to keep your small kitchen, apartment, or RV spotless, a countertop portable dishwasher with multiple modes is a smart choice. It’s fully automatic, so you won’t need to manually wash dishes, fruits, or vegetables. With its compact size (17×15.3×18.1 inches), it fits easily in tight spaces and supports two water connection options—faucet or bucket mode. The four washing modes—Quick, Standard, Intensive, and Fruit Wash—allow me to customize cleaning based on my needs. Plus, its drying and disinfection cycle ensures my items come out sanitized, dry, and odorless, making life simpler and more hygienic.
Best For: individuals with limited kitchen space or those living in apartments, RVs, or small offices who need a compact, fully automatic dishwasher for versatile cleaning.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design fits easily in small spaces without installation.
- Multiple washing modes (Quick, Standard, Intensive, Fruit Wash) provide customizable cleaning options.
- Supports dual water connection modes (faucet and bucket), enhancing convenience and flexibility.
Cons:
- Limited capacity (8 plates, 8 bowls, 8 pieces of cutlery) may not suit larger households.
- No built-in water heating feature, which could affect cleaning efficiency for heavily greasy items.
- Longer cycle times for certain modes (up to 93 minutes) might be less convenient for quick cleaning needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Portable Dishwashers for Small Apartments
When choosing a portable dishwasher for a small apartment, I consider its size and capacity to guarantee it fits my space and handles my dish load. I also look at water supply options, program variety, drying features, and how much power and water it uses to find the best fit. These factors help me pick a machine that’s efficient, convenient, and suits my needs perfectly.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right portable dishwasher for a small apartment depends heavily on size and capacity. Most models measure around 16 to 18 inches wide, making them perfect for tight spaces. Capacity varies from supporting 4 to 6 place settings, which is ideal for daily use in small households. Many units can hold up to 30 items, including plates up to 10 inches in diameter, without taking up too much room. Some models feature double-layer designs or adjustable racks to maximize interior space. It’s essential to balance your household’s dishwashing needs with available countertop or storage space. If you process fewer dishes daily, a smaller capacity might suffice. But if you prefer more flexibility or host small gatherings, opt for a slightly larger model that still fits your space constraints.
Water Supply Options
Are you wondering how to guarantee your portable dishwasher fits seamlessly into your small apartment? The water supply option is key. Most models offer two choices: a built-in water tank or a direct connection to your faucet via an inlet hose. The tank option gives you flexibility—you can place the dishwasher anywhere without plumbing changes—but you’ll need to refill it regularly. Connecting directly to your faucet provides a continuous water supply, ideal for frequent use, and usually comes with an adapter for easy hookup. Some models support dual modes, letting you switch between tank filling and faucet connection depending on your needs or space constraints. Choosing the right option guarantees compatibility with your fixtures and simplifies daily use in your small living space.
Program Variety
A key factor in selecting the right portable dishwasher is the variety of wash programs it offers. Having multiple options like Eco, Heavy, Baby Care, Fruit, and Quick cycles allows me to tailor cleaning to specific dish types and soil levels. I look for models with specialized modes for delicate items, high-temperature sanitation, and moisture removal, ensuring thorough cleaning and safety. Diverse programs improve efficiency by matching the right cycle to each load, saving water and energy while reducing wash times. Features like fruit and baby bottle cycles help meet specific health standards, which is essential for my household. Plus, adjustable or multi-stage cycles provide the flexibility needed for different load sizes and preferences, making small-space dishwashing more convenient and effective.
Drying Features
Since moisture lingering on dishes can lead to mold and unpleasant odors, I pay close attention to the drying features of portable dishwashers. Effective drying involves hot air cycles that last up to 60 minutes, ensuring dishes come out completely dry and odor-free. I also look for models with automatic ventilation systems that activate after washing to remove residual moisture and prevent mold growth. Some dishwashers offer auto door opening at the cycle’s end, which accelerates drying and improves airflow. Additional options like UV sterilization or enhanced air circulation help eliminate bacteria and food particles, promoting hygiene. Combining these drying modes and ventilation features not only guarantees sparkling dishes but also keeps them fresher and ready to use immediately after washing.
Power and Water Use
Choosing a portable dishwasher for a small apartment means paying close attention to its power and water consumption to guarantee efficiency and cost savings. Most models use between 3 to 6 liters of water per cycle, far less than hand washing, making them eco-friendly and economical. They typically operate on 120V power, with wattages ranging from 680W to 1000W, offering a good balance between cleaning power and energy efficiency. Many units are rated to consume as little as 130 kWh annually, reducing electricity bills. Water supply options vary; some have built-in tanks, while others connect directly to a faucet, affecting convenience and water use. Features like water level sensors and cycle options help optimize resource use, ensuring you get clean dishes without wasting energy or water.
Ease of Installation
Many portable dishwashers are designed for easy setup, making them perfect for small apartments where space and plumbing options are limited. Most don’t require permanent installation, so you can move or store them easily. Look for models with built-in water tanks to skip the need for a plumbing hookup, simplifying setup further. If a water connection is necessary, choose units that connect directly to your faucet with an included adapter—this makes installation quick and hassle-free. Opt for dishwashers with straightforward controls and clear indicators, so you can operate them without confusion. Finally, check the dimensions to ensure the unit fits comfortably in your space, especially if it features a compact or foldable design. Ease of installation truly makes these dishwashers a practical choice for small living spaces.
Price and Warranty
When evaluating portable dishwashers for small apartments, cost and warranty coverage are important factors to contemplate. Prices typically range from about $300 to over $600, depending on features and capacity, so setting a budget helps narrow options. Keep in mind that most models come with a standard one-year warranty covering parts and labor for manufacturing defects. Extended warranties are often available for an extra fee, providing peace of mind beyond the initial year. Some brands also offer customer support and repair services during the warranty period, which can be crucial if issues arise. Always review the warranty terms carefully to understand what’s covered, including any potential costs for repairs or service fees. This ensures you get the best value and protection for your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Energy-Efficient Are These Small Portable Dishwashers?
These small portable dishwashers are generally quite energy-efficient, which is great for saving on utility bills. I’ve noticed they use less water and electricity compared to full-sized models, thanks to their compact design. Many come with eco modes or energy-saving settings that further reduce consumption. If you’re mindful of your energy use, these dishwashers make a smart, eco-friendly choice without sacrificing cleaning power.
Can These Dishwashers Handle Hard or Mineral-Rich Water?
Yes, many portable dishwashers can handle hard or mineral-rich water, but it’s not guaranteed for all models. I’ve found that some come with built-in water softeners or specialized filters, which make a big difference. If your water is very hard, I recommend choosing a model with these features or installing a separate water softener. Otherwise, mineral deposits might build up and reduce efficiency over time.
Are Replacement Parts and Repairs Readily Available?
Yes, replacement parts and repairs are generally accessible for portable dishwashers. I recommend choosing well-known brands with local service centers or extensive online support. When I needed repairs, I found parts easily through manufacturer websites or authorized dealers. Regular maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your dishwasher. So, if you pick a reputable model, you’ll likely find the parts and assistance you need without much trouble.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of a Portable Countertop Dishwasher?
They say good things come to those who wait, and that’s true for portable dishwashers too. Usually, I see them last around 5 to 10 years with proper care. Regular maintenance like cleaning filters and checking hoses helps extend their lifespan. While parts are generally available, replacing major components might get tricky after a few years. Keep up with upkeep, and your dishwasher will continue to shine in your small space!
Do These Models Require Professional Installation or Plumbing Modifications?
Most portable dishwashers don’t need professional installation or plumbing modifications. I simply connect the inlet hose to my faucet and drain it into a sink or basin. It’s a straightforward setup that I can do myself in a few minutes. No permanent plumbing changes are necessary, making these models perfect for renters or those who want a quick, hassle-free solution without professional help.
Conclusion
Think of choosing a portable dishwasher like finding the perfect partner—it should fit seamlessly into your life, making daily chores feel effortless. Just as a trusted friend brightens your day, the right machine brings shine and ease to your small apartment. With the options here, you’ll find one that’s both a space-saving hero and a reliable companion, transforming your kitchen into a haven of cleanliness and comfort.
