Portable dishwashers have many things in common with built-in appliances, only they are a bit smaller and easy to move around. Portability makes them suitable for a series of other applications too – ideal for recreational vehicles, holiday homes or even a camping trip.
However, you do not necessarily need to be an enthusiastic traveler to look for a portable dishwasher in the world. These units are great if your space is limited at home too. If your kitchen is not too big or it is already with other appliances, a portable alternative will make your life easier.
You get plenty of counter space or you no longer need to find space under it. You can keep it in the kitchen, but you might as well take it to a different room, such as your basement. Portability is certainly a major advantage that will make a difference.
When it comes to choosing the best portable dishwasher, a little research is mandatory. There are lots of options in commerce and each of them has its own particularities, as well as a few bells and whistles that will make the difference. So, what are the top-rated options in commerce and why?
Comparison Table
Generally speaking, dishwashers operate on the same principles. At first glance, there will not be too many differences between the two different items in the same segment. Sure, each item has a few bells and whistles to make the difference, but make sure you actually need them.
At the same time, you have to identify your personal needs and expectations. How often do you do laundry? What is the ideal size for you? What kind of small features will add to your convenience? Once you got these aspects covered, everything becomes much easier.
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It comes with a full package and leaves no stains on your dishes.
It looks sleek and features a drying cycle at the end of a washing cycle.
It comes with seven washing cycles and a child lock feature.
It runs quietly and comes with six place settings.
It has seven washing cycles and a low water consumption.
It comes with a full package and leaves no stains on your dishes.
It looks sleek and features a drying cycle at the end of a washing cycle.
It comes with seven washing cycles and a child lock feature.
It runs quietly and comes with six place settings.
It has seven washing cycles and a low water consumption.
Top 5 Portable Dishwasher
#1. hOmeLabs Compact Countertop Dishwasher
The Energy Star certified dishwasher from hOmeLabs aims to clean your stuff as you go. It is compact and convenient, so it can go on a countertop or under one. It has a well-organized dish basket, as well as a cutlery rack for convenience. Even if you have never had a dishwasher before, you will know precisely where everything goes.
Controls are straightforward and intuitive. There are a few buttons in the control panel, as well as some light indicators. You have six different washing cycles – rinse, speed, glass, eco, normal and heavy. Choosing the right one depends on what kind of dishes you have. You can also delay the operation by setting a timer.
The installation is fairly simple and should take a few minutes only – no tools or plumbing professional required. The package comes with a quick-connect assembly, as well as all the accessories needed. It is compatible with round-shaped faucet outlets.
In terms of efficiency and results, you will be surprised. Just because this dishwasher is small and compact, it does not mean that the size affects its performance. The rinse aid dispenser allows you to dry everything without those annoying water streaks or marks.
Make sure you stick to rinse aids specifically formulated for automatic dishwashers. Using other types may damage your appliance. Also, you have an indicator light that will tell you when to refill the dispenser – no need to check it out yourself.
Your available space will dictate what the best portable dishwasher for you is. Measure your space before making a purchase. This unit measures 17.2×19.6×21.6 inches. It weighs just over 44 pounds and it is made of stainless steel.
Things we like
- Compact and lightweight – can go both on the countertop or under it
- The full package includes installation accessories, racks, and baskets
- Efficient at cleaning – no streaks or stains
- Multiple cycles and a delay feature
Things we do not like
- Not the most efficient dishwasher when it comes to drying dishes
#2. Farberware Complete Portable Countertop Dish
Farberware’s best portable dishwasher is designed with efficiency in mind. Each unit is quality tested before being shipped. In other words, if you see a bit of water coming out of it, it is because it has been tested upfront – nothing to worry about.
The unit is designed to match small kitchens without the need for sophisticated installations or major upgrades. It is a small and compact countertop dishwasher that can go anywhere. It measures 17.3×16.5×17.3 inches. It weighs just over 45 pounds. Simply put, it can go anywhere in your kitchen. It is excellent for single individuals or couples, but not the best option for a family with three kids.
When it comes to clean your dishes, it can take pretty much everything – not more than 12 inches in diameter at an angle though. It is enough for dorms, recreational vehicles, flats, and boats.
You will be surprised when it comes to the installation. You have two different options. First, you can do it like most other people – get the water hose out and come up with a direct water hookup. It should go to your kitchen faucet. Keep in mind that you may need an adapter, which is not included.
However, if you want to keep it simple and take advantage of its “dishwasher portable” profile, you should know it also has a built-in tank. You can choose to empty the tank after each session instead of hooking it up to your system.
There are five different washing programs – normal, rapid, fruit wash, baby care, and glass. Indeed, there is a fruit wash mode, as well as a fruit basket. You can clean fruits and vegetables. As for baby stuff, you should use the steam mode, as it sanitizes everything. The rapid wash mode will only take 40 minutes.
Things we like
- Comes with five different washing cycles – some of them unique for portable dishwashers
- Can be attached to your water system with a hose or you can just empty the internal tank regularly
- The compact and beautiful design will match any kind of décor
- Drying program after a washing cycle
Things we do not like
- Not compatible with rinse aids
#3. BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher
BLACK+DECKER’s portable dishwasher is metallic and weighs just over 46 pounds. It only measures 24.8×23.3×21 inches – suitable for top operations, yet you might want to check the distance between your countertop and cabinets.
Given its compact appearance and design, it only takes six plates. Its capacity can be extended if your plates are small or you throw in other dishes. All in all, the plates you can wash should be 10 inches in diameter or smaller.
You have the opportunity to delay the start by 24 hours. The dishwasher has a timer, so you can throw your dishes in after dinner, then set it up to start in the morning. It can work while you sleep though, but the timer is for your peace of mind. It is not that loud either – 60dB.
There are seven different programs you can choose from – intensive, glass, normal, 90 minutes, eco, rapid and soak. The control panel is simple and straightforward. All the buttons are on the front side of the appliance. You also have an LED display, while controls are available through a touchscreen menu.
The appliance is Energy Star Certified, so it will not skyrocket your bills. It also comes with a child lock feature – simply go through the manual of instructions to ensure you get it right. The installation is fairly simple and does not require hiring a professional plumber.
Things we like
- There are seven different programs, depending on the dishes you need to be cleaned
- You can delay the start by 24 hours
- Futuristic design and electronic touchscreen control panel
- Child lock feature
Things we do not like
- High-pressure dirty water discharging will splash around
#4. Danby DDW621WDB Countertop Dishwasher
Danby’s top-rated portable dishwasher features a space-saving design that makes it suitable for any location. The manufacturer recommends a countertop installation though. It is suitable for small houses or kitchens, flats, RVs or camping tents.
Open it and you will be surprised by the interior. There are six place settings, as well as a basket for cutlery. The installation should not take more than half an hour – assuming that you have never touched a plumbing appliance. It makes a DIY project – everything is included in the package, including the drain hose.
When it comes to the washing cycles, you have six options – rapid, soak, economy, intensive, normal and silverware. Choose the one you need based on what you are washing. It is worth noting that you can delay the starting schedule – there are four options, 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours. The feature is useful if you want to be around for your peace of mind or you do not want the noise to disturb you.
Overall, the dishwasher is relatively quiet when compared to other units in this segment. It runs at 52dB, about 10% or 20% lower than average.
In terms of sizing, it measures 19.7×21.6×17.2 inches. It weighs just over 46 pounds. While portable, some people may struggle to move it around, so make sure you put it in the right place in the beginning. It is only available in white.
Things we like
- Runs very quietly when compared to other similar dishwashers – only 52dB
- Six different settings on the inside
- Starting time can be delayed
- Six different washing cycles
Things we do not like
- Big and heavy to be casually moved around
#5. EdgeStar 6 Place Setting Portable Countertop Dishwasher
The portable dishwasher from EdgeStar is your top option if you want convenience and durability. It features a compact design that will save you time and effort. It measures 19.6×21.6×17.3 inches and barely weighs 44 pounds. It can go into your small kitchen, RV or summer kitchen – no issues at all.
Despite being compact and small, the appliance has lots of room on the inside. The washing capacity is standard – you can fit in six large pieces or smaller pieces. You have a dish rack, as well as a shelf for cups and a small basket for cutlery. Generally speaking, you can fit plates measuring 10.5 inches in diameter or smaller.
The installation is a matter of minutes. With or without experience, it should be done in minutes. You have a quick connect adapter included in the package. It fits most standard faucets, so there should be no problems.
In terms of cleaning performance, the unit comes with seven different wash cycles. Choose the right one based on the dishes you want to clean.
It is not just the exterior that will impress you with the sleek design, but the interior too. It is made of stainless steel. The water consumption for a normal cycle goes up to 2.85 gallons, so it is quite efficient.
Make sure you go through the manual of instructions before using the dishwasher. You should not use any detergent pods, tabs or hand detergent, as the unit will overflow. Instead, stick to the recommended products.
As for the control panel, you do not have to be a genius to figure it out. All buttons are located on the front side and everything is simple and intuitive.
Things we like
- Comes with a dish rack, a shelf for cups and a basket for cutlery
- Sleek design – both on the inside and the outside
- Water consumption is relatively low
- Seven different washing cycles
Things we do not like
- You might need another person to help you unpack and install the dishwasher
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What To Look For In The Best Portable Dishwasher
There are multiple considerations to think about when trying to find the best portable dishwashers. Before looking at features, make sure you know exactly what you need.
Sizing standards
Double-check your available space before even looking at portable dishwashers. Write down the dimensions you get for this appliance and always leave a few inches. You cannot fit it perfectly. If you have suspended cabinets, measure the distance between the top of the counter and the bottom of the cabinet.
If you plan to install it under the top, measure the space.
Overall capacity
If you tend to cook a lot of you end up with lots of dishes, a dishwasher that can only take three plates is quite useless. From this point of view, you need to consider the number of dishes you normally have. How much can you fit in?
Many portable dishwashers will take at least six plates – usually around 10 inches in diameter. Some of them come with shelves for cups and small baskets for cutlery as well.
The wrong capacity will lead to lots of frustration, wasted time and high water bills. Instead of running a cleaning cycle, you will have to run three or four of them.
Drying cycle
This feature is not really mandatory, but it can help. Some countertop dishwashers come with drying cycles at the end of their washing cycles. They do not last for too long and they ensure there are no streaks or stains on your dishes.
Pump
Think about the installation place. If it goes under the counter or under the level of the sink, you will need a dishwasher with a pump. Practically, the leftover water must be pumped out. Otherwise, you will need to move the appliance above the level of the sink. In other words, consider the installation spot beforehand.
Water heater
Water heaters are quite standard these days. Some of the leading dishwashers in this segment come with water heaters – various levels of intensity, power, and temperature. If this feature is important for you, it will help to have the possibility to adjust the heating power.
Cycles
How many cycles does your dishwasher come with? More is better – no doubts about it. Sure, you can get your dishes clean with a couple of cycles only, but more advanced appliances come with various cycles for plates, cutlery, baby stuff, glass and so on. Consider your personal needs before analyzing the available cycles.
Energy and power
Make sure you do not invest in a portable dishwasher that will double up your bill – be it the water or the energy bill. In other words, you need an energy-efficient dishwasher. Luckily, you can find many Energy Star certified appliances, so go for one of them.
Installation and maintenance
If you have to spend more money to hire a plumber for the installation or regular maintenance, you have the wrong dishwasher. Most of them can be installed without any experience at all. They have detailed manuals of instructions which will provide step by step details.
As for the maintenance, many of the parts should be removable, and easy to clean. You should also have maintenance cycles.
Conclusion
As a short final conclusion, deciding on the portable dishwasher is not as hard as you might imagine. There are, indeed, a bunch of similar appliances out there, yet small details will lead you in the right direction.
Just like for any other appliance out there, it pays off understanding your needs and expectations upfront. A little research and homework upfront will ensure that you make the right decision.
Furthermore, it is highly recommended to go with a top-rated product. It comes from a reliable manufacturer and it has hundreds or thousands of positive reviews, so there will be no unexpected surprises in terms of reliability and durability – it has already been “test-driven” by others.
FAQs:
Some of the most frequently asked questions and answers will be helpful to clear your doubts. Take a look at them:
Are portable dishwashers worth it?
It depends on your needs. If you have limited space in your kitchen or your kitchen is too small to accommodate a built-in dishwasher, a portable appliance is your best bet. Portable units are also great for recreational vehicles or summer kitchens. If you live by yourself and you almost never cook, you do not need a dishwasher.
Do portable dishwashers work as well?
Portable dishwashers are as efficient as built-in dishwashers. The only difference is in the actual portability. Basically, they are smaller and more compact, so they can be moved around. At the same time, they have a lower internal capacity, so you will not be able to fit as many dishes in.
How does a portable dishwasher drain?
A portable dishwasher will normally come with or without a pump. If you have a model without a pump, it should be installed above the level of the sink. The hose should go in the sink, so all the water will go in there.
What is the difference between a portable dishwasher and built-in?
The size and internal capacity are the main differences between portable and built-in dishwashers. As a direct consequence, countertop dishwashers will obviously use less detergent and water than the built-in alternatives, not to mention power consumption. They are more energy-efficient. While you might expect them to be less efficient at cleaning, you are wrong. They are just as good.
Can I install a portable dishwasher permanently?
Yes. Some models can be installed permanently. But then, they are not really designed for a permanent installation, so it might cause some hassle. Moreover, improper use could ruin your warranty, so it might be better to follow the instructions and use the dishwasher based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.