Best Portable Dishwashers Reviews 2020 – Top 8 Picks

Dishwashing is one compulsory house chore that almost everyone tends to hate. As such, a dishwasher provided reprieve from having to clean all the pans, pots, cutlery, and dishes by hand. But sometimes, there exist conditions that make it impossible to own a built-in dishwasher.

If you travel a lot in your RV or have limited kitchen space, then you need the best portable dishwashers to save you from the expensive plumbing works. No matter your reason for not desiring a fixed dishwasher, we have rounded up 8 of the best portable dishwashers to choose from.

Reviews 8 of the Best Portable Dishwashers 2020

1. hOmeLabs Compact Countertop Dish Washer – Best Overall

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The hOmeLabs Compact countertop dishwasher is our top pick for the best portable dishwasher. This portable dishwasher comes with lots of desirable features meant to make it as user friendly, space-consuming, and affordable as possible. Featuring convenient control panels, the hOmeLabs is an ideal option for those looking for an easy to use dishwasher.

Besides performing those on-the-go cleaning jobs, this countertop dishwasher takes a small footprint in your kitchen. It measures 21.6” in length, 19.6” in width, and 17.2” high. It easily sits on table or counter tops, saving you on valuable space. Using it is easy too. You simply load the dirty dishes after dinner, and let the washer do the rest of the cleaning job.

This dishwasher has 6 wash cycles already pre-programed. These include normal, heavy, speed, glass, rinse and ECO washing. These functions have light indicators which let you know which of the cycles is running. Moreover, a delay button makes it easy to postpone a cycle for a given period of time as you respond to other issues.

During the assembling process of this dishwasher, you don’t require any tools. The appliance comes fitted with quick connect inlet and outlet accessories. Inlet, drainage, and faucet adaptors quickly connects to your existing plumbing water lines. Note that the faucet is compatible with round-shaped faucet outlets as well as removable aerators. The hOmeLabs dish washer has an extra rinsing feature that guarantees streak-free dishes. This feature incorporates rinse aid dispenser to dry your plates, glasses, and mugs fast. Carefully use this feature to prevent damaging your dishwasher. A dispenser refill indicator lights up when it’s time for a refill.

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2. EdgeStar DWP62SV Portable Countertop Dishwasher – Best Eco Friendly

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The EdgeStar DWP62SV comes highly recommended as one of the most environmentally friendly portable dishwashers out there. What’s more, it is a compact dishwasher measuring just about 17 inches in height. Therefore, the appliance fits right beneath cupboards or on countertops. These setups require no permanent installations.

Whereas most dishwashers have up to 6 washing cycles, the EdgeStar DWP62SV has an extra washing cycle, totaling to 7. The dishwasher has a cutlery basket and a cup shelf to neatly organize the items being cleaned. Fitted with a powerful spray arm, the appliances ensure a thorough rubdown for the dirty dishes. Stubborn stains clean right off.

Another great feature is its considerable large holding capacity, despite the small frame. The dishwasher can hold plates up to 10.5” in diameter. A built in rinse agent dispenser minimizes water spots on dishes. Plus, on the heavy wash cycle, an internal heater boosts water temperature to 149 degree Fahrenheit. This feature is great as it eliminates germs from the washer.

Apart from being extremely easy to use, this portable dishwasher is a minimalist power consumer. It uses just about 200 KWH every year, which is approximately 61% less energy consumption that most of the dishwashers in the market. Similar, the model conserves water, using up 2.85 gallons, which is a normal wash. These should save you on water and electricity bills. When using this dishwasher, remember not to add detergent tabs, pods, or hand dish detergents. These detergents results in dishwasher overflow. All the controls are portrayed in a beautiful digital display. A 5 foot long hose and quick connect faucets makes for simple installation work.

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3. SPT SD-9241SS: Energy Star 18″ Portable Dishwasher – Best for Heavy Washing

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Once in a while, you get to host parties and gatherings in your house. While it is lots of fun, the following cleaning job involves a lot of work, especially if you were to do it by hand. That’s where this SPT9241SS comes in as a life saver. It is a portable dishwashing machine fitted with caster wheels, to make it easy to move around different workplaces.

This SPT dishwasher is spacious enough to hold up to 8 place settings (standard). Additionally, the upper rack is adjustable, enabling the washer to accommodate large pots and pans. This is a great feature as these large pots aren’t accommodated in most of the portable countertop dishwashers. While at it, easy to use intuitive controls make your work a lot easier as well.

There are six wash programs on this dishwasher. These include an all in one, heavy, normal, light, rinse, and speed washing programs. In addition, there is an automatic rinse agent dispenser with a notification alarm when it needs to be refilled. The interior of the washer is made from stainless steel to withstand the 154 degree Fahrenheit during heated washing. This feature means your dishes stay germs and bacteria-free.

The SPT is 18” wide, 26” long, and 49” high. The total width when the door is open, the depth increases to 49”. Quick connecting faucets eliminate the need for a permanent installation directly into your water lines. Another great feature that comes in handy is the time delay function. Once the dishes are loaded onto the machine, you can start the washing at a later time within 1-24 hours. In case of an error, an alarm displays the fault codes for easy trouble shooting. For a dishwasher of its size, it uses quite minimal amounts of water. 3.65 gallons of water might be more than that used by countertops, but is still reasonable. At 110W, this dishwasher is both energy saving and produces normal noise levels (55dB).

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4. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Portable Countertop Dishwasher – Best Countertop

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Even though your kitchen is cramped up and limited in terms of space, you should not give up on getting a portable, space saving dishwasher. When it comes to countertop dishwashers, the BLACK+DECKER BCD6W is one of the best portable dishwashers. Despite the small demeanor, this model has plenty of room and excellent features to make dishwashing a breeze.

The BCD6W can accommodate dining dish sizes of upto 10” in its 6 place settings. Whereas this dishwasher comes with 7 different wash cycles, it is not too demanding in its operating conditions. Measuring about 21.7”x 21.5”x17.2” this dishwasher fits just about anywhere in your house. This unit has dish rack that slides out for easy loading and unloading of utensils.

The whole of the spacious interior of the dishwasher is made from high quality stainless steel. This material ensures longevity of the Black+Decker as well as great looks. The 7 wash programs include 90 minutes, glass, eco, raid and soak, normal, and intensive washing. With an energy star certified rating, this model is highly efficient, reducing electricity and water bills.

The incorporation of a child lock feature keeps away children from fondling with the features, ensuring their safety. When using the dishwasher, the touch buttons and LED display make it easy to fine-tune the appliance as much as you want. A delayed start open allows you to preset a time when to start washing for up to 24 hours. This is great, more so when soaking utensils. After buying, this appliance can be hooked up to the kitchen faucets within no time. The connectors are quick connect, for a simple and fast connection. What’s more, the device is very quiet as it runs. Only the water discharge and rinse cycles can be heard as it runs.

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5. Farberware Portable FDW05ASBWHA  Dishwasher – Best Portable

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Provided you have electricity, water, and about 29 minutes to spare, then you will be in a position to get your dishes cleaned anytime and everywhere with the Farberware portable dishwasher. This dishwasher is truly portable, thanks to a 5 liter inbuilt water tank. This feature means that you don’t have to keep the appliance hooked up to the taps at all times when in use.

The best portable dishwasher has to be truly portable and used where you want. For those of you who have RVs, then this model would be an ideal choice. Still a water hose hookup hose is included in the package if you opt to directly connect it to the taps. However, note that the adaptor is not included and you have to source for it separately.

There are 5 washing programs to select from in this model. Essentially, you will be getting the functionality of a fully sized dishwashing machine packaged in a very compact countertop size. These five programs include the normal, baby care, glass, fruit, and rapid wash. For an additional oomph, the dishwasher is fitted with an upper and lower spray arms.

During the baby care wash program, the heating element generates steam. This steam is used to sterilize the baby care items, for a germ-free and sparkling clean wash. For rapid wash, the dishwasher takes about 40 minutes to clean the utensils. Once the cycle is through, an automatic air circulation mode facilitates the drying process. Fruits can be a breeding ground for germs and dirt. To prevent this, the Farberware has a unique wash program where you insert the fruit basket into the washer. Therefore, the fruits and vegetables get cleaned for serving directly from the machine.

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6. Danby DDW631SDB Stainless Countertop Dishwasher – Best Cleaning Performance

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As a clean person, you get used to the old school way of handwashing your dishes. However with time, your hands get tired or you need to give yourself a deserved rest. The Danby DDW631SDB portable dishwasher is an ideal option, giving your dishes a similar personal touch as your hands.

As a portable dishwasher, it can be conveniently hooked either under or on top of your kitchen cabinets or kitchen counters respectively. While at it, this dishwasher does not take up unnecessary space either. Weighing in at about 50 pounds, this machine measures 19.7”x21.6”x17.2” (tall, width, deep). You can easily move it around wherever you go.

In every wash, the dishwasher uses about 3 gallons of water. Thus, the machine saves you on water bills in comparison to washing the dishes by hand. The cutlery tray pulls out to make room for more pots. This single rack can also be folded, to increase cleaning space for large size utensils.

The Danby has 6 place settings dish rack with 6 wash cycles. These cycles are controlled from the LED display control panel provided. Better yet, the device is energy star certified for energy efficiency. A stainless steel interior takes the beating of utensils being washed as well as sharp scratching utensils. The steel also holds up well to heated washing cycles. Of the 6 wash cycle programs, there is a soak option. This feature is great, since it allows you to get rid of stubborn food residues. Coupled with the option of delayed starting, you can set the dishwasher to start at a later time when the residue is already softened. The delay time varies from 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours. Cleaning time is therefore scheduled to a convenient time.

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7. SPT Countertop SD-2225DW Dishwasher – Best Budget

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This is one of the best portable dishwashers meant to be used in houses with limited appliance space. It could be an apartment, small sized kitchens or an office kitchen. The dishwasher gives maximum power, in a small, compact design. Moreover, the unit fits between cabinetry and counter tops in a typical apartment kitchen setting.

Apart from the dishwasher, the package includes a drain hose and an installation kit. With these, you have everything you need to set up the dishwasher. With its quick connecting faucet accessories, the installation process does not have to be permanent. Provided you have a source of water with an adaptable faucet, you are good to go.

One of the likable features of this dishwater is the generous dish holding capacity. Like most countertop dishwashers, this SPT model allows for up to 6 place settings. Size-wise, the machine accommodates dishware of up to 10.25” in diameter. Albeit the placement has to be slanted for an appropriate fit.

A total of six wash cycles are available, including heavy, rinse, speed, ECO, normal, and glass washing. These are enough for all your washing need. For stuck food on dishes, you have to soak them separately in the sink. Another extra feature is the ability to use a detergent and rinse agent disperser. While most machines experience overflow, this one handles the detergents quite well as the dishwasher automatically controls the emitted quantities. Washing times can be delayed through the included timer by 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours. The remaining time is displayed on the LED display, as well as the current running wash program.

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8. Sunbeam DWSB3607WW Portable Countertop Dishwasher – Best for Beginners

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The Sunbeam DWSB3607WW portable dishwasher is another great choice for a small sized dishwasher for your hassle-free cleaning needs. This specific model is tuned to be as efficient in cleaning as the large fixed counterparts. Because of the compact design, it is a great asset for new home owners.

With no need to a fixed direct plumbing, this machine has the ability to be moved from point to point. It is, therefore, excellent for cleaning after a party with a couple of friends at your place. It gets up and running in an instant. The faucet adaptor is included in the package. You have the choice of selecting between 6 washing cycles.

Using the dishwasher is a breeze. All you need to do is load the dishes onto the basket, add a detergent of your choice, and then select any of the 6 washing modes. These modes are normal, heavy, rinse, speed, glass, and eco washing. Moreover, an automatic rinse aid dispenser inhibits the formation of water droplet spots on the cups, cutlery, pots, and pans. The Sunbeam DWSB3607WW is strategically designed such that the basket can be placed strategically to maximize on available space. As a result, the cup shelf and rack can hold more utensils as practically possible. With its spacious stainless steel interior, the dishwasher holds up to 6-place settings.

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How to Choose the Best Portable Dishwashers

In a throng of too many dishwasher options, picking the best portable dishwasher is a complex procedure. Almost all the available options depict the same functionalities, sizes, and width among a host of other features. We hope this guide will help guide your selection process as it highlights the most essential features to prioritize when sourcing for a portable dishwasher.

1. Wash Cycle Programs

The most critical feature is the number and types of wash cycles the dishwasher can offer. Here, more is better, so is variety. Primarily, you will find six wash cycles in most of the portable dishwashers in the market. These are eco, normal, light, heavy, rinse, and speed.

However, you also notice other options with seven and more wash cycles. It is worth noting that more cycles is not automatically better. Sometimes it is down to personal preferences and typical washing procedures. As such, consider all your daily dish washing needs, and find a portable machine that meets these criteria.

However, the more versatile the appliance is, the more you are able to customize your washing at the touch of a button. Soaking, glassware, baby care, and fruit wash are some of the additional cycles you may find useful.

2. Standard place settings

All the portable dishwashers have an indication of how many standard plate settings they can accommodate. It is an indication of how many people the dishwasher can comfortably serve. This feature is critical when you have a family. On an average, most of the portable dishwashers will have 6 place settings. This feature guides the number of pans and pots you are most likely to fit into the machine at a time.

At the same time, consider washers with removable racks that are capable of storing stemware, baby bottles, tall glasses, and other tall items. If not, go for a washer with a convertible rack capable of being used in multiple ways. These are great for odd-shaped and miscellaneous items.

3. Dimensions and Noise Level

For you to opt for a portable dishwasher, it is either you are limited on space, or travel a lot and need a washer for those on the go cleaning jobs. Therefore, you want an appliance that matches your available space. The portable dishwasher you opt for should be able to fit beneath a cabinet or on counter tops. For these uses, the height is an important feature. Check your kitchen setting and ensure the available space is enough to fit the dishwasher.

Most portable dishwashers produce a hum from the running motor and the water being discharged. However, there are certain types that are noisy especially in quite environments such as office kitchens. Still, they aren’t as loud as washing machines. Look for an indication of the sound level on the appliance before buying. The quieter, the better for your sanity at home.

4. Delay Timer Function

There comes a time when you want to delay the washing for one reason or the other. This is where a delay timer is useful in a dishwasher. With a timer, users are able to load up the dishwasher, not start a cycle immediately. What you do is set the timer to a later convenient time that suits your schedule.

Most common instances of delaying a cycle is when it would conflict with a hot water need. Also, it is favored feature for those who wish to take advantage of off-peak utility rates. Usually the time delay varies from 2 up to 24 hours in high end portable dishwashers. Still, 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours is till good.

5. Energy Star Certification and Weight

Apart from taking advantage of off-peak utility rates, another cost saving measure is to opt for an energy star certified portable dishwasher. These eco-friendly washers have about 12% better energy efficiency that non-certified models. These dishwashers cost you less in running costs, and are better for the environment. The whole purpose of owning a portable dishwasher is so that you are able to move around with the appliance. Otherwise you would opt for the permanently fixed ones. Therefore, the weight is crucial as you will be moving the dishwasher around on a regular basis.

Portable Dishwashers FAQs

Q: Is hot water connection mandatory for portable dishwashers?

A: No. Most of the portable dishwashers have internal water heaters that eliminate the need for hot water connection. However, the heating process takes considerably longer in comparison to using your hot water faucet.

Q: Is it possible to use the Faucet when the dishwasher is running?

A: Yes and No. you can use the faucet while the dishwasher is operational in most of the dishwasher. However, don’t use the faucet while the dishwasher is either filling up or discharging water after a cleaning cycle.

Q: Most portable dishwashers have an eco-mode. What is it for?

A: The ECO mode is a cycle that is aimed at saving on your energy consumption rates. In this cycle, the appliance takes longer than standards cycle time while slowly heating the water. High energy efficiency dishwashers have this mode.

Conclusion

When looking for the best portable dishwasher, you don’t have to compromise on functionality. With patience and a few tricks up your sleeves, you can still get the workhorse of a large sized dishwasher in a compact package, ideal for your small sized kitchen. Portable dishwashers are also capable of keeping your kitchen running smoothly. They can be installed in virtually any kitchen, provided you connect the inlet to the kitchen faucet and the outlet to the sink drain. In this review, our top pick for the best portable dishwasher is the hOmeLabs Countertop Compact Dish Washer. It is among the most popular and best sellers in counter top dishwashers, enabling you to clean on the go. The dishwasher comes with standard 6 washing cycles, 6 place settings, occupies less space, is lightweight, and requires no tool to install. Moreover, the dishwasher is fitted with a rinse aid dispenser for ridding utensils of marks or spot streaks. The device is energy star certified and has an ECO mode to lower your utility bills.