3 Best Portable Dishwashers in 2024

As you’re planning your kitchen renovation, you coincidentally stumble upon a conversation about the convenience of portable dishwashers – and it got you thinking. With so many options available, finding the perfect one can be overwhelming. But what if you could narrow it down to just three top contenders? Imagine having a reliable, energy-efficient, and space-saving solution for your dishwashing needs. You’re about to discover the top portable dishwashers that fit the bill, and the features that set them apart. But first, let’s explore the best of the best – are you ready to find your ideal match?

BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher

If you’re a city dweller or small kitchen owner looking for a convenient, time-saving solution, the BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher is an ideal choice, offering a compact design and energy-efficient performance that won’t break the bank.

With its 6-place setting capacity, you can wash a decent amount of dishes without taking up too much space on your countertop.

The LED display and electronic touch controls make it easy to navigate the 7 wash cycles, including Normal, Intensive, Eco, Glass, 90 Minutes, Rapid, and Soak.

You’ll appreciate the Quick Connect assembly for easy hookup to your faucet, and the stainless steel interior with an easy-to-grip handle.

This compact dishwasher is perfect for small kitchens or apartments, and it’s Energy Star certified, so you can feel good about saving water and energy.

Best For: City dwellers, small kitchen owners, and those looking for a convenient, time-saving, and energy-efficient dishwasher solution.

Pros:

• Compact design perfect for small kitchens or apartments
• Energy-efficient with ENERGY STAR certification
• Convenient and easy to use with 7 wash cycles and LED display

Cons:

• Some reviewers mention minor issues with leakage and drying performance
• Limited capacity with 6-place setting
• May require occasional maintenance to ensure optimal performance

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SPT SD-9263SSA Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher

With its spacious cavity that loads up to eight standard place settings, the SPT SD-9263SSA Portable Stainless Steel Dishwasher is an ideal choice for small to medium-sized families or individuals who need a reliable and efficient dishwashing solution.

You’ll appreciate the modern design and stainless steel interior, which not only looks sleek but also provides powerful cleaning capabilities.

The dishwasher’s quick-connect feature eliminates the need for direct plumbing or permanent installation, making it easy to set up and use.

Plus, the six wash programs and customizable cycle options let you tailor the cleaning process to your specific needs.

As an Energy Star-rated appliance, you can trust that it’s an energy-efficient choice for your kitchen.

Best For: Small to medium-sized families or individuals who need a reliable and efficient dishwashing solution.

Pros:

• Easy to install and use, with a quick-connect feature that eliminates the need for direct plumbing or permanent installation.
• Offers customizable cycle options with six wash programs to tailor the cleaning process to specific needs.
• Energy-efficient and eco-friendly, with an Energy Star rating that ensures cost-effective operation.

Cons:

• Some users have reported that the cycle takes longer than expected to complete.
• A few users have experienced issues with the adapter and have found the fixtures to be cheaply made.
• Some users have reported that the dishwasher does not dry dishes properly and may not clean them as thoroughly as expected.

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Farberware Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher

Designed specifically for small kitchens, apartments, RVs, and boats, the Farberware Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher is the perfect solution for you, providing a convenient and space-saving way to clean your dishes.

This compact dishwasher features a 5-liter built-in water tank, allowing you to wash your dishes without being hooked up to a water supply.

You’ll appreciate the 5 programs, including baby care, glass, and fruit wash, which cater to your specific cleaning needs.

With its 12-inch diameter dish capacity and quick 40-minute wash cycle, you can get your dishes clean quickly and efficiently.

Weighing 36.38 pounds, this portable dishwasher is easy to move around and store when not in use.

Best For: Those living in small kitchens, apartments, RVs, and boats who need a convenient and space-saving way to clean their dishes.

Pros:

• Compact and portable design makes it easy to move and store
• 5 programs, including baby care, glass, and fruit wash, cater to specific cleaning needs
• Quick 40-minute wash cycle and easy-to-use interface make it a convenient option for busy individuals

Cons:

• Requires careful loading to ensure effective cleaning
• Lacks a flatware basket, which may be inconvenient for some users
• May not be suitable for large families or households with high dishwashing demands

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Portable Dishwashers

When choosing a portable dishwasher, you’ll need to weigh several key factors that’ll impact your daily life with the appliance.

You’ll want to think about the space you have available, how energy-efficient the model is, and how much water it consumes.

Additionally, you’ll need to ponder the noise level, as well as the capacity to hold the number of dishes you typically need to wash in one cycle.

Space Constraints

Measuring your available counter space is crucial when selecting a portable dishwasher, as it guarantees a comfortable fit and prevents cramped quarters. You’ll want to verify the dishwasher you choose fits snugly on your countertop, leaving enough room to open the door and load dishes comfortably.

Look at compact designs like the Farberware Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher, ideal for small kitchens, apartments, RVs, and boats.

When choosing a portable dishwasher, think about the number of people you’re planning to wash dishes for. If you’re a single person or a small family, a smaller capacity like the BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher’s 6-place setting capacity might be perfect.

Larger families or households might prefer a larger capacity like the SPT SD-9263SSA’s 8-place setting capacity.

Don’t forget to ponder the weight and portability of the dishwasher, as you’ll want to be able to move it around or store it easily when not in use.

Energy Efficiency

As you shop for a portable dishwasher, consider the environmental and financial benefits of choosing an energy-efficient model, which can substantially reduce your utility bills and carbon footprint.

Look for the ENERGY STAR certification, a key indicator of a portable dishwasher’s energy efficiency. Models with this certification use notably less energy and water than traditional dishwashers.

Check the EnergyGuide label, which provides an estimate of the product’s energy consumption and compares it to similar products. For example, the Farberware Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher consumes only 130 kilowatt hours per year.

Some portable dishwashers, like the BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher, offer eco-friendly cycles, such as the ‘Eco’ cycle, which uses even less energy and water than regular cycles.

Water Consumption

You’ll also want to weigh how much water your portable dishwasher uses, since it can substantially impact your utility bills and the environment.

Portable dishwashers are generally more water-efficient than traditional built-in dishwashers. Some models use as little as 2.5 gallons of water per cycle, which is a significant reduction in water consumption.

However, the amount of water used can vary depending on the model, its features, and how you use it. For instance, the number of wash cycles and the type of detergent used can affect water consumption.

Look for Energy Star certified models, like the BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher, which are designed to be water-efficient. Some models, such as the Farberware Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher, have built-in water tanks that allow for water independence and reduce water consumption.

Additionally, the size of the load, type of dishes, and wash cycle selected can also impact water consumption. When choosing a portable dishwasher, consider these factors to minimize your water usage and reduce your environmental footprint.

Noise Level Factor

When it comes to choosing a portable dishwasher, the noise level is an important factor to weigh, especially if you plan to run it during the night or in a noise-sensitive environment.

You’ll be relieved to know that most portable dishwashers operate at a relatively quiet level, around 40-50 decibels, comparable to a quiet conversation or a gentle stream.

However, some models are designed to be even quieter, like the BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Dishwasher, which has a noise level as low as 39 decibels.

If you’re planning to run your portable dishwasher during the night or in a noise-sensitive space, look for models with a silent or quiet operation feature to minimize disruptions.

When researching, be sure to read customer reviews and product descriptions carefully to find a model that suits your needs.

Dish Capacity Needs

Your portable dishwasher’s dish capacity needs depend on the size of your household and your typical dishwashing load.

If you live alone or with a partner, a compact model with a capacity of 4-6 place settings might suffice. However, if you have a larger family or entertain frequently, you’ll want a model that can handle 8-10 place settings or more.

Consider the types of dishes you typically wash. If you have a lot of large or bulky items, like pots and pans, you’ll need a model with a larger capacity. On the other hand, if you mostly wash smaller items like plates, bowls, and cups, a smaller capacity might be fine.

When choosing a portable dishwasher, think about your daily dishwashing needs. Do you need to wash a full load every day, or can you get by with washing smaller loads more frequently? Be honest about your dishwashing habits and choose a model that can keep up.

A portable dishwasher that’s too small will leave you frustrated, while one that’s too large will waste energy and water.

Cycle Options Variety

A portable dishwasher’s cycle options can greatly impact its overall performance and your daily dishwashing experience, so take into account the variety of cycles offered by a model.

You’ll want to think about what types of cycles are essential to you. Do you need a delicate cycle for fine china or a heavy-duty cycle for pots and pans? Perhaps you prioritize an eco-friendly cycle for energy efficiency or a speed cycle for quick cleanups.

When researching portable dishwashers, look for models that offer multiple cycle options. A delay start feature can also be beneficial, allowing you to schedule your dishwasher to run during off-peak hours or when you’re not home.

Some models may offer a sanitizing cycle, which can be especially useful for families with young children or pets. Additionally, consider the customization options available, such as adjustable water temperature and soil level settings.

Maintenance Ease

Proper maintenance is essential to extend the lifespan and performance of your portable dishwasher, and you’ll want to weigh the maintenance requirements of a model before making a purchase.

Regular cleaning of the filter and drain is necessary to prevent clogs and maintain performance. You’ll also want to leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar after a cycle to dry the interior and prevent moisture buildup.

Removing mineral deposits and preventing limescale buildup is essential, depending on usage and water hardness, and should be done every 1-3 months. Additionally, you’ll need to check and replace worn-out or damaged parts, such as the detergent dispenser or gaskets, to guarantee proper function and prevent leaks.

To keep your portable dishwasher in top shape, consider running a cleaning cycle or a hot water cycle with a dishwasher cleaner every 1-2 months. This will remove grease and food residue, maintaining the dishwasher’s hygiene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wash Baby Bottles and Accessories in a Portable Dishwasher?

You can wash baby bottles and accessories in a portable dishwasher, but make certain you choose a gentle cycle and a dishwasher-safe basket to protect delicate items from heat and harsh detergents.

Do Portable Dishwashers Require a Water Softener for Optimal Performance?

You’re wondering if you need a water softener for your portable dishwasher to run smoothly. The answer is yes, you do, since hard water can leave spots and affect performance, so consider investing in a water softener for excellent results.

Can I Install a Portable Dishwasher Permanently Under My Countertop?

As you navigate the kitchen renovation landscape, you’re wondering if you can anchor a portable dishwasher under your countertop permanently. Yes, you can, but verify the dishwasher is specifically designed for permanent installation.

Are Portable Dishwashers Energy-Efficient and Environmentally Friendly?

You’re likely curious about the eco-friendliness of portable dishwashers. Luckily, they’re designed to be energy-efficient, using less water and detergent than traditional models, making them a more environmentally friendly choice for you.

Do Portable Dishwashers Have a Drying Cycle or Heat Drying Function?

You’re wondering if portable dishwashers have a drying cycle or heat drying function. Most models don’t have a heat drying function, but some may have a drying cycle or moisture-removing feature to help with water spots.

Conclusion

You’ve got the perfect portable dishwasher in mind, but bear in mind your specific needs before making a purchase.

For instance, a small household like Sarah’s, with only two people, would benefit from the Farberware Compact Portable Countertop Dishwasher’s 5-liter built-in water tank and quick 40-minute wash cycle.

By weighing factors like energy efficiency, cycle options, and compact design, you’ll find the ideal portable dishwasher for your unique situation.