Not all homes have room for a built-in dishwasher. Whether you live in a small apartment, a dorm room, or an RV, you shouldn’t have to miss out on the glory of a dishwasher. But you might need to settle for something portable.
Choosing a portable dishwasher means you can spend less time hand-washing your dishes and more time watching your favorite box set. We mean, working…
With our list of the five best portable dishwashers, we’re sure you’ll find something that fits your kitchen and your dishwashing needs. Whether you’re looking for something that fits your RV, a stainless steel option, or a heavy-duty cleaner, we’ve got you covered.
To create this list, we spent hours researching real customer reviews, expert advice, as well as applying our own expertise. We studied each product’s size, capacity, washability, and noise levels, so you know exactly what to expect from each appliance.
- Cool Autosense feature
- Hard food disposer prevents clogs
- Smart dishwasher — control with your smart speaker
- High-temperature wash
- Sensor wash feature
- 12 place settings
- 3-level wash for spotless results
- Condensation drying removes moisture
- Smart controls via app
- Eco-friendly
- Flexible loading for eight people
- Great cycle options
- User-friendly control panel
- Six wash programmes
- 24 hour time delay
Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we meticulously analyze and assess the best portable dishwashers to provide you with a comprehensive evaluation based on hands-on experience, professional research, and data-driven results. Our experts compare products using key criteria such as performance, design, and user experience, taking into account factors like energy efficiency, noise levels, and cleaning capabilities. We rank dishwashers based on first-hand evidence, measuring their effectiveness in real-life scenarios, and identifying what sets them apart from competitors. Our reviews are crafted from a user’s perspective, focusing on decision-making factors, and providing you with a reliable guide to help you choose the perfect portable dishwasher for your needs.
The Best Portable Dishwashers of 2024
We’ve spent hours researching real customer reviews, product descriptions, and expert advice. We reviewed and rated products based on their size, capacity, material, cycle options, and noise levels. To make it easier for you, we put all our research together in one place.
Check out these fantastic five portable dishwashers below.
GE 18 Inch Stainless Steel
Best for RVs
Whether you’re looking for a portable dishwasher for your small apartment or an RV, this option is great. It’s an 18-inch appliance, so it is ideal for tight spaces.
Keep in mind that it’s recommended to have a circuit breaker and an individual outlet for this appliance.
You must also have a 120V, 60Hz, AC-only, 15-ampere, or 20-ampere fused electrical supply. The wiring must be two-wire and earth, and rated for 167°F. If your RV doesn’t meet these requirements, contact an electrician before installing this dishwasher.
That being said, this is an awesome dishwasher once it’s set up.
What We Like
Enjoy the Autosense Cycle
This dishwasher has a cool autosense feature. Inside the dishwasher, a beam of light measures the soil levels. Then it adjusts the water temperature and the cycle time to effectively clean the dishes without using unnecessary energy.
Hard Food Disposer Prevents Clogs
Say goodbye to food clogs in the dishwasher. It has an included hard food disposer that grinds food particles at 3,600 reps per minute.
The stainless steel blade helps ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean every time. It also makes maintenance easier as you don’t need to clean the filter or spray arms as often.
Smart Dishwasher (Wi-Fi Compatible)
You’ll also love that this dishwasher works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Once connected to your smart devices, you can boss this dishwasher around with your own voice.
Powerful Wash and Sanitization
This dishwasher has three wash arms to ensure amazing coverage. You can expect spotless dishes with this appliance. It also has an NSF-Certified sanitization cycle which will kill 99.99 percent of bacteria.
What We Don't Like
Questionable Hose Durability
Keep in mind that you may need to replace the hose every so often. The durability isn’t up to par with the rest of the dishwasher. Customers are concerned about how often it can be bent before it cracks, breaks, or leaks.
You Can’t Use It as a Surface
True, portable dishwashers are popular because they can create more counter space. However, it’s not recommended that you use this as an extra surface.
The manufacturer advises that you don’t place items on top of the dishwasher. To be safe, that includes lighter items. So even if you’re looking for a place to store your fruit bowl, it’s not recommended you do that with this appliance.
Product Specs
| Size | 25.37 x 18 x 36 inches |
| Capacity | Eight place settings |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Cycle Options | Three, plus a sanitization cycle |
| Noise | 52 dBA |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Whirlpool Tall Tub Portable Dishwasher
Best Convertible Portable Dishwasher
If you want a portable dishwasher now, but a built-in later on, then you need a convertible dishwasher. The Whirlpool dishwasher has been upgraded, and it’s now convertible!
You’ll need a convertible kit for this product to transform it into a built-in dishwasher. This is available on the Whirlpool website (1). As it comes, this dishwasher has a countertop-like surface, so you can use it as extra storage or prepping area.
What We Like
High-Temperature Wash
While it doesn’t have a certified sanitization cycle, it has a high-temperature wash. This keeps the water between 150 to 160°F to give you super clean and hygienic results. We love this for washing baby items like bottles and pacifiers.
Sensor Wash Adjusts Cycle for You
The sensor wash feature automatically detects the dish’s soil levels. The appliance then adjusts the wash cycle length and temperature as needed. This can save a lot of water, which will then save you money and cut back on unnecessary energy.
12 Place Settings
If eight place settings aren’t enough for you, consider this dishwasher. It has room for 12-place settings which is big, even for a regular dishwasher!
Perfect for couples over a few days, or families. There’s room for an entire day’s worth of dishes, so you can wash less by hand.
Heated Drying Cycle
Nobody wants to open their dishwasher to damp dishes. Thankfully, this dishwasher has a heated drying cycle to help dry your dishes. It works best if you use a rinse aid.
What We Don't Like
Loud Operating Noise Level
This dishwasher is on the louder side, at 64dBA — louder than our other options. Compared to other sounds, it’s similar to a normal conversation or a shower running. It may disturb your sleep, though, so keep this in mind.
Four Hour Delay
While a four-hour delay timer is better than nothing, it’s not really practical. If you need to be there to disconnect the dishwasher at the end of the cycle, then this isn’t great for overnight.
For instance, if you set a four-hour delay timer, you’ll have to get up before your eight hours of sleep to disconnect the dishwasher. Unless you’ve converted this to a built-in dishwasher, running this during the day when somebody is home is best.
Product Specs
| Size | 27.5 x 24.1 x 37 inches |
| Capacity | 12 place settings |
| Material | Plastic |
| Cycle Options | Three |
| Noise | 64 dBA |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
GE 24 Inch Stainless Steel
Best Stainless Steel Choice
Stainless steel dishwashers are durable, easy to clean, and help dry dishes since they don’t cling to moisture.
Our recommendation for a stainless steel dishwasher is the 24-inch appliance from GE. Similar to its 18-inch partner, this is slightly bigger with room for 12-place settings. Perfect for families!
What We Like
3-Level Wash for Spotless Results
This dishwasher will thoroughly clean your dishes with its three-level wash system. It has three arms to provide a deep clean of the dishes on both racks and in the silverware caddy.
Condensation Drying Removes Moisture
Stainless steel already does an excellent job at drying dishes. It doesn’t cling to moisture like plastic does.
However, this dishwasher also has a condensation drying feature. This is an energy-efficient way to dry dishes. It doesn’t use a heating element. Instead, the high-temperature wash during the final rinse condenses the water and then drains it out of the machine, leaving you pretty dry dishes.
Smart Dishwasher (Works With Smart Speakers)
Once you’ve got your Wi-Fi adapter (sold separately), this dishwasher is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This smart dishwasher makes it easier for you to control the dishwasher using your smart speaker, your voice, or an app!
Piranha Food Disposer Removes Particles
If you didn’t scrape all the plates properly, you don’t need to worry about the filter clogging. This comes with a Piranha hard food disposer that runs at 3,600 RPM to slice up food residue and wash it away without any clogs.
What We Don't Like
Tablets Don’t Always Release
Some customers have complained that detergent tablets don’t always get released. They may get stuck in the detergent drawer. This obviously leaves the dishes uncleaned.
But it’s also a waste of energy since you have to run a full cycle before you know if the detergent has been released or not. Then you need to rewash the dishes. Other times, the tablet is released but doesn’t dissolve at all.
No Heating Element
While we think the energy-efficient condensation drying feature is neat, not everybody agrees.
Many customers dislike that this dishwasher is without a heated drying element. Dishes do sometimes come out a bit damp and require air drying before being put away.
Product Specs
| Size | 25.37 x 23.62 x 36inches |
| Capacity | 12 place settings |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Cycle Options | Three, plus sanitization option |
| Noise | 54 dBA |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Danby 18 in. Wide Portable Dishwasher
Best Heavy-Duty Dishwasher
If you need something to tackle a variety of jobs, lots of dishes, and big messes — this is the portable dishwasher for you.
This dishwasher has four cycles, including a heavy cycle, for super dirty dishes with caked-on food and burnt bits. It also has four temperature options, including a sanitization feature, to give you the most hygienic results.
Lastly, there are eight place settings, so it’s perfect for a small family.
What We Like
Eco-Friendly (Energy-Star Certified)
Dishwashers are more energy-efficient than hand-washing dishes. But this one goes the extra mile. It is Energy Star certified, proving it to be very efficient. It also has a valuable low-water consumption at a maximum of five gallons of water per cycle, saving you energy and money.
Flexible Loading for Many People
This dishwasher has eight place settings, so it’s perfect for a couple that makes all meals from scratch, or a small family.
This appliance has a silverware basket for placing your cutlery safely. But it also has an adjustable top rack, so you can position it if you have larger items on the bottom.
Great Cycle Options
This portable dishwasher has four cycle options: heavy, normal, 90-minute, and rapid. So whether you have super dirty dishes or just need a quick wash, this appliance can do the trick.
You can also customize the temperature using four different options. This includes a sanitization cycle that keeps the water at 160°F; and it’s available with all four cycles!
Quiter at 52 Decibels
Of all the dishwashers on this list, this is the most quiet. Running at 52 decibels, that’s much quieter than our loudest choice. If you want a more discreet dishwashing experience, this might tick your boxes.
What We Don't Like
Hose Maintenance Required
The hoses require a bit of maintenance. You’ll need to make sure all water is emptied after every cycle, as customers found that there was often water still in the hoses.
You also need to tighten the hoses regularly — ideally before each use — otherwise, they may leak. Also, the connecting hoses are plastic, so may need to be replaced often.
Dishwasher Tabs Get Stuck
A few customers complained that the dishwasher drawer didn’t open, and so the tabs got stuck. This resulted in unclean dishes, which is very inconvenient.
Product Specs
| Size | 23.63 x 17.69 x 35.63 inches |
| Capacity | Eight place settings |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Cycle Options | Four, plus four temperature settings |
| Noise | 52 dBA |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
SPT Portable Dishwasher in White
Most Affordable Dishwasher
Portable dishwashers aren’t cheap, mainly because they’re niche products. But if you’re looking for something less expensive, we recommend the SPT portable dishwasher in white.
It has a stainless steel interior, so it’s still very durable. It’s stylish and will fit in with most kitchen decor. We also love that it has many cycle options, is easy to install, and will fit in small homes without taking up too much space.
What We Like
User-Friendly Control Panel
The control panel has been designed to be easy to use and customizable. You can mix and match your settings for the most effective wash of your dishes. Plus, specific buttons light up to show you your chosen settings, which is excellent if you accidentally pressed a button and aren’t sure which one it was.
Also, a rinse aid indicator light lets you know if you’re low on rinse aid.
Six Wash Programmes
This dishwasher has six washing programs: heavy, normal, eco, glass, 90 min, and rapid.
Heavy is great for really dirty dishes, such as pots with caked-on food. Rapid, on the other end of the spectrum, is great for lightly soiled dishes that don’t need drying.
During all cycles, a little image will be shown to represent which stage of the cycle the appliance is at.
24-Hour Time Delay
You can delay the start time of any cycle so that it fits in with your schedule. This is especially helpful since you need to be around at the end of the cycle to disconnect the dishwasher from the faucet.
With this dishwasher, you can delay it anywhere from one to 24 hours which is very flexible.
Adjustable Upper Rack
To accommodate larger pots and pans, the upper rack is adjustable. You can customize the height, allowing you space for all kinds of dishes.
What We Don't Like
Poor Hose Storage
There isn’t good storage for the hoses between cycles. This is very inconvenient for customers. Some have made their own storage hooks, so the hoses aren’t taking up extra space.
Weak Top Surface
While the manufacturer doesn’t specifically advise against putting items on top of the dishwasher, you should do so with caution.
Some customers noted that the top bent or dented when they placed items on it. If you’re looking for a dishwasher that can provide more counter space, think twice before choosing this one.
Product Specs
| Size | 23.63 x 17.64 x 35.63 inches |
| Capacity | Eight place settings |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Cycle Options | Six |
| Noise | 52 dBA |
Our Ratings
User Experience
| Product | Best | Size | Capacity | Material | Cycle Options | Noise |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE 18 Inch Stainless Steel | For RVs | 25.37 x 18 x 36″ | 8 place settings | Stainless steel | 3, plus a sanitization cycle | 52 dBA |
| Whirlpool Tall Tub Dishwasher | Convertible Portable Dishwasher | 27.5 x 24.1 x 37″ | 12 place settings | Plastic | 3 | 64 dBA |
| GE 24 Inch Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel Choice | 25.37 x 23.62 x 36inches | 12 place settings | Stainless steel | 3, plus sanitization option | 54 dBA |
| Danby Portable Dishwasher | Heavy-Duty Dishwasher | 23.63 x 17.69 x 35.63″ | 8 place settings | Stainless steel | 4, plus 4 temperature settings | 52 dBA |
| SPT Portable Dishwasher | Affordable Dishwasher | 23.63 x 17.64 x 35.63″ | 8 place settings | Stainless steel | 6 | 52 dBA |
Do Portable Dishwashers Work Well?
If you go for a quality one, yes. They may even match the powers of a regular dishwasher!
Portable dishwashers can also provide more space in your home. Many have a built-in countertop, so you can use that for storage or food prepping.
However, there are far fewer portable dishwasher options on the market, so you may not find one that ticks all your boxes. Secondly, they’re not as durable as regular dishwashers, and lastly, they’re not as quiet.
Portable vs Countertop Dishwashers
If you’re low on space but still want a dishwasher, you may be deciding between a portable and countertop dishwasher. The main differences are obviously size and location.
Countertop dishwashers are much smaller and can usually only hold four to six place settings. They sit on your countertop and may actually take up valuable counter space.
Portable dishwashers are much bigger and can hold up to 12 place settings. You can install them underneath a cabinet, or they can be placed in a separate kitchen area.
If you have the space, we recommend using a portable dishwasher as they are more powerful and practical.
How To Choose The Best Portable Dishwashers
When shopping for a portable dishwasher, pay attention to these factors to find the best match for you.
Size
Portable dishwashers are either 18 inches or 24 inches wide. Make sure the dishwasher will fit your space, as well as what your dishwashing needs are.
Capacity
As well as size, consider the capacity. This is usually measured in place settings. Some portable dishwashers can hold eight place settings, while others can hold up to 12. Depending on the size of your family, choose your dishwasher’s capacity accordingly.
Material
Portable dishwashers are generally either made from stainless steel or plastic. Both have their pros and cons.
Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean but is generally more expensive. Plastic is usually more budget-friendly, and it can be cleaned with bleach. However, it’s not as durable, and it clings to moisture more.
Number of Cycles
One cycle doesn’t fit all. A good dishwasher will have multiple cycle options, so you can switch it up depending on the soil level and requirements for your dishes. Some extra cycles may include heavy-duty, sanitization, and drying cycles.
Noise
Lastly, consider the noise. This is measured in decibels. The lower the decibel number, the quieter the dishwasher.
While portable dishwashers aren’t as quiet as regular dishwashers, they still come in a range of volumes. Our recommendations range from 52 to 64 decibels. So if you want something that you can run overnight without disturbing your sleep, consider the noise level.
Portable Dishwasher FAQs
How Do Portable Dishwashers Drain?
Some models can drain directly into the sink if the hose is long enough to reach it. However, you can also plumb the hose into the pipes beneath the sink, where it will drain from there. This requires more work, but it’s less messy.
Remember that some portable dishwashers cannot be plumbed into the pipes beneath the sink. If the hose cannot reach, you will need to have it drained into a bowl which is then manually emptied.
For Best Results
Can You Permanently Install a Portable Dishwasher?
It depends on the brand. But most portable dishwashers can be installed permanently. We recommend contacting the manufacturer for advice, as their installation guides usually do not cover this.
However, with some plumbing skills and extra parts, it is possible to install a portable dishwasher permanently.
Can You Run a Portable Dishwasher Overnight?
Since the portable dishwasher is connected to your faucet, you’ll need to turn off the water supply at the end of the cycle to avoid overflow and damage. You can run your portable dishwasher overnight if you use the delay timer function and ensure that you will be up before the cycle is finished.
Does a Portable Dishwasher Need a Garbage Disposal?
Nope! If you find that yours can be plumbed into the garbage disposal, and you don’t have one, purchase a dishwasher drain adapter for the sink drain.
How Long Should a Portable Dishwasher Last?
We aren’t exactly sure. Regular dishwashers tend to last around 10 years, but not much research has been conducted regarding the lifespan of portable dishwashers.
However, most warranties last around one year, so keep in mind it should last at least that long. Based on our experience and research, we predict that it should last at least three years, depending on the quality of the appliance.
What Is the Difference Between a Portable Dishwasher and Built-In?
A built-in dishwasher is installed directly into your plumbing. So all you need to do is load the dishwasher and press start before each use. It’s usually installed within your cabinets, so there are no gaps around it.
Portable dishwashers need to be manually plumbed into the faucet before each use. They also require a bit more effort between uses.
For example, you can’t leave it running while you’re out of the house. The same applies overnight unless you’re sure you’ll be there to turn off the water supply at the end of the cycle.
Built-in dishwashers also have more fun features, are more durable, and are usually a bit quieter.
Lastly, built-in dishwashers are more spacious than portable ones. However, portable ones are easy to transport, are usually on wheels, and are great for small homes or people on the move a lot.
Do Portable Dishwashers Use a Lot of Electricity?
Portable dishwashers do not use a lot of electricity. They are one of the most efficient appliances in your home.
