Tired of scrubbing dishes by hand after every meal? You’re not alone! Many of us dream of a sparkling clean kitchen without the endless chore of washing up. But when you’re short on space, that dream can feel impossible. Finding the right small dishwasher can be tricky, with so many choices and different features to consider. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to figure out what will actually work for your kitchen and your needs.
This is where we come in. We’ll break down the most important things to think about when choosing a small dishwasher. We’ll look at what makes one a good fit for a small apartment, a tiny kitchen, or even just for one or two people. By the end of this post, you’ll feel much more confident about finding a dishwasher that fits your space and makes your life easier.
So, let’s dive in and discover how a small dishwasher can bring convenience and cleanliness back into your kitchen, one load at a time.
Our Top 5 Small Dishwasher Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Dishwasher Detailed Reviews
1. COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of endless dishwashing by hand? The COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher in sleek black is here to save your day. This compact powerhouse is designed for smaller living spaces like dorm rooms, RVs, and apartments. It’s a perfect size for 2-3 people, holding up to 70 pieces of tableware, including plates up to 10 inches wide. No more sink clutter!
What We Like:
- **Space-Saving Design:** Its compact size (H17.2″×W21.6″×D19.7″) makes it ideal for dorms, RVs, and apartments.
- **Flexible Installation:** Connect it easily to your faucet with a suitable adapter, and place it on your countertop or even fit it into a cupboard.
- **Versatile Washing Options:** Choose from 8 washing programs, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed, to tackle any mess.
- **Powerful Cleaning:** The Heavy program uses 12 spray nozzles and 360° spiral washing with water up to 154℉ to blast away tough stains.
- **Quick Wash:** The Speed program gets your dishes sparkling clean in just 45 minutes.
- **Energy Efficient:** It’s Energy Star compliant, using as little as 2.77 gallons of water per cycle to save you money.
What Could Be Improved:
- **Initial Water:** It’s normal for the dishwasher to have some water inside from factory testing.
- **Adapter Not Included:** You’ll need to purchase a suitable faucet adapter separately for installation.
This COMFEE’ dishwasher offers a convenient and efficient way to keep your dishes clean. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to simplify their kitchen routine without sacrificing sparkling results.
2. COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank for Apartments& RVs
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of washing dishes by hand, especially in a small living space? The COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher is here to help! This handy appliance is designed for apartments, RVs, and any home where space is tight. It doesn’t need to be hooked up to your faucet, making it super flexible. Just fill its built-in water tank, and you’re ready to go. It’s a game-changer for keeping your kitchen clean and your dishes sparkling.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to set up. You can fill it with water yourself, or connect it to your faucet with the included hose.
- It’s really compact but can still wash a good amount of dishes, up to 30 items! It fits plates up to 9.5 inches wide.
- You get six different wash programs, including a quick wash, a special one for glasses, and even a fruit wash.
- The high-temperature wash can reach 192℉, which is great for getting baby bottles really clean and germ-free.
- It has an air-dry function that helps keep your dishes and the inside of the dishwasher dry and smelling fresh.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to make sure you have at least 19.6 inches of space between your countertop and the cupboards above it for it to fit properly.
- It’s important to use the right kind of dishwasher detergent. Regular dish soap can cause problems.
This COMFEE’ dishwasher is a fantastic solution for anyone wanting cleaner dishes with less hassle in a compact space. It makes dishwashing much more convenient.
3. NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of washing dishes by hand in your small apartment? The NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher is here to help! This compact powerhouse is designed for modern living, making dish duty a breeze.
What We Like:
- Fits a surprising amount for its size, handling up to 4 place settings, perfect for small families or couples.
- No complicated installation needed! You can use the built-in water tank or connect it to your faucet.
- Features a special “Baby Care” mode that washes at a super hot 167°F, ideal for baby bottles and extra-greasy dishes.
- It’s a 3-in-1 wonder: it washes, dries with hot air, and even keeps dishes sanitary with ventilation.
- Comes with everything you need, including racks for dishes and cutlery, plus a special basket for fruits and veggies.
- Has a quick “Speed Wash” option that cleans your dishes in just 29 minutes.
- The LED touch panel and inner light make it easy to see what’s happening inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- The manufacturer tests these dishwashers, so you might find a little water inside when you get it – this is normal!
This NOVETE dishwasher is a smart solution for anyone living in a smaller space. Get ready for sparkling clean dishes with minimal effort.
4. EUHOMY Mini Portable Dishwasher Countertop Compact Dishwashers
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of washing dishes by hand in your apartment or RV? The EUHOMY Mini Portable Dishwasher is here to save the day! This compact powerhouse fits right on your countertop and offers a no-fuss way to get sparkling clean dishes, even without a direct hookup to your water line. It’s designed for convenience and efficiency, making dish duty a breeze.
What We Like:
- Super Portable: It’s small enough for any kitchen and doesn’t need any special installation.
- Flexible Water Options: You can fill the built-in tank or connect it to a faucet – your choice!
- Plenty of Space: It holds over 30 dishes, including plates up to 10.25 inches, plus cutlery and even a fruit basket.
- Versatile Cleaning Modes: Six different wash programs, including a speedy 29-minute quick wash and a super-hot “Baby Care/Heavy Duty” mode for tough messes and sanitizing baby items.
- Dry Function Included: It not only washes but also dries your dishes with hot air and ventilation to keep them odor-free.
- Eco-Friendly: Uses much less water than handwashing, saving you money and helping the environment.
- Safety Certified: ETL and DOE certified for your peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Faucet Adapter May Be Needed: Make sure to check your faucet size; you might need to buy an adapter.
- Plastic Caution: Don’t wash BPA plastic items in it.
- Specific Detergent Required: You need to use detergent made for dishwashers.
This EUHOMY mini dishwasher is a fantastic solution for anyone looking for a convenient and effective way to handle their dishes. It offers great flexibility and powerful cleaning in a compact package.
5. Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings
Rating: 9.2/10
The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s designed to make your life easier by cleaning your dishes efficiently. This dishwasher offers plenty of space for your dinnerware and comes with useful features to handle different cleaning needs. Its sleek stainless steel finish makes it look good too.
What We Like:
- It holds 8 place settings, which means you can fit a good amount of dishes inside.
- There are 6 different washing programs to choose from, so you can pick the best one for your load.
- The stainless steel tub helps it clean better and last longer.
- It’s Energy Star certified, meaning it uses less electricity, saving you money.
- You can set a delay start timer for up to 24 hours, which is super convenient.
- It’s ADA-compliant, making it easier for more people to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 18-inch width might be a bit small for larger families or those who entertain often.
- While it has several programs, some advanced features found in larger models might be missing.
Overall, this Honeywell dishwasher is a solid choice for kitchens needing a reliable and efficient cleaning solution. It balances useful features with energy savings, making it a smart buy.
Choosing Your Perfect Small Dishwasher: A Smart Guide
Why a Small Dishwasher Might Be Your Kitchen’s Best Friend
Small dishwashers are fantastic for apartments, small homes, RVs, or even just for those who don’t have a lot of dishes. They save space and water. They are also energy efficient.
1. Key Features to Look For
Capacity and Size
This is the most important thing! Small dishwashers usually fit between 4 to 6 place settings. A place setting is a full set of dishes for one person. Think about how many people live in your home and how many dishes you use daily. Measure your counter space or cabinet space carefully. Some models are tabletop, while others fit under the counter.
Wash Cycles and Options
Look for different wash cycles. Most have a normal cycle for everyday loads. A heavy-duty cycle is good for tough, baked-on food. A quick wash is great for lightly soiled dishes. Some have an eco-friendly option to save water and energy.
Noise Level
Dishwashers can be noisy. Check the decibel (dB) rating. Lower numbers mean quieter operation. Many small dishwashers are designed to be quiet, which is nice if your kitchen is open to your living area.
Energy Efficiency
Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means the dishwasher uses less energy and water. It will save you money on your utility bills.
Ease of Use and Controls
Are the controls easy to understand? Do you prefer buttons or a digital display? Some models have delay start, which lets you set it to run later.
2. Important Materials
Stainless Steel Interior
Dishwashers with stainless steel interiors are usually more durable and resist rust and stains better than plastic interiors. They also tend to dry dishes more effectively.
Durable Racks and Baskets
The racks hold your dishes. They should be strong and coated to prevent rust. Look for adjustable racks to fit different-sized items.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built dishwasher will last longer. Check for solid construction and good seals. Read reviews to see what other users say about durability.
Brand Reputation
Some brands are known for making reliable appliances. Research brands that have good customer service and warranties.
Drying Performance
Some dishwashers use heat to dry, while others use condensation. Condensation drying is often more energy-efficient. Some models have extra drying options.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Apartment Dwellers
Small dishwashers are perfect for apartments where space is limited. They make dishwashing much easier than doing it by hand.
Small Households
If you live alone or with just one other person, a small dishwasher is usually enough. You won’t have to run a large, energy-wasting dishwasher for just a few plates.
RV and Boat Owners
These compact appliances are also great for recreational vehicles and boats, providing the convenience of a dishwasher without taking up too much room.
Busy Individuals
Even if you have a larger home, a small dishwasher can be handy for quickly cleaning up after meals or for smaller loads, saving you time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a “place setting”?
A: A place setting includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bowl, a cup, a saucer, and cutlery (knife, fork, spoon) for one person.
Q: How much water does a small dishwasher use?
A: Small dishwashers are very efficient. They typically use between 2 to 4 gallons of water per cycle, much less than washing by hand.
Q: Do small dishwashers require special installation?
A: Most tabletop models plug into a regular outlet and connect to your faucet. Under-counter models require plumbing connections, similar to a full-sized dishwasher.
Q: Can I wash pots and pans in a small dishwasher?
A: It depends on the size of the pots and pans and the dishwasher’s capacity. Many small dishwashers can fit smaller pots and baking sheets.
Q: How do I clean a small dishwasher?
A: You can clean it with a dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Regularly clean the filter to keep it running smoothly.
Q: Are small dishwashers noisy?
A: Many modern small dishwashers are designed to be quiet. Look for models with a decibel rating below 50 dB for the quietest operation.
Q: What if I have a lot of dishes but limited space?
A: Consider a model with multiple wash cycles that can handle larger loads efficiently, or plan to run it more frequently.
Q: How long do small dishwashers typically last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a small dishwasher can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
Q: Can a small dishwasher replace handwashing entirely?
A: For most small households, yes! They are designed to handle everyday dishwashing needs efficiently.
Q: What is the average price range for a small dishwasher?
A: Prices can vary widely, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $500 for a good quality small dishwasher.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.