In today’s modern kitchens, dishwashers have become a necessity. However, not everyone has the luxury of space to accommodate a full-size dishwasher. The good news is that there are plenty of small dishwashers available in the market that can fit even in the smallest of kitchens. In this article, I’ll be recommending the five best small dishwashers to help you make an informed decision before purchasing one.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing A Small Dishwasher
Before we dive into my top picks, let’s take a look at the factors you should consider when shopping for a small dishwasher.
Size: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dishwasher is its size. It’s essential to measure the space where you plan to install the appliance to ensure that it will fit properly. Choosing a dishwasher that is too big for the available space can create installation problems, while choosing one that is too small may result in inefficient use of space and lower capacity for washing dishes. Therefore, it’s crucial to take precise measurements of the designated area before purchasing a small dishwasher to avoid any complications during installation and maximize its performance.
Capacity: The capacity of the dishwasher is another critical factor to consider when selecting an appropriate model. It’s essential to assess how many dishes you need to clean regularly and choose a dishwasher that can accommodate them efficiently. For instance, if you live alone or with only one other person, a small dishwasher with a capacity of 6-8 place settings may suffice. However, if you have a family or frequently host guests, you may want to consider a model with a larger capacity.
A dishwasher with a larger capacity can accommodate more dishes per cycle, reducing the number of loads you need to run, and ultimately saving time and energy. Additionally, some models may offer flexible loading options to help you maximize the use of space and increase their capacity. Therefore, it’s crucial to assess your needs and choose a dishwasher with an appropriate capacity to ensure that it can handle your daily demands effectively.
Features: Consider the features that are important to you. Do you want a dishwasher with a delayed start option? What about a sanitizing cycle or a heated dry option? Some models even have smart features that allow you to control the dishwasher with your phone.
Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency is important for both the environment and your wallet. Look for models with a high Energy Star rating to ensure that you’re getting the most energy-efficient dishwasher possible.
Noise Level: Dishwashers can be noisy, so if you’re sensitive to sound, you may want to look for a model with a low decibel rating.
Meet 5 Best Small Dishwashers Worth Buying
Find out more about the 5 small dishwashers I tested and get to know which one is the best for your needs. Keep on scrolling!
5. Countertop Dishwasher by ChuMaste
This small dishwasher has been an absolute game-changer in my kitchen! Despite its small size, this dishwasher can hold a surprising amount of dishes – I was able to fit 4 bowls of rice, 7 plates, 3 large cups, 2 milk bottles, 12 tableware, and forks in it all at once.
One of the best features of this small dishwasher is its compact size. At only 18.03 inches high, it fits perfectly under most kitchen cabinets. And if I need to make it even more compact, I can easily remove the lid of the tank to make it only 17.9 inches tall.
I also appreciate the touchscreen switch, which allows me to select from 5 different cleaning programs. Whether I need to quickly clean up after a small meal or do a more thorough clean after a dinner party, this mini dishwasher has me covered.
What’s more, this small dishwasher isn’t just limited to washing dishes – it can also wash fruits and vegetables. And because it’s made with mother-infant-grade materials, I can trust that it’s safe to wash baby bottles in too.
On the downside note, this small dishwasher leaked some water. It wasn’t just a small amount of leaking either, it was as if I had poured five cups of water into it and none of it stayed inside the dishwasher. This was a major disappointment, as I was hoping to have a reliable and efficient dishwasher in my kitchen. While I understand that my situation may have been a fluke, it still left a sour taste in my mouth.
Dimension: 16.54”D x 16.54”W x 18.03”H | Capacity: 2 Place Settings | Noise: 49dB | Voltage: 120V
What I Like:
- Very easy to use and set up
- Hold quite an amount of kitchenware
- Compact
- Safe to wash baby bottles
What I Don’t Like:
- Water leaks when the dishwasher is in the operation cycle
- Heavy on the weight
★★★★★ 4.7 out of 5 | 63 Ratings
Promising Review:
“OMG this dishwasher is great…how did i live without this item all my life…not only is it quiet but does a great job cleaning the dishes…i recommend this and show it to everyone that visits.” – Jeffrey, Jan 16, 2023, on Amazon
Related Article: 5 Best Countertop Dishwashers of 2023 Tested by the 10Expert
4. Portable Countertop Dishwasher by AIRMSEN
If you’re looking for a countertop dishwasher that can really get the job done, the AE-TDQR03 is definitely worth considering. With upper and lower rotating spray arms, this small dishwasher provides corner-to-corner coverage, ensuring that even the most stubborn food stains are thoroughly dissolved. I was amazed at how well it transformed my crusty, greasy, and messy dishes into clean, ready-to-use place settings.
One of the standout features of this small dishwasher is its low water and electricity consumption. Compared with manual dishwashing, it uses only 1.3 gallons of water, reducing water consumption by a whopping 80%. And it only consumes 0.135-0.439 kWh of electricity per cycle, so you can feel good about reducing your carbon footprint.
Another great feature of this small dishwasher is its hot air drying and automatic ventilation, which keeps your dishes clean and prevents odors. With 60 minutes of hot air drying and 72 hours of automatic ventilation, you can trust that your dishes will be ready to use whenever you need them. I also appreciate how compact this dishwasher is. It doesn’t take up much floor space, making it perfect for small kitchens or apartments. And it can be used with any washing mode other than FRUIT mode, which is great for versatility.
Just like the previous small dishwasher I tried, I’m sorry to say that the AIRMSEN dishwasher also let me down due to a leaking issue. Despite my hopes for a better experience, this problem made it difficult for me to use the product effectively and caused a great deal of frustration.
Dimension: 16.75″ D x 16.86″ W x 18.05″ H | Capacity: 5 Liters | Noise: 50dB | Voltage: 120V
What I Like:
- Great coverage of cleaning
- Compact
- Low electricity consumption
What I Don’t Like:
- Leak the water
- Not durable enough
★★★★★ 4.6 out of 5 | 497 Ratings
Promising Review:
“This dishwasher is great. We have placed it on our 1 bedroom guest house kitchen counter and it fits perfectly. Our guests love it and we love that it saves water. Great product.” – Kenny B., January 3, 2023, on Amazon
3. Countertop Dishwasher by Hermitlux
This small dishwasher provides 5 different washing programs, including Standard Cleaning, Fast Cleaning, ECO Cleaning, Strong Cleaning, and Fruit Cleaning. I love the variety of options that are available to me, allowing me to choose the perfect cycle for my specific needs.
The dual high water pressure spraying arms are another great feature, ensuring that my dishes come out perfectly clean and streak-free every time. I’m also impressed with the drying function, which helps keep my tableware dry and odor-free.
What’s really great about this small dishwasher is that it’s not just limited to cleaning dishes. I can also use it to wash fruits and vegetables, which is really convenient. Additionally, the high temperature and PTC Hot Wind settings are perfect for cleaning baby products and oily tableware, giving everything a sparkling clean finish.
One thing I really appreciate about this small dishwasher is the flexibility it offers in terms of water supply. I can use the built-in 5L water tank for instant use, or connect it to the faucet for continuous use. This makes it easy to use the dishwasher in a variety of different settings.
I’m still enjoying this powerhouse, however, if you look for the downside of this dishwasher, I will include that some of the reviews said this stopped working after a while. So, you must also consider the fact that this may doesn’t durable in terms of daily use.
Dimension: 16.73″D x 16.85″W x 18.03″H | Capacity: 5 Liters | Noise: 50dB | Voltage: 220V
What I Like:
- Providing 5 washing programs
- Drying function
- Able to clean fruits and vegetables
- Flexibility in offering water supply
What I Don’t Like:
- Doesn’t durable
★★★★★ 4.6 out of 5 | 937 Ratings
Promising Review:
“This is just what I needed. I live in very small apartment and at 80, standing to wash dishes has become difficult. It holds all of my dishes and also my utensils used for cooking except for my frying pan. Everything comes out sparkling clean. Wish I had invested in this sooner.” – PTLVR, Feb 13, 2023, on Amazon
2. FDW05ASBWHA Portable Countertop Dishwasher by Farberware
It’s perfect for smaller homes, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs, fitting a variety of dishes up to 12 inches in diameter at an angle. One of the things that really sets this dishwasher apart is its portability and storage capabilities. I love that I have the option to fill the built-in tank and not worry about needing a water hookup. But if I do have access to a faucet, the water hose is included for a direct hookup.
Despite its compact size, this dishwasher offers full-sized cleaning with five wash programs to choose from: Normal, Rapid, Fruit Wash, Baby Care, and Glass. I appreciate the variety of options available to me, allowing me to select the perfect cycle for my specific needs.
The Baby Care cleaning cycle of this dishwasher is a game changer for parents. Not only does it thoroughly clean dishes, but the steam generated during this cycle can also be used to sanitize baby bottles, giving parents peace of mind. Additionally, the Rapid cycle is perfect for those times when you need clean dishes in a hurry, as it only takes 40 minutes. The automatic air circulation feature is also a plus, ensuring that dishes are dry and ready to use when the cycle is finished. And let’s not forget about the included fruit basket, which allows you to clean your produce in the dishwasher for added convenience.
However, one major issue with this dishwasher is that the spraying arm lacks any significant pressure, resulting in only a weak splashing of water upwards.
Dimension: 20.9″ D x 21.9″ W x 22.4″ H | Capacity: 5 Liters | Voltage: 120V | Weight: 36.4 pounds
What I Like:
- Portable and compact
- Providing 5 washing programs
- Able to wash fruits and vegetables
What I Don’t Like:
- Water leakage
- The instructions are a bit confusing
★★★★★ 4.3 out of 5 | 3,237 Ratings
Promising Review:
“I adore this dishwasher, I hate hand washing dishes and my place doesn’t come with one it’s perfect for living alone. Obviously it can’t fit pots and pans but otherwise it works amazing. It gets those hard foods off as well and has great attachments for other types of washes.” – Raven, Jan 21, 2023, on Amazon
1. Countertop Dishwasher by COMFEE’
As someone who lives in a small apartment, I was looking for a compact dishwasher that could fit into my limited kitchen space. The COMFEE’ countertop dishwasher was the perfect solution. I love that it doesn’t require any installation since it has a built-in water tank that you can fill manually. However, if you prefer, you can also connect it to a faucet with the included water hose.
Despite its compact size, this dishwasher can clean up to 30+ items at a time, including 10″ plates, which is more than enough for my needs. The six washing programs, including NORMAL, RAPID, STEAM, FRUIT, GLASS, and AIR REFRESH, meet all my daily needs. I appreciate the FRUIT program doesn’t require a detergent, and the RAPID program needs only half of the standard amount.
The upgraded 192 ℉ STEAM & Dual Spray program works wonders, easily tackling stuck-on food particles and ensuring that baby bottles are thoroughly cleaned. I was also impressed by the extra drying and stay fresh function, which circulates AIR REFRESH to keep my plates and machine dry and odor-free for a long time.
Dimension: 16.5” D x 7.1” W x 17.1” H | Noise: 58 dB | Capacity: 2 Place Settings | Voltage: 120V
What I Like:
- Easy to set up
- Compact and portable
- Cleans well
- Quiet
What I Don’t Like:
- Miss-measurement
★★★★★ 4.4 out of 5 | 1,444 Ratings
Promising Review:
“I love this dishwasher! I have it on my counter top. I use it mostly for silverware, mugs and bowls. It cleans the ring of coffee out of the mugs. So worth it! I couldn’t be happier!” – Carolyn, Feb 1, 2023, on Amazon
Conclusion
In conclusion, small dishwashers are a great solution for those who are short on space or live in apartments, dorms, or RVs. Based on my testing experience, I could say that my top pick is the Countertop Dishwasher by COMFEE’. The Countertop Dishwasher by COMFEE’ is an excellent choice for its quiet operation, energy efficiency, and advanced features. Ultimately, the best small dishwasher for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and available space. We hope this article has provided valuable insights and helped you make an informed decision.
FAQs About the Best Small Dishwashers
Are small dishwashers worth it?
If you presently hand-wash all of your dishes, installing any dishwasher in your kitchen—even a little one—will minimize your water use. Whether you pay your water bill or not, using less water for a regular job like dishwashing is unquestionably beneficial.
Do countertop dishwashers use a lot of electricity?
Countertop dishwashers consume very little power since they are so tiny in comparison to many other large home appliances. These units should utilize between 120 and 250-kilowatt hours per year.
Can you wash pots in a countertop dishwasher?
A countertop dishwasher is only capable of washing a few place settings at a time. Forget about cleaning pots and pans. They just will not fit in most units. Portable dishwashers, on the other hand, may do the same amount of washing as a built-in dishwasher.
