Tired of washing dishes by hand after every meal? Many of us dream of a cleaner kitchen without the endless scrubbing. If you live in a small apartment, have limited counter space, or just need an extra set of hands, a full-sized dishwasher might not fit. This is where the 18-inch portable dishwasher steps in as a compact superhero!
However, choosing the right compact model is tricky. Do you pick the one with the most cycles? Which one actually cleans well without hogging your precious floor space? The market is full of confusing features and sizes, making it hard to know which machine is truly worth your money and counter space.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down the best 18-inch portable dishwashers available today. You will learn what features matter most for small spaces, how to compare performance, and find the perfect match for your home’s needs. Get ready to say goodbye to that dishpan forever!
Top 18 Inch Portable Dishwasher Recommendations
- SD-9263W 18″ Energy Star Portable Dishwasher
- Portable Dishwasher with Countertop: This portable dishwasher on wheels offers convenient countertop space and can be setup alongside kitchen counters. Ideal for compact spaces like apartments
- Eight-Place Setting Capacity: Our apartment dishwasher can fit up to 8-place settings and more at once including dinner plates, bowls, glasses, cups, cutlery and serving platters
- Six Wash Cycle Programs: Our Black and Decker portable dishwasher offers multiple cycles that work for you and your dishes. Wash cycles include Normal, Heavy, Rapid, Glass, Eco, and 90-min
- Adjustable Upper Rack and Stainless Steel Tub: This dishwasher portable includes an adjustable upper rack, accommodating taller dishes with ease. Stainless steel tub ensures durability
- Quick Connect: Hook up your tabletop dishwasher with a seamless Quick Connect assembly that hooks directly to a faucet. No direct plumbing or permanent installation required
- Capacity: 8 place setting
- 6 Wash programs: Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, 90 Min, Rapid
- Rinse Aid Warning Indicator: refill reminder on rinse aid
- Stainless Steel Interior
- Time Delay Feature: allows you to program operation at a later start time (1-24 hours)
- IMPRESSIVE CAPACITY: This 18” portable dishwasher thoroughly cleans up to 8 place settings in each wash cycle. Your dinner plates, cups, saucers, bowls and utensils will stay dirt-free and sparkling thanks to this durable stainless steel (16.3” x 20.5” x 26.15”) tub. Silverware basket included so your forks, knives and spoons remain immaculate. This portable dishwasher on wheels does the scrubbing for you with an adjustable top rack to accommodate taller dishes.
- EASY SETUP: No need for direct plumbing or permanent installation with this portable dishwashing machine. The Quick Connect assembly links right to your faucet with a 59” hose. Interior spray arms located in the upper and lower part of small dishwasher with a hot water temperature of 140° Fahrenheit. Child lock guarantees optimal safety when dishwasher machine is on.
- MULTIPLE WASH CYCLES: This BLACK+DECKER portable dish washer comes with 6 superior wash cycles: Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, 90-min & Rapid. An easy-to-read LED display with trouble-free push button allows you to begin cleaning in no time. Fully equipped with detergent dispenser and low rise aid indicator. Delay Start function allows you to wash plates, utensils, bowls and cups with the touch of your fingertips and on your own schedule.
- WORKTOP VERSATILITY: When your dish washer isn’t scrubbing your favorite dishes, it can double as a trendy kitchen island and worktop counter. When not in use, make the most of this stainless steel dishwasher by utilizing it to store kitchen appliances or even as a culinary work station.
- WORKTOP VERSATILITY: When your dish washer isn’t scrubbing your favorite dishes, it can double as a trendy kitchen island and worktop counter. When not in use, make the most of this stainless steel dishwasher by utilizing it to store kitchen appliances or even as a culinary work station.
- 14 PLACE SETTINGS: Racks are suitable to fit 14 place settings of dishes. There is a top cutlery rack and 2 other racks with a large removable cutlery basket.
- MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: There are 6 washing programs to choose from- pots & pans, normal wash, china, quick wash, rinse only, and energy saver. Up to 24 hour delay start for you added convenience.
- DURABLE TUB: The tub is made of stainless steel for better efficiency performance.
- ENERGY STAR: Low energy consumption according to Energy Star standards.
- BUILT-IN STYLE: The dimensions of the unit are 22.6"D x 18"W x 32.4"H. This stainless steel built-in dishwasher is ADA-compliant
- Slimline Design with Large Capacity : The Midea built-in dishwasher boasts a slim body that takes up minimal space and is easy to fit. It features a digital control panel with an LED display and has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate larger plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches in height.
- 8 Place Settings Dishwasher : With dimensions of 22.6D x 17.6W x 32.4H with adjustable legs, this under sink dishwasher provides a spacious and flexible interior for maximum dishware loading.
- 6 programs+3 functions : The 18-inch dishwasher offers six programs, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse washing programs. It also features Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions that meet all your daily needs. Note: ONLY use detergent specially for dishwasher because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems.
- Heated Dry : Smart dishwasher ensures the best drying performance. The extra drying function offers a thorough drying performance (except for the Rapid and Self-clean cycle) with no additional towel drying required.
- HI TEMP : The HYGIENE wash cycle maintains the water temperature at 136°F (58°C) max , which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes. It is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children's dinner sets.
- 8 PLACE SETTINGS: Racks are suitable to fit 8 place settings of dishes. There is a top cutlery rack and 2 other racks with a large removable cutlery basket.
- MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: There are 6 washing programs to choose from- pots & pans, normal wash, china, quick wash, rinse only, and energy saver. Up to 24 hour delay start for you added convenience.
- DURABLE TUB: The tub is made of stainless steel for better efficiency performance.
- ENERGY STAR: Low energy consumption according to Energy Star standards.
- BUILT-IN STYLE: The dimensions of the unit are 22.6"D x 18"W x 32.4"H. This stainless steel built-in dishwasher is ADA-compliant
- 6 Place Setting- A perfect size (H17.2″×W21.6″×D19.7″) for 2-3 people, COMFEE’ compact dishwasher is suitable for dorms, RVs, and apartments. This countertop dishwasher can fit up to 70 pieces of tableware and has a plate size of up to 10 inches in diameter. Note: COMFEE dishwashers are tested at the factory before they are shipped. If your new dishwasher has some water inside, this is normal.
- Simple Installation- COMFEE' portable dishwasher can be connected to faucet directly (Suitable adaptor needed). Depending on your needs, it can be flexibly placed on the table or fitted in the cupboard.
- 8 Washing Cycles- Most of the cleaning cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed, helped with extra-drying function, and deliver sparklingly cleaned and dried dishes. Three more cleaning options, including Speed, Mini-party, and Rinse, are designed for COMFEE' compact dishwasher, providing high flexibility for you to choose in different situations.
- Heavy Program- Heavily soiled dishes are cleaned evenly with 12 washing nozzles, accompanied with 360° spiral spray wash to ensure complete washing of all the dishes from all angles. Also, high water temperature, which is up to 154℉, together with high water pressure, offer you the best cleaning towards the most stubborn stains.
- Speed Program- Only takes you 45 minutes to get all dishes cleaned, perfect for hurry-up situations, like holding a multi-round party. Accompanied with Energy Star compliant, water consumption can be as low as 2.77 gallons of water, which greatly saves your costs.
The Essential Buying Guide for Your 18-Inch Portable Dishwasher
An 18-inch portable dishwasher is a fantastic solution for smaller kitchens, apartments, or RVs. It offers the convenience of automatic dishwashing without needing permanent plumbing. Choosing the right one takes a little homework. This guide helps you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They make a big difference in how well the machine works for you.
- Capacity: Even though they are small, check how many place settings it holds. Most 18-inch models fit 8 to 10 place settings. This is enough for a small family.
- Washing Cycles: Look for at least three cycles: Normal, Heavy, and Quick/Eco. More options give you better control over water and energy use.
- Drying Method: Does it use heat drying or residual heat drying? Heat drying cleans faster but uses more electricity. Residual heat is slower but saves energy.
- Portability and Hookup: Ensure it has sturdy wheels and a simple faucet adapter. You need to move it easily between the sink and storage spot.
- Noise Level (dB): Since these often sit near living areas, lower decibel (dB) ratings are better. Anything under 55 dB is generally considered quiet.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials inside the dishwasher affect its lifespan and cleaning power. Good materials mean you buy a reliable machine.
Interior Tub Material
The tub holds the hot water and detergents. You will usually find two main types:
- Stainless Steel: This material resists stains and odors well. It also helps keep the water hotter, which improves drying. Stainless steel is the better choice for long-term use.
- Plastic: This is cheaper and lighter. However, plastic can sometimes stain or hold onto food smells over time.
Racks and Spray Arms
Check the racks. They should have a durable vinyl or nylon coating to prevent rust. The spray arms must feel solid, not flimsy. Strong spray arms distribute water evenly across all dishes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all dishwashers clean the same way. Pay attention to these quality indicators.
What Boosts Quality?
- High-Pressure Jets: Better spray arms create stronger streams of water. This helps remove baked-on food without extra scrubbing.
- Filtration System: A good filter catches large food particles. This prevents those particles from redepositing onto your clean dishes.
- Delay Start Option: This feature lets you run the dishwasher during off-peak energy hours or when you are not home.
What Lowers Quality?
- Weak Hoses: Cheap rubber hoses can crack or leak over time, especially when exposed to hot water regularly.
- Simple Controls: If the control panel only offers one setting, you lose flexibility. You might waste water washing lightly soiled items.
- Poor Insulation: If the machine lacks good insulation, it uses more energy to heat the water, and the exterior gets very hot during the cycle.
User Experience and Common Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use this appliance. This shapes your decision.
Apartment Living
For renters, the ease of hookup is vital. You need a model that connects quickly to the kitchen faucet and drains into the sink basin. Look for compact storage options, perhaps under a counter when not in use.
RV and Vacation Homes
In an RV, weight and water usage matter most. Prioritize models with low water consumption settings. Make sure the wheels handle varied flooring, from tile to carpeting.
Small Families and Couples
If you cook often but have minimal space, this unit is perfect for daily use. You avoid letting dishes pile up in the sink. The user experience focuses on quick loading and unloading after dinner.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 18-Inch Portable Dishwashers
Q: Do I need special plumbing for an 18-inch portable dishwasher?
A: No, you do not need permanent plumbing. These units connect temporarily to your kitchen faucet using an adapter hose. When finished, you disconnect the hose and roll the unit away.
Q: How much water do these small dishwashers use?
A: They generally use much less water than handwashing. A typical cycle uses between 2.5 to 4 gallons of water. Always check the energy guide for specific consumption numbers.
Q: Can I store it in a standard cabinet?
A: Sometimes. You must measure the height and depth carefully. Many are designed to slide under standard counters, but some are taller. Always check the exact dimensions before buying.
Q: Are they difficult to set up for the first time?
A: Setup is usually simple. Most manufacturers include a quick-start guide. You attach the water inlet hose to the faucet and plug the power cord into a standard wall outlet.
Q: What kind of detergent should I use?
A: Use standard automatic dishwasher detergent pods or powder. Do not use dish soap meant for handwashing; it creates too many suds and will overflow the machine.
Q: How loud are they compared to full-sized models?
A: They are often slightly louder than high-end built-in models because they have less insulation. Look for models rated below 55 dB if noise is a major concern.
Q: What is the lifespan of a portable unit?
A: With regular use and care, a quality 18-inch portable dishwasher should last between 5 to 10 years. Stainless steel interiors often last longer.
Q: Can I use the quick cycle for heavily soiled pots?
A: The quick cycle is best for lightly soiled dishes, like coffee mugs or cereal bowls. Heavily soiled pots need the Normal or Heavy duty cycle for best results.
Q: What happens if my faucet doesn’t fit the adapter?
A: Most adapters fit standard aerator threads. If you have an unusual faucet, check the manufacturer’s website for specialized adapters or extensions you might need to purchase separately.
Q: Do I need to pre-rinse dishes before loading?
A: Modern dishwashers are powerful, so heavy scraping is usually enough. You should scrape off large food chunks, but a quick rinse is often unnecessary and wastes extra water.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!