Tired of battling the sink full of dirty dishes after every meal? For many of us, especially those in cozy apartments or smaller kitchens, a full-sized dishwasher just isn’t an option. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on sparkling clean plates and the freedom from scrubbing. The world of small dishwashers can feel a bit overwhelming, with so many different sizes, features, and brands to consider. It’s easy to get lost trying to figure out which one will actually fit your space and your life.
Choosing the perfect compact cleaner can be a challenge. You want something that saves you time and effort, but also fits neatly into your kitchen without being a constant eyesore. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great small dishwasher and how to pick the one that’s just right for you. We’ll break down the key things to look for, so you can finally say goodbye to those endless dishwashing chores.
Our Top 5 Small Dishwasher Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Dishwasher Detailed Reviews
1. COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of washing dishes by hand? The COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher in sleek black is here to save the day! This compact powerhouse is designed for modern living, fitting perfectly in dorms, RVs, and apartments. It’s a smart choice for small households, handling up to 6 place settings and even those larger dinner plates.
What We Like:
- Perfectly sized for 2-3 people, it fits up to 70 pieces of tableware, making it ideal for small spaces like dorms, RVs, and apartments.
- Installation is a breeze; you can connect it directly to your faucet, and it’s flexible enough to sit on your counter or fit into a cupboard.
- With 8 washing programs, including Speed, Baby-Care, ECO, and Glass, you have a setting for every need, ensuring sparkling clean and dry dishes.
- The Heavy program tackles tough messes with 12 spray nozzles and a 360° wash, using high temperatures (up to 154℉) and pressure to blast away stubborn stains.
- Need clean dishes in a hurry? The 45-minute Speed program is a lifesaver, and it’s Energy Star compliant, using as little as 2.77 gallons of water per cycle to save you money.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description notes that some water might be present inside the dishwasher upon arrival, as it undergoes factory testing, which could be a bit surprising for some users.
This COMFEE’ dishwasher offers a convenient and efficient solution for dishwashing in smaller living spaces. It’s a great way to get clean dishes without all the manual effort.
2. NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of washing dishes by hand in your small apartment? The NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher is here to save your day! This compact powerhouse fits easily on your counter and tackles your dirty dishes with ease. It’s designed for busy individuals and small families who want convenience without sacrificing space.
What We Like:
- Small size, big capacity: It holds 4 full place settings and fits dishes up to 12 inches wide, perfect for daily use for 3-4 people.
- No installation needed: You can either fill the built-in 5L water tank or connect it directly to your faucet.
- Baby Care mode: Cleans baby items and oily dishes at a super hot 167°F for ultimate hygiene.
- 3-in-1 functionality: It washes, dries with hot air for 60 minutes, and even ventilates for 72 hours to keep dishes fresh.
- All accessories included: Comes with racks, baskets, hoses, and a pitcher so you’re ready to go.
- Speed Wash option: Cleans dishes in just 29 minutes when you’re in a hurry.
- Fruit mode: Clean fruits and veggies easily for immediate serving.
- Easy to control: The LED touch panel and transparent door with an internal light let you see everything clearly.
- NOVETE dishwasher undergoes manufacturer’s quality tests, so a little residual water is normal. Run for 5 minutes before first use to clear any transport dust or odor.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity might be limiting for larger families or frequent entertainers.
- The 12-inch dish limit could be a challenge for some larger platters.
This NOVETE dishwasher is a fantastic solution for anyone needing a convenient and efficient way to manage dishes in a small living space. It offers great features and flexibility for everyday use.
3. COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank for Apartments& RVs
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of washing dishes by hand in your small apartment or RV? The COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher is your solution! This compact countertop dishwasher brings convenience to your kitchen, no matter how little space you have. It’s designed for easy use and offers powerful cleaning without needing a permanent water hookup.
What We Like:
- No hookup needed: Fill the 5L tank by hand or connect it to your faucet with the included hose. This makes it super flexible for any living situation.
- Ultra-compact design: It’s small enough for countertops but can still wash over 30 items, including plates up to 9.5 inches. Perfect for small homes, apartments, and RVs.
- 6 program options: Choose from NORMAL, RAPID, STEAM, FRUIT, GLASS, and AIR REFRESH. It has a setting for almost everything you need.
- High-temp hygiene: It washes with water up to 162℉ and rinses up to 192℉. This kills germs and is great for baby bottles.
- Extra drying and fresh air: The AIR REFRESH function keeps dishes and the inside of the dishwasher dry and odor-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- Countertop to cupboard clearance: You need at least 19.6 inches of space between your countertop and wall cupboards for it to fit.
- Detergent type: You must use standard dishwasher powder or detergent. Regular liquid dish soap can cause problems.
The COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher offers a practical way to get clean dishes without the hassle of a full-sized appliance. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking convenience in a small space.
4. Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings
Rating: 8.6/10
The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher is a smart choice for kitchens needing efficient cleaning. It handles up to 8 place settings, making it great for families or small gatherings. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks modern in any kitchen. This dishwasher is designed for convenience and performance.
What We Like:
- Holds 8 place settings, perfect for most households.
- Comes with 6 washing programs for different cleaning needs.
- The stainless steel tub is durable and helps dishes dry better.
- It’s Energy Star certified, saving you money on electricity bills.
- The 24-hour delay start timer lets you run it when it’s most convenient.
- ADA-compliant design means it’s accessible for everyone.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 18-inch width might be a bit small for very large families.
- While there are 6 programs, some might wish for more specialized cycles.
This Honeywell dishwasher offers a good balance of features and efficiency. It’s a reliable appliance for keeping your dishes sparkling clean.
5. EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable with 6 Programs
Rating: 8.7/10
The EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher is a game-changer for small kitchens and busy households. This compact and portable dishwasher tackles your dirty dishes with ease, offering a variety of cleaning options without needing a permanent hookup. It’s designed to fit on your countertop, making it ideal for apartments, RVs, and dorm rooms.
What We Like:
- Super compact and fits easily on most countertops.
- You can fill it with water using its built-in tank or connect it to your faucet.
- It has 6 different wash programs, including a special “Baby Care” mode that uses high heat to sanitize.
- It also dries your dishes with hot air and keeps them fresh with ventilation.
- It’s eco-friendly, using less water than washing by hand.
- Comes with a fruit basket and a special holder for cutlery.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might not fit very large plates or pots.
- You might need to buy a separate adapter if your faucet connection is different.
- It’s not recommended for washing plastic items made with BPA.
This dishwasher offers a convenient and efficient way to keep your dishes sparkling clean, especially if you have limited space. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free dishwashing solution.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Small Dishwasher
Are you tired of washing dishes by hand? A small dishwasher can be a game-changer, especially for apartments, tiny homes, or anyone who dislikes dish duty. Let’s explore what makes a great small dishwasher.
What to Look For: Key Features
When choosing a small dishwasher, several features help make your life easier.
- Capacity: This is how many place settings the dishwasher can hold. Small dishwashers usually range from 4 to 8 place settings. Consider how many people live in your home and how often you run the dishwasher.
- Size and Dimensions: Measure your available space carefully. Small dishwashers come in different widths and depths. Some are designed to sit on a countertop, while others are built-in under cabinets.
- Wash Cycles: Look for different wash options. Common cycles include normal wash, heavy-duty wash for tough messes, and quick wash for lightly soiled dishes. Some models offer eco-friendly or delicate cycles.
- Energy Efficiency: Check the Energy Star rating. This tells you how much electricity and water the dishwasher uses. An Energy Star certified model saves you money on utility bills and is better for the environment.
- Noise Level: Dishwashers can be noisy. Look for models with a decibel (dB) rating. Lower numbers mean a quieter machine. This is especially important if your kitchen is close to living areas.
- Installation Type:
- Countertop Dishwashers: These are portable and sit on your kitchen counter. They connect to your faucet.
- Built-in Dishwashers: These are installed under your cabinets, just like larger dishwashers. They require a permanent water hookup.
Materials Matter: What Your Dishwasher is Made Of
The materials used in a dishwasher affect its durability and performance.
- Interior Tub:
- Plastic: Most budget-friendly small dishwashers have plastic tubs. They are lighter but can sometimes absorb odors over time.
- Stainless Steel: This is a more premium option. Stainless steel is durable, resistant to stains and odors, and looks sleek. It also helps keep water hotter for better drying.
- Racks and Baskets: Look for sturdy racks that are coated to prevent rust. Adjustable racks offer more flexibility for fitting different-sized dishes.
Quality Factors: What Makes a Dishwasher Great (or Not So Great)
Several things influence how well a small dishwasher performs.
- Spray Arms: Good spray arms reach all corners of the dishwasher. This ensures dishes get clean. Some models have multiple spray arms for better coverage.
- Filtration System: A good filter traps food particles. This prevents them from redepositing on your dishes. Easy-to-clean filters are a big plus.
- Drying Performance: Some dishwashers use heated drying, while others use condensation drying. Stainless steel tubs help with condensation drying. Good drying means fewer spots on your glasses.
- Build Quality: A well-built dishwasher feels solid and operates smoothly. Check reviews for comments on how durable the appliance is.
Living with a Small Dishwasher: User Experience and Use Cases
Small dishwashers are perfect for specific situations.
- Apartment Living: If you have a small kitchen or no space for a full-sized dishwasher, a countertop or compact built-in model is ideal.
- Couples or Singles: If you don’t generate a lot of dishes, a small dishwasher is more efficient than running a large one half-empty.
- Guest Houses or RVs: These compact appliances are great for adding convenience to smaller living spaces.
- Ease of Use: Modern small dishwashers are designed to be user-friendly. Simple controls and easy loading make them a joy to use.
Your Small Dishwasher FAQs Answered
Q: What is the average capacity of a small dishwasher?
A: Small dishwashers typically hold between 4 and 8 place settings. A place setting includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, cup, saucer, and silverware.
Q: Can a small dishwasher be installed by myself?
A: Countertop dishwashers are generally easy to set up yourself. They connect to your faucet. Built-in models may require professional plumbing and electrical work.
Q: How noisy are small dishwashers?
A: Noise levels vary. Look for models with a decibel (dB) rating below 50 dB for a quieter experience. Some are as quiet as a normal conversation.
Q: Do small dishwashers clean as well as big ones?
A: Yes, most small dishwashers clean very effectively. They have similar spray arm technology and wash cycles to larger models. Good loading practices are important for any dishwasher.
Q: What are “place settings”?
A: A place setting represents the number of dishes and silverware for one person at a meal. It includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, cup, saucer, and a full set of silverware.
Q: How much electricity do small dishwashers use?
A: Energy Star certified models use less electricity and water. Check the yellow EnergyGuide label on the appliance for estimated yearly energy costs.
Q: Is a stainless steel interior better than plastic?
A: Stainless steel interiors are generally more durable, resist stains and odors better, and can improve drying performance. Plastic is a more budget-friendly option.
Q: What is condensation drying?
A: Condensation drying uses the heat from the wash cycle to evaporate water. The hot, moist air then condenses on the cooler stainless steel interior and drains away. It’s an energy-efficient drying method.
Q: How often should I clean my small dishwasher?
A: You should clean the filter regularly, perhaps once a week or as needed, to remove food debris. Running a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner every few months helps keep it fresh.
Q: Can I wash large pots and pans in a small dishwasher?
A: It depends on the size of the pot or pan and the dishwasher’s capacity. You may need to hand-wash larger items or arrange them carefully to fit. Always check the dishwasher’s manual for guidelines.
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.
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!