If you’re looking for the 15 best counter dishwashers to save space and keep your dishes sparkling in 2025, I’ve got you covered. These compact models combine easy installation, efficient cleaning programs, and versatile water supply options like built-in tanks or faucet connections. They’re perfect for small spaces, offering features like multiple wash modes, quick cycles, and energy efficiency. Keep exploring to find out which one best fits your needs and lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Compact, space-saving designs ideal for small kitchens, dorms, RVs, and tiny homes.
- Features versatile water connection options, including built-in tanks and faucet adapters for easy setup.
- Multiple wash modes like Quick, Heavy, and Eco ensure thorough cleaning in minimal space.
- Energy-efficient models with low water usage, supporting eco-friendly and cost-effective operation.
- User-friendly features like portability, adjustable racks, and simple maintenance enhance overall experience.
COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher, Energy Star Portable Dishwasher
If you’re looking for a compact and energy-efficient dishwasher that fits seamlessly into small living spaces, the COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher is an excellent choice. It’s Energy Star certified, saving you money and energy. With 6 place settings, it easily handles 70 pieces of tableware, perfect for 2-3 people. Its small size—17.2″ H x 21.6″ W x 19.7″ D—makes it ideal for dorms, RVs, or apartments. Easy to set up with a faucet connection, it offers 8 wash cycles, including quick and heavy-duty options. It’s portable, versatile, and designed to deliver sparkling clean dishes without taking up much space.
Best For: individuals living in small spaces like dorms, RVs, or apartments who need a compact, energy-efficient dishwasher that can handle daily dishwashing needs.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design fits easily in limited spaces
- Energy Star certified, saving energy and reducing utility bills
- Multiple wash cycles including heavy and quick options for versatile cleaning
Cons:
- Limited to 6 place settings, not suitable for large families
- Requires a faucet adaptor for installation, which may need to be purchased separately
- Minor water retention upon arrival is normal, so initial setup may require some attention
HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs
The HAVA Countertop Dishwasher with 6 programs is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile, space-saving cleaning solution without sacrificing performance. Its compact design, weighing just 13 kg, fits easily on countertops and suits small spaces like apartments, RVs, or boats. You can use its built-in 5L water tank or connect it directly to a faucet, making setup simple and flexible. With six cycle options—Normal, Speed, Soft, Heavy/Baby Care, Fruit, and Dry—it handles various cleaning needs efficiently. The 14 spray ports ensure thorough coverage, delivering sparkling clean dishes, even oily or delicate items.
Best For: renters, small households, or anyone with limited space seeking an efficient, portable countertop dishwasher that offers versatile cleaning options.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design fits easily on most countertops and in small spaces
- Supports multiple water supply modes, including built-in tank and faucet connection, for flexible setup
- Offers 6 cleaning programs with thorough coverage and effective stain removal
Cons:
- Limited utensil slot width may restrict certain utensil sizes or styles
- Some users report issues with spray arm durability and product defects
- After-sales support and warranty service can be inconsistent, affecting long-term satisfaction
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5L Water Tank
For small households, apartments, or anyone with limited space, the NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with a 5L water tank stands out as an ideal solution. Its compact size—16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches—fits comfortably on any countertop while handling four place settings or 12 dishes at an angle. It supports both faucet and built-in water tank modes, making setup simple. With five wash cycles, including a baby care option, it thoroughly cleans various items. Plus, it features a drying function and automatic ventilation, ensuring dishes come out dry and odor-free. This versatile, space-saving machine is perfect for quick, efficient cleaning in small spaces.
Best For: small households, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers seeking a compact and efficient dishwasher solution.
Pros:
- Space-saving design fits comfortably on countertops in limited spaces
- Supports multiple wash modes including baby care and soft for versatile cleaning needs
- Features built-in 5L water tank and easy faucet connection for flexible installation
Cons:
- Limited water capacity may require frequent refilling for heavy use
- Slight residual water after manufacturing tests can be normal but may concern some users
- Not suitable for large households or heavy-duty dishwashing tasks
COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with Built-in Water Tank
Designed for small spaces and on-the-go lifestyles, the COMFEE Portable Mini Dishwasher with Built-in Water Tank offers a compact yet powerful cleaning solution. Its ultra-compact stainless steel design measures just 17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 inches and weighs around 37 pounds, making it easy to transport and fit anywhere. With a 5L water tank, it doesn’t need a faucet connection, perfect for apartments, RVs, or tiny homes. It washes over 30 items at once, including large plates and small dishes. Features like six wash cycles, a see-through window, and adjustable racks make it user-friendly and versatile for everyday use.
Best For: those living in small apartments, RV travelers, or tiny home dwellers seeking a portable, space-efficient dishwasher with no plumbing required.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability and placement
- Built-in 5L water tank allows use without a faucet connection
- Multiple wash cycles and adjustable racks accommodate various dishware and cleaning needs
Cons:
- Smaller capacity may require more frequent loads for larger households
- Occasional mechanical issues reported, such as error codes or spinner failures
- Limited durability with some users experiencing about four years of use before malfunction
EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs
If you’re short on space but still want a reliable dishwasher, the EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 6 programs offers an ideal solution. It measures just 16.83 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches but can clean over 30 items at once, including large plates up to 10.25 inches. With six versatile programs—Normal, Quick, ECO, Baby Care, Fruit, and Dry—it handles everything from greasy dishes to delicate baby bottles. Its dual water supply modes, tank or faucet, make setup effortless. Compact yet powerful, it’s perfect for apartments, dorms, boats, or RVs, saving space without sacrificing cleaning performance.
Best For: individuals living in small spaces such as apartments, dorms, boats, or RVs who need a compact, efficient dishwasher without permanent installation.
Pros:
- Compact design fits easily in limited spaces while still accommodating over 30 items.
- Multiple wash programs including Baby Care and Fruit modes for versatile cleaning needs.
- No installation required with dual water supply options, making setup quick and simple.
Cons:
- Not suitable for washing BPA plastics or items that require high-temperature sterilization beyond its capabilities.
- Limited water tank capacity may require frequent refills for multiple cycles.
- Some users may find the drying function less effective compared to built-in dishwashers.
HAVA 2025 Upgraded Countertop Dishwasher with Water Softener
The HAVA 2025 Upgraded Countertop Dishwasher with Water Softener stands out as an excellent choice for small households, dorms, or anyone seeking a compact yet highly effective cleaning solution. Its energy-efficient ECO mode saves water and electricity without sacrificing performance, while the integrated water softener prevents limescale and watermarks. The redesigned adjustable rack offers larger capacity, and its compact size (16.86 x 16.75 x 18.05 inches) fits easily in various spaces, even without plumbing. With 8 versatile wash programs, a user-friendly LED display, and features like delayed start and child lock, it’s perfect for quick, sparkling clean dishes anywhere.
Best For: small households, students, or anyone needing a compact, portable dishwasher that delivers thorough cleaning without requiring plumbing.
Pros:
- Energy-efficient ECO mode saves water and electricity while maintaining cleaning performance
- Integrated water softener effectively prevents limescale and watermarks
- Compact design with a larger adjustable rack fits small spaces and family-sized loads
Cons:
- Limited loading capacity for larger plates or bulky items
- Some users report a plastic smell after extended use; stainless steel interiors could improve this
- May require creative stacking for larger dishes due to size constraints
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Washing Programs and Built-in Water Tank
For anyone living in a small space or seeking a portable dishwashing solution, the Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher stands out with its compact design and versatile water supply options. Measuring just 16.85×16.73×18.03 inches and weighing 12 kg, it fits easily on countertops or in tight spots. It offers five washing programs—Standard, Fast, ECO, Strong, and Fruit Cleaning—catering to various needs. Its built-in 5L water tank allows for quick use without a faucet connection, while the dual spray arms ensure streak-free, thorough cleaning. The glass door provides clear washing status, and hot air drying guarantees sparkling, hygienic dishes every time.
Best For: small households, students, or travelers seeking a compact, portable dishwasher with versatile water supply options.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily in small spaces and on countertops
- Multiple wash programs including Eco and Fruit Cleaning for versatile use
- Built-in water tank and faucet connection options for flexible setup
Cons:
- Limited capacity may require multiple cycles for large or heavy loads
- Small silverware basket might necessitate removing the top cover for additional utensils
- Size constraints may prevent fitting larger pots, pans, or multiple cups in one cycle
AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Wash Programs and Built-in Water Tank
Designed for small spaces and on-the-go lifestyles, the AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher offers a compact yet spacious solution with the ability to wash over 40 items, including large plates. Its small footprint (16.75W x 16.86D x 18.05H inches) makes it perfect for apartments, RVs, or campsites. No installation is needed—just fill the built-in 5-liter water tank or connect directly to your faucet. With five wash programs plus drying and storage functions, it delivers thorough cleaning using 14 nozzles and 360° spray. Its user-friendly touch controls, LED display, and energy efficiency make it a versatile choice for busy, space-conscious households.
Best For: small households, RV travelers, or anyone needing a compact, portable dishwasher that fits in tight spaces without sacrificing capacity or functionality.
Pros:
- Compact size with large capacity for over 40 items, including large plates
- No installation required; built-in water tank and faucet connection for flexible placement
- Multiple wash programs, drying, and storage functions for thorough and convenient cleaning
Cons:
- Slightly limited water capacity per cycle (5L), which may require multiple runs for larger loads
- May not be suitable for very large households or extensive dishwashing needs
- Requires manual refilling of the water tank or connection to a faucet, which may be less convenient than built-in plumbing
COMFEE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Built-in Water Tank
If you’re living in a small space like an apartment, dorm, RV, or boat, the COMFEE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Built-in Water Tank is an ideal choice. Its compact size and 6L water tank make setup simple—just fill manually or connect to your faucet with the included hose and adapter. It fits 10.5-inch plates and offers 7 wash programs, including hygiene and fruit modes, with UV sanitation for extra cleanliness. Designed for efficiency, it uses only 6L of water per cycle and features a quiet operation, auto-open drying, and user-friendly controls. Overall, it’s a versatile, space-saving solution for clean dishes on the go.
Best For: small households, apartment dwellers, or travelers seeking a compact, efficient dishwasher with sanitation features.
Pros:
- Space-saving design suitable for limited areas like apartments, RVs, and boats
- Low water and energy consumption, making it cost-effective and eco-friendly
- Multiple wash programs, including hygiene and UV sanitation, for thorough cleaning and sanitation
Cons:
- Limited load capacity may not fit larger or bulky items
- Some users report residue buildup or incomplete drying after cycles
- Requires manual water filling or faucet connection, which may be inconvenient for continuous use
Farberware Portable Countertop Dishwasher
The Farberware Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out as an excellent choice for small households, apartment dwellers, and anyone with limited space. Its compact design measures just 17.3 x 16.5 x 17.3 inches and weighs 43 pounds, fitting easily under standard cabinets. With a 5-liter water tank, it’s completely portable and doesn’t require external hookups, making setup a breeze. It offers five wash programs—Baby Care, Glass, Fruit Wash, Normal, Economy—delivering versatile cleaning for dishes, glassware, and baby bottles. Quiet and user-friendly, it’s perfect for busy homes, camping trips, or small kitchens where space and convenience are priorities.
Best For: small households, apartment dwellers, and those with limited kitchen space seeking a portable, easy-to-use dishwasher.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design fits easily under standard cabinets and is portable for on-the-go use.
- Multiple wash programs (Baby Care, Glass, Fruit Wash, Normal, Economy) offer versatile cleaning options.
- Quiet operation and user-friendly controls make it suitable for busy households and small spaces.
Cons:
- Limited capacity may require multiple loads for larger families or extensive dishwashing needs.
- No external water hookup option unless using an adapter, which may limit convenience for some users.
- Occasional issues like water films or residue can occur if dishes are overloaded or improperly loaded.
Portable Tabletop Dishwasher with Multiple Wash & Dry Modes
For those with limited kitchen space or who frequently move between locations, the ZHC Tdw-001 portable tabletop dishwasher offers a perfect solution. Its compact size—17.7 x 18.1 x 15.7 inches—fits easily on countertops or in small areas, yet it holds a surprising number of dishes. With four wash modes, including quick rinse, deep clean, drying, and sterilizing, it covers all cleaning needs. It connects easily to a tap or can be manually filled, making setup effortless. Quiet and efficient, this dishwasher is ideal for apartments, RVs, or vacation homes, ensuring hygienic, spotless dishes without taking up extra space.
Best For: individuals with limited kitchen space, frequent movers, or those who need a compact, hygienic dishwashing solution in apartments, RVs, or vacation homes.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily in small kitchens, RVs, and vacation homes
- Multiple wash modes including sterilizing for hygienic, spotless dishes
- Easy to set up with tap connection or manual filling, and operates quietly
Cons:
- Some users have reported malfunctions after extended use without support
- Limited capacity compared to full-size dishwashers, which may be insufficient for large households
- Requires manual connection to tap or water filling, which may be inconvenient in certain setups
EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 8 Programs
When space is limited but you still need a reliable dishwashing solution, the EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out with its compact design and versatile features. It measures just 15.74 x 16.14 x 18.11 inches but can hold over 30 items, including pots, dishes, and utensils. It offers 8 wash programs, from quick cycles to deep sterilization, with dual spray arms for thorough cleaning. It supports both a built-in 5L water tank and direct faucet hookup, making setup a breeze. With safety features like child lock and eco-friendly operation, it’s perfect for small kitchens, RVs, or dorms, delivering efficiency without sacrificing capacity.
Best For: small households, RVs, dorms, or boats seeking a compact, efficient, and versatile dishwasher that requires no installation.
Pros:
- Compact and space-saving design fits easily into limited kitchen or living areas
- Supports 8 versatile wash programs, including quick and sterilization modes for various needs
- Eco-friendly operation with low water consumption (only 5L per tank) and energy-efficient certification
Cons:
- Limited water capacity may require frequent refilling for larger loads
- No permanent plumbing connection needed, but requires manual water filling and drainage setup
- First-time users should run an empty cycle to clear water droplets before using with dishes
BLITZHOME Portable Countertop Dishwasher with WiFi, 5L Water Tank
If you’re looking for a compact dishwasher that offers smart connectivity and flexible water options, the BLITZHOME Portable Countertop Dishwasher with WiFi and a 5L water tank is an excellent choice. You can control it remotely via the app, setting timers and checking statuses from anywhere, which adds convenience. It features six washing programs, including quick, eco, and fruit modes, plus high-temp and air-dry functions for thorough cleanliness and hygiene. With dual water inlet options—either fill the built-in tank or connect to a tap—it’s perfect for small spaces like apartments or RVs. Its 3D spiral spray ensures all-encompassing cleaning for 20 dishes at a time.
Best For: Small households, apartments, dorms, boats, campers, and RV owners seeking a compact, WiFi-enabled dishwasher with flexible water options.
Pros:
- Remote control via app for convenient monitoring and timer settings.
- Multiple wash programs including quick, eco, and specialized fruit cleaning.
- Dual water inlet options for easy use without plumbing modifications.
Cons:
- Limited water tank capacity of 5L may require frequent refilling for larger loads.
- Slightly longer setup time due to app connection and configuration.
- May not be suitable for large households with heavy dishwashing needs.
Silonn Portable Countertop Dishwasher
The Silonn Portable Countertop Dishwasher stands out as an ideal choice for small households, apartments, or anyone with limited space. Its compact design measures just 16.9 x 17.72 x 18.1 inches and weighs only 28 pounds, making it easy to move and fit on any countertop. It features a built-in 5L water tank, eliminating the need for plumbing hookups, and supports four full place settings. The user-friendly touch panel and LED display simplify operation, while seven wash programs—including intensive and babycare modes—ensure versatile cleaning. Its advanced 3-jet system offers thorough coverage, and the hot drying system guarantees sparkling, dry dishes every time.
Best For: small households, apartments, RVs, and dorms seeking a compact, portable dishwasher with easy setup and versatile cleaning options.
Pros:
- Compact size and lightweight design for easy portability and space-saving storage
- No plumbing hookup required with a built-in 5L water tank, simplifying installation
- Offers multiple wash programs, including intensive and babycare modes, for thorough cleaning
Cons:
- Some users report small print on controls making operation less intuitive
- Occasional leaks or control panel issues have been noted by a few users
- Drying cycles may continue unless manually turned off, which can be inconvenient
Danby DDW631SDB Countertop Dishwasher, Stainless Steel
For anyone limited on space but still wanting the convenience of a dishwasher, the Danby DDW631SDB Countertop Dishwasher is an excellent choice. Its compact design fits perfectly on countertops, saving valuable kitchen space. With a stainless steel finish, it looks sleek and modern. It handles six place settings and offers six wash cycles, including Intensive and Economy modes, plus a quick rinse for convenience. The quick connect feature makes setup easy—just attach it to most kitchen faucets. It’s energy-efficient, using only about 3.1 gallons per wash, helping cut water bills. Plus, the adjustable delay start lets me schedule washes up to 8 hours later.
Best For: those with limited kitchen space seeking a compact, easy-to-install dishwasher that offers versatility and water efficiency.
Pros:
- Space-saving countertop design ideal for small kitchens or apartments
- Quick connect feature allows for easy, tool-free setup to most standard faucets
- Multiple wash cycles and adjustable delay start provide flexible cleaning options
Cons:
- Limited capacity of 6 place settings may not suit larger households
- Longer delay start options (up to 8 hours) might not be suitable for urgent cleaning needs
- Stainless steel finish, while modern-looking, may require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance
Factors to Consider When Choosing Counterdishwashers
When choosing a counter dishwasher, I look at its size and capacity to make sure it fits my space and needs. I also consider water connection options, wash cycle variety, and how energy-efficient it is. Ultimately, I check how easy it is to install to save time and hassle.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right counter dishwasher starts with measuring your available space carefully to guarantee it fits comfortably, considering height, width, and depth. Once you know your space limits, think about capacity—how many place settings you typically need. A small household of 2-3 people usually gets by with a model that holds 6-7 place settings, while larger families might need more capacity. Check the maximum plate size it can handle, usually between 9 and 12 inches, to ensure your dishes fit easily. Decide if a compact countertop model suffices or if a larger unit is necessary for frequent or heavy loads. Additionally, look at internal rack and utensil holder configurations to make loading easier and to maximize space efficiency for your dishware and utensils.
Water Connection Options
Selecting the right water connection option for your countertop dishwasher depends on your setup and convenience. Many models offer dual modes: a direct faucet connection or a built-in water tank. Connecting to a standard faucet is straightforward, often using adapters compatible with G3/4 inch fittings, making installation quick without permanent plumbing. This setup is ideal if you have easy access to a water source. Alternatively, built-in water tanks provide complete portability, allowing operation without any external water hookup—perfect for spaces lacking plumbing access. Tank sizes typically range from 5 to 6 liters, enough for multiple cycles before refilling. Automatic water level indicators help monitor capacity, preventing overfilling or dry running. Your choice hinges on your space, plumbing access, and how often you plan to use the dishwasher.
Wash Cycle Selections
Considering the variety of wash cycles available on countertop dishwashers, it’s important to evaluate which options best suit your cleaning needs. Different cycles target specific soil levels and dish types, from Heavy for heavily soiled pots to Quick for light loads in under an hour. Some models include specialized options like Glass, Fruit, or Steam, perfect for delicate items or specialized cleaning. The number of cycles varies from four to over eight, offering flexibility for various loads. Cycle durations also differ, with quick cycles taking around 30-45 minutes, while intensive ones can exceed an hour. Having multiple wash options ensures you can select the most suitable setting, balancing thorough cleaning with efficiency, and tailoring each wash to your specific dishes and time constraints.
Energy and Water Use
When shopping for a countertop dishwasher, paying attention to energy and water use is essential for saving money and reducing environmental impact. Look for models with ENERGY STAR certification to guarantee efficient operation that cuts electricity bills. Choose dishwashers that use as little water as possible per cycle, ideally under 3 gallons, to conserve water resources. Check the water heating capabilities and maximum temperature to assure thorough cleaning and sanitization. Opt for units with programmable or eco modes, which adjust water and energy consumption based on load size and soil level. Additionally, review the dishwasher’s annual water and energy consumption data to estimate long-term utility costs. Prioritizing these features helps you select a more sustainable, cost-effective appliance that still delivers sparkling clean dishes.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation can make a big difference in how smoothly your countertop dishwasher fits into your home. I look for models that connect easily to faucets or have built-in water tanks, which eliminate the need for complex plumbing. Accessories like hoses or adapters are a plus—they make setup quick and tool-free. Clear, step-by-step instructions are essential, ensuring I won’t get stuck during installation. Flexibility in placement is also important; a dishwasher that supports multiple positions, whether on the counter, inside cupboards, or with adjustable cords and hoses, offers convenience. finally, I prefer appliances that don’t require professional help, especially if I’m renting or have limited DIY skills. A user-friendly setup means less stress and more time enjoying clean dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Countertop Dishwashers Handle Large or Bulky Items?
Countertop dishwashers can handle large or bulky items, but with some limitations. I find that they work best for smaller pots, pans, and utensils rather than oversized items. You need to remove or fold down racks, and sometimes wash items in batches. If you frequently need to clean large cookware, a full-sized dishwasher might be more practical, but for everyday small loads, countertop models are quite efficient.
Are Portable Dishwashers Suitable for Outdoor or RV Use?
Absolutely, portable dishwashers are perfect for outdoor or RV use! I’ve found they’re flexible, functional, and fabulous for frequent on-the-go cleaning. They’re designed to easily connect to water sources, handle everyday dishes, and fit snugly into small spaces. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or enjoying outdoor adventures, these compact, convenient cleaners make it simple to keep your dishes dazzling without demanding a lot of room or resources.
What Maintenance Is Required for Built-In Water Tanks?
I recommend regularly inspecting your built-in water tank for any leaks or debris. I flush the tank every few months with a mixture of vinegar and water to prevent mineral buildup and mold. It’s also essential to check the filters and clean them as needed. Ensuring the water inlet is free of obstructions keeps your system running smoothly. Proper maintenance prolongs the life of the tank and keeps your appliance functioning efficiently.
Can Countertop Dishwashers Operate Quietly During Nighttime?
Countertop dishwashers can operate quietly during nighttime, and I love that they’re designed with noise reduction in mind. Thanks to advanced insulation, quieter motors, and soundproofing materials, I barely notice the machine running even when I’m sleeping. It’s a seamless experience—quiet, efficient, and unobtrusive—allowing me to get my dishes done without disturbing my peace. If you want a peaceful night, a quiet countertop dishwasher is definitely worth considering.
How Do Energy-Efficient Models Compare in Cleaning Performance?
Energy-efficient countertop dishwashers generally clean just as well as their less efficient counterparts, though it depends on the model. I’ve found that many high-rated models use advanced technology to guarantee thorough cleaning while saving energy. They often have multiple wash cycles and strong jets, which help tackle stubborn spots. So, if you pick a reputable brand, you won’t compromise cleaning performance for energy savings.
Conclusion
Did you know that compact dishwashers can save up to 30% more energy compared to traditional models? Choosing the right counter dishwasher not only keeps your space tidy but also boosts efficiency and cleanliness. With options like WiFi-enabled models and built-in water tanks, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re in a small apartment or just want to save space, a countertop dishwasher can make your life easier and your kitchen sparkle in 2025.
