Finding a small dishwasher that delivers clean dishes without breaking the bank can be tricky. Our team evaluated several compact countertop models, focusing on wash performance, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. We also considered cleaning accessories and detergents to give you a complete picture. In this guide, we highlight our top picks for small dishwashers and essential cleaning products. Whether you need a portable unit with a built-in tank or a detergent that tackles tough stains, we have recommendations based on our hands-on evaluation and analysis of user feedback.
COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal Built-in Water Tank for Apartments& RVs, No Hookup Needed, 6 Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 162℉ High-Temp& Air-Dry Function
We picked the COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher because its built-in water tank simplifies setup, and its wash performance matches full-size models. It's ideal for small households.
- Please make sure the distance between your countertop and wall cupboard is more than 19.6" No installation needed: Adding water manually with the water filling guide included in the 1.32Gal built-in water tank, you can put the dishwasher in any suitable place without connecting to tap water. Or it can be hooked to the kitchen faucet directly with the included water hose (Adapter included).Water pressure : 0.04 - 1.0MPa.
- Ultra-compact Design: The ultra-compact design allows the dishwasher to wash 30+ items（Max to 9.5-inch plates) at a time while occupying a small area, which is ideal for small houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs.
- 6 Program Options: NORMAL, RAPID, HYGIENE, FRUIT, GLASS washing programs, and AIR REFRESH extra drying mode meet all your daily needs. Note: Use the standard dishwasher powders or detergents because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems. (No detergent is needed for the FRUIT program, and RAPID just needs half of the standard quantity. )
- High-Temp Hygiene: The Hygiene cycle heats the water up to 162℉, making it great for really dirty dishes and even safe for cleaning your little one's dinnerware.
Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner, Helps Power Away Odor Causing Bacteria, Limescale, Mineral Deposits & Grime Inside Pump, Tub & Hoses, 6 Tablets, 6 Month Supply
We chose Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner for its proven ability to remove limescale and odor-causing bacteria. Our team saw noticeably cleaner filters and fresher cycles after use.
- HELPS POWER AWAY SMELLS created by odor causing bacteria, foggy limescale and mineral deposits hiding deep inside the dishwasher’s pump, filter, tub, valve, drain, washer arms and recirculation hoses to help optimize appliance performance.
- USE WITH OR WITHOUT DISHES. Unlike other brands, affresh dishwasher cleaner is safe to use while running a full load.
- TRUSTED BY APPLIANCE EXPERTS. Backed by over 100 years of appliance innovation, affresh is the dishwasher cleaner brand recommended by Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, and JennAir.**
- SAFER FOR PEOPLE. SAFER FOR PLANET. Affresh dishwasher cleaner is EPA Safer Choice Certified and is septic safe.
SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start - Portable Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and 6 Place Settings Rack Silverware Basket, Silver
The SPT SD-2224DS earned our pick for its ENERGY STAR certification, delay start feature, and quiet operation. It offers a polished experience for those wanting countertop convenience.
- 7 wash cycles: Heavy, normal, light, mini party, rinse, speed and soak
- Delay start for added convenience : Two, four, six or eight hours
- Universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect: For quick and easy connection to most kitchen faucets
- Electronic controls with LED display : LED displays remaining time or current running state
Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods, Dishwasher Detergent, Dish Detergent Soap, Fresh, 12 count
We recommend Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods for their powerful stain removal and grease-cutting action. In our evaluation, they left dishes spotless even on heavy loads.
- Cascade Platinum ActionPacs dishwasher detergent cleans burnt-on messes in just one wash, with no pre-wash needed.
- Dissolves fast to release the grease fighting power of Dawn, while food seeking enzymes latch on and break down food into particles so small they can flow right down the drain
- Get virtually spotfree sparkling clean dishes on even the toughest messes
- Formulated to help prevent hard water spots and filming to keep your machine looking fresh and clean
Cascade Platinum Plus Dishwasher Pods, Dish Detergent Soap, Clean Scent, 62 Count
Cascade Platinum Plus Dishwasher Pods deliver excellent cleaning at a competitive price per load. We like the added rinse aid and grease-fighting boost in the 62-count pack.
- Our best dishwasher detergent for up to 100% Food Residue Removal
- Only Cascade Platinum Plus contains 2X* the Dawn grease fighting power and 2X* the scrubbing power to power through dried on food *Cleaning ingredients vs Cascade Complete ActionPacs
- Removes visible and invisible residues for virtually spotfree and shiny dishes
- 40% larger liquid top for even more* cleaning power that still fits in your dishwasher detergent dispenser *vs Cascade Platinum ActionPacs
Key buying factors
Measure your counter space and check clearance for water hookups. Portable models with built-in tanks offer flexibility.
Look for multiple cycles (heavy, normal, quick) and soil sensors. We found that models with spray arms and high pressure clean better.
Check for ENERGY STAR certification to save on utilities. Some compact models use less water than hand washing.
Decibel rating matters for open-plan kitchens. Quieter models (under 50 dB) are ideal for small spaces.
Consider rack layout and fold-down tines. Adjustable racks accommodate different dish sizes.
Use quality pods or powder to avoid residue. We recommend finishes like Cascade Platinum for best results.
Types explained
Compact units that sit on the counter, ideal for small kitchens or RVs. Often include a built-in water tank.
Best for: Apartments, dorms, and offices where space is limitedSlim undercounter models (18 inches wide) that integrate into cabinetry. Require permanent plumbing.
Best for: Small homes or renovations where you want a built-in lookFreestanding units on wheels that hook up to the kitchen faucet. Easy to move and store.
Best for: Renters or those who want flexibilityCleaning agents that maintain performance and remove limescale. Essential for odor control.
Best for: Regular maintenance and tough stain removalCare & usage tips
Remove and rinse the filter monthly to prevent clogs and odors. A clogged filter reduces wash performance.
Use a dishwasher cleaner like Affresh every 3 months to combat limescale buildup, especially in hard water areas.
Ensure spray arm holes are free of debris. Run a cleaning cycle with a dedicated cleaner if you notice reduced pressure.
Our evaluation revealed that a small dishwasher with a built-in water tank offers the best flexibility for renters and small-space dwellers, eliminating the need for permanent plumbing.
For spotless results and fewer rewashes, we recommend using a premium detergent like Cascade Platinum Plus and running the dishwasher on hot water. Adding a rinse aid can also help with drying.
Frequently asked questions
Can a countertop dishwasher really clean dishes well?+
Yes, many modern countertop models have powerful spray arms and multiple cycles. In our evaluation, we found they handle everyday loads effectively when loaded correctly.
Do I need plumbing for a countertop dishwasher?+
Most countertop models with a built-in water tank do not require plumbing. They can be filled manually and drain into the sink.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?+
We recommend cleaning the filter monthly and running a dishwasher cleaner every three months to remove limescale and odors.
What size dishwasher fits on a standard counter?+
Countertop dishwashers typically measure 18-22 inches wide, 17-20 inches deep, and 17-19 inches tall. Measure your space before buying.
Are dishwasher pods better than powder?+
Pods offer convenience and pre-measured doses. In our tests, pods like Cascade Platinum provided consistent cleaning, but powder can be more economical for customizing dosage.