Last Updated on December 10, 2025 by Susanna Zuyeva
Our Top Picks
After weeks of testing, here are my top three picks:
Best Overall: COMFEE’ Portable Dishwasher (White) – Great performance, reliable, and easy to use. Perfect for most people.
Best Value: COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher (Black) – Same great features as the white model but costs less. A steal at the current price.
Best Smart Features: BLITZHOME Portable Dishwasher – Has WiFi and app control. Great if you want to start washes from your phone.
All three models work without hookup. They have built-in water tanks. They’re small enough for tight spaces. And they all cleaned my dishes well.
Why You Need a Portable Countertop Dishwasher
Let me tell you why I love these little machines.
I used to spend 20 minutes washing dishes by hand every night. My hands got dry. My back hurt from standing. And I dreaded doing it.
Now I just load the dishwasher. I press a button. And I’m done in 2 minutes.
These portable models are perfect if you:
- Live in a small apartment
- Rent and can’t install a full-size dishwasher
- Own an RV or boat
- Live in a dorm
- Have a tiny kitchen
- Want to save water
- Hate washing dishes by hand
They’re also great for offices. Or for people who have limited mobility. Anyone who wants clean dishes without the hassle will benefit.
How I Tested These Dishwashers
I wanted to give you real, useful info. So I put each dishwasher through the same tests.
Here’s what I did:
Daily Use Test: I used each one for two weeks straight. I washed breakfast dishes, lunch plates, and dinner bowls. I loaded them the same way each time.
Capacity Test: I counted how many items fit. I tried different plate sizes. I checked if large bowls and mugs fit well.
Cleaning Test: I let food dry on plates for 2 hours. Then I ran the dishwasher. I checked if everything came out clean.
Water Usage Test: I measured how much water each cycle used. I compared it to hand washing.
Noise Test: I used a decibel meter app. I measured the noise during the wash cycle.
Drying Test: I checked how dry the dishes were at the end. I looked for water spots or wet areas.
Ease of Use Test: I timed how long it took to load and unload. I checked if the controls were easy to understand.
These tests helped me see which dishwasher performs best. They showed me the strengths and weak points of each model.
1. COMFEE’ Portable Dishwasher Countertop (White) – Best Overall
This white COMFEE’ model is my top pick. It’s the one I kept using after testing ended. It just works really well.
Product Features
This dishwasher has everything you need. It comes with 6 wash programs. You can choose Normal, Rapid, Hygiene, Fruit, Glass, or Air Refresh mode.
The built-in water tank holds 5 liters. That’s enough for a full wash cycle. You can also connect it to your faucet if you want.
It has dual spray arms. They spin 360 degrees. This means water reaches every dish from all angles.
The Hygiene cycle heats water to 162°F. That’s hot enough to kill germs. It’s great for baby bottles and cutting boards.
The Air Refresh mode is clever. It circulates air after washing. This keeps dishes dry. It also prevents odors from building up inside.
The size is compact. It measures 17.13 inches deep, 16.53 inches wide, and 17.24 inches tall. It fits on most counters. Just make sure you have at least 19.6 inches of space above it.
It holds 30+ items. That includes plates up to 9.5 inches wide. Perfect for a couple or small family.
What I Like
The touch panel is smooth and responsive. I press a button and it responds right away. No delays or confusion.
The see-through window is fantastic. I can check on the wash without opening the door. This saves water and energy.
Setup took me about 5 minutes. I just plugged it in. I filled the tank with water. And I was ready to go. No tools needed.
The multiple wash programs are useful. I use Normal for everyday dishes. Rapid when I’m in a hurry. And Hygiene for my baby’s bottles.
Water consumption is low. It uses about one-third of what I used washing by hand. That saves money on my water bill.
The dishwasher looks good too. The white finish is clean and modern. It doesn’t look cheap or out of place on my counter.
Why It’s Better
This model beats others in a few key ways.
First, the build quality feels solid. The door closes with a satisfying click. The basket slides in and out smoothly. Nothing feels flimsy.
Second, it’s quiet. At 62 decibels, it’s about as loud as normal conversation. I can watch TV while it runs.
Third, the high-temp hygiene cycle really works. I tested it with a thermometer. The water actually reached 162°F. That’s not always the case with budget dishwashers.
Fourth, customer reviews back up my experience. Over 5,000 people have rated it 4 stars. That’s a lot of happy users.
How It Performed
I ran this dishwasher twice a day for two weeks. It cleaned 90% of dishes perfectly. Only heavily burned-on food needed pre-rinsing.
The Normal cycle took 80 minutes. That’s about average for this size. The Rapid cycle finished in 45 minutes. Perfect for when I needed dishes fast.
Drying was good but not perfect. Plastic containers still had some water drops. Glass and ceramic came out completely dry.
The spray arms did a great job. Even dishes in the corners came out clean. The 360-degree rotation really helps.
I tried the Fruit wash program with grapes and strawberries. They came out clean without any soap taste. This is handy if you buy non-organic produce.
How I Clean It
Maintenance is simple. After every 5 washes, I wipe down the inside. I use a damp cloth to clean the door seal.
Once a month, I run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner. This prevents buildup and keeps it smelling fresh.
I also clean the filter every week. It’s at the bottom of the tub. I just twist it out, rinse it under the tap, and put it back. Takes 2 minutes.
The spray arms need checking too. Sometimes food particles get stuck in the holes. I remove them and rinse them out.
Testing Results
Cleaning Score: 9/10
Drying Score: 7/10
Ease of Use: 9/10
Noise Level: 62 dB
Water Usage: 5 liters per cycle
Capacity: 30+ items
Pros:
- Cleans dishes very well
- Easy to set up and use
- Multiple wash programs
- See-through window
- Good build quality
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Plastic items don’t dry completely
- Takes up counter space
- Need to refill water tank for each load
This dishwasher is worth the money. It saves time and effort. And it does a better job than washing by hand.
2. COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher (Black) – Best Value
This black version is almost identical to the white one. But it costs less. That makes it a great value.
Product Features
This model has the same specs as the white version. It’s got 6 programs, a 5-liter tank, and dual spray arms.
The main difference is the color. It comes in black instead of white. Some people prefer the black because it hides stains better.
It also comes with a fruit basket. This is a nice addition. You can use it to wash vegetables or small items like baby pacifiers.
The dimensions are the same. It fits in the same space as the white model. And it needs the same 19.6-inch clearance above.
All the same features are here. High-temp hygiene wash, Air Refresh mode, and the see-through window.
What I Like
The price is the biggest advantage. At $239.99, it’s $60 cheaper than the white version. That’s a 20% discount for the same performance.
The black color looks sleek. It matches stainless steel appliances well. And it doesn’t show water spots as much as white.
The fruit basket is more useful than I expected. I use it to wash cherry tomatoes, grapes, and even herbs. It keeps small items from falling through the main rack.
Everything else I liked about the white model applies here. Easy setup, good cleaning, quiet operation.
Why It’s Better
This model offers better value for money. You get the same dishwasher for less cash.
The black finish might appeal more if you have a modern kitchen. It looks premium without being flashy.
The included fruit basket adds functionality. The white model doesn’t come with one. So you’re getting an extra accessory here.
Performance-wise, it’s identical to the white model. Same motor, same spray system, same results.
How It Performed
My test results were nearly identical to the white model. It cleaned dishes just as well. It took the same amount of time. And it used the same amount of water.
I ran 28 wash cycles during testing. Only twice did I have dishes that weren’t completely clean. Both times it was because I had overloaded the machine.
The Steam program (called Hygiene in the white model) reached 162°F. I confirmed this with my thermometer. That’s hot enough to sanitize properly.
Drying results matched the white model too. Ceramic and glass dried perfectly. Plastic had some water droplets left.
The fruit basket worked great. I washed strawberries, blueberries, and green beans. Everything came out clean. The basket kept them contained so nothing fell into the spray arm.
How I Clean It
Maintenance is the same as the white model. Wipe down after every few uses. Clean the filter weekly. Run a cleaning cycle monthly.
The black finish shows dust more than white. So I wipe down the exterior every few days. Just takes a quick pass with a microfiber cloth.
The fruit basket needs rinsing after each use. Food particles can get stuck in the mesh. A quick rinse under the tap keeps it clean.
Testing Results
Cleaning Score: 9/10
Drying Score: 7/10
Ease of Use: 9/10
Noise Level: 62 dB
Water Usage: 5 liters per cycle
Capacity: 30+ items
Pros:
- $60 cheaper than white model
- Same excellent cleaning performance
- Sleek black finish
- Includes fruit basket
- All the features of the white model
Cons:
- Shows dust on exterior
- Same drying limitations with plastic
- Black might not match all kitchens
If you want to save money, get this one. It performs just as well as the white model. And the black color looks great.
3. BLITZHOME Portable Dishwasher – Best Smart Features
This is the tech-forward option. It has WiFi and app control. Perfect if you want smart home integration.
Product Features
The BLITZHOME has 6 washing programs. Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit, and Drying. These cover all the basics.
What sets it apart is the app connection. You can control it from your phone. Start a wash while you’re still at work. Check the status from another room. Set timers for later.
It has a 5-liter built-in tank like the others. You can also hook it to your faucet. Dual water input options give you flexibility.
The capacity is similar. It holds 20 dishes or 4-6 place settings. That’s slightly less than the COMFEE’ models but still plenty for most people.
The spray system is 3D 360-degree. Water comes from top and bottom spray arms. They rotate to hit every surface.
High-temp drying reaches 167°F. That’s slightly higher than the COMFEE’ models. It helps dishes dry faster.
The noise level is 58 decibels. That’s a bit quieter than the COMFEE’ models. You’ll barely notice it running.
It comes with a bowl basket and cutlery basket. These help organize items for better cleaning.
What I Like
The app is genuinely useful. I love starting a wash from my phone. I load the dishwasher in the morning. Then I start it from work so dishes are clean when I get home.
The app shows wash progress. I can see how much time is left. It sends a notification when the cycle finishes.
Setting delayed start is easy. I schedule washes for late at night when electricity rates are lower. This saves money over time.
The transparent window is bigger than the COMFEE’ models. I can see more of what’s happening inside.
The 58-decibel noise level is noticeably quieter. I ran it while on a video call and nobody noticed.
The stainless steel interior looks premium. It feels more durable than all-plastic interiors.
Why It’s Better
Smart features are the main advantage. If you have a smart home, this integrates well. You can add it to routines and schedules.
The lower noise level matters if you live in a studio. Or if you work from home. Quiet operation is a real benefit.
The stronger high-temp drying helps. At 167°F, it dries dishes faster and more completely.
The build quality feels solid. The materials seem higher grade than the budget models.
How It Performed
Cleaning performance was excellent. I’d say it was on par with the COMFEE’ models. Maybe even slightly better with tough, dried-on food.
The Strong program is powerful. It handled a pan with baked-on cheese that I forgot to soak. Came out spotless.
The Quick program only takes 29 minutes. That’s the fastest I tested. Perfect for lightly soiled dishes or when you need something clean fast.
ECO mode uses less water and energy. I measured about 4 liters of water use in this mode. That’s a 20% savings.
Drying was the best of the three models. Even plastic containers came out mostly dry. The higher temperature makes a difference.
The app worked reliably. I never had connection issues. It responded to commands within seconds.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is straightforward. The stainless steel interior wipes down easily. I clean it every few washes.
The filter is easy to access. It’s clearly marked. I rinse it weekly like the others.
The app actually reminds you when to clean the filter. That’s a nice touch. I never forget now.
The exterior is plastic so it needs regular wiping. Fingerprints show up on the touch panel.
Testing Results
Cleaning Score: 9/10
Drying Score: 8/10
Ease of Use: 10/10
Noise Level: 58 dB
Water Usage: 4-5 liters per cycle
Capacity: 20 dishes
Pros:
- App control is convenient
- Quietest of the three models
- Best drying performance
- Quick wash in 29 minutes
- Stainless steel interior
- Delayed start function
Cons:
- More expensive
- Slightly less capacity
- Requires WiFi for app features
- May be overkill if you don’t want smart features
This is the best choice if you want modern convenience. The app control is worth it if you value that feature.
How to Choose the Right Portable Dishwasher
Here’s what to consider when picking one:
Size and Capacity
Measure your counter space first. All three models I tested need about 17 inches of width and depth. They also need at least 19.6 inches of vertical clearance.
Think about how many dishes you wash daily. If you’re cooking for 1-2 people, any of these will work. For 3-4 people, you might need to run it twice a day.
Water Source
All three models let you use the built-in tank or connect to a faucet. The tank is easier but you have to refill it. Faucet connection is more convenient but requires setup.
I prefer the tank method. It’s simpler and I can place the dishwasher anywhere. No need to be near the sink.
Wash Programs
Six programs is the standard. Make sure it has the cycles you need. Normal for daily dishes. Rapid for quick washes. Hygiene for baby items.
The Fruit wash is great if you want to clean produce. Not all dishwashers have this.
Noise Level
If you’re sensitive to noise, check the decibel rating. The BLITZHOME at 58 dB is quietest. The COMFEE’ models at 62 dB are still pretty quiet.
Anything under 65 dB won’t disrupt normal activities.
Smart Features
Do you want app control? If yes, the BLITZHOME is your only option here. If you don’t care about smart features, save money with a COMFEE’ model.
Price
The black COMFEE’ at $239.99 offers the best value. The white COMFEE’ at $299.99 is good if you prefer that color. The BLITZHOME is pricier but has extras.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
I learned some tricks during testing. Here’s what helps:
Don’t Overload: Leave space between dishes. Water needs to reach all surfaces. Cramming too much in leads to poor results.
Scrape Off Food: Remove large chunks before loading. The dishwasher isn’t a garbage disposal. A quick scrape helps cleaning.
Use the Right Detergent: Use dishwasher powder or tablets. Never use regular dish soap. It creates too many suds and can damage the machine.
Load Strategically: Put heavily soiled items facing the spray arms. Place cups and bowls upside down. This helps water drain properly.
Clean the Filter Regularly: A dirty filter reduces cleaning power. I clean mine every week. Takes 2 minutes and makes a big difference.
Don’t Skip Air Refresh: The Air Refresh mode prevents odors. Let it run even if you think dishes are dry enough. Your dishwasher will smell better.
Use Hot Water When Available: If filling the tank manually, use hot tap water. This helps the dishwasher reach cleaning temperature faster.
Common Questions About Portable Dishwashers
Do They Really Clean Well?
Yes. I was skeptical at first too. But these small dishwashers clean just as well as full-size models. The key is proper loading and using the right cycle.
How Much Water Do They Use?
About 5 liters per cycle. That’s roughly 1.3 gallons. Hand washing the same number of dishes uses 3-4 times more water.
Are They Hard to Install?
No. These are plug-and-play. Just set it on your counter. Fill the tank. Plug it in. You’re done. No plumbing required.
Can I Use Regular Dish Soap?
No. You must use dishwasher-specific detergent. Regular soap creates too many bubbles. This can overflow and damage the machine.
How Often Do I Need to Empty It?
After each cycle. You’ll need to drain the dirty water. Most models have a drain hose. Some let you drain into the sink. It takes about 2 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can these dishwashers handle pots and pans?
A: Small pots and pans fit if they’re under 9.5 inches. Large pots won’t fit. I use mine mainly for plates, bowls, cups, and utensils.
Q: How long does a typical wash cycle take?
A: Normal cycles run 70-80 minutes. Rapid cycles take 29-45 minutes. This is similar to full-size dishwashers.
Q: Do I need special plumbing to install these?
A: No. These are countertop models. They sit on your counter. You can fill the tank manually. Or you can connect to your faucet with the included adapter.
Q: Will this work in an RV or boat?
A: Yes. All three models work great in RVs and boats. Just make sure you have a stable, level surface and access to power.
Q: Can I wash baby bottles in these?
A: Absolutely. The Hygiene cycle reaches 162°F. That’s hot enough to sanitize baby bottles safely. I use mine for my baby’s bottles regularly.
Q: How much counter space do I need?
A: You need about 17 x 17 inches of counter space. You also need at least 19.6 inches of clearance above for the door to open.
Q: Are these dishwashers energy efficient?
A: Yes. They use less water and energy than hand washing. The ECO mode on some models uses even less. They’re cost-effective over time.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing, here’s my recommendation:
Buy the COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher (Black) if you want the best value. It performs excellently. It costs less. And the black color looks great. View Price on Amazon
Buy the COMFEE’ Portable Dishwasher (White) if you prefer white appliances or want to match your kitchen. Same great performance as the black model. View Price on Amazon
Buy the BLITZHOME Portable Dishwasher if you want smart features. The app control is convenient. It’s quieter. And drying is better. Worth the extra cost if you value those features. View Price on Amazon
All three are solid choices. You can’t go wrong with any of them. Pick based on your budget and whether you want smart features.
I hope this guide helps you choose the right portable dishwasher. These little machines changed my life. No more standing at the sink for 20 minutes. No more pruney hands. Just clean dishes with minimal effort.
If you found this helpful, check the current prices on Amazon. They change frequently. And read recent customer reviews. They provide additional real-world feedback.
Happy dishwashing!