No one likes hand washing their dishes. It’s tedious and takes a lot of time. If you have your own home, you probably have your own dishwasher, and that’s great. But what if you live in a small apartment or have a tiny kitchen with limited space? A traditional dishwasher won’t simply do this, but that doesn’t mean that you’re left to wash your dishes by hand all the time.
The answer comes in the form of countertop dishwashers, which, as their name suggests, have all the capabilities of a regular dishwasher but come in a small, portable size that you can simply place on top of your kitchen counter.
Read on to find out which made it to my top five list.
- Please make sure the distance between your countertop and wall cupboard is more than 19.6" 【No installation needed】: Adding water manually in the 5L 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)
- 【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, STEAM, 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. )
- 【162 ℉ HIGH-TEMP HYGIENE】: The HYGIENE wash cycle boosts water temperature to 162 ℉ Rinsing and Max to 162 ℉ which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes and is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children’s dinner sets.
- 【Extra Drying & Stay Fresh】: Circulation of AIR REFRESH removes moisture and odor, keeping your plates and machine dry and fresh for a long time. The function is enabled by default and you can also inactivate the function if unnecessary.
- QUALITY CONTROL NOTE All dishwashers are factory tested to ensure proper operation As a result it is normal for small amounts of residual water to be found in the unit .Can fit up to 12" on Dishes and has 5-Liter Built-in Water Tank
- COMPACT DESIGN: This convenient dishwasher can fit a variety of dishes (up to 12-inches in diameter at an angle) and is ideal for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats and campers/RVs. Depth - Door Shut (with Handle)-17.3 inch, Depth - Door Shut (without Handle)-16 inch, Depth With Door Open 90 Degrees-35 inch, Dishwasher Size-24 inch
- NO HOOKUPS NEEDED: If you want the advantage of portability and storage, this dishwasher gives you the choice to fill the built-in tank so you don't need a water hookup. Water hose is included for a direct water hookup to kitchen faucet (adapter not included)
- FIVE WASHING PROGRAMS: You'll get full size dishwasher cleaning in a countertop sized compact unit that offers five wash programs - Normal, Rapid, Fruit Wash, Baby Care and Glass. Lower and upper spray arms give dishes that streak-free deep cleaning
- STEAM: Steam generated during the Baby Care cleaning cycle can be used to sanitize baby bottles and give glassware a sparkling clean finish
- 【6 Place Setting】- A perfect size(H438×W550×D500mm) 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 a plate size of up to 10 inches 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, 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 68℃, 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.
- SD-9263W: 18″ Energy Star Portable Dishwasher - WHITE
- Capacity: 8 place setting
- 6 Wash programs: Heavy, Normal, Eco, Glass, 90 Min, Rapid
- Stainless Steel Interior
- Rinse Aid Warning Indicator: refill reminder on rinse aid
- Build- in Lights Function, Portable Size: 16x16x17.5(H) inch, 26.4 LB Net Weight, Convenient Dishwasher can fit a Variety of Dishes (up to 12-inches in diameter at an angle) and is ideal for small-sized Houses, Apartments, Dorms, Boats and Campers/RVs
- Multi Washing Programs: Six Wash Programs - Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit and DRY. Lower and Upper Spray Arms give Dishes that Streak-Free Deep Cleaning
- Easy-To-Use Control Panel: The LED Digital Controls show a Clear Picture-View of Wash Controls and the Automatic Water Level Indicator Lets you Know When the Correct Water Level has been Reached
- Two Channel Filling up Water from Tank & Hose : If you want the Advantage of Portability and Storage, This Dishwasher gives you the Two Choice to Fill by the Built-in Tank or A Water Hose, Water Hose is Included (Adapter Included)
- Detergents: Pods, Liquid or Powder Detergents are All Acceptable and It's Recommended to only Use Detergent Tablets When Running Long Cycles so the Tablets Fully Dissolve
- 8 PLACE SETTINGS: Racks are suitable to fit 8 place settings of dishes. There are 2 racks with a removable cutlery basket.
- MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: There are 6 washing programs to choose from- heavy, normal, eco, glass, rapid, and rinse.
- DURABLE TUB: The tub is made of stainless steel for better efficiency performance.
- ENERGY STAR: Low energy consumption according to Energy Star standards.
- TIMER: Up to 24 hour delay start for you added convenience.
- 🎁【5 Washing Programs】The GASLAND Chef dishwasher offers 5 washing cycles - ECO, Normal, Intensive, Rapid and Glass. One touch control to choose the suitable function according to the smudgy degree of your tableware. Lower spray arm offer a full range of deep spray washing, effectively removing oil stains on each pot and pans, don't leave any water stains.
- 🎁【160℉ High-Temperature Clean & Hot Air-dry 】 This portable countertop dishwasher heats up the water to 160℉ while washing the dishes. 99.99% stubborn stains can be removed. When the dishwasher finished washing, it will automatically dries the utensils inside with hot air drying at 160℉, keeping your dishes dry and odorless, achieve to sterilizing effect.
- 🎁【3 Layers Filtration & Quiet Operation】The triple filtration system can effectively filter the food debris that falls during the cleaning process and avoid clogging the drains. The whole process of washing only produces sounds at 52 dB, washing dishes super quiet, saving time and effort, only takes a coffee time, you can get clean and dry tablewares.
- 🎁【6 Place Setting & 2 Installation Modes】The compact dishwasher comes with large interior capacity of the 6 place settings, ideal for families of 3-4 people. The small machine is available for countertop and built-in installation, space-saving design and measures just 21.65 x 19.69 x 17.72 inches, It is good choice for small apartment, office and home kitchen.
- 🎁【Easy To Install & Use】This counter dishwasher is controlled by touch screen with indicator lights, when you install a drain pipe, the effluent will automatically drain through the pipe. Hold the button for more than three seconds until the digital signal is displayed, and the child-lock function will start to operate, keeping your families safety.
- QUIET OPERATION: Built-in dishwasher features ultra-quiet operation at only 51 dB with exterior sound insulating pads pre-installed.
- LARGE CAPACITY: 24 in. tall tub dishwasher accommodates up to 12 place settings to wash multiple dishes at once; upper rack to accommodate large or irregular-sized dishes; large capacity lower rack easily accommodates plates, bowls, and cookware
- FUNCTIONS: 4 Wash Cycles featuring 2 Options, including Heated Dry; Touch-enabled control panel at top of the door makes operation effortless, easy access and wipes clean; Multiple filter system saves water and energy by separating soiled and clean water
- CERTIFICATIONS: UL Listed, NSF/ANSI 184, ENERGY STAR certified to help you conserve energy and pay less for utilities
- 1-YEAR LIMITED: Our customer support team is based proudly in the USA; Product Dimensions: 23.75" (W) x 22.25" (D) x 33.75" (H); Electrical Requirements: 120V / 60Hz, 3-Prong Plug (NOT INCLUDED)
- Built-in, top-mount, stainless interior
- 6 Wash Programs: Normal, Heavy, Energy, Glass, Quick, Rinse
- HEATING function during drying cycle
- Energy Star
- 【PERFECT WASH】No more washing dirty dishes by hand every day. hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher increases the convenience of your life, even if the space is small, it can be placed in your kitchen.
- 【4 PLACE-SETTING CAPACITY】The 120V Portable Dishwasher measures 16.85×16.73×18.03 inches (W×D×H), which has a 4 Place-Setting Capacity. And fits up to 11" dishes loaded at an angle.
- 【FIVE WASHING PROGRAMS】Countertop Dishwasher with water tank perfectly provides 5 washing programs: Standard Cleaning, Fast Cleaning, ECO Cleaning, Strong Cleaning and Fruit Cleaning. Dual high water pressure spraying arms give dishes that streak-free deep cleaning.
- 【HIGH TEMPERATURE】The Dishwashers can clean tableware, fruits and vegetables, and also use the drying function after cleaning to keep tableware dry and tasteless. High Temperature and PTC Hot Wind are suitable for baby products and oily tableware to give glassware a sparkling clean finish.
- 【NO INSTALLATION NEEDED】The counter top dishwasher supports 2 water supply modes. The water tank mode, a built-in 5L water tank allows instant use when fully filled. In the faucet mode, simply connect the water inlet hose and drain hose to the machine and faucet.
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
- Accommodates up to eight (8) place settings and features a silverware basket and cup tray
- Six (6) Wash Cycles: Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse; Three (3) Options: Sanitize, Hi Temp, Heated Dry
- At only 17.75 inches wide, using this unit to replace an older appliance such as a trash compactor is a great option.
- Leakage sensor automatically shuts off water flow when a leak is detected to protect your home from water damage
- Quiet 52dB operation keeps the disturbance to a minimum; Dimensions 32.5" H x 17.6" W x 22.4" D; Depth w/ door open: 42.25"; Cutout dimensions: 32.5" H x 17.75" W x 23" D Weight: 52.9 lbs
- ALEXA VOICE CONTROL WITH SMART SPEAKER OR ALEXA APP: This dishwasher easily connects to your Echo device to control your dishwasher with simple voice commands. Amazon Echo device not included.
- INTERIOR LED LIGHTS: Bright white LED interior lighting for a clear view inside your dishwasher.
- SIMPLY BETTER LIVING WITH ALEXA: Ever load the dishwasher and climb into bed at night only to realize that you forgot to press start? Just ask Alexa, “Alexa, turn on the dishwasher,” from any Echo device in your smart home. Do your children like being in the kitchen with you? Just ask Alexa, “Alexa, turn on Child Lock,” for one less thing to worry about. Just ask Alexa to set the Cycle, Mode, Wash Zone, and even check how much time is left.
- LIBRARY QUIET: This powerful and versatile dishwasher gives you more than peace of mind; it gives you peace and quiet. The Sharp SDW6767HS is Library Quiet at a serene 45dBA.
- EASY SMART HOME SET-UP: Zero Touch Setup Available During Checkout. Turn on the dishwasher, open the Amazon Alexa app, and the app will automatically pair to your dishwasher. For Barcode Setup, open the Alexa app, choose your appliance, and scan the Barcode. Without Barcode Setup is also available. See the Quick Start Guide for details.
- ❤【5 WORKING PROGRAMS】This dishwasher has 5 working programs: fast washing (30 mins), standard washing (40 mins), powerful washing (50 mins), fruit and vegetable washing, and automatic air drying function. It’s also Ideal for washing baby products. 【NOTE】In order to ensure that the dishwasher can be used normally, the supplier will conduct a test before delivery, so if you find a small amount of water stains in the dishwasher after receiving the package, please don't worry, it’s not an used one
- ❤【AUTOMATIC WATER FILLING, ADAPTER INCLUDED】This dishwasher is an upgraded version. The adapter is suitable for faucets with a diameter less than 24MM. The hose can be attached to the washing machine faucet(1/2 faucet) without the adapter. The automatic water supply saves you the trouble and time of pouring water by yourself, and it is very convenient for the elderly, so it is an ideal gift for parents.【NOTE】 We have attached an extra drain pipe for your future replacement
- ❤【AUTOMATIC 167℉ HOT AIR DRYING】After finishing the washing cycle, the dishwasher will automatically dry the tableware by 167℉ hot air, which could effectively keep your tableware dry and avoid breeding odor, so you can store the tableware in the dishwasher as if it were in a cupboard
- ❤【COMPACT SIZE, LARGE CAPACITY】The external size of this dishwasher is 17.7(L)*16(W)*17.7(H), but the inside can accommodate 14-20 pieces of tableware. It's ideal to be placed on the countertop or in the built-in cabinet. Space-saving. No need for installation
- ❤【QUALITY ASSURANCE】If you have any problems with the machine after receiving the goods, pleas contact us as soon as possible. We will give you the most satisfactory after-sales service. We will solve your problem online 24 hours a day. We are very willing to provide you with return, exchange, and refund services. just to give you a satisfactory shopping experience
- World's #1 Recommended Brand* (*Recommended by more dishwasher brands worldwide)
- Advanced formula for deep cleaning power
- For shinier & drier dishes vs detergent alone, add Finish Jet-Dry Rinse Aid
- Safe for septic systems
- Easy-to-pour gel with refreshing lemon and orange scents
- 【SMALL SIZE, LARGE CAPACITY】This portable dishwasher only measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches, but holds 4 full place settings and fits up to 12" dishes loaded at an angle, easily meeting daily needs for a family of 3-4; the double-layer design offers enough space for 4 x serving bowls, 4 x cups, 4 x small plates, 4 x dinner plates, 7 x spoons, 7 x forks and 7 x knives; perfect for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs
- 【NO INSTALLATION NEEDED】This countertop dishwasher supports 2 water supply modes, including a faucet mode and water tank mode; a built-in 5 L water tank allows instant use when fully filled. The automatic water level indicator lets you know when the correct water level has been reached; to use the faucet mode, simply connect the water inlet hose to the machine and faucet
- 【BABY CARE MODE】This compact dishwasher offers 5 wash cycles - Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care/Heavy, and Fruit; the Baby Care/Heavy mode with 167 °F washing temperature is suitable for baby products and oily tableware, which rinses them thoroughly and gives glassware a sparkling clean finish
- 【3-IN-1 FUNCTION】Featuring a Dry mode, this machine is equipped with the features of a dishwasher, dryer, and cabinet, making taking care of your dishes and glassware a breeze; 60 minutes of hot air drying will automatically start after the wash cycle is finished, keeping your dishes dry and odorless; 72 hours of automatic ventilation stores your tableware in sanitary condition, providing clean dishes whenever you need them
- 【FULLY EQUIPPED】The storage rack and cutlery basket make it easy to clean ''top rack only'' dishwasher safe items such as knives, forks, and spoons, leaving more space for dishes and small pots; lower and upper spray arms give dishes a streak-free deep cleaning, and the included fruit basket stores fruits and vegetables neatly and cleans them
- DUAL SPRAY ARM SYSTEM: Our top and bottom rack dual spray arm system gives you a thorough clean every time
- SANITIZE CYCLE: National Sanitation Foundation Certified Sanitize Cycle
- FITS UP TO 8 PLACE SETTINGS: Cleans 8 place settings in one cycle
- HEATED DRYING SYSTEM: Heating element helps dry your dishes the first time
- 6 CLEANING CYCLE OPTIONS: Easy-to-use cleaning cycle options include Energy Saver, Heavy Wash and Rinse
- Dimensions: Depth - Door Shut (with Handle): 21.7". Depth - Door Shut (without Handle): 20". Depth With Door Open 90 Degrees: 29". Dishwasher Size: 21". Height - Maximum: 17.2". Height - Minimum: 17.2". Product Depth: 21.7". Product Height: 17.2". Product Width: 19.7". Product Weight: 44.1 lb
- Six-place setting: the six-place setting capacity allows you to wash a variety of dishes (up to 10-inches in diameter) and includes folding down rack shelves and a cutlery basket
- Quick installation: Features a quick connect assembly with accessories and adapters included to easily connect directly to your faucet
- Seven washing programs: you'll get full size dishwasher cleaning in a countertop sized compact unit that offers seven wash programs - heavy, Normal, baby care, light, glass, Speed 45 min, self clean
- Extra-drying function: this feature adds extra heat to the final rinse to enhance drying results, but can only be used with the following programs - heavy, Normal, light, glass, baby care
- ●ULTIMATE CAPACITY: Featuring a height of 24 inches, this dishwasher can clean multiple dishes at once. You can accommodate any plate with the large capacity upper and lower racks. Additionally, you can add bowls, cutlery, and other cookware if you wish.
- ●UNRIVALED INTERFACE: Featuring four wash cycles, namely, Normal, Auto, Heavy, and Express that each has a different intensity. It is included with a heated and sanitized rinse to vaporize moisture and keep the dishes clean instantly, equipped with a multiple filter system to conserve energy and water for a more efficient system.
- ●EASY TO USE: The system is equipped with a touch-sensitive interface to make every process effortless to operate.
- ●SMOOTH AND SOUNDLESS PERFORMANCE: Built-in dishwasher features ultra-quiet operation at only 45 dB with exterior sound insulating pads pre-installed
- ●WARRANTY: We provide a one-year limited warranty. Any further information needed before purchasing, you could contact our Customer Service.
Top 5 Best Countertop Dishwashers: My Personal Picks
EdgeStar 6 Place Setting Countertop Portable Dishwasher – Child Friendly
- Digital control panel with LED display / Six (6) standard place setting capacity
- Holds plates up to 10.5 in diameter / Six (6) wash cycles
- Delayed start feature / Child lock function / Input voltage: 120 V/60 Hz
- Fits under most cabinetry / Stainless steel interior / 5 foot hose included
- Dimensions: 17-3/16 H x 21-11/16 W x 19-11/16 D
EdgeStar is part of the famous Living Direct Network, so you can be sure that this appliance is durable and made of high-quality materials. It has a modern silver finish, which can match any kitchen theme or decor.
You don’t have to fuss over difficult controls because it has a user-friendly LED display and digital control panel. It has 6 standard place-setting capacities and can hold plates with diameters as large as 10.5 inches. There are six wash cycles to choose from, including a delayed start feature. You don’t need to call a professional plumber because it will fit most standard faucets. Simply connect the five-foot hose, and you are all set.
It also comes with a child lock feature.
Pros
- Can fit standard faucets
- Has a child lock feature
- Modern and sleek finish.
Cons
- Not as durable as traditional, full-sized dishwashers
- Portable in size, but not lightweight.
SPT SD-2202S Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start – Customer Favorite
- Durable stainless steel interior; Holds plates up to 10.5" in diameter
- Up to 8 hours delay start
- 6 wash cycles (heavy, normal, light, glass, speed, soak); Maximum water termperature: 148°F
- Up to 6 standard place settings capacity
- Automatic detergent and rinse agent dispenser
This is one of the more positively reviewed countertop dishwashers that I’ve come across. It comes in a modern silver finish. The inside is made of premium stainless steel. You’ll get a faucet adapter in the package, which you’ll connect to the faucet to get started.
It also features a delay start feature that can delay up to 8 hours, as well as six different wash cycles.
With this product, you can be sure to get a functional appliance that will also elevate the overall look of your kitchen. Its modern color is sure to fit any existing decorative theme that you might already have.
Pros
- Trendy and modern look
- 8-hour delay start feature
- 6 wash cycles are available.
Cons
- Not a good option if you plan on using it for a long time, it will probably run perfectly for a year or so.
Costway Countertop 6 Place Setting Dishwasher – Editor’s Pick
- 【Easy to Use】Semi-Integrated Electronic Controls With Easy-To-Use Rotary Cycle Selector And Push-Button Functions
- 【Space Saving 】This Countertop Dishwasher Fits Between Most Standard Countertops And Cabinetry
- 【PreSet】Start Function Can Be Delayed Between 1 And 24 Hours, Using 1-Hour Increments
- 【6 Wash Cycles】Six Wash Cycles Include Heavy, Normal, ECO, Speed, Glass And Rinse
- 【Durable & Quiet】Stainless Steel Interior For Long-lasting Durability, Operates Quietly to Avoid Disrupting Other Areas
This 6-place setting dishwasher is not just compact and portable; it also comes with some useful and practical functions. For one, it has a delayed start feature that can go starting at 1 hour and up to 24 hours (with one-hour increments)!
You don’t need to be super technical to maneuver this dishwasher. It is very easy to use. It has push-button functions, a semi-integrated electronic control panel, and a rotary cycle panel. It will fit most standard countertops. It is space-saving and perfect for tiny kitchens.
The insides are made with durable stainless steel. You won’t even notice when it’s running because of the quiet operation.
Pros
- Easy-to-use controls
- Quiet operation
- Delay start feature of up to 24 hours.
Cons
- Not as durable as traditional, heavyweight dishwashers.
Koldfront 6 Place Setting Portable Countertop Dishwasher – Portable Option
- Dimensions: Depth - Door Shut (with Handle): 21.7" | Depth - Door Shut (without Handle): 20" | Depth With Door Open 90 Degrees: 29" | Dishwasher Size: 21" | Height - Maximum: 17.2" | Height - Minimum: 17.2" | Product Depth: 21.7" | Product Height: 17.2" | Product Width: 19.7" | Product Weight: 44.1 lb. Hose Length (ft.): 5.5
- Six-place setting: the six-place setting capacity allows you to wash a variety of dishes (up to 10-inches in diameter) and includes folding down rack shelves and a cutlery basket
- Quick installation: Features a quick connect assembly with accessories and adapters included to easily connect directly to your faucet
- Seven washing programs: you'll get full size dishwasher cleaning in a countertop sized compact unit that offers seven wash programs - heavy, Normal, baby care, light, glass, Speed 45 min, self clean
- Extra-drying function: this feature adds extra heat to the final rinse to enhance drying results, but can only be used with the following programs - heavy, Normal, light, glass, baby care
This is another brand that is a part of the Living Direct family. This appliance is designed to be durable and affordable at the same time. It has a stainless steel interior. It can easily be connected to your kitchen faucet. You’ll also receive a dish rack, cutlery basket, and cup shelf.
This dishwasher comes in a 6-place setting and is very portable. It will fit most countertops and cabinetry. It only uses 3.8 gallons of water per normal wash cycle. It can hold plates as large as 10.5 inches (diameter).
Pros
- Consumes only 3.8 gallons per wash cycle
- Durable exterior and interior
- Works with most standard kitchen faucets.
Cons
- Not as durable as traditional, heavyweight dishwashers.
Sunpentown Portable Dishwasher with Delay Start – Runner Up
- 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
- Water supply warning indicator and rinse aid warning indicator
The last one on our list is a true contender. It is made of premium stainless steel and is completely portable. It’s the ideal machine for small kitchens or tiny apartments. It will also do well in office spaces or studio units. It can connect quickly and easily to any kitchen faucet using the faucet adapter included in the package. You don’t need a plumber to get it set up.
Don’t be fooled by its size, though. It is quite powerful and comes with a delay start function. You can heat water for up to 148°F. For optimal convenience, it also holds an automatic detergent dispenser and a rinse agent dispenser. All you need to do is put the plates in and take them out. It can hold up to six standard place settings. It includes a silverware basket and dish racks, too.
Pros
- Portable and perfect for small spaces
- Convenient and easy to use
- Easy to set up.
Cons
- No noticeable drawbacks.
Things to Consider When Buying a Countertop Dishwasher

As with every investment you are going to make, it’s best to do some diligent research and preparation before buying a countertop dishwasher. Read on to find out more about these considerations.
Does Countertop Mean Portable (and Vice Versa)?
In the reviews above, as well as on product descriptions of countertop dishwashers, you’ll encounter the words portable and countertop a lot. But are these two words the same thing? You might think that they are one and the same, but they technically define two different features of the product.
Movability
Portable dishwashers can be moved from one place to another. These are great if you plan on traveling often and bringing the appliance with you and using it in multiple locations. To accomplish this, portable dishwashers often come fitted with rollers to help with the moving.
Countertop dishwashers simply mean that they are designed to be placed on a countertop, but it doesn’t always mean that it is portable.
Capacity
Also, portable dishwashers can wash at a bigger capacity compared to countertop dishwashers. The latter can only handle a few (often six) place settings every time. So that rules out pans and pots automatically. Portable dishwashers are often designed similarly to traditional dishwashers so that they can fit bigger pans and pots.
Water Usage
On average, countertop dishwashers use up an average of 2 gallons of water per wash cycle. Portable (and traditional) dishwashers can use about 3 gallons of water per load. Considering the margin of difference with how much more you can wash in portable dishwashers, that’s a lot of water saved. Just to compare: you can use up to 27 gallons of water if you wash by hand. So it’s a good deal for the environment if you use any of these dishwashers instead of washing by hand.
Now that we’ve defined the main differences, you can now adjust your expectations on what you’ll be getting from countertop dishwashers.
Factors to Look Out For

What things should you consider before choosing one?
Functions and Setting
The first thing you need to look at is the settings. Not all washers have the same settings. If you love multitasking or have a busy schedule, then I recommend getting one with the Delay Start feature. In the reviews above, we mentioned a few with this option. But again, not all are created equal. Some Delay Start features can go for 6 hours, some promise 8 hours, while some can go as long as 24 hours.
From our list above, the Costway Countertop 6 Place Setting Dishwasher has a 1-hour to 24-hour Delay Start feature.
Size and Capacity
A lot of countertop dishwashers come in a standard size. Usually, they are able to fit in 6 standard place settings. Most of them will have silverware baskets and dish racks, too. If you are particular about what sizes of china you can and cannot fit in the washer, I recommend you read the fine print on capacity.
Sound and Ease of Use
Another consideration is the sound that the machine makes during operation. Often, this feature is overlooked. After all, not all brands will mention on their product pages if their washer will create an annoying humming sound during washing. Among the five we’ve reviewed above, the Costway Countertop 6 Place Setting Dishwasher checks this box.
Check for the unit’s noise level before making a purchase. You don’t need to know all the technical terms. Simply look for the Decibel Rating. The lower it is, the better. On average, dishwashers will have a 63-66 dBA. The quieter units will have a 55 dBA. As a point of reference, that’s about the same level of noise that a microwave oven will make.
Water Source and Connections
Before you go checking your cart out, make sure your own kitchen is ready for the appliance. These dishwashers are designed to be placed on a flat countertop, with immediate access to a water source (faucet). Make sure to check all of these requirements firsthand.
You can also take this time to check if your faucet is a standard-sized one. The majority of countertop dishwashers will work with standard faucets. So if you don’t have time, this is the time to find the appropriate adapter for it. Also, check if your faucet has a threaded spout.
If you aren’t able to check off these boxes, don’t be disheartened and cancel that purchase just yet. You may remove the faucet’s aerator (it’s the thing responsible for creating a spray) and fit in an adapter. If you aren’t much of a DIY person and are not confident with your plumbing skills, the best thing would be to get the help of a professional plumber.

Brand and User Reviews
I usually put this factor on top of the considerations list, but this time, the brand doesn’t matter as much. You need to really delve down into the features and specifications of a dishwasher to check its quality and durability, as well as its capacity and functionality. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t hurt to check its brand, too.
A brand that’s been around for quite some time will more likely give out great products and have a credible customer service line, too. Go for brands that offer good warranty coverage.
Aside from the brand name itself, make it a habit to read user reviews. In some ways, they are the most important ones to read. They come from actual consumers who spent actual money on something you’re considering buying. They will let you know how their experience went and can often prevent you from spending too much on something that will prove unworthy later on.
Conclusion
This was a nice roundup. Obviously, the clear winner is the Costway Countertop 6 Place Setting Dishwasher because of its great features. Being able to schedule a washing 24 hours ahead of time is just amazing. It’s also super easy to use!
- 【Easy to Use】Semi-Integrated Electronic Controls With Easy-To-Use Rotary Cycle Selector And Push-Button Functions
- 【Space Saving 】This Countertop Dishwasher Fits Between Most Standard Countertops And Cabinetry
- 【PreSet】Start Function Can Be Delayed Between 1 And 24 Hours, Using 1-Hour Increments
- 【6 Wash Cycles】Six Wash Cycles Include Heavy, Normal, ECO, Speed, Glass And Rinse
- 【Durable & Quiet】Stainless Steel Interior For Long-lasting Durability, Operates Quietly to Avoid Disrupting Other Areas
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