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How to Choose a Portable Dishwasher

Lauren Bongers

By Lauren Bongers
Updated July 23, 2025

A portable dishwasher offers cleaning power with the convenience of mobility and easy Installation. Whether you live in a rental home, travel in a RV or have another need for a portable option, learn about these compact dishwashers to choose the best one for your space.

Portable Dishwasher Type (Countertop vs. Freestanding)

Portable dishwashers have either freestanding or countertop designs.

  • Freestanding Portable Dishwashers: A freestanding model or portable standalone dishwasher looks like a standard dishwasher and often has a similar capacity. Casters let you wheel it out of the way when not in use. The water supply line connects to a kitchen faucet, and the wastewater drains into the sink.
  • Countertop Portable Dishwashers: These mini dishwashers are about the size of a microwave oven, so some can't fit large dishes. Like a freestanding model, a countertop dishwasher connects to a faucet and drains into the sink.
  • Reservoir Countertop Dishwasher: A reservoir portable dishwasher is ultra compact. You can connect it to a faucet, or, if there’s no faucet and sink handy, you simply pour water into the onboard tank and let the dishwasher drain into a bucket.

Size and Capacity

Most portable dishwashers are 18 or 24 inches wide, and some countertop options are even smaller. In addition to standard measurements, like height, width and depth, consider a portable dishwasher’s capacity and how often you wash. Freestanding portable dishwashers typically accommodate twelve place settings while countertop dishwashers can handle two to six, depending on the model.

Water Usage and Time

Water usage on a normal cycle ranges from less than 1-1/2 gallons for small countertop models to around 3-1/2 gallons for a freestanding model — comparable to usage for a built-in. Keep in mind, some wash cycles use more water.

The settings are also a factor in the time it takes to wash a load of dishes in a portable dishwasher. As with built-in dishwashers, it can take between one and four hours to complete the wash cycle.

Portable Dishwasher Benefits and Options

There are several reasons to consider a portable dishwasher:

  • Size: Portable dishwashers are smaller than built-ins and some only require the counter space of a small appliance.
  • Convenience: Setup can be as simple as connecting to a faucet or filling a tank.
  • Portability: Store one of these dishwashers out of the way when not in use and take it with you if you move.
  • Price: A countertop dishwasher can be an economical purchase compared to a built-in.

See our how-to on installing a portable dishwasher — it’s simple. Then learn more about where you can use a portable dishwasher. They make cleanup easier in just about any space.

Color Options

At Lowe’s, portable dishwashers are available in standard appliance colors: stainless steel, black and white. This makes it possible to match your portable dishwasher to existing appliances in the kitchen.

Noise Levels

The noise level of a dishwasher is a key factor for some homeowners. When shopping for a dishwasher, check the appliance’s decibel rating (dBA). The lower the rating, the more quietly the dishwasher operates. Because portable dishwashers are typically standalone appliances and not built into cabinetry, the noise isn’t dampened by cabinets and walls.

Most dishwashers have a dBA between 38 and 62. For reference, normal conversation is around 60 dBA. A standard dishwasher noise level is 51 dBA or higher. To be considered quiet, a dishwasher’s dBA should fall at or under 50 dBA.

Drying Method

Portable dishwashers are available with a few types of drying methods:

  • Heated dry is the quickest, most effective option, but it requires more energy and it’s not suitable for all dish materials.
  • Condensation dry is the more energy-efficient option, but it takes more time and may not dry your dishes completely.
  • Air dry relies on a fan to draw air into the dishwasher to remove moisture, but without heat it can take several hours and may leave moisture behind.

Compact Dishwasher Brands

Not all appliance manufacturers offer smaller dishwasher models. Lowe’s offers a few brands of portable dishwashers or compact dishwashers. Choose from Whirlpool® portable dishwashers, GE portable dishwashers, Comfee portable dishwashers, Media portable dishwashers and other quality brands.

Portable Dishwasher Pricing

Freestanding portable dishwashers are often in a price range similar to some built-in models, but countertop portable dishwashers are less expensive than most built-ins. All portable dishwashers are easy to connect, so you can avoid installation costs.

Control Panel Style (Top vs. Front)

Control panels allow you to choose cleaning cycles, drying options and more. A portable dishwasher control panel is either on the top of the door or on the front of the unit.

Top control panels are hidden when the door is closed, giving the appliance a sleek appearance. Front control panels are fully visible, making it easy to monitor the wash and dry cycles.

Dishwasher Cycles

Portable dishwashers can feature a variety of wash cycle types in addition to a normal wash. Popular options include:

Adjustable Upper Racks

Some portable dishwashers feature adjustable upper racks, a handy feature when washing oversized platters, cutting boards and other large items. Adjustable upper racks can be moved up and down creating more clearance for either the top rack or the bottom rack of a dishwasher.

Energy Efficiency

Like typical dishwashers, some portable dishwashers are ENERGY STAR® certified. These appliances use less water and energy compared to other models. For more information on this certification, check out ENERGY STAR®’s dishwasher information.

Portable Dishwashers

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Dishwasher Detergent

Find the Right Portable Dishwasher at Lowe’s

Portable dishwashers offer benefits over traditional built-in models, including a smaller footprint, the convenience of easy hook up and, of course, portability. Depending on the model you choose and your dishwashing needs, a portable dishwasher can be a comparatively economical purchase. And these dishwashers offer many of the features of full-size models, like options for finishes, sound levels, wash cycles and more.

Shop Lowes.com to browse price ranges, brands and features to find the right portable dishwasher for your home. Or talk to one of our Red Vest associates at your local Lowe’s. They can help you compare the options and find a portable dishwasher that’s perfect for your space and lifestyle.

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