Save Space, Not Time: 45 Best Compact Dishwashers for Small Kitchens and Apartments

Small living spaces shouldn't come at the cost of modern conveniences, which is why we've rounded up the best compact dishwashers available today. These space-saving appliances clean your dishes just as effectively as their full-sized counterparts while occupying far less counter space.

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Whirlpool 18" Black Built-in Compact Dishwasher

This compact black dishwasher packs plenty of useful features into a space-saving design, from its adjustable racks that accommodate tall pots and pans to its energy-efficient stainless steel interior. The cycle memory function lets you jump right back into your favorite wash routine with just a push of a button, while the quiet operation keeps kitchen noise to a minimum during cleanup. Whether you're washing everyday dishes or tackling heavily soiled messes, this reliable dishwasher gets the job done efficiently, leaving your silverware and dishes sparkling clean.

GE Compact Dishwasher with Front Controls

This compact GE dishwasher cleverly splits its interior into upper and lower racks, ensuring every dish gets its turn without overcrowding. The quiet 55 dBA operation and ENERGY STAR rating promise efficient cleaning without excessive noise or power consumption. While some users have noted durability issues with the plastic interior, many appreciate its straightforward controls and spacious design that accommodates everything from delicate china to hefty pots and pans.

Whirlpool 24-Inch Dishwasher with 3rd Rack

This compact dishwasher packs surprising capability into a space-saving design, featuring a convenient third rack that doubles as a smart solution for awkwardly shaped utensils. The whisper-quiet 44 dBA operation makes it ideal for busy homes, while the Door Open Dry feature helps cut energy consumption and improves overall drying performance. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen, though some users note the internal layout could be more generous with cup and glass storage space.

Cafe Built-In Dishwasher

The CDT805P2NS1 dishwasher brings a sophisticated touch to any kitchen with its 24-inch stainless steel profile and hidden controls. It handles 16 place settings with its adjustable racks and flexible design, including a third rack for extra storage. The Ultra-Wash & Dry system ensures sparkling clean dishes through targeted cleaning jets, with an added Steam + Sani feature that sanitizes your load without pre-washing.

Midea MDF18A1AWW Built-in Dishwasher

Our compact Midea dishwasher packs impressive power into a slim frame, saving counter space while cleaning eight full place settings at once. The adjustable racks and folding tines make it incredibly versatile for tackling every dish you throw at it, from delicate stemware to hefty cookware. With a powerful heated dry cycle and quiet 60 dB operation, your glasses and plates emerge perfectly dry and spotless, ready for your next meal. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps the appliance looking sharp for years to come, while its ENERGY STAR rating proves it's both efficient and environmentally friendly.

Avanti 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher

This compact dishwasher offers plenty of space for 8 place settings and features 6 automatic washing cycles to suit different needs. Its delayed start and eco half-load mode make it convenient for various cooking sessions, while the quiet 53 decibel operation keeps noise levels low during use. The removable silverware basket and easy-to-clean nylon racks help maintain hygiene and efficiency between cycles.

GE Front-Control Dishwasher

This reliable GE dishwasher combines a practical dual-rack system with powerful cleaning technology to deliver consistently spotless results. The adjustable height design allows for easy installation in various kitchen setups, while the durable plastic interior ensures long-term performance with an attractive American Gray finish. Whether you're washing a full load or just a few dishes, the flexible cycle options and industry-leading Dry Boost technology ensure your dishes come out clean and dry every time.

Hermitlux Portable Countertop Dishwasher

This compact countertop dishwasher packs surprisingly powerful cleaning into its 12-inch dish capacity, using just one and a half gallons of water per cycle to wash four place settings at a time. The inclusion of five dedicated washing programs—ranging from regular to baby bottle cleaning—meets every dishwashing need, while the built-in water tank eliminates the need for permanent installation. After each cycle, an extra dry mode ensures your dishes come out completely streak-free and ready for use.

Avanti DWF18V3S Compact Dishwasher

The Avanti DWF18V3S packs impressive dishwasher features into a surprisingly slim 17.75-inch width, making it ideal for tight spaces where standard dishwashers won't fit. With three-stage filtering, six wash cycles, and Energy Star certification, it delivers powerful cleaning in a compact package that's been praised for its quiet operation and sleek stainless steel design. Whether you're fitting it under a counter in a tiny apartment or hooking up an RV sink, this dishwasher proves that smart engineering can overcome even the most challenging space constraints.

ChuMaste Portable Countertop Dishwasher

The ChuMaste Portable Countertop Dishwasher fits neatly into small spaces like apartments and offices, handling dishes with its 5 wash programs. At just 16.5 inches wide, it doesn't take up much counter space while still managing to clean 2 place settings at a time. The quiet 45 dBA operation lets you use it anywhere without disturbing others.

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwasher

This compact countertop dishwasher combines space-saving design with efficient cleaning, handling up to 12-inch dishes and 4 full place settings in its dual-layer 16.9-inch tall cabinet. The machine's five wash cycles include a specialized Baby Care mode that reaches 167°F for thoroughly cleaning fragile items and heavily soiled dishes, while the built-in 5-liter water tank eliminates the need for permanent plumbing connections. After each cycle, the automatic air-dry feature ensures your dishes come out completely dry and sanitized, ready for immediate use.

Compact Portable Dishwasher

The portable dishwasher is a space-saving solution that eliminates manual dishwashing, featuring a 10-14 place setting capacity with both sink and tank water options. It effectively cleans and sterilizes dishes using hot air up to 142°F, with a digital display and five wash programs to accommodate various cleaning needs. Users particularly appreciate its compact design, ease of use, and ability to clean dishes thoroughly while saving time and water compared to traditional hand washing.

Whirlpool Portable Black Dishwasher

This sleek black portable dishwasher from Whirlpool packs impressive cleaning power into a space-saving design, offering three versatile wash cycles including a quick 60-minute option for when you need dishes done fast. The generous 12-place setting capacity and intuitive push-button controls make it a practical addition to any kitchen, while the molded plastic tub construction ensures durability for everyday use.

MegaMixer Silver Countertop Dishwasher

This compact dishwasher packs plenty of power into a space-saving design, measuring just 17.24" tall to fit under most countertops and cabinets. With its six wash cycles and delay start feature, it's perfect for small spaces like apartments or office kitchens. The automatic detergent and rinse aid dispensers make it incredibly easy to use, while the quick-connect water system keeps installation hassle-free.

18" Avanti Built-in Dishwasher

This 18-inch dishwasher cleverly condenses full-size functionality into a space-saving design that works great in tiny kitchens and studios. With six tailored wash cycles and remarkable 53-decibel noise levels, it's quiet enough for any living situation while still getting your dishes spotlessly clean. The spacious 8-place setting capacity and smart features like delayed start and triple filtering make it incredibly practical for regular dishwashing.

Midea MDF18A1AST Compact Dishwasher

This energy-efficient Midea dishwasher packs plenty of power into its compact frame, thanks to its 8-place setting capacity and 6 wash programs. The heated dry cycle means your dishes will be warm and ready when you are, while the adjustable racks and folding tines accommodate everything from delicate glasses to hefty pots and pans. At just 18 inches deep, it won't eat up much counter space, but it still manages to blast through dirty dishes with its powerful HI TEMP cycle. The stainless steel tub and slim design make it a practical addition to any kitchen, whether you're dishwashing solo or hosting dinner parties.

GE Front Control Dishwasher

At just 24 inches wide and 33 inches tall, this ENERGY STAR-rated dishwasher conserves space while delivering reliable performance with its Steam + Sanitize cycle that loosens tough soils before wash. The plastic interior might seem unconventional, but users praise its durability and the dishwasher's quiet 52 dBA operation that won't disturb your peace. The adjustable hex feet allow precise leveling, making it a practical choice for various installation scenarios.

GE 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Dishwasher

Whether you're short on counter space or just want a reliable way to keep your dishes spotless, this stylish dishwasher fits the bill. Made in the USA, it tackles tough messes with consistent results and leaves your glasses sparkling clean every time. The simple controls might feel basic compared to fancier models, but they get the job done without any unnecessary complications.

Compact Dishwasher with 6 Wash Programs

This compact dishwasher packs plenty of features into its 18-inch frame, including a generous 8-place setting capacity and six customizable wash programs. The stainless steel construction and quiet operation make it a practical addition to any kitchen, while the convenient top-mounted controls and delayed-start option add to its user-friendly design. Users particularly appreciate its efficiency and reliable performance, though a few mentioned minor build-quality issues with the stainless steel finish.

GE Compact Dishwasher with Front Controls

This reliable front-controlled dishwasher from GE consistently delivers total dish cleanliness with its powerful washing cycles and stain-loosening steam feature. The extra-large 14-place setting capacity paired with its space-saving cabinet-depth design makes it a practical choice for busy kitchens, while the durable construction and energy-efficient operation ensure it performs well over time.

Costway Countertop Dishwasher

Despite its slim profile, this countertop dishwasher delivers impressive cleaning power, accommodating six full place settings in its generous 72-piece capacity. Its dual-spray arm system and 28 water ports provide comprehensive coverage for every dish, while the built-in LED display lets you monitor the wash cycle. The stainless steel construction and 153°F hot air drying system ensure your dishes are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized for immediate use.

GE GDF450PGRBB Dishwasher

This American-made dishwasher brings both functionality and style to your kitchen, with its spacious 12-place setting capacity and stylish black finish. The removable silverware basket makes quick work of loading and unloading, while the dishwasher's strong performance tackles even the toughest food residues with its powerful Piranha Hard Food Disposer. Built for lasting performance with an adjustable height floor and reliable Active Flood Protect system, this dishwasher delivers consistently clean and dry dishes without the noise or complications of more expensive models.

GE Front-Load Dishwasher

This sleek dishwasher combines powerful performance with thoughtful design features like a spacious double-rack system and a convenient silverware basket. The durable plastic interior and quiet 60 dBA operation make it a practical addition to any kitchen, while the Heavy Duty cycle with Dry Boost ensures your dishes emerge totally dry. Whether you're a busy family or a small household, this reliable dishwasher handles everyday use with ease.

Hotpoint 24-inch Built-In Dishwasher

This front-loading dishwasher brings a practical approach to dishwashing with its simple controls and reliable performance. The durable stainless steel interior and 24-inch cabinet width make it a sturdy addition to any kitchen, while the efficient 3-cycle system helps save water compared to manual dishwashing. The sleek black finish adds an attractive touch to your kitchen setup, though some users have noted it can be challenging to remove the bottom rack when fully loaded.

GE 24" Black Top Control Dishwasher

This reliable dishwasher consistently delivers clean and dry dishes with its powerful jet system and high-temperature sanitize cycle that reduces bacteria by 99.999%. At just 24 inches wide, it fits snugly in standard kitchen spaces while its Sanitize Cycle ensures your dishes are thoroughly clean. The durable stainless-steel interior keeps your silverware shining, thanks to focused jets that remove even stubborn food residue.

Frigidaire 24" Built-in Compact Dishwasher

This compact dishwasher triples your cleaning power with three spray arms and features sensor technology that adapts to every load. It eliminates 99.9% of household bacteria and dries dishes completely with its MaxDry option. The dishwasher handles 14 place settings in its spacious capacity, running efficiently with an energy-saving 60-minute cycle.

24" Frigidaire Built-in Dishwasher

This space-saving dishwasher packs a surprising amount of functionality into its compact frame, handling 14 place settings with ease while keeping noise levels remarkably low for a machine of its type. The stay-put door design makes loading a breeze, while the heated drying system ensures your dishes emerge completely clean and dry from every cycle. Whether you're tackled with a mountain of dirty dishes or just a few lingering remnants, this dishwasher has the flexibility to clean thoroughly on your schedule, with the convenience of a 4-hour delay option for running your cycle at the most energy-efficient time of day.

Farberware Professional Portable Countertop Dishwasher

Compact enough for small spaces like dorm rooms and RVs, the Farberware countertop dishwasher tackles tough cleaning jobs with 7 wash programs and an extra-drying heat cycle. With a 6-place setting capacity and folding rack shelves, it handles everything from delicate glasses to big pots and pans. The LED controls and child lock feature make it practical for everyday use while saving water compared to hand washing.

Danby DDW631SDB Countertop Dishwasher

The Danby countertop dishwasher packs surprising cleaning power into a compact frame, handling up to six place settings with its rotating spray arm and durable stainless-steel interior. With eight wash options including a speedy cycle and true ECO mode, it's adaptable to every dishload, from light rinses to heavy-duty washes. At just 3.1 gallons per cycle and 54dB silent operation, it's a practical choice for small kitchens that need serious cleaning without taking up valuable counter space.

Costway 5-Place Setting Compact Dishwasher

This compact dishwasher handles 6 place settings with ease, featuring a straightforward design that fits both built-in and countertop spaces. The dual spray arms and 26 water ports ensure your dishes come out sparkling clean, while the three-layer filtration system keeps your glasses and plates debris-free. Users appreciate its space efficiency and energy efficiency, though some have noted minor installation requirements for the water supply lines.

Euhomy Portable Compact Dishwasher

This countertop dishwater packs surprisingly powerful cleaning into a space-saving design, handling over 30 dishes at once with five dedicated wash cycles that range from quick 29-minute washes to thorough heavy-duty cleaning. Thanks to its built-in 5-liter water tank and simple touch controls, setting up and using the dishwasher is incredibly straightforward – no complicated installation is required. After washing, the included drying function uses hot air to keep your dishes fresh and dry for up to 72 hours, reducing moisture that could lead to mold or mildew.

ecozy Portable Countertop Dishwasher

Compact enough for apartments or RVs, this countertop dishwasher saves you trips to the sink by doing double-duty as your water tank. With five washing programs that adapt to every type of dish, from regular use to tough grease jobs, it's like having a full-size dishwasher that fits on your counter. The best part? It's so quiet and efficient that your dishes come out just as clean as they would in a regular machine, but without taking up nearly as much space.

Farberware Portable Countertop Dishwasher

This portable countertop dishwasher packs surprisingly powerful cleaning into a compact white design that fits almost anywhere. With five wash programs including a dedicated baby hygiene cycle and a rapid mode for when you really need your dishes clean fast, it's designed to make dishwashing stress-free. The built-in UV light ensures your dishes come out spot-free and sanitized, while the dual spray system uses less water than traditional dishwashers.

ecozy Portable Mini Dishwasher

This portable dishwasher brings convenient washing right to your counter with its built-in 5L water tank and space-saving design. The top-mounted touch controls and 5 washing programs make it simple to tackle everything from everyday dishes to baby bottles, while the extra dry function keeps your glasses and plates spot-free for up to 72 hours. The compact white appliance fits perfectly in smaller spaces, from apartments to RVs, with transparent doors that let you watch the cleaning process from start to finish.

Farberware Portable Countertop Dishwasher

This portable countertop dishwasher packs surprisingly powerful performance into a compact size that's perfect for small kitchens and apartments. With its built-in 5-liter water tank and five convenient wash programs including dedicated bottle and fruit wash cycles, it handles everything from delicate baby bottles to stubborn fruit residue with ease. The quiet, energy-efficient design fits perfectly under a countersink, making it a practical solution for spaces where traditional dishwashers won't fit.

Farberware Professional Countertop Dishwasher

This space-saving dishwasher zips through full-size dish loads in 45-90 minutes, with seven wash programs to choose from. The heavy-duty cycle tackles grime effectively, while the extra-drying function ensures your dishes come out bone-dry. The quick-connect hose system makes installation a breeze, with adapters included for most sink types.

Cafe CDD420P4TW2 double drawer dishwasher

This stylish double-drawer dishwasher saves space while delivering powerful cleaning performance for small to medium households. The energy-efficient model features dual wash arms and adjustable racks to accommodate everything from delicate glasses to sturdy cookware, with handy pause functionality and quiet operation that won't disturb your kitchen routine. Whether you're a busy professional or a busy family, this versatile dishwasher tackles every load from light meals to full dinner parties with remarkable efficiency.

Whirlpool Compact Dishwasher

This stylish black dishwasher packs impressive functionality into a compact package, handling 8 place settings with ease while offering five wash cycles and four options to suit every dishloading situation. The spray arm design ensures thorough cleaning in each rack, and the cycle memory feature makes it a breeze to run another load with the same settings. Energy-efficient and ADA compliant, it's engineered for both performance and practicality in small spaces.

Compact Countertop Dishwasher

With its built-in 6-liter water tank and space for 30+ dishes, this compact dishwasher saves both counter space and water compared to traditional handwashing. The powerful UV hygiene cycle and automatic air-dry function ensure your dishes come out spotless and particle-free every time. Whether you're a college student, apartment dweller, or boater, this smart appliance handles everything from delicate baby bottles to tough grill grates with ease.

Danby DDW1805EWP Portable Dishwasher

Small kitchens rejoice - this 18-inch portable dishwasher slides effortlessly into tight spaces while still managing to cradle eight place settings in its silverware-friendly interior. With its sleek white design and straightforward electronic controls, it's both stylish and practical - exactly what you need when your countertop real estate is premium rare. The quiet 52 dB operation makes it a silent partner during those late-night recipe experiments, while the smart water-saving mode ensures your utility bill doesn't take a hit.

BLACK+DECKER 18-Inch Portable Dishwasher

This portable dishwasher tackles tough cleaning jobs with six wash programs, including a powerful Hi Temp cycle and heated drying option. The 8-place setting capacity and compact 18-inch design make it perfect for apartments or small kitchens where a full-sized dishwasher isn't feasible. The LED display shows remaining cycle time and allows delay starts up to 24 hours, giving you flexibility with your dishwashing schedule.

Costway Portable Countertop Dishwasher

Ditch the dishcloth for this nifty portable dishwasher that fits perfectly on your countertop. With its clever 7.5L tank and five wash cycles, it takes the stress out of handwashing, especially if you're short on cabinet space or don't want to tackle a full-size appliance. The LED light and child lock make it a cinch to use, while the reliable performance keeps your dishes sparkling clean every time.

Black+Decker BCD6W Compact Dishwasher

The compact Black+Decker dishwasher tackles big jobs in small spaces, fitting six place settings with plenty of room for dinner plates up to 10 inches across. Its 7 wash programs let you choose between an intensive cycle or energy-saving options like the rapid wash for when you need clean dishes fast. With a 24-hour delay start and easy-to-use LED controls, it fits snugly on your countertop without taking up valuable cabinet space.

RCA RDW3208 Portable Countertop Dishwasher

RCA's countertop dishwasher tackles small spaces with its 6-place setting capacity and 2-program system. The compact white appliance, measuring a manageable 20 inches wide, hooks up to any kitchen tap and operates very quietly at just 47 dB. While some users have reported durability issues, particularly with water connection errors, the dishwasher consistently delivers clean results and consumes only 3 gallons of water per cycle.

Hermitlux Portable Countertop Dishwasher

This clever kitchen gadget tackles dish duty with remarkable efficiency, fitting perfectly into small spaces while managing to clean a full set of dishes in less than an hour. The compact dishwasher uses just 1.5 gallons of water per cycle – about one-third what a regular dishwasher consumes – making it an eco-friendly choice that won't strain your utility bills. Its five wash programs, including a dedicated baby bottle mode that sanitizes with hot steam, cover every cleaning need from quick rinses to thorough scrubs, giving your hands (and your post-meal timeline) a much-needed break.

Buyer's Guide

Compact dishwashers save space while effectively cleaning dishes, making them ideal for small kitchens and apartments. Understanding key features ensures you select a model that meets your needs without sacrificing performance.

Square Footage and Installation

Measure your space before buying to ensure a proper fit. These dishwashers range from 20 to 27 inches wide, 26 to 27 inches tall, and 24 to 26 inches deep. Check the clearance requirements, which typically add 6 inches above, below, and on each side of the unit. Some models offer flexible installation options, like top-mount or under-mount configurations.

Capacity and Design

Compact dishwashers usually hold between 4 and 6 place settings, with some models featuring third rack options or specialized holders for smaller items. Consider designs that maximize space, such as pull-out baskets or reversible racks. Some units feature French doors with top racks that fold down for easier loading and unloading.

Energy and Water Efficiency

Look for dishwashers that meet ENERGY STAR standards, as they use 41% less water and 58% less energy than standard models. Check the water consumption per cycle (typically between 3.8 and 6 gallons) and energy consumption (measured in kWh). The cycle duration ranges from 1.4 to 2.5 hours, with eco-friendly and quick wash options available.

Additional Features

Key considerations include quiet operation (sound levels typically range from 42 to 54 decibels), child locks for safety, and LED display screens for cycle selection and status updates. Some models feature sanitizing cycles, delay start options, or connected home capabilities through smartphone apps.

FAQ

What is a compact dishwasher?

A compact dishwasher is a smaller version of a standard dishwasher designed to fit into spaces where a full-size unit won't work. They typically have dimensions such as 24 inches wide instead of the standard 25 inches, making them ideal for apartments, kitchens with limited counter space, or rec rooms.

These dishwashers maintain all the essential features of full-size models while using less space. They feature adjustable racks and energy-efficient cycles to help you save water and electricity without compromising cleaning power.

Do compact dishwashers clean as well as full-size ones?

Yes, modern compact dishwashers use powerful sprayers and proven cleaning technologies to clean dishes thoroughly. They often include features like steam cleaning, multiple rack positions, and precise temperature control to ensure your dishes come out spot-free and grease-free.

Some compact models perform exceptionally well in expert reviews, cleaning even tough food residues effectively. Comparisons show that their cleaning power doesn't significantly differ from standard dishwashers when properly loaded and maintained.

How much water and electricity do compact dishwashers use?

Compact dishwashers typically consume between 3 and 5 gallons of water per cycle, compared to standard models that use around 4 gallons. Their smaller capacity means they use less water overall, helping to conserve resources.

Energy consumption varies, but compact dishwashers generally use between 0.5 and 1 kilowatt-hour per cycle. While they use less overall, the actual electricity consumption can differ based on the specific model and its cycle settings.

What are the best compact dishwashers available?

Based on recent reviews, the best compact dishwashers include models from the KitchenAid KDC26FHW, Bosch CUO3E54IW0, and Samsung SDH50J2400. These brands offer reliable performance in a space-saving package with features like smart controls and energy efficiency.

When evaluating models, look for those with adjustable racks, sufficient water and heat supply lines, and energy Star ratings. Reading independent reviews and comparing warranties will help you find the right balance of features and performance for your needs.

Are compact dishwashers noisy?

Compact dishwashers can be slightly noisier than full-size models due to their smaller size and different design requirements. Most models maintain cleaning efficiency while keeping noise levels under 50 decibels during operation.

If noise is a concern, look for models specifically noted for their quiet performance, as some manufacturers now incorporate sound-reducing technologies similar to those in full-size models.

Is there enough space for dishes in a compact dishwasher?

Compact dishwashers usually have a 4.2 to 4.5 cubic foot capacity, which should handle 12-14 place settings of dishes. Check the dimensions and layout of your space before purchasing to ensure you can fit the dishwasher and allow proper clearance.

The adjustable racks in compact dishwashers help maximize space usage. Ensure you have enough counter space behind and around the dishwasher for proper ventilation and maintenance access.

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