Best picks

9 Best Portable Dishwashers for Apartments (November 2026)

Updated on · By the The Small Dishwasher team

The best portable dishwashers for apartments include the NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments for apartment households, the COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal for flexible placement, and the COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher for larger daily loads.

On this page (7 sections)
  1. Which portable dishwasher for an apartment fits your routine?
  2. Best portable dishwashers for apartments: our picks
  3. What should you measure before buying an apartment dishwasher?
  4. Is a tank or faucet hookup better for a rental?
  5. How much capacity do apartment households need?
  6. Do portable dishwashers need permanent installation?
  7. Which portable dishwasher should apartment shoppers choose?

The best portable dishwasher for apartment living is the NOVETE, which combines a built-in tank, faucet supply and 4 place settings in a compact countertop body. For a larger load, the 6-setting COMFEE' and Midea models offer more space, but take up more counter area.

A countertop dishwasher can suit a rental because several models use a refillable tank and need no permanent plumbing. You still need a safe place for the machine, power, and a drain hose, plus enough clearance to open the door and refill the tank.

For broader shopping context, see our guide to the best portable dishwasher to buy. If moving the unit matters most, compare portable dishwashers on wheels with these countertop models.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments
    Best for apartment households

    NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal
    Best for flexible placement

    COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
    Best for larger daily loads

    COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher PortableCheck it
  2. 5EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable

    EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable

    Best for a quieter shared kitchen
    Check it
  3. 6Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher

    Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher

    Best for five place settings
    Check it
  4. 7Midea Countertop Dishwasher Portable

    Midea Countertop Dishwasher Portable

    Best for six place settings
    Check it
  5. 8BLITZHOME WiFi Countertop Portable Dishwasher with SmartCheck it
  6. 9Canbo Countertop Dishwasher With Built-in Water TankCheck it

Which portable dishwasher for an apartment fits your routine?

The NOVETE is the best all-around match for small apartment households, while the other models favor larger loads, flexible placement or app controls. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

We compared dimensions, capacity, water supply methods and cycle options. A tank can remove the need for a faucet adapter, but it does not remove the need for a drain route and usable counter space.

ProductBest forCapacityDimensionsWater supplyOur score
NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartmentsapartment households4 place settings16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 in5 L tank or faucet connection9.7
COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Galflexible placement30+ items17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 in1.32 gal tank or faucet connection9.6
COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasherlarger daily loads6 place settings19.7 x 21.7 x 17.2 inDirect faucet connection with suitable adapter9.5
EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portablecycle variety30+ items16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in5 L tank or G3/4 faucet connection9.4
EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portablea quieter shared kitchen30+ items16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in5 L tank or faucet connection9.3
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasherfive place settings5 place settings17.3 x 17.1 x 18.1 in5 L tank or faucet connection8.9
Midea Countertop Dishwasher Portablesix place settings6 place settings20 x 22 x 17.25 inFaucet connection with suitable adapter8.8
BLITZHOME WiFi Countertop Portable Dishwasher with Smartapp control4–6 sets of tableware17 x 16.9 x 18.1 in5 L tank or faucet connection8.2
Canbo Countertop Dishwasher With Built-in Water Tanksmall households1–3 servings16.54 x 16.54 x 18.11 in5 L tank7.9

Best portable dishwashers for apartments: our picks

These portable dishwashers for apartments vary most in capacity and water supply. Check your available counter area first, then choose a model whose load size matches your usual dishes.

1

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments: Best for apartment households

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments, portable dishwashers for apartments
9.7/10Our score
  • 4 place settings
  • 5 L built-in tank or faucet supply
  • 29-minute Speed cycle
  • 60-minute hot air drying

A built-in tank or faucet connection gives renters two ways to supply water. Its stated 4-setting capacity and 29-minute Speed cycle suit regular small loads.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Tank and faucet supply options
  • Fits dishes up to 12 in at an angle
  • Includes a fruit basket

Cons

  • Needs counter space and a drain route
  • Capacity is limited to 4 place settings

The NOVETE is a practical apartment choice if you want the option to use a tank or connect to a faucet. Its 5 L built-in tank supports use without a tap connection, and the maker says it holds 4 full place settings.

The body measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 in, and it fits dishes up to 12 in when loaded at an angle. Measure the counter and cabinet clearance, including room to reach the top water inlet and open the door.

Five cycles cover Normal, Speed, Soft, Baby Care/Heavy and Fruit. The Speed cycle takes 29 minutes, while the Baby Care/Heavy mode reaches 167°F, according to NOVETE.

Drying runs for 60 minutes after a wash cycle, and the machine can ventilate for 72 hours. This is useful if you don't unload right away, though the maker's details describe ventilation intervals rather than continuous heat.

Choose this model for a small household that wants flexible water supply and a fruit basket. For a smaller machine, browse our guide to the best small portable dishwasher.

NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small ApartmentsCheck it on Amazon
2

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal: Best for flexible placement

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal, portable dishwashers for apartments
9.6/10Our score
  • 1.32 gal built-in tank or faucet supply
  • Holds 30+ items
  • 6 programs
  • Fits plates up to 9.5 in

The built-in tank lets you place this compact dishwasher without a tap connection, while a hose can connect it to a kitchen faucet. Its 30-plus-item capacity is useful for routine apartment dishes.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Manual tank fill or faucet connection
  • Six programs, including Hygiene and Air Refresh
  • Compact footprint

Cons

  • Requires over 19.6 in of cabinet clearance
  • Plates are limited to 9.5 in

The COMFEE' mini suits renters who need flexible placement and wash mostly plates, cups and utensils. It holds 30-plus items and uses a 1.32 gal built-in tank, or it can connect to a kitchen faucet with the included hose and adapter.

Its dimensions are 17.13 x 16.53 x 17.24 in, but the maker asks for more than 19.6 in of vertical clearance between the counter and wall cupboard. Check that space before settling on a location.

Six programs include Normal, Rapid, Hygiene, Fruit, Glass and Air Refresh. The Hygiene cycle heats water to 162°F, and Air Refresh circulates air to help the dishes and machine stay dry and fresh.

The model fits plates up to 9.5 in, so measure your dinner plates if they are wide or unusually shaped. Use dishwasher powder or detergent rather than regular liquid dish soap.

Choose it if tank-fed placement and a small footprint matter more than fitting large plates. Its product name highlights the tank option, and our guide to a portable countertop dishwasher with water tank explains what to check.

COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32GalCheck it on Amazon
3

COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher: Best for larger daily loads

COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher, portable dishwashers for apartments
9.5/10Our score
  • 6 place settings
  • Fits up to 70 pieces
  • 8 washing cycles
  • Faucet connection

Six place settings give this COMFEE' more room than the smaller tank models. Its faucet connection and 8 cycles suit households that wash fuller loads.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Room for up to 70 pieces
  • Eight cycles, including Baby-Care and Speed
  • Fits plates up to 10 in

Cons

  • Larger footprint than the compact tank models
  • Needs a suitable faucet adapter

This larger COMFEE' is a better match for households that want 6 place settings and can spare more counter space. It measures 19.7 x 21.7 x 17.2 in and fits up to 70 pieces of tableware, including plates up to 10 in.

It connects directly to a faucet with a suitable adapter. Unlike the tank-fed options above, the product information does not describe a built-in water tank, so confirm that a faucet connection works for your kitchen.

Eight cycles include Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, Speed, Mini-Party and Rinse. The Speed program takes 45 minutes, and the maker states water use can be as low as 2.77 gallons.

The wider body brings more room for dishes, but it needs a larger counter area than the compact 5 L tank models. Check faucet fit and whether you can leave the hose connected while the unit is in use.

Pick this COMFEE' when a larger load is worth giving up more counter space. If finish is a priority, see our overview of the best stainless steel dishwasher.

COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop DishwasherCheck it on Amazon
4

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable: Best for cycle variety

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable, portable dishwashers for apartments
9.4/10Our score
  • 5 L tank or faucet connection
  • 8 programs
  • Fits 30+ items
  • 29-minute Quick cycle

Eight programs include ECO, Quick, Baby Care/Strong, Fruit and Self-Clean. Its tank and faucet options support use in a rental kitchen without a permanent water connection.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Tank or faucet water supply
  • Eight programs for different loads
  • Fits plates up to 10.25 in

Cons

  • Needs over 19 in of vertical clearance
  • Faucet adapter may be required

EUHOMY's 8-program model suits buyers who want multiple wash choices in a tank-fed countertop unit. It holds 30-plus items and offers a 5 L tank or faucet connection for water supply.

The 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in body is compact, but EUHOMY recommends more than 19 in of vertical clearance above the counter. Its faucet option uses a G3/4 connection, and an adapter may be needed if your faucet differs.

Programs include Normal, ECO, Quick, Baby Care/Strong, Glass, Fruit, Self-Clean and Dry. Quick takes 29 minutes, while Baby Care/Strong reaches up to 167°F, according to EUHOMY.

Hot-air drying and Self-Clean add options beyond the wash cycles. EUHOMY notes that plastics and deep containers may retain some droplets after drying, so allow extra air-drying time when needed.

Choose it if you want more cycle choices than a basic compact model. It fits plates up to 10.25 in and is designed for everyday dishes rather than bulky pots or baking trays.

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher PortableCheck it on Amazon
5

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable: Best for a quieter shared kitchen

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher Portable, portable dishwashers for apartments
9.3/10Our score
  • 5 L tank or faucet connection
  • 40 dB stated noise level
  • Fits 30+ items
  • 6 programs

EUHOMY gives a 40 dB noise figure for this compact model and offers both tank filling and faucet supply. Six programs include a 29-minute Quick cycle and Baby Care/Heavy.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Stated 40 dB noise level
  • Tank or faucet water supply
  • Includes a fruit basket

Cons

  • Needs over 19 in of vertical clearance
  • Faucet adapter may be sold separately

This EUHOMY model is a fit for an apartment where noise is a concern. The brand gives a 40 dB noise figure and offers a 5 L tank or faucet supply, so it can work without a permanent water connection.

It holds 30-plus items and fits plates up to 10.25 in. Its 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 in dimensions are similar to the 8-program EUHOMY, and the brand recommends more than 19 in of cabinet clearance.

Six programs cover Normal, Quick, ECO, Baby Care/Heavy, Fruit and Dry. Quick takes 29 minutes, while Baby Care/Heavy reaches up to 167°F.

The machine runs 60 minutes of hot-air drying after washing and can ventilate for up to 73 hours. The faucet connection is compatible with G3/4-inch connections, and a separate adapter may be needed.

Choose it for a shared kitchen where a stated noise level and two water supply options matter. Scrape heavy grease or burnt-on residue before loading, as EUHOMY advises.

EUHOMY Countertop Dishwasher PortableCheck it on Amazon
6

Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher: Best for five place settings

Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher, portable dishwashers for apartments
8.9/10Our score
  • 5 place settings
  • 5 L tank or faucet supply
  • Fits dishes up to 10.63 in at an angle
  • Delay start

The stated 5-setting capacity gives this model more room than many compact countertop choices. A front water inlet can make tank refills easier where upper cabinets limit access.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 5 place settings
  • Front-access water refill
  • Tank and faucet supply options

Cons

  • Confirm the larger footprint fits your counter
  • No specified plate diameter when loaded flat

Hermitlux offers a stated 5 place settings in a countertop body measuring 17.3 x 17.1 x 18.1 in. That extra capacity may suit a couple or small household that cooks regularly, provided the counter has room.

Its built-in 5 L tank supports use without a permanent hookup, and it can also connect to a faucet. The front water inlet is designed to make refilling easier where reaching over the machine would be awkward.

Six wash programs include Heavy, Normal, ECO, Speed, Rinse and Dry. Air Fresh and Delay Start add two functions, and the delay timer can be set from 1 to 24 hours.

Hermitlux says it fits dishes up to 10.63 in when loaded at an angle. Check your actual plate shape and interior space, especially if your plates have wide rims.

Choose this model if capacity is the main concern and you have enough room for its slightly wider footprint. The product information gives a 56 dB noise figure, which may matter in an open-plan apartment.

Hermitlux Countertop DishwasherCheck it on Amazon
7

Midea Countertop Dishwasher Portable: Best for six place settings

Midea Countertop Dishwasher Portable, portable dishwashers for apartments
8.8/10Our score
  • 6 place settings
  • Fits up to 70 pieces
  • Faucet connection
  • 52 dB stated noise level

This Midea offers 6 place settings and a 1–24-hour delay start. Its wider footprint makes counter measurements especially important in a small apartment.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Room for up to 70 pieces
  • Six wash cycles plus Extended Dry and Power Wash
  • Fits plates up to 10 in

Cons

  • Widest listed footprint in this roundup
  • Needs a suitable faucet adapter

The Midea suits apartment households that want 6 place settings and can accommodate a wider machine. It measures 20 x 22 x 17.25 in and holds up to 70 pieces, with plates up to 10 in in diameter.

This model connects directly to a faucet with a suitable adapter. Its product information also describes adding water to the tank design, but does not state a tank capacity, so confirm the filling method and connection details before choosing it.

Six main cycles include Auto, Heavy, Normal, Quick, Rinse and Delicate. Extended Dry and Power Wash add functions for drying and heavily soiled dishes, and a 1–24-hour delay start lets you schedule a cycle.

Midea gives a 52 dB noise figure. It also states water consumption of 2.77 gallons and describes the model as Energy Star certified.

Choose it if you need a larger load than compact 4-setting machines can hold. Measure the full counter footprint, including the space needed for hose routing and access to controls.

Midea Countertop Dishwasher PortableCheck it on Amazon
8

BLITZHOME WiFi Countertop Portable Dishwasher with Smart: Best for app control

BLITZHOME WiFi Countertop Portable Dishwasher with Smart, portable dishwashers for apartments
8.2/10Our score
  • 5 L tank or faucet supply
  • App and touch control
  • 6 programs
  • Holds 4–6 sets of tableware

App controls let you check the dishwasher's status and set a timer by phone. The tank or faucet connection gives renters a choice of water supply.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • App and touch controls
  • Tank or faucet supply
  • Six programs, including ECO and Fruit

Cons

  • App setup adds another step
  • Capacity is stated as a range

BLITZHOME stands out for apartment users who want app control along with a countertop dishwasher. Its app can check the dishwasher's status and set a timer, while touch controls are available on the machine.

The 5 L tank offers a way to use it without modifying water lines or cabinets. A faucet connection is another option, and the unit measures 17 x 16.9 x 18.1 in.

Six programs include Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit and Drying. The maker says Quick takes 29 minutes, and its stated capacity is 4–6 sets of tableware.

The machine has upper and lower spray arms and 360° spiral spray washing, according to BLITZHOME. Use the stated capacity as a guide, then check whether your regular plates, bowls and utensils fit comfortably.

Choose this model if phone-based status checks and timing are useful to your routine. Skip the app feature if you prefer simple controls and don't need to monitor a cycle remotely.

BLITZHOME WiFi Countertop Portable Dishwasher with SmartCheck it on Amazon
9

Canbo Countertop Dishwasher With Built-in Water Tank: Best for small households

Canbo Countertop Dishwasher With Built-in Water Tank, portable dishwashers for apartments
7.9/10Our score
  • 5 L tank
  • Washes 1–3 servings
  • Fits plates up to 10.5 in
  • Five programs

Canbo's stated 1–3-serving capacity fits a smaller daily dish load. Five programs include Quick, Eco, Baby Care and Fruit.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Built-in 5 L tank
  • Fits plates up to 10.5 in
  • Quick cycle takes 29 minutes

Cons

  • Capacity is for 1–3 servings
  • Use dishwasher detergent, not regular dish soap

Canbo is aimed at small households, with a stated capacity of 1–3 servings and a 5 L tank. Its 16.54 x 16.54 x 18.11 in footprint is among the more compact options here.

Five programs include Normal, Quick, Eco, Baby Care and Fruit. Quick takes 29 minutes, and the machine fits plates up to 10.5 in, according to the product details.

Canbo describes washing, drying and storing dishes in one unit. It also says the dishwasher uses 5 L of water and 0.42 kWh of electricity per cycle.

Use dishwasher detergent, powder or tablets, not regular dish soap. The product information warns that excess bubbles can clog the dishwasher.

Choose Canbo if your loads are small and the 5 L tank appeals. For households washing more dishes at once, compare the 4-setting NOVETE or 6-setting COMFEE' instead.

Canbo Countertop Dishwasher With Built-in Water TankCheck it on Amazon

What should you measure before buying an apartment dishwasher?

Measure the countertop, cabinet clearance and path for the drain hose before choosing a model. A machine that fits its footprint can still be awkward if you can't fill its tank, open the door or route wastewater safely.

Start with the product's width, depth and height, then add room to work around the controls and water inlet. Some compact models need more than 19 in of clearance above the counter, so don't rely on the machine height alone.

Check your dinner plates against the stated plate limits. A model may fit plates only when angled, and bulky pots or baking trays may not fit even when the dishwasher holds several place settings.

Finally, look at the drain hose route. The hose needs a stable path to a sink or suitable drain, and it should not create a trip hazard or pull loose during a wash.

Is a tank or faucet hookup better for a rental?

A built-in tank offers more flexible placement because you pour water into the machine instead of attaching it to a faucet. A faucet connection can reduce manual filling, but it depends on compatible fittings and a workable hose route.

Tank filling adds a small task before each wash, and the tank still needs regular access. Faucet supply can be convenient when the adapter fits, but check that the hose can connect without stressing the faucet or blocking sink use.

If your sink has a pull-down or unusual faucet, check the fitting before choosing a faucet-fed model. For a no-hookup setup, read our guide to a portable countertop dishwasher without faucet hookup.

How much capacity do apartment households need?

A 4-setting countertop machine can suit smaller routine loads, while 5- or 6-setting models offer more room for households that cook often. Capacity labels are only a starting point, so compare plate limits and the shapes of your usual dishes.

For one or two people, a compact unit may be enough if you run it often. Larger households may prefer the 6-setting COMFEE' or Midea, though these need more counter space and a faucet connection.

Think about the items you wash most: dinner plates, mugs, bowls, cutlery and cooking tools. If you regularly use large pots, wide plates or baking trays, verify those dimensions before buying.

Do portable dishwashers need permanent installation?

No, several countertop models can run from a built-in tank and need no permanent water connection. They still require a stable counter, a power outlet and a drain hose routed to a sink or drain.

A faucet-connected setup may require an adapter, and the hose needs to be attached and removed as your kitchen routine requires. Read the instructions for the specific model, and check rental rules before making any changes to the faucet or cabinets.

Portable countertop units are also different from floor-standing portable dishwashers on casters. If you want a cabinet that rolls beside the sink, compare our guide to portable dishwashers on wheels.

Which portable dishwasher should apartment shoppers choose?

Choose the NOVETE for a balanced mix of 4 place settings, tank or faucet supply and a 29-minute Speed cycle. Pick the smaller COMFEE' mini if flexible placement and a 30-plus-item load matter most, or select a 6-setting model when your counter can handle the larger footprint.

For a rental without a convenient faucet connection, start with a tank-fed model and plan the drain route before setting it up. If you have room for a larger unit, compare its capacity with the actual dishes you wash each day.

The best portable dishwasher for an apartment is the one that fits your counter, water supply and usual load. Use our small portable dishwasher guide to compare compact options by footprint and capacity.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments
    Best for apartment households

    NOVETE Portable Countertop Dishwashers for Small Apartments

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal
    Best for flexible placement

    COMFEE' Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 1.32Gal

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher
    Best for larger daily loads

    COMFEE' COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best portable dishwasher for an apartment?

The NOVETE is a strong fit for many apartments because it offers a 5 L tank and faucet supply, holds 4 place settings and fits dishes up to 12 in at an angle. If you need more room, compare 6-setting COMFEE' and Midea models, then check their wider footprints against your counter.

Do portable dishwashers work in rentals?

Yes. Several countertop models use a built-in tank, so they can run without a permanent water connection.

Some also connect to a faucet with a hose.

Check your lease, counter space, outlet access and a safe way to route the drain hose before setting one up.

How much counter clearance does a portable dishwasher need?

Measure the machine's width, depth and height, then check clearance above its water inlet and door. The COMFEE' mini asks for more than 19.6 in between the counter and wall cupboard, while EUHOMY recommends more than 19 in for its listed models.

Can I use a portable dishwasher without a faucet hookup?

Yes, if the model has a built-in tank. Fill the tank as directed and route the drain hose to an appropriate sink or drain.

For more detail on tank-fed options, see our guide to a portable countertop dishwasher without faucet hookup and portable countertop dishwashers with water tanks.

Are countertop dishwashers large enough for a family?

They can handle smaller daily loads, but capacity varies. Compact models here range from 1–3 servings to 6 place settings, and plate limits vary too.

If you cook with large pots or bakeware, measure the items you wash most and check the interior fit before choosing a countertop unit.