Living in apartments can be tough sometimes with the limited space in every corner. And this often limits our usage of many required appliances too, and the dishwasher is definitely one of them.
Now, a lot of users do tackle this issue by getting portable or countertop dishwashers. But, did you know that there are dishwashers that have been designed for usage in apartments?
These are called apartment size dishwashers, and they tend to be a little smaller in size than a full-sized dishwasher. But they do pack all the necessary features that a dishwasher must have, from energy-saving modes to 360-degree wash cycles to high powers, you won’t be missing out on anything!
So let us take a look at what makes the best apartment size dishwasher, what sizes you should be considering, and what features you need for your space.
List Of Top Apartment Size Dishwasher
- EdgeStar BIDW1802SS
- Aikoper Portable Compact Dishwasher
- HAVA Portable Dishwasher
- hOmeLabs Digital Countertop Dishwasher
- BITOWAT Apartment Compact Dishwashers
- PULOMI Portable Countertop Dishwasher
- Danby Built in Dishwasher
- Aikoper Compact Portable Dishwasher
- HAIMIM Portable Countertop Dishwasher
- SPT SD-2225DW Compact Countertop Dishwasher
Comparison Chart For Top 10 Apartment Size Dishwashers
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | Dimension | Capacity | SPECIAL FEATURE | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  |
EdgeStar BIDW1802SS | 22.44 x 17.63 x 32.5 inches | 8 Place Settings | Energy Star Rated | |
  |
Aikoper Portable Compact Dishwasher | 23.25 x 22 x 21 inches | 3 Place Settings | Compact and portable design | |
  |
HAVA Portable Dishwasher | 20.7 x 20.2 x 18.9 inches | 4 Place Settings | Energy saving | |
  |
hOmeLabs Digital Countertop Dishwasher | 24.6 x 23.7 x 21.3 inches | 6 Place Settings | No Streak Cleaning | |
  |
BITOWAT Apartment Compact Dishwashers | 20.4 x 19.7 x 18.3 inches | N/A | 360°All-Round Cleaning | |
  |
PULOMI Portable Countertop Dishwasher | 23 x 19 x 19 inches | N/A | 5 in 1 Multifunctional Dishwasher | |
  |
Danby Built in Dishwasher | 22.81 x 17.69 x 32.5 inches | 8 Place Settings | Includes a Sanitize Option | |
  |
Aikoper Compact Portable Dishwasher | 23 x 22 x 21 inches | 3 Place Settings | 360° range of cleaning | |
  |
HAIMIM Portable Countertop Dishwasher | 19.85 x 19.6 x 17.8 inches | N/A | High 1200W power | |
  |
SPT SD-2225DW Compact Countertop Dishwasher | 21.65 x 19.69 x 17.24 inches | 6 Place Settings | 6 wash cycles |
Best Apartment Size Dishwasher Reviews
1. EdgeStar BIDW1802SS
This is the EdgeStar built-in dishwasher, that makes a perfect pick for users who don’t have dishwashers installed in their rentals but need one desperately. And a lot of times, we don’t want something over the top or too expensive, since it is a rental after all, but just a device that fits and gets the everyday job done.
And all of those qualities are packed into this condo size dishwasher right here. It is small and compact, so it will fit into your small rental, without breaking the bank. But, that being said, it is not bad just because it is affordable.
The dishwasher comes with a total of 8 place settings and even includes a cup tray plus a silverware basket. You also get 6 wash cycles, which too is very decent for the size. These different cycles allow you to properly clean the dishes, even if they are of varying materials.
Moreover, this is Energy Star rated, and comes with an ECO mode too, which is definitely a bonus, and something that will save your bills in the long run.
We love how this comes with a leakage sensor. This way you don’t have to stress over leakages, or constantly check. If there is one, the machine will detect it and shut the water off immediately so it doesn’t get too bad, and you or the device does not face any form of damage from the leakage.
What Makes The Product Special
If you are looking for an inexpensive dishwasher that is small and compact for small apartments and is easy to install, then this is the one to go for. This does not boast fancy features which a lot of higher-end dishwashers do, but for the price, it is hard to beat. So if you are on a budget, look no further.
Pros
- Legs are adjustable for height
- Operates with very low noise
- Installation is easy
Cons
- Very lightweight, making it unstable
- Dishes need pre-rinsing
2. Aikoper Portable Compact Dishwasher
This is the Aikoper portable compact dishwasher, which is a countertop dishwasher, making it a highly flexible choice. The small dishwasher comes with 3 place settings. But at the same time, it can also accommodate pots that go up to 12 inches when placed at an angle. So if you don’t have a lot of things to put it, you can surely put in your pots and pans, and that too ones with handles.
It comes with a water tank, and this is for all the users who cannot place their dishwasher right by the sink. With the tank option, you get to store water instead, so you can keep the dishwasher wherever is convenient for you.
When it comes to filling the tank, you can do this in two ways. Either do it manually by filling in water through the outlet, or use the automatic mode where it fills itself.
The dishwasher has a total of 5 cleaning modes, which also include glass and rapid, great for people with china or glassware.
The cleaning itself is very efficient thanks to the 360-degree rotating spray arms which ensure that every inch of the pots and pans are cleaned.
If you are someone who is concerned about hygiene or has babies who require plates and cutlery to be sterilized, this dishwasher has got your back. It heats the water up to 162 degrees Fahrenheit, which then cleans the dishes, sterilizing them in the process.
The automation in this dishwasher is also splendid as you have an automated door that opens after a cycle is complete. This way the dishes dry faster and the inside does not get damp. While this happens, there is a fan built inside the dishwasher, which helps to quicken the drying process.
What Makes This Product Special
If you want a countertop dishwasher because you don’t have other spaces to spare, or simply want a small dishwasher for your cabin or guesthouse as an extra, this will serve really well.
Pros
- Set up is easy and fast
- Comes with a water tank in case the faucet is not accessible
- Instructions are well and clear
Cons
- Has a low capacity due to its compact size
3. HAVA Portable Dishwasher
The HAVA Portable Dishwasher is a compact and portable dishwasher, just as the name states. But, at the same time, it is pretty accommodating of large-sized dishes too!
It comes with 4 place settings, and the biggest plate you can put in is one that is 12 inches. Moreover, there is a top rack that has a dedicated space for cutlery, which is always a plus! 4
The dishwasher boasts a total of 5 wash cycles, which includes an ECO mode and a baby care mode too, making it a fine choice for people looking to save electricity, and have sterilized and clean plates for their babies. But, let us face it, we all love clean plates, so even if you don’t have babies, check this out nonetheless.
Then you have the dry mode which goes on for an hour. However, that is not the end of it, as the dishwasher has a ventilation system where you can keep your clean dishes inside the dishwasher for up to 72 hours without instigating dampness or humidity inside.
One of the things about dishwashers is that without the correct washing cycles, there are missed spots. Here, however, there is a 360-degree cleaning mechanism that ensures that every dish is cleaned properly without leaving behind even one spot.
Energy saving is something we all want today, and this HAVA dishwasher has it. Every wash cycle only uses 5 liters of water, in turn saving water consumption by a whopping 75%! This actually saves you more energy and water than you would handwashing these dishes.
Now, since this is a portable dishwasher, there might be times when you wish to move it to a different space, but you don’t have access to a faucet. No problem! You have two water source options, the faucet, and the tank. So if you cant get to a faucet, simply fill it up, you can fill up to 1.3 gallons, and be on your way!
What Makes The Product Special
This is the perfect fit for users who are looking for a very small and compact dishwasher. Because unlike a lot of models, this packs a lot of the full-sized dishwasher features while being small in size, giving you the best of both worlds.
Pros
- Operates like a full-sized dishwasher
- Includes a water tank in case of the faucet being inaccessible
- Comes with a lot of modes
Cons
- Cannot fit a lot of dishes due to its small size
4. hOmeLabs Digital Countertop Dishwasher
Here we have the hOmeLabs digital countertop dishwasher that is a modern solution to all your dishwashing problems.
Small apartment size dishwashers like these are compact, which makes it easy to move around if you ever need it to, but at the same time, it comes with a ton of features that you will normally find in full-sized dishwashers, so you basically get both functionalities.
It comes with a total of 7 smart washing modes that allow you to rinse, wash glass dishes, sanitize, or even go all out. So whether you want this for your everyday usage, or for special occasions when you have your fancy china out, or when you simply need to clean a ton of heavily soiled pots and pans, this has got you covered for all cases.
The dishwasher also operates at very low noises, and you won’t be able to hear it normally while the cycles are running unless you are close or pay close attention to it.
Capacity-wise, you get 6 place settings, which we say is great for a portable and compact dishwasher. The largest plate you can put into this is a 10 inch one. But, even though it is not the biggest, it is certainly very organized with the cutlery basket, cup shelf, pull-out rack, etc.
The dishwasher is also Energy Star certified, so we know that you don’t have to second guess about efficiency or wasting water while using this.
And while this does not affect the performance of the dishwasher, we still have to mention that its device looks absolutely splendid with its sleek exterior and would fit right into any home without being an eyesore.
What Makes The Product Special
If you want a permanent dishwasher without having to spend the big bucks, you can very well use this instead and have it set up.
Pros
- Operates on low noise
- Washes dishes spotless every time
Cons
- Requires some rinsing for heavily soiled dishes
5. BITOWAT Apartment Compact Dishwashers
The BITOWAT apartment compact dishwasher is a small capacity dishwasher and an intelligent dishwasher that is easy to use, energy-saving, convenient, compact, and efficient!
This highly compatible dishwasher comes with water inlet pipes that include a universal adapter. This makes it usable with faucets ranging from ½ to ¾, so a lot of people can use it without having to change their faucets or look for alternates.
Unlike a lot of other compact dishwashers, this does not include a water tank but excludes it to save more space instead. So if saving space is your primary concern, then this definitely fits. Instead, this one comes with a water inlet and outlet pipes, that transfer water as the cycles continue, saving water and space in the process.
Capacity-wise, this comes with a total of 6 large baskets, which you can use to place various things inside.
And cleaning-wise, it does a complete 360-degree cleaning with its rotating nozzle that sends out water at high pressures. Along with the high pressure, it also maintains a high temperature so that the dishes are disinfected as they are cleaned.
For drying, you have a nice air circulation system that dries the plates, while ensuring humidity does not build up inside the dishwasher.
The dishwasher also comes with a transparent window, that allows you to visually check the status of the wash cycle. While indicators are helpful, there is no confirmation like seeing it for yourself.
What Makes The Product Special
This is a suitable dishwasher for users who have varying requirements from one dishwasher. Since this comes with many different types of cycles, this would fit the criteria for those users while being small enough to be fixed in any space around the home.
Pros
- Includes different cycles for different uses
- Includes a very efficient drying method
- Includes 360-degree cleaning
Cons
- Not suitable for bigger families
Apartment Size Dishwasher Buying Guide
Type
You need to pick the type of dishwasher you want. You should start by deciding whether you want one that is built-in, or portable. You may go with the built-in if you plan on staying in this apartment for a long time, and this will require some plumbing if it is not already present.
With the portable one, you can move around with it, or place it on the countertop. This will be cheaper, and will not need the plumbing.
Some dishwashers also provide custom panels, which you can choose if you want to change the panels to match the rest of the kitchen.
Control Panel
Some dishwashers come with control panels on the front that are easily visible. This is great unless you have kids who love to push buttons. For this problem, you can go with dishwashers with hidden control panels. This also provides a sleeker look as you don’t have all those buttons on the front.
Size
Apartment size dishwashers are 18 inches in width in general. However, you may choose one smaller or larger in size if you would like. But, do pay special attention to the dimensions to ensure it will fit where you plan on installing it.
Noise Level
Dishwashers can be a noisy appliance, and we all hate that about this machine. But, you can choose to get one that has lower operating noise, and this is something you should consider especially if you have children in the house.
The noise level will be provided with all the dishwasher’s descriptions, and they are measured in decibels. Dishwashers usually have a noise level between 39 and 65 decibels. But since we are talking about apartment dishwashers, you will mostly find them in the range of 45-55 decibels.
Exterior
The design and material of the dishwasher decide its durability. A metal body is always better than a plastic one. Try to go for stainless steel bodies that help to create a lasting and modern look, all the while being extremely durable.
Also carefully gauge between a stainless-steel finish and actual stainless steel. Real stainless steel will not attract magnets, while a finish will, and this is a good way for you to differentiate so you can get a durable dishwasher.
Interior
The interior of the dishwashers can be made from plastic or stainless steel. The stainless-steel options will be more expensive, but that is because they are more durable, odor-resistant, and stain-resistant, as they are easy to clean. They also save energy since they can hold onto the heat from drying longer, helping dishes dry faster.
Plastic is not a bad option but does require more care so it does not catch stains or odors. This however is a good affordable option.
Wash Systems
Wash systems refer to how well placed the spray arms are located in the dishwasher. In general, you will find that there are three rotary spray arms inside the dishwasher, located at the top, bottom, and middle section, to be able to spray the dishes from every side equally.
However, there are some dishwashers that employ more spray arms for better and more efficient cleaning. Look out for these wash systems if you want to increase the efficiency with which your device performs.
Wash Cycles
When it comes to wash cycles, you will mostly find three cycles provided- normal, light, and heavy. However, when you put in many different kinds of dishes, pots, and pans, you expect a different treatment for each.
Surely, the way a greasy pan is washed is not the same glassware is washed. This is where specialized cycles come in, and is something you should look out for.
Having more cycles is always a bonus, especially if you know that you need it. This goes for people who have various kinds of pots, pans, dishes, and cutlery in their collection. Having more cycles ensures you that each different kind of dish gets its proper treatment.
Extra cycles which you can look out for include sanitizing rinses, that heat water to high temperatures, and then uses that to wash dishes so that they are sanitized in the process. This is good for sanitizing dishes for babies.
Also look out for china or glass-care options, that use cooler water and shorter cycles for a gentle wash.
Drying
After washing comes the drying, which needs to be just as efficient. Also look for more options here, as they will allow you to have a range of drying options for different times. This includes things like condensation drying or automatic doors which open up for air drying.
Capacity
The capacity is very important for dishwashers, as this decides how many dishes you get to put in for a wash. Of course, you don’t want to run multiple cycles, which ends up being the case if you go for something too small.
The key is to see how many dishes you accumulate on a regular day at the end of the day, and how much you do at the end of parties, where you have more dishes than usual. This will give you an estimate of the capacity you require, which you will find as place settings. The more place settings a dishwasher provides, the more capacity it has.
Water Softeners
This is not a mandatory thing to have, but it is good to have if you have hard water. Built-in water softeners help to remove the minerals and hence keep the dishes and the inside of the dishwasher spotless.
Eco Friendly
While living in the 21st century, looking for an eco-friendly tag is more important than ever. While these devices cost more upfront, they save you money along the way with lower bills. So check to see if your preferred dishwasher is Energy Star certified or not and if it includes eco cycles.
Miscellaneous
Extra things that you can keep an eye out for include things like having an LED light inside, adjustable racks, Wi-Fi-enabled dishwashers, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How Big Is An Apartment Size Dishwasher?
Apartment size dishwashers are 18 inches wide to be exact, a tad bit smaller than a full-sized permanent one. This makes it slim enough to be used in the compact kitchen space that is usually provided in rentals. They can also be used in dorms, bar areas, or studios, thanks to their size.
2. Can I Have A Portable Dishwasher In My Apartment?
Yes, you can have a portable dishwasher in your apartment, although you have to cross-check with your lease to see if it is prohibited or not. If not, you may certainly use one, and most places allow it. Having a portable or countertop dishwasher will not affect your utilities in any way either, nor will it require any extra plumbing.
3. Can I Install A Dishwasher In My Apartment?
Yes, you can install a dishwasher in your apartment. You have the option of portable or countertop dishwashers, but if you wish to install a permanent one, you may, with the permission of the landlord of course.
Do note that you will have to go through a lot of plumbing to get the permanent one, but if you plan on living in this rental for a good few years then it is a worthwhile investment. It will make the small rental look cleaner with all the dirty dishes stowed away out of sight.
4. Can I Replace The Dishwasher In My Apartment?
Yes, You Can Replace The Dishwasher In Your Apartment. If The Dishwasher Has been damaged due to over usage, or due to age, then it is the duty of the landlord to have it changed. However, if you have broken it yourself, then you will have to change or replace it. But you do have to speak to your landlord first before doing so.
5. Are Apartment Size Dishwashers Big Enough For A Family?
Most apartment sized dishwashers come with a good capacity which makes them suitable for families. However, although most are 18 inches wide, you should still check to see the capacity of each model and its capacity to make sure it is big enough for you.
Conclusion
While the best apartment size dishwasher might look a tad bit different for different users, most of the core features remain the same for all. This includes having low noise, the right size that fits into your apartment without being a nuisance, having a decent capacity, and much more.
For complete details on small dishwashers for apartments, we suggest you check out the whole piece, which describes all the details and questions you might have while buying one of these apartment dishwashers. It is always a good idea to have some background knowledge, especially with electric appliances, so you don’t end up making a bad purchase, since they can be quite the investment!
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