· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 7 min read
Top 5 Best Compact Dishwashers for Small Kitchens in 2025 Reviewed
Searching for the perfect compact dishwasher for your small kitchen? Check out our top 5 picks that blend space-saving design, powerful performance, and energy efficiency to make your kitchen life a whole lot easier.
Introduction
Let’s face it—small kitchens can feel like a puzzle, especially when you’re trying to fit in all the essentials. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a sink full of dishes after a long day, wishing for a little more counter space, you’re not alone. That’s where compact dishwashers come in. These little powerhouses are designed to fit snugly into tight spaces without skimping on performance. They’re the unsung heroes of small kitchens, and trust me, once you’ve got one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
In this article, I’ll break down five of the best compact dishwashers on the market in 2025. I’ve spent hours testing and comparing these models, so you don’t have to. Whether you’re living in a cozy apartment, a tiny home, or just want to free up some counter space, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it!
Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Built-in Water Tank
This little gem has been a lifesaver in my small kitchen. The built-in water tank is a game-changer—no need to fuss with plumbing or faucet connections. It’s perfect for apartments, RVs, or even dorm rooms. With five washing programs, including a Baby Care mode, it’s versatile enough to handle everything from delicate glassware to greasy pots and pans. The LED light inside is a nice touch, making it easy to load dishes even when the kitchen lights are dim.
The air-dry function works well, though it’s not the fastest. And while it’s surprisingly quiet, you’ll need to hand-wash larger plates and pots—they just don’t fit comfortably. But for small households or solo dwellers, this dishwasher is a solid choice. Plus, the portability factor? Chef’s kiss.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Built-in water tank for portability | Limited capacity for larger dishes |
| 5 washing programs, including Baby Care | Air-dry function can be slow |
| Quiet operation and LED light | Requires frequent refilling of water tank |
COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher Countertop with 5L Built-in Water Tank
If you’re tight on space but still want a dishwasher that packs a punch, the COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher is worth a look. Its 5L built-in water tank means you can skip the plumbing hassle altogether. It’s got six washing programs, including a high-temp wash that heats water to 162°F—perfect for sanitizing baby bottles or cutting boards. The 360° dual spray system ensures every dish gets a thorough clean, and the air-dry function is a nice bonus.
That said, manually filling the water tank can feel a bit tedious, especially if you’re running multiple cycles. And while it’s great for 1-2 people, larger households might find the capacity a bit limiting. Still, for its size and versatility, it’s a winner.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No water hookup needed | Manual water filling required |
| 6 versatile washing programs | Limited capacity for larger loads |
| High-temp wash for sanitization | Air-dry function can be slow |
Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher with 5L Built-in Water Tank
The Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher is a sleek, compact option that’s perfect for small kitchens. Its 5-liter built-in water tank means you don’t need to worry about plumbing, and the glass door adds a touch of modern style. The 360° dual spray system does a great job of cleaning, and the high-temperature wash (up to 162°F) is ideal for sanitizing dishes.
On the downside, filling the water tank can be a bit messy, and the utensil basket isn’t the most user-friendly. But if you’re looking for a dishwasher that’s both functional and stylish, this one’s a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact design, perfect for small spaces | Water tank filling can be messy |
| No permanent water hookup needed | Utensil basket design is awkward |
| High-temperature wash for sanitization | Limited capacity for larger dishes |
BLACK+DECKER BCD6W 6 Place Setting ENERGY STAR Portable Compact Countertop Dishwasher
The BLACK+DECKER BCD6W is a workhorse in a compact package. It fits up to six place settings, making it a great option for small families or couples who entertain often. With seven wash programs, including a quick 30-minute cycle, it’s versatile enough to handle just about anything. Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR certified, so you can feel good about its efficiency.
One thing to note: larger plates might require some creative loading, and there’s no heated dry function. But if you’re okay with air-drying, this dishwasher is a reliable choice.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact design fits small spaces | Larger plates may not fit easily |
| 7 versatile wash programs | No heated dry function |
| ENERGY STAR certified | Requires faucet compatibility |
SPT SD-2225DS Compact Countertop Dishwasher
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable dishwasher, the SPT SD-2225DS is a great option. It’s got a stainless steel interior, a delay start feature, and it’s surprisingly quiet. The six-place setting capacity is perfect for small households, though taller items like pots and bowls might not fit comfortably.
The lack of a drying function is a bit of a bummer, but if you’re okay with air-drying, this dishwasher offers solid performance at an affordable price.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quiet operation | No drying function |
| Stainless steel interior | Limited capacity for larger items |
| Energy Star certified | Occasional hose dripping |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best small dishwasher?
It really depends on your needs, but the Bosch 300 Series SPS2EMW55N is a fan favorite for its compact size, quiet operation, and efficient cleaning. If portability is key, the Danby DDW621WDB is a great option. Think about what matters most to you—capacity, noise, or energy efficiency—and go from there.
What size is a compact dishwasher?
Compact dishwashers are typically 18 inches wide, about 6 inches narrower than standard models. They’re perfect for small kitchens and can usually handle 6-8 place settings. Not bad for something so small, right?
Is it worth getting a mini dishwasher?
Absolutely! If you’re living in a small space or just don’t generate a ton of dishes, a mini dishwasher can be a lifesaver. They’re energy-efficient, save water, and free up your time. Just keep in mind that they’re not ideal for large families or frequent entertainers.
Where should a dishwasher be placed in a small kitchen?
Near the sink is your best bet. It simplifies plumbing and makes loading and unloading a breeze. If space is super tight, consider a compact or drawer-style model. Just make sure there’s enough room for the door to open fully.
What dishwashers have the fewest problems?
Brands like Bosch, Miele, and KitchenAid are known for their reliability. Bosch is especially popular for its quiet operation, while Miele is praised for its durability. KitchenAid strikes a nice balance between performance and affordability.
What is the #1 dishwasher?
The Bosch 800 Series SHPM88Z75N often tops the list for its cleaning power, quiet operation, and advanced features like CrystalDry technology. It’s a bit of an investment, but if you want the best of the best, this is it.
Final Recommendations
After testing these compact dishwashers, here’s the lowdown:
- Best for portability: The Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5L Built-in Water Tank is a no-brainer if you need something you can move around easily.
- Best for sanitization: The COMFEE’ Portable Mini Dishwasher with its high-temp wash is perfect for germaphobes.
- Best for quiet operation: The Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher is sleek, stylish, and whisper-quiet.
- Best for larger capacity: The BLACK+DECKER BCD6W can handle more dishes without taking up too much space.
- Best for budget shoppers: The SPT SD-2225DS offers solid performance without breaking the bank.
No matter which one you choose, you’re in for a game-changing upgrade to your small kitchen. Happy dishwashing!
