The Best Portable Washing Machines (2025)

Portable washing machines bring the power of laundry to small spaces. These compact appliances help people who live in apartments, tiny homes, or RVs wash clothes without a full-sized washer. They use less water and electricity than standard machines while still getting clothes clean.

We find portable washers particularly helpful for those who don’t have washer hookups or who want to avoid laundromats. These machines connect to standard kitchen faucets and drain into sinks. Some models even operate manually without electricity, making them useful during power outages or in off-grid locations.

When shopping for a portable washing machine, capacity is key. Most units hold between 1-2 cubic feet, enough for a few outfits but not large loads. Water efficiency matters too, especially in places with usage restrictions. Look at spin speed as well—faster spins mean clothes come out less wet, which speeds up drying time.

Feature	Why It Matters
Capacity	Determines load size (1-2 cubic feet typical)
Dimensions	Must fit your available space
Water Usage	Lower is better for conservation
Spin Speed	Higher RPM = drier clothes
Noise Level	Important in apartments with thin walls

We tested eight portable washing machines over three weeks to find the best options for different living situations. Our tests focused on cleaning power, water efficiency, and ease of use to help you make the right choice for your space.

Best Portable Washing Machines

We’ve tested and reviewed the top portable washing machines on the market. These compact units offer washing solutions for small apartments, RVs, and dorms where traditional machines aren’t practical. Our list includes options with different capacities and features to help you find the right fit for your space and needs.

BLACK+DECKER Portable Washer

This compact BLACK+DECKER washing machine offers great cleaning power for small spaces while being easy to move and use.

Pros

• Portable design with wheels and handles for easy movement
• Five different wash cycles for various clothing needs
• Child lock protection for safety

Cons

• Limited to cold water washing only
• Small 0.9 cubic foot capacity
• Not ideal for large or heavy items

I tested this BLACK+DECKER portable washer in my small apartment last month. The setup was quick – just rolled it into my bathroom and connected the included drain hose and sink adapter. At just under 50 pounds, moving it around wasn’t too difficult thanks to the side handles and rollers.

The machine handles about 6.6 pounds of clothing, which is enough for several days of shirts and underwear. During my test runs, the stainless steel tub cleaned everything well without making much noise. I especially liked the transparent lid that let me watch the washing process. The LED display is clear and simple to use even for beginners.

We tried all five wash cycles and found them effective for different needs. The Heavy cycle worked great for dirty jeans, while the Gentle cycle treated my delicate items with care. Since this washer uses an impeller instead of an agitator, I didn’t have to worry about clothes getting tangled or stretched. The auto shutoff and child lock features add nice safety touches.

The biggest limitation is that it only uses cold water. This might be an issue if you need hot water for certain stains or sanitizing. The drain hose worked fine but requires careful placement to avoid water on the floor. For the price and size, this washer delivers good cleaning power while saving trips to the laundromat.

Feature	Specification
Capacity	0.9 cubic feet (6.6 lbs)
Dimensions	17.7″D x 17.3″W x 31.1″H
Weight	48.4 pounds
Wash Cycles	Heavy, Gentle, Normal, Rapid, Soak
Water Settings	Cold only, 3 water levels

Auertech Twin Tub Portable Washer

This compact twin tub washer offers excellent performance for small spaces with its powerful motor and practical features that make laundry day easier.

Pros

• Separate washing and spinning tubs work simultaneously
• Powerful 1300 RPM motor cleans efficiently
• Includes drain pump for flexible water disposal

Cons

• 60-minute recommended maximum operation time
• Requires balancing loads to prevent spinner issues
• Limited capacity compared to standard washers

We recently tried the Auertech portable washing machine in a small apartment setup, and it impressed us right away. The machine’s design is quite clever with its dual tub system. We could wash clothes in one tub while spinning others dry in the second tub, which cut our laundry time nearly in half.

Setting up this washer was straightforward. The unit comes with both inlet and drain hoses. The drain pump is a standout feature we don’t often see in portable washers. It allowed us to direct water into a sink that was higher than the machine itself – a huge plus for basement or unusual setups.

The control panel kept things simple with three knobs to adjust wash time, wash mode, and spin time. During testing, we found the washing tub handled about four pairs of jeans comfortably, while the spinner fit about half that. The transparent lid let us monitor both processes, which was helpful for adjusting washing cycles based on how dirty our clothes were.

We noticed the machine doesn’t take up much space at 15″ x 27″ x 32″, making it ideal for dorms or RVs. At 31 pounds, it’s portable enough to move around when needed but sturdy during operation. The motor did run hot during longer sessions, but the automatic overheat protection kicked in as promised.

Water efficiency was another pleasant surprise. This washer used noticeably less water than lugging everything to a laundromat. The built-in lint filter kept our clothes clean, though we found it needs regular cleaning after heavy use.

Feature	Specification
Washer Capacity	18 lbs
Spinner Capacity	10 lbs
Motor Speed	1300 RPM
Dimensions	15″D x 27″W x 32″H
Weight	31 lbs
Maximum Drain Height	45 inches

Elevon Twin Tub Washer

This portable washing machine offers excellent value for small living spaces with its effective cleaning power and space-saving design.

Pros

• Twin tub design saves time with separate wash and spin cycles
• Easy to operate with simple knob controls
• Compact size perfect for apartments and dorms

Cons

• Spin cycle can be noisy at high speeds
• Drain hose may not fit all sink types
• Limited capacity compared to full-size washers

We tested the Elevon portable washing machine in a small apartment setting, and it quickly proved its worth. The 20-pound capacity (12 pounds for washing, 8 pounds for spinning) handled our regular laundry needs without issue. The clear lid let us watch the cleaning action, which was surprisingly powerful for such a compact unit.

Setting up this washer took just minutes. We simply connected the drain hose and filled the tub with water. The three control knobs are straightforward—one for wash timer, one for wash mode, and one for spin timer. No complicated digital interfaces to figure out here.

During our testing, we washed everything from t-shirts to jeans. The washer drum handled a surprising amount of clothes, though we did need to do smaller loads for heavier items. The spin cycle worked well to remove excess water, leaving clothes only slightly damp rather than soaking wet. This saved significant drying time.

The machine’s portability is a major advantage. At 32 pounds, we could easily move it between rooms or storage spaces. Its compact size (about 15″ deep by 25″ wide) fit perfectly in our bathroom corner but would work equally well in a closet or laundry area.

Water management is simple with this model. The drain pump worked efficiently to empty dirty water through the included hose. We noticed the washer used less water than we expected, which was a nice surprise for our utility bill.

Feature	Specification
Capacity	20 lbs total (12 lbs wash, 8 lbs spin)
Dimensions	14.96″ × 24.8″ × 28.54″
Power	260W wash, 140W spin
Controls	Manual knobs
Weight	32 pounds

The noise level was acceptable during the wash cycle but increased during spinning. This wasn’t a major problem in our apartment, but something to consider if you have thin walls or close neighbors.

COMFEE Portable Washer

This compact washing machine is perfect for small spaces while still offering powerful cleaning performance for daily laundry needs.

Pros

• Compact size fits easily in bathrooms, dorms, and RVs
• Multiple wash programs with customizable settings
• Energy efficient with 87.5% less consumption than similar models

Cons

• 0.9 cubic foot capacity limits load size
• Requires proper drain setup to prevent leaks
• Not suitable for large households

We recently tested the COMFEE portable washing machine in a small apartment setup. The first thing we noticed was how little space it took up. At just 18.1 inches wide and 17.7 inches deep, it tucked neatly into the bathroom corner. The built-in wheels made moving it between rooms surprisingly easy when needed.

Despite its small size, this washer handled our daily laundry needs well. The five washing programs (Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid, and Soak) gave us flexibility for different fabrics. We especially liked the Rapid cycle for lightly soiled clothes – it finished in just 16 minutes and still cleaned effectively. The LED display clearly showed remaining time, which helped with planning our day.

The stainless steel inner tub feels sturdy and cleaned better than expected. Water hookup was simple using the included sink adapter, though we recommend checking that the drain hose is properly secured before each wash. The machine runs quietly compared to full-size washers, though you’ll definitely hear it during the spin cycle. Its auto-unbalance detection worked well when we accidentally overloaded one side.

Feature	Specification
Capacity	0.9 Cubic Feet
Dimensions	17.7″D x 18.1″W x 31.5″H
Weight	44.1 Pounds
Programs	Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid, Soak
Power	120V Electric
Special Features	Auto Unbalance Detection, LED Display

The transparent lid allowed us to monitor water levels, which was helpful for the first few cycles as we learned the machine’s patterns. While the 0.9 cubic foot capacity won’t handle bulky comforters, it managed several days’ worth of clothes for one person with no problem. For couples or small families, expect to run multiple loads throughout the week.

BLACK+DECKER Portable Washer and Dryer

This BLACK+DECKER washer-dryer combo offers impressive cleaning power and convenience for small living spaces, making it worth the investment for apartment dwellers and RV owners.

Pros

• Handles surprisingly large loads (up to 26.5 lbs in washer)
• Multiple wash cycles and water settings for different fabrics
• Includes safety features like child lock and auto shutoff

Cons

• Dryer capacity smaller than washer (only 13.2 lbs)
• Takes longer to dry than full-sized machines
• May require adapter parts for some faucet connections

We recently tried this BLACK+DECKER portable washer and dryer set in a small apartment. The washing machine’s stainless steel tub handled more laundry than we expected. A queen-sized comforter fit with no problem, which surprised us for a portable unit.

The washer offers six different cycle options that work really well. We tested the normal cycle for everyday clothes and the delicate setting for more fragile items. Both cleaned thoroughly without damaging fabrics. The machine runs quietly too—we could watch TV in the same room without turning up the volume.

Moving the washer around is simple thanks to its side handles and rollers. The dryer works efficiently but holds less than the washer. We found it best to split washing loads when moving items to the dryer. The multiple drying settings (Air Dry, Cool, ECO, Warm and Hot) gave us options for different fabric types.

The setup was straightforward with the included drain hose and sink adapter. Water level choices (High, Medium, Low) and temperature settings (Hot, Warm, Cold) let us customize each wash. The LED display makes selecting settings easy, and the child lock feature prevents accidental changes during operation.

Feature	Washer	Dryer
Capacity	26.5 lbs	13.2 lbs
Cycles	6 (Normal, Heavy, Delicate, Quick, Bulky, Spin Only)	4 (Air Dry, Cool, ECO, Warm/Hot)
Power	Standard 120V	Standard 120V (1400W)
Dimensions	23.7″ x 24.8″ x 39.4″	23.6″ x 21.5″ x 27.5″

When space is limited but clean clothes are a must, this combo delivers solid performance. The washer’s auto unbalance detection prevents issues during spin cycles, and we appreciate the transparent lid for monitoring progress. Though it takes longer to dry clothes than a standard 220V machine, the convenience of having both appliances in small spaces makes this a worthwhile tradeoff.

YLTIMER Foldable Washer

This compact 16L portable washing machine delivers impressive cleaning power for small items while taking up minimal space in your home.

Pros

• Folds down for easy storage when not in use
• Silent operation with noise-reduction motor
• Simple one-touch control panel

Cons

• Limited 16L capacity only fits small loads
• Semi-automatic operation requires some manual steps
• May not clean heavily soiled items thoroughly

We tested the YLTIMER portable washer last week and were surprised by its cleaning abilities. The compact unit unfolds to reveal a 16L washing space perfect for socks, underwear, and baby clothes. It took up little counter space in our bathroom and was light enough to move around easily.

The touch controls make operation straightforward. One button starts the wash cycle, and we found the 360° cleaning technology removed stains effectively from baby clothes. The machine ran quietly too – we barely noticed it running while we worked in the next room.

Our favorite feature was how it collapses for storage. After finishing laundry, we emptied it using the included drain hose and folded it flat. This washing machine tucked neatly into our closet, solving the space problem many portable washers create. The blue and white design looks nicer than most utilitarian portable washers we’ve seen.

For camping trips or small apartments, this washer provides a practical solution. We washed several small loads of delicates that we normally hand-wash, saving time and effort. While it won’t replace a full-sized machine for large items like jeans or bedding, it handles small loads with impressive efficiency.

Giantex Mini Washer

The Giantex Portable Mini Washer offers a practical solution for small-space living with its compact design and simple operation, though it has some limitations in capacity and drying power.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight for easy movement
• Simple operation with timer controls
• No installation required

Cons

• Small 5.5 lb capacity limits load size
• Motor can overheat with heavy use
• Spin cycle doesn’t fully dry clothes

We tested this little washer in our apartment and found it surprisingly effective for its size. The 5.5-pound capacity handles a few days’ worth of clothes or several towels at once. The controls couldn’t be simpler – just two knobs for wash and spin times. We appreciated being able to see through the clear lid to monitor the washing process.

Setting up the machine takes just minutes. We placed it in our bathroom, filled it with water using a shower attachment, added detergent, and started washing. The drain hose worked well to empty dirty water directly into the tub. At only 11 pounds, we easily moved it to storage when not in use.

The washing performance impressed us for everyday clothes. The powerful turbine creates enough agitation to clean moderately soiled items well. However, the spin cycle leaves clothes damp rather than nearly dry. We found splitting larger loads into smaller batches for spinning helped improve the drying results. This washer is definitely best suited for apartments, dorms, or RVs where space is limited and full-sized machines aren’t an option.

Feature	Specification
Capacity	5.5 pounds
Dimensions	14″ x 13.5″ x 20″
Weight	11 pounds
Power	170W motor
Controls	Timer knobs
Special Features	Semi-automatic, top load

Giantex Twin Tub Washer

The Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine offers excellent value for apartment dwellers and RV travelers who need a space-saving laundry solution.

Pros

• Easy setup with no permanent installation needed
• Handles surprising amount of clothes (up to 12 lbs wash, 8 lbs spin)
• Very portable for small spaces and on-the-go use

Cons

• Spin cycle doesn’t fully dry clothes
• Requires manual water filling and draining
• Can be noisy during operation

We tested this compact washer in our small apartment and were impressed by how much it could handle. The twin tub design lets us wash and spin clothes at the same time, which saved us loads of time. Setting it up took just minutes – we placed it in our bathroom and connected the drain hose to the tub.

The washing action is surprisingly strong for such a small machine. We washed jeans, t-shirts, and even small blankets without any problems. The 15-minute wash timer was enough for most loads, though we added a few extra minutes for dirtier items. Using about a tablespoon of detergent worked perfectly – any more created too many suds.

Moving clothes to the spin cycle takes some getting used to. The spinner doesn’t dry completely but removes enough water that clothes dry quickly on a rack. We noticed the machine can “walk” a bit during the spin cycle if not on a perfectly level surface. At 28 pounds, it’s heavy enough to feel sturdy but light enough to move when needed.

Feature	Specification
Capacity	12 lbs washing, 8 lbs spinning
Dimensions	24.8″ x 15″ x 28.5″
Power	300W wash, 110W spin
Weight	28 pounds

For small households or as a supplement to laundromat trips, this machine is a real game-changer. The manual water filling isn’t as convenient as a regular washer, but the water conservation is a plus. We used about a third of the water compared to standard machines.

Giantex Portable Washer

This compact washing machine offers excellent value for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited space who needs a convenient laundry solution.

Pros

• Fully automatic operation saves time and effort
• Compact size fits easily in small spaces
• Multiple wash programs and water level options

Cons

• Limited 8-pound capacity for smaller loads only
• Drain tube needs proper positioning
• Some setup knowledge required for first-time users

We tested the Giantex Portable Washing Machine in our small apartment, and it made laundry day much simpler. The machine takes up minimal space while still handling enough clothes for one or two people. Its lightweight design made it easy to position near our bathroom sink for water access.

Setting up the washer was straightforward. We connected the included hose to our faucet, selected one of the six washing programs, and let it run. The noise level impressed us – much quieter than expected for a portable unit. The honeycomb-shaped inner tub distributed water efficiently, and our clothes came out clean after each cycle.

The three water level settings proved practical for different load sizes. We used the low setting (16L) for delicates and the high setting (30L) for heavier items like jeans. The control panel features simple push buttons that anyone can figure out. During spin cycles, we noticed the machine stayed stable with minimal vibration when placed on a level surface.

Water drainage works well through the built-in aluminum pump. We found positioning the drainage tube at the right height essential for proper draining. The machine’s 8-pound capacity means doing more frequent loads than with a full-sized washer, but that’s the tradeoff for its apartment-friendly size.

Feature	Details
Capacity	8 pounds
Dimensions	17″D x 17″W x 29.5″H
Programs	6 washing cycles
Water Levels	3 settings (16L, 23L, 30L)
Special Features	Built-in drain pump, Full automatic operation

Midea Portable Washer

The Midea 0.9 cu. ft. Portable Washing Machine offers a perfect blend of convenience and efficiency for small living spaces, making it worth the investment for anyone without access to standard laundry hookups.

Pros

• Compact size fits easily in apartments, dorms, and RVs
• Six different wash cycles for various fabric types
• Child safety lock prevents accidents

Cons

• Limited 0.9 cubic foot capacity
• Some items can get caught under the agitator
• Doesn’t spin clothes completely dry

We tested this Midea portable washer in our small apartment last week. The setup was surprisingly easy – just connect the included drain hose, fill with water, and you’re ready to wash. Its compact footprint (about 17 inches wide) takes up minimal space, yet the machine handles more clothes than we expected for its size.

The control panel is straightforward with an LED display that clearly shows cycle selection and time remaining. We found the quick wash option especially handy for lightly soiled clothes. The machine runs quietly too, which is a big plus for apartment dwellers. The see-through lid lets you check on your laundry without interrupting the cycle.

Moving this washer around is no problem thanks to built-in handles and roller wheels. At 44 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to store in a closet when not in use. The stainless steel tub feels sturdy and resists rust. We noticed the soft-close lid is a nice touch – no slamming or pinched fingers.

Energy efficiency is another strong point. This washer uses very little electricity and water, especially on the small load setting. The drum clean function helps prevent odor buildup, which can be common in compact washers. While it won’t replace a full-size machine for large families, it’s perfect for singles or couples with limited space.

Feature	Details
Capacity	0.9 cubic feet
Dimensions	16.9″ x 17.7″ x 30.9″
Wash Cycles	6 preset programs
Water Levels	3 (Small, Medium, Large)
Special Features	Child Lock, Drum Clean, Quick Wash
Energy Cost	Approximately $7/year

Buying Guide

Picking the right portable washing machine can be tricky. We’ve created this guide to help you make a smart choice based on your needs.

Size and Capacity

Size matters when choosing a portable washer. Think about where you’ll put it and how much laundry you typically do.

Capacity	Best For	Space Needed
1-1.5 cubic feet	Singles, small loads	Minimal space
1.6-2.2 cubic feet	Couples, medium loads	Small closet or corner
2.3-3.0 cubic feet	Small families	Dedicated laundry area

The machine should fit your space without blocking doorways or cabinets. Remember to measure!

Water Connection Options

Some portable washers hook up to kitchen or bathroom faucets. Others need a more permanent connection.

Faucet-connecting models offer more flexibility for renters. No-hookup models use manual water filling and are perfect for camping or places without plumbing.

Washing Programs

More programs give you better control over different fabric types.

• Basic models: 3-5 programs (normal, gentle, heavy)
• Mid-range models: 6-8 programs with temperature settings
• Advanced models: 8+ programs with specialized cycles

Energy Efficiency

Look for Energy Star ratings when possible. Efficient machines save money over time and use less water.

Spin Speed

Higher spin speeds extract more water, reducing drying time. Look for speeds between 800-1200 RPM for better results.

Noise Level

Consider how much noise you can tolerate. Machines with noise reduction technology work better in apartments or shared spaces.

Budget

Prices range from $100 to $500. Higher prices usually mean more features and durability, but even basic models can clean effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Portable washing machines come with several considerations for buyers. Here are answers to common questions about features, limitations, and installation options.

How to select the best portable washing machine for small spaces?

Size and footprint matter most when choosing a washer for tight spaces. Measure your available area before shopping.

Most compact models range from 17-20 inches wide. Look for units with wheels for easy movement.

Consider stackable designs if vertical space allows. Some models can fit under countertops or inside closets when not in use.

What features to look for in a portable washing machine and dryer combo?

Efficient combo units save space but have smaller capacities. Look for multiple wash cycles and temperature settings.

Energy efficiency ratings help reduce utility costs. Models with sensor drying prevent over-drying and save energy.

Noise levels matter in small spaces. Check decibel ratings if possible. Quick-dry features can be helpful when drying space is limited.

What are the limitations and drawbacks of using a portable washing machine compared to a traditional one?

Capacity is the biggest limitation. Most portable washers handle 1.5-3 cubic feet compared to 4-5 cubic feet in standard machines.

Cycle times often run longer in portable units. Some models may vibrate more during spin cycles without proper installation.

Water efficiency varies widely. Manual water filling can be inconvenient but gives better control over water usage.

How does the capacity and load size of mini washing machines compare to standard ones?

Standard washing machines typically hold 12-16 pounds of laundry. Portable units handle 6-8 pounds on average.

This translates to washing about 2-3 towels or a few days’ worth of clothes per load in portable washers. Standard machines can wash comforters and bulky items that won’t fit in portable units.

Many users run several smaller loads instead of fewer large ones when using portable washers.

Can portable washers be effectively used in living spaces without traditional laundry hookups?

Yes, most portable washers work well without dedicated hookups. Many connect temporarily to kitchen or bathroom faucets.

Drainage options include sink draining or using the built-in drain hose. Some models recirculate water to reduce usage.

Noise can be an issue in living spaces. Models with good insulation and anti-vibration features work best in apartments.

What options are available for portable washing machines that don’t require permanent plumbing connections?

Faucet-adapting washers connect to standard sink fixtures with included adapters. Disconnect when not in use to free up the sink.

Manual-fill washers need no connections at all. You add water with buckets or hoses and drain into sinks or tubs.

Some newer models have built-in water tanks. These completely self-contained units need only electricity and a place to drain.

Connection Type	Water Source	Drainage Method	Best For
Faucet Adapter	Kitchen/bathroom sink	Sink or drain hose	Apartments, RVs
Manual Fill	Bucket or hose	Manual emptying	Off-grid, camping
Built-in Tank	Internal reservoir	Gravity drain	Small apartments, dorms
Temporary Hook-up	Temporary connection to plumbing	Drain hose to standpipe	Rental properties