Best for RV: Farberware FCDMSDWH Complete Portable Countertop Dishwasher

Let’s talks the best portable countertop dishwashers!

Dishwashers are probably the least used appliance in the kitchen, compared to microwaves and refrigerators.

About 1 in 5 Americans don’t even use a dishwasher—some folks think hand washing uses less water (and detergent) than running a dishwasher. The opposite is true—you use up to 3.5 times more water when hand washing!

Of course, if you live in an apartment or condo without a dishwasher, that point is moot. Hand washing may seem like your only option.

To the rescue come the countertop dishwasher. Unlike installed under-counter dishwashers, these portable models work by pouring in a small amount of water in the top or attaching a hose to your faucet. Add in a small mount detergent and poof! Clean dishes.

We have a surprising number of full-time RVer’s among our readership, so we are always on the lookout for good products for you folks. This model would be our pick for an RV: Farberware’s FCDMSDWH. The built-in five-liter water tank is excellent—you don’t have to always have it tethered to a water supply.

What We Liked

• Cleans well.

• No need for water hook-up—comes with built-in water tank you fill up with pitcher.

• Fits up to 12″ dishes (albeit at an angle).

• Easy to use.

• Also great for apartments where you lack counter-space next to sink.

• LED controls are easy to read.

What Needs Work

• Instructions could be clearer.

• Dishes must be dried by hand.

Best For Single Person: KAPAS Portable Countertop Dishwasher

There’s something oddly mesmerizing about this countertop dishwasher—thanks to the see-through door, you can watch your dishes get clean. 

Also nice: this dishwasher has its own water tank, so you don’t have to have it hooked up to a kitchen sink for a water supply.

What We Liked

• Cleans well.

• Easy to fill water reservoir.

• Doesn’t have to be tied to a water line to work.

• Perfect for a single person.

• Quick—cycle time is about 20 minutes to 90 minutes.

What Needs Work

• Doesn’t work well for dishes larger than 9″.

• Tall unit may not fit under a countertop. At about 18.5″ tall, this unit may not work for some folks.

• Must use your own hot water from a tap. This unit doesn’t heat up the water that much on its own.

Best Budget-Friendly: NOVETE Compact Dishwasher

Yep, countertop dishwashers can be surprisingly pricey. This mode by NOVETTE does a good job at cleaning dishes, without emptying your bank account. Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Good job at cleaning.

• Easy to hook up.

• Quiet.

• Easy to use.

• Can heat water up to 167 degrees.

What Needs Work

• Not for pots and pans.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!