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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Portable Dishwashers for RV Living

Gone are the days of washing dishes by hand while camping in an RV. With the introduction of portable dishwashers for RVs, you can now enjoy the convenience of a dishwasher even while on the road. Various options are available on the market today, including stainless steel, black, and other colors to match your interior.

You can choose from a permanent fixture or a portable dishwasher that perfectly fits in your motorhome. Whether you’re a full-timer who wants to avoid doing dishes after every meal or a casual camper who wants to add a little luxury to their outdoor experience, there’s an RV dishwasher for you. So sit back, relax, and let your RV dishwasher do the work while you enjoy your trip.

 

How To Choose A Portable Dishwasher That Will Fit Your Space

When choosing a dishwasher for an RV, it is important to consider the available space and the specific needs of your RV lifestyle. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a dishwasher that will fit your space:

1. Size: The first thing to consider is the size of the dishwasher. Measure the space where you plan to install the dishwasher and choose a model that will fit comfortably in that space. Remember that RV dishwashers are typically smaller than standard residential models, so you may need to sacrifice some capacity for size.

2. Capacity: Consider how many dishes you typically use at each meal and choose a dishwasher with a capacity that matches your needs. A smaller RV may only require a dishwasher with a six-place setting, while a larger RV or full-time living situation may require a larger capacity.

3. Installation: Look for a dishwasher that is designed for easy installation in an RV. Some models are designed to be built-in, while others are portable and can be moved around as needed. Consider whether you want a model that requires professional installation or if you prefer to install it yourself.

4. Energy Efficiency: RVs have limited power and water resources, choosing an energy-efficient dishwasher that uses minimal water and electricity is important. Look for models with Energy Star certification, which indicates they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.

5. Features: Consider what features are important to you, such as multiple wash cycles, adjustable racks, or a delay start function. Remember that additional features may add to the cost of the dishwasher.

Overall, when choosing a dishwasher for an RV, it is important to find a model that fits your available space, meets your capacity needs, is easy to install, is energy-efficient, and has any desired features.

 

Benefits of an RV Dishwasher

An RV dishwasher is a specialized appliance designed to clean dishes, utensils, and cookware in recreational vehicles. This type of dishwasher offers several benefits to RV owners, including:

1. Convenience: One of the most significant benefits of an RV dishwasher is convenience. Instead of washing dishes by hand, RVers can load them into the dishwasher and let it do the work. This saves time and effort, allowing RVers to enjoy their travels more.

2. Water Conservation: Water conservation is another advantage of an RV dishwasher. Dishwashers use less water than washing dishes by hand, which is especially important for RVers with limited water access. Additionally, some models of RV dishwashers are designed to recycle wastewater, further reducing water usage.

3. Improved Hygiene: Dishwashers are more effective at removing bacteria and other germs from dishes than washing by hand. This can help improve hygiene in an RV and reduce the risk of illness.

Other benefits of an RV dishwasher may include energy efficiency, space-saving design, and improved aesthetics.

 

10 Best Portable Dishwashers for RVs

1. hOmeLabs Compact Countertop Dishwasher – Energy Star Portable Mini Dish Washer in Stainless Steel Interior for Small Apartment Office and Home Kitchen with 6 Place Setting Rack and Silverware Basket

Easy to Set Up, Easy to Use

Say goodbye to hand-washing dishes in your RV with this Energy Star-certified portable dishwasher. With its compact size, it easily fits on countertops or tabletops, taking up minimal space.

The control panel is user-friendly, with light indicators and a program selector offering six wash cycle options to suit your dishwashing needs.

The delay button allows you to postpone the wash cycle, making it convenient for busy schedules. The quick-connect assembly includes accessories, including an inlet, drain hose, and a faucet adapter for water lines compatible with round-shaped outlets with removable aerators and 55/64″-27 male or 15/16″-27 female threads underneath.

The rinse aid dispenser ensures your plates, mugs, and glasses dry without marks or streaks, with an indicator light letting you know when to refill. Perfect for small households or individuals living in apartments with limited space for large kitchen appliances.

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Product Reviews:

Wow-what a great product! Lots of space and well made! A little large but is like a full-size tray you get in the new single-drawer dishwashers for a fraction of the price. Uses much less hot water than hand washing and cleans great! (do not forget the rinse aid) Super quiet and simple to hook up and use. Strongly recommend!

This thing works fantastic! For my first run, I tested it with a casserole dish and some other baked food items. Baked on spaghetti sauce was gone without a trace.

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2. Hermitluxmn Countertop Dishwasher

The Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher is a game-changer for those tired of washing dishes by hand. This portable dishwasher is perfect for small spaces and measures 16.8×16.7×18 inches with a 4-place-setting capacity. It can fit up to 12″ dishes loaded at an angle and offers five washing programs: Standard Cleaning, Fast Cleaning,

ECO Cleaning, Strong Cleaning, and Fruit Cleaning. The high water pressure spraying arms ensure a streak-free deep clean, and the drying function keeps tableware dry and tasteless after cleaning. This countertop dishwasher can even clean tableware, fruits, and vegetables. It supports two water supply modes: a built-in 5 L water tank for instant use or faucet mode by connecting the water inlet and drain hose to the machine and faucet.

The glass top touch button allows for easy operation and recognition with timer settings. The Hermitlux Countertop Dishwasher is perfect for small-sized houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and RVs. Product reviews rave about its convenience and effectiveness.

 

Features:

Benefits:

Saves time and effort by eliminating the need for hand-washing dishes.
Can clean various items, including tableware, kitchenware, fruits, vegetables, seafood, and baby utensils.
High temperature and PTC hot wind ensure a sparkling clean finish.
Dual high-water pressure spraying arms provide thorough cleaning.
Easy to use with a touch control panel and clear LED display.
Its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces.
Comes with instructions and excellent customer service.

 

Product Reviews:

It is so easy to use, quiet and efficient. Pour water into the top and a small hose to drain. The dishwasher tells you when it is complete. I won’t go without it. I love it!

This countertop dishwasher is the perfect size for our camper. It also comes in handy for extra glassware. Highly recommend!

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3. KAPAS Countertop Dishwasher, 5 Washing Programs, Built-in 3-Cups Water Tank, 3D Cyclone Spray, Fruit & Vegetable Cleaning with Basket, High Temperature, Air Drying

The KAPAS Portable Countertop Dishwasher is a compact and convenient appliance for small kitchens, apartments, and RVs. It offers a space-saving solution for those who don’t have the room or budget for a full-sized dishwasher.

This dishwasher has a capacity of 5 liters and can hold up to 4 place settings. It features six wash cycles: normal, eco, speed, glass, rinse, and heavy. The eco cycle uses only 5 liters of water and is energy efficient, making it an environmentally friendly option.

The KAPAS Portable Countertop Dishwasher is easy to install and use. It comes with a faucet adapter to connect it to your kitchen sink. Once connected, you load your dishes into the dishwasher, add detergent, select your wash cycle, and press start.

One of the benefits of this dishwasher is its portability. It weighs only 26 pounds and has built-in handles, making it easy to move from one location to another. This makes it ideal for those living in small spaces.

Another benefit is its affordability. The KAPAS Portable Countertop Dishwasher is priced lower than many full-sized dishwashers on the market, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

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Product Reviews:

We still use it multiple times weekly, which has held up wonderfully! Buy this thing! I can fit most things in except for a few pieces I own. Gosh, I love my Dishwasher so much~

Man, oh man, was that the right choice. This thing is both compact and pretty roomy! It cleans as well as any other dishwasher I’ve ever used. It can even fit my sautée pan! I love it!!! Dishes no more!

It works for us as a family of 2. The Dishwasher holds about five plates and 3-4 mugs, including spoons and forks. However, if you place 12″ plates on the top shelf, the spoons don’t fit. I use a plastic cup with holes in the bottom. I stick it onto a wired holder and place the spoons in. 

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4.COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher, Portable Dishwasher with 6L Built-in Water Tank, Mini Dishwasher with More Space Inside, 7 Programs, UV Hygiene & Auto Door Open.

Say goodbye to the hassle of handwashing dishes with the COMFEE Countertop Dishwasher. With five washing programs and two enhanced functions, this portable dishwasher meets all your daily cleaning needs. The Hygiene wash cycle boosts water temperature to 192 ℉, making it suitable for cleaning heavily soiled dishes, baby bottles, and children’s dishes. The AUTO-OPEN function and built-in turbofan help your dishes dry quicker, delivering cabinet-ready dishes even faster. Plus, with only 6L of water consumption per wash cycle, this dishwasher saves 60% of the amount used when handwashing and uses only 0.35 kWh for a normal cycle, making it an energy-efficient choice for your home.

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5. RecPro RV Countertop Portable Dishwasher | 6 Cleaning Modes | 5-Liter Built In Water Tank | Includes Faucet Adapter (Black)

The RecPro RV Countertop Portable Dishwasher is a compact and convenient appliance designed for recreational vehicles, small apartments, and other compact living spaces where traditional dishwashers are impractical. This dishwasher is designed to be easy to install and use, with a simple control panel and a range of features that make it ideal for small-scale dishwashing tasks.

One of the key features of the RecPro RV Countertop Portable Dishwasher is its compact size. Measuring just 17 inches tall, 21.5 inches wide, and 19 inches deep, this dishwasher can fit easily on most countertops or in small storage spaces when not in use. Despite its small size, this dishwasher can clean up to six place settings at once, making it a great choice for individuals or small families.

Other key features of the RecPro RV Countertop Portable Dishwasher include its six wash cycles, allowing users to choose the right cycle for their needs. These cycles include normal, heavy, light, speed, glass, and soak options, each designed to provide optimal cleaning results while minimizing water and energy usage.

In terms of installation and operation, the RecPro RV Countertop Portable Dishwasher is designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up. The dishwasher comes with everything needed for installation, including a faucet adapter and drain hose, and can be set up in just minutes without any special tools or skills required.

Overall, the RecPro RV Countertop Portable Dishwasher is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a compact and convenient dishwasher in small living spaces. Its range of features and user-friendly design makes it a top choice among consumers looking for an affordable and reliable dishwasher.

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6. Portable Countertop Dishwashers, NOVETE Compact Dishwashers with 5 L Built-in Water Tank & Inlet Hose, 5 Washing Programs, Baby Care, Air-Dry Function and LED Light for Small Apartments, Dorms and RVs

 

The NOVETE Compact Countertop Dishwasher is a game-changer for those who love to travel in their RVs. This stylish and compact dishwasher is perfect for those tired of washing dishes by hand. With its unique and innovative design, the NOVETE dishwasher saves water, electricity, and detergent while maximizing cleaning performance. It is just over 18 inches tall and easily fits under most cabinets, making it a great addition to any RV kitchen. Say goodbye to sudsy hands and soggy towels, and hello to the ultimate cleanliness for your family’s tableware.

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7. COSTWAY Portable Countertop Dishwasher, Compact Dishwasher with 7.5 L Built-in Water Tank, 360° Dual Spray Arms, 5 Washing Programs, Air-Dry Function, Child Lock, Mini Dishwasher for Apartment, RV

The COSTWAY Portable Countertop Dishwasher is the perfect solution for RVs, small apartments, and homes without a built-in dishwasher. With a 7.5 L openable built-in water tank, you have two water supply options: link directly with the faucet through the inject hose or pump the water from the tank. This means you don’t need a spare sink or extra countertop area for the dishwasher. The dishwasher has 5 washing programs and a child lock function for safety. After washing, the hot air dry function dries and sterilizes your tableware with 142°F of circulation. The compact size measures 17.8” x 16.2” x 19.3” (W x D x H) and can hold up to 28 pieces of tableware. The 360° double spray arms ensure effective rinsing, with top and lower spray arms that can swivel 360° to rinse off various degrees of stains from all angles. The water tank and 3-layer filter are detachable and open for daily cleaning and maintenance, making it easy to keep your dishwasher clean and running smoothly.

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8. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W 6 Place Setting Compact Countertop Dishwasher

 

The BLACK+DECKER BCD6W 6 Place Setting dishwasher is the perfect addition to any RV. With its superior attributes, it provides superb performance. The dishwasher features a 3-part filtering system that prevents food and other objects from getting inside the pump, which is permanent and washable.

It also comes with a faucet adaptor included inside the dishwasher. The silverware basket ensures that utensils are immaculately cleaned, while the powerfully effective lower spray arm on the interior bottom of the compartment ensures that dishes are thoroughly cleaned.

The convenient detergent and rinse aid dispenser has 4 settings, and the hot water temperature can reach up to 140 Fahrenheit. The dishwasher is made for plate diameters of up to 10 inches.

The BLACK+DECKER BCD6W 6 Place Setting dishwasher for RVs boasts impressive features and exceptional craftsmanship. It weighs 46.2 lbs and comes with a 59″ power cord length.

The dishwasher operates at a noise level of 60 dB and has a power rating of 1100W, 120V/60HZ, with 9.14 working amps and 0.74 start-up amps. It consumes 265 kWh of energy annually and comes with a 59″ inlet hose length and a 59″ outlet hose length.

 

Product Reviews:

The machine cleaned all dishes nicely. Better than machines I had previously used. The faucet hook-up is very easy since both water in and water return hold both pipes in place. All over, very happy. Easy installation. I had the dishwasher up and running in no time.

9mos later. Update: Still working great, still worth every penny. No leakage. I use this thing maybe 5-6 times per week. Water/energy efficient as well. Do take the time to clean it monthly — the filters, the door, and the hoses. It will help make sure your dishes keep smelling fresh. It doesn’t hurt to run an empty load with dishwasher cleaner every couple of months.

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9. Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Complete Portable Countertop Dishwasher for RVs (Top Pick!)

The Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Complete Portable Countertop Dishwasher for RVs is the perfect solution for those who want to clean their dishes on the go. You can have clean dishes anywhere and anytime with just water, electricity, and 40 minutes.

This professional dishwasher can be placed on any countertop or sturdy table and offers the choice of using its built-in water tank or a quick faucet hook-up. It features six different wash cycles and can even steam-clean baby bottles or give your glassware a sparkling clean finish. Whether in your kitchen, camping on your boat or RV, or at an event, dirty dishes are now a thing of the past.

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10. ROVSUN Portable Countertop Dishwasher, Mini Dishwasher with 5 Washing Programs, 5L Built-in Water Tank, 360° Spray Arms, Air-Dry Function & Fruit Cleaning for Apartments, Dorms, and RVs (White)

The ROVSUN Portable Countertop Dishwasher is a powerful and compact solution for all your dishwashing needs. You can customize the washing program according to your tableware and food residue with five wash cycle options, including normal, ECO, intensive, rapid, and fruit

. The hot air drying mode ensures that your dishes are clean and dry, and you can choose to add water manually or automatically. The delay function allows you to set a washing mode for 1-12 hours, and the spray arm offers a complete streak-free deep cleaning. With hot air circulation, the drying mode keeps your dishes clean and dry.

The dishwasher’s overall dimensions are 17.7″L x 17.3″W x 18″H, and it has a water tank capacity of 5L/1.3Gallon. The dishwasher weighs 28.6 lbs and operates on a rated voltage of 110-120V/60 H.

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Product Reviews:

 It is fairly quiet as a regular dishwasher. Setting up only took a few minutes. Controls make it easy to use. Customer service was really good and helpful. They replied within a day of my messages. I would highly recommend this dishwasher to my family and friends.

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Different Types of RV Dishwashers

RV portable dishwashers are a great addition to any RV kitchen, as they offer the convenience of a dishwasher without taking up too much space. There are several types of RV portable dishwashers available in the market, each with its unique features and benefits.

Countertop Dishwashers: Countertop dishwashers are compact and can be placed on top of a countertop or table. They are ideal for small RV kitchens that do not have enough space for a full-sized dishwasher. Countertop dishwashers typically have a capacity of 4-6 place settings and use less water and detergent than full-sized dishwashers.

Built-in Dishwashers: Built-in dishwashers are designed to be permanently installed in an RV kitchen. They are larger than countertop dishwashers and have a higher capacity, typically ranging from 8-12 place settings. Built-in dishwashers require more space and plumbing connections than countertop models, but they offer more convenience and functionality.

Drawer Dishwashers: Drawer dishwashers are designed to fit into a cabinet or drawer space in an RV kitchen. They are similar in size to built-in dishwashers but offer more flexibility regarding installation options. Drawer dishwashers typically have two separate drawers that can be used independently or simultaneously.

Portable Dishwashers: Portable dishwashers are designed to be moved around easily and can be connected to a sink faucet for water supply. They come in various sizes, from compact models that can fit on a countertop to larger models that can hold up to 12-place settings. Portable dishwashers are ideal for RVs as they can be easily stored away when not in use.

In conclusion, several types of RV portable dishwashers are available in the market, each with unique features and benefits. The choice of a dishwasher will depend on the size of the RV kitchen and the user’s specific needs.

 

What Type of detergent to Use in Portable Dishwasher

When it comes to using a portable dishwasher, it’s important to choose the right detergent to ensure your dishes come out clean and sparkling. Look for a detergent specifically designed for use with dishwashers, as regular dish soap can create too many suds and cause leaks or other issues. Additionally, consider using an eco-friendly detergent free from harsh chemicals to protect your dishes and the environment.

 

 

FAQs

Are Compact dishwashers worth it?

Compact dishwashers are worth it for those who live in small apartments or have limited space in their kitchen. These dishwashers are smaller than standard dishwashers, making them a perfect choice for individuals or families with limited counter space. They are also more energy-efficient and use less water than standard dishwashers, saving you money on utility bills.

One of the advantages of compact dishwashers is that they are very easy to install. They can be easily connected to your kitchen sink, and you don’t need any special plumbing or wiring to get them up and running. Compact dishwashers are also designed to be very user-friendly, with simple controls and easy-to-load racks.

Another advantage of compact dishwashers is that they are very affordable. You can find a good quality compact dishwasher for under $500, much less expensive than a full-sized dishwasher. Additionally, compact dishwashers are available in a variety of styles and colors, so you can choose one that matches your kitchen décor.

While compact dishwashers may not be suitable for larger families or those who entertain frequently, they are worth considering if you need more space in your kitchen. They are efficient, easy to use, and affordable, making them a great option for anyone looking for a convenient way to clean their dishes.

 

Do countertop dishwashers heat the water?

Yes, countertop dishwashers typically heat the water used for washing dishes. The heating element in a countertop dishwasher is responsible for heating the water to a high temperature, which helps to remove food particles and bacteria from dishes. The exact temperature a countertop dishwasher heats the water to can vary depending on the model, but it is typically between 120 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

When using a countertop dishwasher, it is important to ensure that the water entering the machine is hot enough to clean the dishes effectively. Most countertop dishwashers do not have a built-in water heater, so they rely on hot water from the sink to fill the machine. If the water from the sink is hot enough, it can lead to better cleaning results and potentially unsanitary dishes.

In addition to heating the water, countertop dishwashers use detergent and powerful water jets to clean dishes. Some models also have additional features, such as drying cycles or adjustable racks to accommodate different types of dishes.

Overall, a countertop dishwasher can be a great option if you are looking for a convenient and effective way to clean your dishes without having to hand wash them. Ensure you are using hot enough water and following the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal cleaning results.

 

Can you hook up a countertop dishwasher permanently?

Yes, a countertop dishwasher can be hooked up permanently. However, it is important to note that not all countertop dishwashers are designed to be permanently installed. Some models are meant to be portable and require a direct connection to a faucet for water intake.

If you have a countertop dishwasher designed for permanent installation, you must connect it to your home’s plumbing system. This typically involves connecting the dishwasher’s water intake hose to a hot water supply valve under your sink and the drain hose to your sink’s drainpipe or garbage disposal.

Before attempting to install a countertop dishwasher permanently, it is recommended that you consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek the assistance of a licensed plumber. Improper installation can result in leaks, damage to your plumbing system, and even electrical hazards.

In summary, it is possible to hook up a countertop dishwasher permanently if the model is designed for such installation. However, proper installation is crucial and should only be attempted by those with experience or under the guidance of a professional.

 

How do portable dishwashers hook up?

Portable dishwashers are designed to be connected to a kitchen faucet for water supply and drainage. To hook up a portable dishwasher, follow these steps:

1. Clear the area around the kitchen faucet and sink: Move any objects or items from around the sink area to create space for the portable dishwasher.

2. Connect the faucet adapter: Most portable dishwashers have a faucet adapter connecting to the kitchen faucet. Screw the adapter onto the faucet spout and tighten it by hand.

3. Connect the water supply hose: Attach one end of the water supply hose to the faucet adapter and tighten it by hand. The other end of the hose should be connected to the dishwasher’s water inlet valve at the back of the unit.

4. Connect the drainage hose: The drainage hose is usually located near the water inlet valve at the back of the dishwasher. Place one end of the hose into the sink or a bucket, and secure it in place using a hose clamp or duct tape.

5. Test for leaks: Turn on the hot and cold water supply to ensure no leaks in any of the hoses or connections.

6. Plug in and start washing: Once everything is securely connected and tested, plug in your portable dishwasher and start washing your dishes as you would with a built-in dishwasher.

In summary, portable dishwashers hook up to a kitchen faucet using a faucet adapter and water supply hose, while drainage is done through a drainage hose placed into a sink or bucket.

 

Can you plumb in a portable dishwasher?

 Yes, you can plumb in a portable dishwasher for a permanent solution. A water inlet hose is connected with a drain hose and sink faucet in all portable dishwashers that drain into the sink. Permanent plumbing hookups must be made to these pipes to turn a portable dishwasher into an under-the-counter dishwasher.

 

Does a Countertop Dishwasher use a lot of electricity?

When it comes to electricity usage, countertop dishwashers consume varying amounts of energy depending on their size, features, and usage patterns. On average, a countertop dishwasher uses 1000-1500 watts per cycle. This translates to approximately 1-1.5 kWh of electricity per cycle.

In terms of cost, running a countertop dishwasher for one cycle can cost anywhere from $0.10 to $0.20, depending on local electricity rates and other factors.

 

What kind of faucet do you need to hook up a portable Countertop Dishwasher?

To hook up a portable Countertop Dishwasher, you will need a faucet adapter that fits the threading on your faucet. Most portable dishwashers come with a universal adapter that fits most standard faucets, but it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a plumbing professional to ensure you have the correct adapter for your specific faucet.