Portable Dishwasher Type (Countertop Versus Freestanding)
There are two types of portable dishwashers: countertop and freestanding. Freestanding portable dishwashers look like standard dishwashers with interiors often comparable in capacity. Countertop dishwashers, sometimes called mini dishwashers, are much smaller – about the size of a microwave. They’re compact enough to sit on a kitchen counter but offer less capacity. Some compact dishwashers can't accomodate large dishes including larger plates, bowls and cutting boards.
Size and Capacity Differences
Unlike the standard dishwasher size, portable options range from extra compact to comparable to a traditional built-in dishwasher. The bulk of portable dishwashers are 18 or 24 inches wide, although countertop options are typically smaller. In addition to standard measurements, like height, width and depth, you should also consider a portable dishwasher’s capacity. Some portable dishwashers can accommodate up to eight place settings while others offer less capacity.
Color Options
At Lowe’s, portable dishwashers are available in standard appliance colors: stainless steel, black and white. This makes it possible to match your portable dishwasher to existing appliances in the kitchen.
Noise Levels
Some homeowners want their dishwasher to make as little sound as possible. When shopping for any new dishwasher, portable or other, check the appliance’s decibel rating (dBA). The lower the rating, the quieter the dishwasher will be during operation. Because portable dishwashers are typically standalone appliances, instead of built-in to surrounding cabinetry, the sound they produce isn’t dampened by cabinets and walls. Today, most dishwashers have a dBA between 38 and 62. To be considered quiet, a dishwasher’s dBA should fall at or under 52 dBA.
Drying Method
Portable dishwashers are available with a few types of drying methods: air dry, heated dry and condensation dry. Heated dry is the most efficient option, but it requires more energy and it’s not suitable for more gentle dish materials. Condensation dry is the more energy-efficient option, but it may not dry all moisture while taking more time. The most energy-conscious drying method is air dry. However, this option can take several hours and may leave moisture behind. Take drying method into consideration when choosing a portable dishwasher.
Compact Dishwasher Brands
Not all appliance manufacturers offer smaller dishwasher models. Lowe’s offers a few brands of portable dishwashers, also called compact dishwashers. Choose from Whirlpool® portable dishwashers, GE portable dishwashers, BLACK + DECKER™ portable dishwashers and other quality appliance brands.
Portable Dishwasher Pricing
Most portable dishwashers are much cheaper than traditional built-in dishwashers. Because they don’t require professional plumbing installation, you’ll also save money there.
Some of the most affordable small dishwashers, like countertop styles, are available for under $300. Freestanding portable dishwashers tend to be a little more expensive than countertop dishwashers but are still less expensive than most standard dishwashers, which can easily surpass a $1,000 price tag.
Control Panel Style (Hidden Top Versus Visible Front)
Control panels allow you to make cycle selections, including the duration of dishwashing cycle, water temperature and more. A portable dishwasher’s control panel is designed either on the top of the unit or on the front.
Portable dishwashers with front control panels are fully visible while those with top control panels are hidden from view.
Dishwasher Cycles
Portable dishwashers can feature a variety of wash cycle types. A few popular options include:
• High temperature wash
Adjustable Upper Racks
Some portable dishwashers feature adjustable upper racks, a handy feature when washing oversized platters, cutting boards and other large items. Adjustable upper racks can be moved up and down creating more clearance for either the top rack or the bottom rack of a dishwasher.
Energy Efficiency
Like typical dishwashers, some portable dishwashers are ENERGY STAR® certified. These appliances use less water and energy compared to other models. For more information on this certification, check out ENERGY STAR®’s dishwasher information.
Once you’ve chosen a portable dishwasher, leave the rest to us. Lowe’s offers appliance delivery and haul away of old appliances. For more information on those services, check out our appliance delivery, installation and haul away page.