7 Surprising Places to Use a Portable Dishwasher

A portable dishwasher works similarly to a traditional dishwasher  ̶  it runs cycles to clean and dry dishes automatically, eliminating the need for hand washing. Not all portable dishwashers are designed with the same features as a built-in dishwasher, but they provide enough efficiency to warrant them being useful in a variety of settings.

Unlike traditional dishwashers that require installation to a home’s plumbing system, portable dishwashers utilize water from a sink hookup or a built-in water tank. Portable dishwashers come in a range of sizes, from compact 16-inch options to standard dishwasher sizes, which are 24 inches wide.

Portable dishwashers, also called standalone dishwashers or freestanding dishwashers, can be used anywhere with sink access. These dishwashers are ideal for rental homes, tiny homes or other locations that don’t provide access to a built-in dishwasher. Because some compact dishwashers are designed on wheels for portability, they’re easily transferred to a new location. Below are a few examples of ideal locations for a portable dishwasher. 

The notion of tiny living is increasingly popular as homeowners seek affordable housing. Tiny homes offer far less space than traditional homes, but they can feature the luxuries many homeowners are accustomed to. A portable dishwasher is a great idea for a tiny home. Some tiny home dwellers may go dishwasher-free at first, deciding later that they miss having a dishwasher. A portable dishwasher, whether countertop or freestanding, is the perfect solution.

Outdoor kitchens, which range from basic to luxurious, make entertaining more enjoyable and instantly add to the resale value of a home. A portable dishwasher makes a practical addition to any outdoor kitchen, making it more utilitarian. With a portable dishwasher, you won’t have to worry about bringing dirty dishes inside during an outdoor get-together or BBQ.

Have a dorm room kitchenette without a working dishwasher? A portable dishwasher can simplify mealtimes for busy college students. It also helps cut down on the costs of campus dining and eating out at restaurants. 

A guest cottage, with or without a kitchenette, might not feature a dishwasher. In some cases, a dishwasher may not be necessary. But if you decide to rent out your guest home or welcome guests more regularly, you might want to consider adding a dishwasher. 

Some luxury RVs are designed with built-in dishwashers. If not, invest in a portable dishwasher to simplify life on the road. In this case, you’ll need to supply power to the appliance with the help of a battery and inverter or a generator. If you’re RVing with a group, investing in a portable dishwasher is likely worth the cost and setup effort. Less time hand washing dishes equals more time exploring.

Just because you’re renting a home or apartment doesn’t mean you have to do without appliances that make life a little easier. Whether you’re renting for a few months or several years, a portable dishwasher is a practical appliance that can make kitchen cleanup easier. Because many portable dishwashers are designed on wheels, you can easily move your appliance to your next rental, so your investment won’t go to waste.

One of the difficulties of a kitchen renovation is the inability to utilize one of the most used spaces in a home. A portable dishwasher on wheels can be a practical addition while renovating your home. All you need is access to an electrical outlet and a water source. A portable dishwasher is a great way to ease the burden of a long-term kitchen renovation.

When choosing a portable dishwasher, you’ll see two different variations: countertop and freestanding. Countertop dishwashers are designed with size in mind and are compact enough to fit on a kitchen counter. Some countertop dishwashers are designed with built-in water tanks, eliminating the need for a water hookup. These appliances are ideal for spaces that do not have a faucet close by.

Freestanding dishwashers take up floor space, as opposed to counter space, and are designed with wheels that make it easier to move them around.