Tired of hauling heavy laundry baskets to the laundromat? Do you dream of washing a few clothes right in your tiny apartment? Many people face this exact problem. Small living spaces mean big challenges for laundry day.
Choosing the perfect small washing machine can feel overwhelming. You worry about size, cleaning power, and if it will actually fit in your kitchen nook or bathroom. Will it handle your delicates well? Can it manage a small load of towels without shaking the whole floor? These are real concerns when space is limited.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most in a compact washer. You will learn how to match a machine to your specific needs, saving you time and money. Stop guessing and start washing efficiently!
Let’s dive into the world of compact cleaning power and find the best small washing machine for your home.
Top Small Washing Machine Recommendations
No. 1
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer, 6.6 lb. Capacity Washing Machine for Homes & Apartments, 5 Wash Cycles, Quick Connect Sink Adapter and Drain Hose Included, Transparent Lid, BPWM09W, White
- Multiple Wash Cycles: Wash your laundry at home with this Black and Decker portable washer. Our portable clothes washer has 5 cycle selections: Heavy, Gentle, Normal, Rapid, and Soak.
- Cold Water Wash Only: This portable washing machine offers 3 water level choices for small, medium, and large loads up to 6.6 lbs. capacity for cold water only temperature settings.
- Stainless Steel Tub: Our 0.9 cu. ft. portable laundry machine features a durable, rust and corrosion-resistant stainless steel wash tub with top loading transparent quiet-close lid to view contents.
- Safety Features: Our small washing machine features auto unbalance detection to ensure laundry is cleaned at peak performance, as well as auto shutoff safety features and child lock protection.
- Portable Convenience: Connect and disconnect this apartment washing machine with ease and transport from kitchen or bathroom to storage closet on two roller wheels with side handles when its needed.
No. 2
Comfee Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer With LED Display, 5 Wash Cycles, 2 Built-in Rollers, Space Saving Full-Automatic Washer
- The full-automatic washing machine equipped with Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid, and Soak 5 programs and 3 water levels, you are allowed to quickly start the machine the way you like. You are also welcomed to customize your washing program by selecting load size, adding addiwash time, rinse time, and spin time.
- This top load compact washing machine with the only 18.1inch in width, 17.7inch in-depth, and 31.5inch in height, this portable washer is able to be stored easily. You can store it in your cabinet, RV, dorm, or even bathtub! Even better, it comes with wheels and carries handles for easy movement. It is a perfect choice for small households with limited space and minimal laundry loads.
- With the transparent lid design, this washing machine allows you to see and monitor the water and washing conditions. Featuring a durable rust-resistant steel inner tub, lint filter, water inlet and drain pump which allows you to easily drain out dirty water. Also, this portable laundry washing machine has an LED display that shows the time left to finish.
- This compact design washing machine has DOE (Department of Energy) certificate that clearly shows how much energy would be consumed on national average conditions. Saving as much as 87.5% energy consumption comparing to similar models. It equips with a powerful and durable motor, up to 840 RPM spin speed but quiet when running.
- Unbalance could be a very serious issue for washing machines. It could cause washing machine to "dance on the floow", or even worse, to unleash itself from the water inlet, leaking everywhere. Equipped with Auto Unbalance Detection (AUD) , however, it's able to automatically fix the unbalance issue through allowing more water to come in. It will also alert the user if the problem can't be fixed, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience.
No. 3
Portable Washing Machine, 16L Foldable & Lightweight, 3 Cleaning Modes, Compact Laundry, No Installation & Easy to Use for Travel, RV, Small Apartment & Dorm Room
- Ultra-Lightweight 16L Portable Washer: Weighing just 3.9 lbs, this 16L large capacity portable washer is ultra-easy to carry and designed for on-the-go laundry needs. Its slim, compact profile fits seamlessly into backpacks, making it the perfect companion for camping trips, dorm living, weekend road trips, and RV travels. Whether you’re a student needing a small portable washer for dorms or a frequent traveler looking for a travel-friendly compact washing machine, this lightweight solution solves your on-the-go laundry troubles.
- 3 Wash Modes& Upgraded Powerful Motor: Equipped with an upgraded powerful motor, this portable washing machine delivers strong yet gentle agitation to effectively remove tough stains—while protecting delicate fabrics like silk and baby clothes. It offers 3 precise timer settings to meet different needs: 3 mins for quick rinses, 5 mins for delicate items, and 10 mins for heavy-duty cleaning. This balanced design ensures both deep stain removal and fabric care, making it an ideal portable washer for delicate clothes and everyday laundry alike.
- Compact & Foldable (11.9x11.9x6”) Space-Saving Design: This small washing machine features a foldable design that shrinks to half its expanded size when not in use, enabling easy storage under beds, in closets, or cabinet gaps. As a space-saving portable washer, it fits perfectly in small apartments, dorms, RVs, and hotel rooms—ideal for anyone living in limited space who still wants the convenience of a washing machine.
- Whisper-Quiet Operation (45 dB) for Shared Spaces: Operates at a low 45 dB (equivalent to a quiet library), this 16L portable washing machine is ultra-quiet, making it suitable for shared living spaces like apartments, dorms, and hotels. You can do laundry anytime—day or night—without disturbing roommates, neighbors, or family members, delivering quiet convenience for daily use as an apartment-friendly compact washer.
- No Installation Required & User-Friendly for All Ages: This 16L portable washer requires no complex installation: just add water, detergent, and clothes to start washing—perfect for those who hate tedious setup. Its user-friendly design makes it suitable for all ages, whether you’re using it as a camping portable washer or a small travel washing machine.
No. 4
Portable Washing Machine,15L Collapsible Mini Washer with 3 Cleaning Modes Drain Basket Small Foldable Laundry Machine for Travel Camping Dorms RVs Apartments Baby Clothes Underwear Socks Delicates
- 15 L Compact Size: Designed for efficient small-volume laundry, 15L mini washing machine can wash multiple pieces of clothing at once, especially for delicate fabrics; the powerful motor produces strong vortexes to deep clean clothes and make them look brand new; can be connected to the kitchen faucet or sink for easy filling and draining
- Convenient and Foldable: Introducing the ultimate portable washing machine for small spaces and busy lifestyles! The lightweight body with folding structure adopts a stylish design, providing complete washing in a compact device, is very suitable for travel, camping, RV travel or small spaces such as apartments, dormitories, and hotels; the external handle is convenient for carrying, and it is easy to store after folding, which does not take up space
- Washer and Dryer 2 In 1: Foldable washing machine can not only wash clothes, but also the equipped drain basket can help remove most of the moisture from the clothes after washing and speed up the drying of clothes; after washing clothes, drain the water in the washing machine, install the drain basket on the buckle at the bottom of the washing machine, put the clothes in the basket, select the time mode, and it can be rotated to drain; do not use the drain basket when washing clothes
- Easy Operation: Mini washing machine is equipped with an intuitive one-touch control panel, which makes washing simple and convenient; equipped with 3-minute, 5-minute and 10-minute timer buttons, just press the button to start the washing program; whether you are a busy office worker, an elderly person not familiar with electronic products, or a first-time user, this portable washer can make washing easy and worry-free
- Durable Material: Made of excellent TPE and food-grade silicone materials, portable washer machine is durable and safe for daily use; designed for washing delicate clothes such as underwear, socks, and baby clothes, provides a gentle and efficient washing experience; blue light deep washing protection can improve cleanliness and promote healthy living
No. 5
Auertech Portable Washing Machine, 28lbs Twin Tub Washer Mini Compact Laundry Machine with Drain Pump, Semi-automatic 18lbs Washer 10lbs Spinner Combo for Dorms, Apartments, RVs
- [Large Capacity Twin tub Washer] Auertech portable mini washer has two separate tubs, washing tub and spin tub, allowing you to wash and dry clothes at the same time. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to fit in bathrooms or closets. Perfect for dorms, apartments, RVs, etc. Note: There is water in the washing machine because it is tested before packaging, we do not sell used products!
- [Powerful Performance] Equipped with a 1300 rpm powerful motor, clothes can be washed quickly and efficiently. Washer capacity: 18lbs, Spin capacity: 10lbs. Recommended maximum water line: 13.5 inches. The transparent window allows you to see the process of washing or spinning. Our mini washer machine can achieve low consumption and save water, while free your hands.
- [Equip with Drain Pump & Adjustable Inlet Hose] This portable washing machine equipped with a drainage pump. You can choose freely drain water to a higher position or a convenient place randomly. You never need to worry about the drainage problem.
- [Separate Time Control & Lint Filter]Users can control washing time, washing mode and spinning time through the three control switches on the panel. There is two water inlets on the panel for connecting the hose to easily add water. With the simple control panel, this mini washer is easy to operate and you can get clean clothes in three steps.
- [Product Usage Tips] 1. Don't overload. Overload may cause the motor to turn on overheating protection. 2. Balance the spinner to prevent it from losing balance, hitting the inner walls, stopping work. 3. If the machine doesn’t drain, check that the water hose is not clogged or bent, which may prevent the spinner from working properly. 4. Make sure the drain height is less than 45 inches.
No. 6
COMFEE’ 1.6 Cu.ft Portable Washing Machine, 11lbs Capacity Fully Automatic Compact Washer with Wheels, 6 Wash Programs Laundry Drain Pump, Ideal for Apartments, RV, Camping, Magnetic Gray
- Easy to Use: - This portable washing machine has 6 most commonly used programs including Normal, Quick, Heavy, Bulky, Delicate, and Spin Only. You are allowed to quickly start the machine the way you like. You can also add extra rinse time by pressing the “Extra Rinse” button. The washer also has 3 water temperatures, meet your different laundry needs. And it comes with a clear lid that allows you to look over the status of clothing at any time.
- Space saving: - With only 20.7inch in width, 20.3inch in-depth, and 36.6inch in height, this compact washer is able to be stored easily. Fits in your room/RV/dormitory nicely. The large capacity of 1.6cu.ft top load washer can hold 11lbs of cloth. It equips with a stainless steel inner tub which lasts longer.
- Extremely Energy Saving: - This washing machine equips with high quality and durable motor, providing stable power. Saving as much as 84% energy consumption comparing to similar models, our washing machine is able to save money for your household.
- Child Lock: - COMFEE' full-automatic washer care about your family. Child Lock feature allows you to freeze the control panel to make sure everything goes right. Simply press and hold the “Temp” and “Program” button together for 3 seconds and the control panel will no longer respond unless the press and hold again.
- Delay Start & Reloading Feature: - “Delay Start” function could save a big hassle for you. Simply throw your laundry in, and set a time when you want it to start, avoiding the headache of having to wash them all over again because of the smell. No need to power off and restart the machine if anything lost behind. Long press "Start/Pause" button for 3 seconds, you can have your laundry added before the main washing cycle finishes. Standard Cycles: 6
No. 7
BLACK+DECKER Small Portable Washer, Washing Machine for Household Use, Portable Washer 2.0 Cu. Ft. with 6 Cycles, Transparent Lid & LED Display
- 15.4 LBS. OF LAUNDRY PER LOAD—Wash up to 15.4 lbs. of laundry per load with this superior BLACK+DECKER best portable washer. Our portable clothes washer (21.6” x 22.2” x 37.4”) has 6 cycle selections—Normal, Heavy, Delicate, Quick, Bulky, and Spin Only. Even suitable for baby clothes, diapers, and lingerie.
- IMPRESSIVE FUNCTIONALITY—With your new washer machine (79.4 lbs.) you have 3 water level choices for small, medium, and large loads as well as Hot, Warm, and Cold temperature settings. You can even select Delay Start up to 24 hours.
- STAINLESS STEEL TUB— This 2.0 cu. ft. portable washing machine features a durable, rust and corrosion-resistant stainless steel tub with top loading transparent quiet close lid. See your clothes cleaned in real time with our outstanding impeller washer!
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES—There’s a lot going on with our amazing washing machine, including auto unbalance detection to ensure your laundry is being cleaned at peak performance as well as auto shutoff safety features and child lock protection.
- DESIGNED FOR MOBILITY— This fantastic portable clothes washer machine can be transported from room to room thanks to two rollers, two side handles, and adjustable leveling legs. Also included with our compact washer is a quick connect adaptor, water supply hose, and drain hose.
No. 8
Giantex Portable Washing Machine, Mini Washer and Spinner Combo, 5.5lbs Washing Capacity, Semi-automatic Compact Laundry Machine for Apartment Dorm RV
- 『2 in-1 Function with Single Tub』: Featuring a single tub design, the washing machine combines spinning function and washing function into one for saving energy. Smart 2-in-1 design can well suit your various laundry needs and help you get the job done more efficiently.
- 『Sufficient Washing Capacity & Powerful Motor』: There is 5.5lbs washing capacity to facilitate laundry for household use, which can accommodate a variety of clothes at one time. 170W powerful motor meets the performance requirements for daily use. A powerful turbine offers high-efficient swirl washing to your clothes and save time as well.
- 『Easy Operation & Drainage』: The washing machine comes with 10 minutes washing time and 5 minutes spinning time which are operated by rotating control timer. Just simply put in your dirty clothes, then fill with water, and set the timer, finally start washing. The drain hose is available to empty the water directly after washing so as to keep your floor clean.
- 『Compact & Lightweight Laundry Washer』: With the compact size of 14” x 13.5” x 20”, this washing machine is an ideal choice for limited space, such as apartment, dormitory and RV’s etc. Moreover, the whole machine weighs only 11lbs, making it easier to transport anywhere as needed.
- 『Various Kinds of Intimate Details』: The translucent washer lid allows you to check the process of clothes at any time. Durable plastic material prevents the washing machine from rusting in wet environment. Non-slip foot pads enhance stability on uneven ground. Moreover, there is no installation need.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Small Washing Machines
Finding the right small washing machine can feel tricky. These compact helpers are perfect for apartments, RVs, or small homes. This guide shows you what to look for so you bring home the best machine for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Smart features make washing clothes easier. Pay close attention to these essentials:
Capacity and Size
- Capacity (Weight): Small washers usually hold between 1.5 kg to 5 kg of dry laundry. A single person might need 2 kg. A couple might want 3-4 kg. Bigger capacity means fewer loads, but the machine takes up more space.
- Footprint: Measure the space where the machine will sit. Look at the height, width, and depth. Make sure you have room to open the lid or door.
Washing Mechanisms
- Spinner/Spin Cycle: This is very important. A good spin cycle removes more water. This means your clothes dry faster. Look for machines with higher RPM (revolutions per minute) for better drying.
- Agitator vs. Pulsator: Some small washers use a central agitator (like a stick) to move clothes. Others use a bottom plate (pulsator). Pulsator models often treat clothes more gently.
Convenience Features
- Timer Settings: You want flexible timers for different fabrics. Delicate items need short, gentle cycles.
- Portability: If you plan to move the machine often (like in an RV), look for models with built-in wheels or handles.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long your washer lasts and how well it cleans.
Tub Material
- Plastic Tubs: Most small washers use plastic tubs. High-quality, thick plastic resists cracking and rust. This is a big plus.
- Stainless Steel Tubs: These are rare in the smallest models but offer the best durability and are easier to keep clean.
Body Casing
Look for a sturdy outer casing. Metal casings often last longer than thin plastic ones, although metal can sometimes add weight.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a small washer great, and what makes it frustrating?
Quality Boosters
- Quiet Operation: A machine that vibrates loudly when spinning is annoying. Check reviews for noise complaints.
- Water Efficiency: Better machines use less water per load. This saves money and is better for the environment.
- Strong Motor: A reliable motor handles heavier loads without overheating.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Hoses: Cheap inlet or drain hoses can crack or leak over time. Inspect these connections if possible.
- Overly Simple Controls: While simplicity is good, controls that only offer “Wash” and “Rinse” might not clean all fabric types correctly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use your new washer.
Apartment Living
If you live in a small apartment, you need a machine that drains easily. Check if the drain hose can hang securely over a sink or into a bathtub without slipping.
Camping and RVs
For travel, portability is king. Look for lightweight, top-loading, twin-tub models. These often have separate compartments for washing and spinning, which saves time.
Baby Clothes and Delicates
Small washers are fantastic for small, frequent loads, like baby clothes or workout gear. Use the gentle cycle setting for these items. The small drum size often means clothes rub against each other less aggressively.
Small Washing Machine Buying FAQs
Q: What is the typical size of a small washing machine?
A: Small washers usually measure between 14 to 20 inches wide. They fit easily beside a toilet or tucked into a small closet.
Q: Can I connect a small washer to a standard kitchen sink?
A: Yes, most portable models come with a universal adapter. This adapter fits onto your faucet, allowing you to fill the machine with water and drain it into the sink.
Q: Are small washers energy efficient?
A: Generally, yes. Because they use less water and run for shorter cycles than full-sized machines, they consume less electricity per load.
Q: Do small washers really get clothes clean?
A: They clean very well for light to medium soil levels. Heavily soiled items might need pre-soaking or a second short cycle.
Q: What is a “twin tub” washer?
A: A twin tub has two separate compartments. One side washes and rinses, and the other side is a dedicated spinner to remove excess water.
Q: How long does a wash cycle usually take?
A: A full wash, rinse, and spin cycle on a small machine often takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the settings you choose.
Q: Should I buy a fully automatic or semi-automatic model?
A: Fully automatic machines handle all steps (wash, drain, rinse, spin) by themselves. Semi-automatic models require you to manually move clothes from the wash tub to the spin tub.
Q: Can I use regular laundry detergent?
A: You can, but high-efficiency (HE) detergent is usually recommended, especially for front-loading compact models, as it creates fewer suds.
Q: What should I do if my small washer vibrates too much?
A: Check that the machine is sitting on a perfectly level floor. Also, ensure the load inside is balanced. Unevenly distributed wet clothes cause the most vibration.
Q: Is it hard to set up a portable washer?
A: No, setup is usually very easy. You typically just connect the inlet hose to the faucet and position the drain hose. No permanent plumbing is required.