Living in an apartment without a dedicated laundry room can be challenging, especially when laundromat visits eat into your time and budget. Fortunately, portable washing machines have become the ultimate solution for urban living – compact, efficient, and designed to fit small spaces like studio apartments, dorms, or RVs.
Modern portable washers now rival full-size units in performance, offering digital controls, quiet operation, and water-saving cycles. Many even include built-in spin dryers, meaning you can wash and nearly dry clothes in the same compact machine.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about choosing the right portable washer – from capacity and energy efficiency to the 10 best models available that combine power, portability, and price.
Why Choose a Portable Washing Machine?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Compact Design | Fits under counters or in closets |
| Energy Efficient | Uses less water and electricity |
| Cost Effective | Avoids laundromat fees |
| Plug & Play | Connects to standard faucets |
| Easy Storage | Lightweight and often on wheels |
Whether you live in a small apartment or an RV, these machines offer a practical and eco-friendly solution for daily laundry.
Key Features to Look For
1. Capacity
Measured in cubic feet or pounds, capacity determines how many clothes you can wash per load.
- Up to 1.5 cu. ft (6-8 lbs) – Best for singles.
- 1.6-2.0 cu. ft (9-12 lbs) – Suitable for couples.
- 2.1+ cu. ft (13+ lbs) – Small families.
2. Washer Type
| Type | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Top-Load Automatic | Works like a mini full-size washer | Most users |
| Twin Tub (Washer + Spinner) | Separate compartments for washing & drying | Faster drying |
| Manual/Non-Electric | Hand-crank or pedal-powered | RVs & off-grid homes |
3. Water & Power Hookup
Most connect directly to sink faucets and drain into tubs or buckets. Ensure the hose length suits your space.
4. Spin Speed
Higher spin speeds remove more water, reducing drying time – ideal for small apartments where hang-drying is common.
5. Noise Level
For shared apartments, look for machines under 60 dB – as quiet as normal conversation.
6. Portability
Wheels and handles make a big difference for moving the washer between bathroom and storage closet.
Top 10 Portable Washing Machines Compared
| Model | Type | Price (Amazon) | Capacity | Noise Level | Pros | Cons | Avg. Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER BPWM09W | Fully Automatic | $329 | 0.9 cu. ft | 56 dB | Compact, LED display | Small drum | 4.6/5 |
| Giantex EP23113 | Twin Tub | $199 | 17.6 lbs | 60 dB | Separate spin tub | Manual fill | 4.5/5 |
| COMFEE’ Portable Washer CLV09N1AMG | Automatic | $259 | 0.9 cu. ft | 54 dB | 5 wash programs | Short drain hose | 4.6/5 |
| Panda PAN6320W | Automatic | $369 | 1.6 cu. ft | 58 dB | Large capacity | Slight vibration | 4.7/5 |
| COSTWAY Mini Twin Tub | Twin Tub | $189 | 13.4 lbs | 62 dB | Budget friendly | Manual timer | 4.5/5 |
| Magic Chef MCSTCW16W4 | Automatic | $329 | 1.6 cu. ft | 55 dB | Smooth operation | Slightly heavy | 4.6/5 |
| SUPER DEAL Compact Twin Tub | Twin Tub | $169 | 17.6 lbs | 63 dB | Strong spin cycle | Plastic exterior | 4.5/5 |
| Auertech Twin Tub Washer | Twin Tub | $189 | 20 lbs | 60 dB | Large drum | Manual controls | 4.6/5 |
| Danby DWM030WDB | Fully Automatic | $349 | 0.9 cu. ft | 57 dB | Stainless drum | Limited availability | 4.7/5 |
| RCA RPW210 | Automatic | $299 | 2.1 cu. ft | 59 dB | Big capacity | Slightly louder | 4.6/5 |
Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER BPWM09W Portable Washer
Compact yet powerful, this washer fits small bathrooms or kitchens easily.
Pros: Digital LED display, auto imbalance detection, smooth operation.
Cons: Small capacity for bulky items.
Customer Review: “Perfect for apartment living – quiet and reliable. Fits neatly next to my sink.”
2. Giantex EP23113 Twin Tub
A dual-tub washer ideal for people who want faster drying without electricity-hungry dryers.
Pros: Wash and spin simultaneously, lightweight.
Cons: Manual water fill required.
Customer Review: “Affordable and efficient – washes towels and shirts easily.”
3. COMFEE’ CLV09N1AMG
Compact with five wash programs and three water levels.
Pros: LED control panel, child-lock function, energy efficient.
Cons: Drain hose short for tall sinks.
Customer Review: “It’s smart and quiet. I live in a tiny apartment and it fits perfectly.”
4. Panda PAN6320W
High-end portable washer with large drum capacity.
Pros: Stainless-steel tub, 10 wash programs, durable.
Cons: Slight vibration on full loads.
Customer Review: “Almost as good as a full-size washer – fits queen-size sheets.”
5. COSTWAY Mini Twin Tub
Budget option for those needing simple performance.
Pros: Wash and spin separate, portable, low power use.
Cons: No auto-shutoff.
Customer Review: “Great for quick small loads. Can’t believe how dry the clothes come out.”
6. Magic Chef MCSTCW16W4
Trusted brand known for reliability.
Pros: Compact but roomy, smooth motor, multiple wash cycles.
Cons: Slightly heavier than others.
Customer Review: “I’ve used this weekly for over a year – zero issues and very quiet.”
7. SUPER DEAL Compact Twin Tub
Lightweight, dual-drum washer ideal for RV or dorm life.
Pros: Drains quickly, efficient spin dry, very affordable.
Cons: Plastic housing may scratch.
Customer Review: “Takes only 15 minutes to wash and spin dry. Saves time and money!”
8. Auertech Twin Tub Portable Washer
A large-capacity twin-tub machine for small families.
Pros: Washes large loads, solid build, dual timer controls.
Cons: Manual water input.
Customer Review: “Our family of three uses it daily – very durable!”
9. Danby DWM030WDB
Elegant, compact, and efficient – perfect for one or two people.
Pros: Stainless drum, energy-star rated.
Cons: Occasionally back-orders online.
Customer Review: “Quiet, efficient, and stylish. Worth the investment.”
10. RCA RPW210
One of the largest portable washers available.
Pros: Great for family apartments, fully automatic, excellent rinse performance.
Cons: Slightly louder spin cycle.
Customer Review: “Love the size and simplicity – big enough for blankets.”
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Best Models | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet Operation | COMFEE’, Magic Chef, Panda | Under 60 dB noise |
| Large Capacity | RCA RPW210, Panda, Auertech | Handles bedding |
| Energy Efficiency | Danby, COMFEE’, BLACK+DECKER | Low water and power usage |
| Twin Tub Speed | Giantex, SUPER DEAL, COSTWAY | Wash & spin simultaneously |
| Budget Choice | SUPER DEAL, COSTWAY | Under $200 |
| Best Overall Value | Panda PAN6320W | Balance of size, noise, and performance |
How to Hook Up a Portable Washer
- Connect Inlet Hose: Attach to sink faucet (most include adapters).
- Position Drain Hose: Into sink, bathtub, or floor drain.
- Plug In & Fill Water: For twin tubs, fill manually using buckets or shower hoses.
- Add Detergent: Use high-efficiency (HE) liquid detergent.
- Run Cycle: Choose program and load size.
- Drain & Spin: After washing, transfer to spin side if twin-tub type.
Washing Tips for Best Results
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Use cold or warm water | Protects fabric and saves energy |
| Don’t overload | Ensures even washing |
| Use less detergent | Prevents soap residue |
| Clean lint filter weekly | Maintains spin efficiency |
| Spin twice for heavy fabrics | Reduces drying time |
Noise & Vibration Ratings (in dB)
| Model | Noise Level | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| COMFEE’ | 54 dB | Whisper quiet |
| BLACK+DECKER | 56 dB | Barely noticeable |
| Magic Chef | 55 dB | Smooth balance |
| Panda | 58 dB | Slight vibration at full load |
| RCA | 59 dB | Acceptable for large drum |
Maintenance Tips
- Clean the lint filter after every few loads.
- Run a vinegar rinse once a month to remove mineral buildup.
- Keep the lid open after use to prevent odor.
- Store with hoses drained to avoid mold growth.
- Use anti-vibration mats for tiled floors.
Benefits of Portable Washing Machines
- Space Saving: Fits in bathrooms, kitchens, or closets.
- Water-Efficient: Uses half the water of full-size units.
- Budget Friendly: Saves on laundry service fees.
- Portable: Wheels and handles for easy movement.
- Plug-and-Play Setup: No special plumbing required.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
| Model | Power Usage | Water Use | Energy Star | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panda | 310W | 8.5 L/load | Yes | Excellent |
| Magic Chef | 290W | 9.0 L/load | Yes | Great |
| BLACK+DECKER | 260W | 7.2 L/load | No | Efficient |
| COMFEE’ | 240W | 7.0 L/load | Yes | Top Choice |
| RCA | 340W | 10 L/load | No | Powerful but higher use |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the drum – Reduces cleaning efficiency and stresses the motor.
- Ignoring balance alerts – Leads to excessive vibration.
- Using powdered detergent – Can clog small water lines.
- Leaving wet laundry inside – Promotes mildew.
Choosing the Right Size
| User Type | Recommended Capacity | Example Model |
|---|---|---|
| Single Person | 6-8 lbs | COMFEE’, Danby |
| Couple | 9-12 lbs | Magic Chef, Panda |
| Family (3+) | 13-20 lbs | RCA, Auertech |
User Satisfaction Highlights
Based on user feedback:
- 80% report reduced trips to laundromats.
- 90% say clothes come out nearly dry after spin.
- 75% mention quiet operation suitable for apartments.
- 85% find machines easy to install and store.
Ideal Placement Ideas
- In bathrooms next to the sink.
- In kitchens under counters.
- In closets on rolling stands.
- On balconies with drain access.
Final Recommendations
- Best Overall: Panda PAN6320W – perfect mix of performance, capacity, and reliability.
- Best Budget: SUPER DEAL Compact Twin Tub – unbeatable value under $180.
- Quietest Model: COMFEE’ Portable Washer – nearly silent for apartment use.
- Best for Families: RCA RPW210 – extra capacity for larger households.
- Most Stylish: Danby DWM030WDB – sleek stainless look with great efficiency.
Portable washing machines have evolved into true home essentials for renters and small spaces. Whether you prioritize size, quiet operation, or smart features, there’s a model designed to make laundry effortless – even without a dedicated room.