Top Compact Dishwashers for Tiny Kitchens in 2025

11 min read

Let’s dive into the world of compact dishwashers—those tiny, mighty machines that make life in small kitchens a whole lot easier. As someone who relocated from the Bay Area to Nashville, I’ve had my fair share of apartment hunting and tiny kitchen struggles. Trust me, I know the pain of washing dishes by hand in a cramped space. But fear not! Compact dishwashers are here to save the day, and I’m going to walk you through the best options out there.

If you’re living in a small apartment or have a tiny kitchen, you know that every inch of space counts. A compact dishwasher can be a game-changer, freeing up counter space and making your life a lot easier. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where I come in. I’ve done the research, so you don’t have to. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a compact dishwasher and which models are worth your hard-earned cash.

So, let’s get started!

Why Choose a Compact Dishwasher?

Before we dive into the best compact dishwashers on the market, let’s talk about why you might want one in the first place. For starters, compact dishwashers are designed to fit in small spaces. They’re typically 18 inches wide, making them perfect for tiny kitchens, apartments, or even RVs. But don’t let their small size fool you—these machines can still pack a punch when it comes to cleaning power.

Another big advantage of compact dishwashers is their energy efficiency. Because they’re smaller, they use less water and electricity than full-sized models. That means lower utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint. Plus, with a compact dishwasher, you won’t have to worry about washing dishes by hand—which, let’s face it, is never fun.

What to Look for in a Compact Dishwasher

When you’re shopping for a compact dishwasher, there are a few key features to keep in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the size and capacity. Make sure the dishwasher will fit in your kitchen and that it can handle the number of dishes you typically use. You’ll find many options in the 18-inch width range, many of which offer a surprising amount of interior space.

Next, think about the wash cycles and features. Look for a model that offers a variety of cycles, so you can choose the right one for your dishes. Some compact dishwashers even come with special features like sanitize cycles or delay start options. And don’t forget about energy efficiency—look for models with the ENERGY STAR rating to save on utility costs.

Finally, consider the noise level. If you live in a small apartment, a loud dishwasher can be a real pain. Look for models with quiet operation, so you can run the dishwasher without disrupting your daily life. Maybe I should clarify, though—even the quietest dishwashers make some noise, so expect a bit of humming.

Top Compact Dishwashers of 2025

Best Overall: Bosch 300 Series 18” Compact Dishwasher

The Bosch 300 Series is my top pick for the best overall compact dishwasher. This model offers a great balance of features, performance, and price. It’s 18 inches wide, making it perfect for small kitchens, and it can hold up to 10 place settings—impressive for a compact model. But what really sets the Bosch 300 Series apart is its cleaning power. This dishwasher has a unique wash system that delivers excellent results, even on tough stains.

The Bosch 300 Series also comes with a variety of wash cycles, including a sanitize option that kills 99.9% of bacteria. And with its ENERGY STAR rating, you can feel good about saving energy and water. Plus, it’s incredibly quiet, with a noise level of just 46 dBA. That’s quieter than a normal conversation!

Best Budget Pick: Danby 18” Portable Dishwasher

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Danby 18” Portable Dishwasher is a great choice. This model is compact and easy to move around, making it perfect for small apartments or even RVs. It can hold up to 8 place settings, which is pretty impressive for a portable model.

The Danby dishwasher comes with 6 wash cycles, including a soak cycle for tough stains. It’s also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And while it’s not the quietest model on the market, it’s still reasonably quiet at 52 dBA. I’m torn between the Bosch and the Danby, but ultimately, if you’re on a tight budget, the Danby is a solid choice.

Best for Small Families: EdgeStar 18” Built-In Dishwasher

For small families, the EdgeStar 18” Built-In Dishwasher is a fantastic option. This model can hold up to 8 place settings, making it perfect for a family of three or four. It comes with 6 wash cycles, including a heavy wash cycle for tough stains and a speed wash cycle for quick cleanups.

The EdgeStar dishwasher is also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And at 52 dBA, it’s reasonably quiet. One of the things I love about this model is its sleek stainless steel interior, which not only looks great but also helps with drying. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the features—it’s a solid all-around performer.

Best for Energy Efficiency: Blomberg 18” Compact Dishwasher

If energy efficiency is your top priority, the Blomberg 18” Compact Dishwasher is the way to go. This model is incredibly energy-efficient, using just 2.7 gallons of water per cycle. That’s less than half the amount used by some full-sized dishwashers!

The Blomberg dishwasher comes with 8 wash cycles, including a half load option for even more energy savings. It’s also very quiet, with a noise level of just 47 dBA. And with its sleek stainless steel interior, it looks great too. This model is a bit more expensive than some others on the list, but if you’re looking to save on utility costs in the long run, it’s definitely worth considering.

Best for Quiet Operation: Fisher Paykel 18” DishDrawer Dishwasher

For those who value quiet operation above all else, the Fisher Paykel 18” DishDrawer Dishwasher is a standout choice. This model is incredibly quiet, with a noise level of just 45 dBA. That’s quieter than a library!

The Fisher Paykel dishwasher comes with 6 wash cycles, including a sanitize option. It’s also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. One unique feature of this model is its drawer design, which allows you to run two separate wash cycles at the same time. That means you can wash delicate items on the top drawer while running a heavy wash cycle on the bottom drawer. It’s a bit pricey, but if quiet operation is a must, it’s worth the investment.

Best for Portability: SPT 18” Countertop Dishwasher

If you need a dishwasher that’s easy to move around, the SPT 18” Countertop Dishwasher is a great option. This model is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for small apartments, RVs, or even boats. It can hold up to 6 place settings, which is pretty impressive for a countertop model.

The SPT dishwasher comes with 6 wash cycles, including a speed wash cycle for quick cleanups. It’s also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And while it’s not the quietest model on the market, it’s still reasonably quiet at 55 dBA. If you’re looking for a dishwasher that you can take with you wherever you go, the SPT is a solid choice.

Best for Heavy-Duty Cleaning: Miele 18” Compact Dishwasher

For those who need a dishwasher that can handle tough stains, the Miele 18” Compact Dishwasher is a fantastic option. This model comes with a unique wash system that delivers excellent cleaning power, even on the toughest stains. It can hold up to 10 place settings, making it perfect for small families or entertaining.

The Miele dishwasher comes with 5 wash cycles, including a sanitize option. It’s also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And at 46 dBA, it’s incredibly quiet. This model is a bit more expensive than some others on the list, but if you need a dishwasher that can handle heavy-duty cleaning, it’s definitely worth the investment.

Best for Smart Features: GE 18” Compact Dishwasher

If you’re looking for a dishwasher with smart features, the GE 18” Compact Dishwasher is a great choice. This model comes with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to control it from your smartphone. You can start a wash cycle, check the status, or even order more detergent, all from the app.

The GE dishwasher comes with 5 wash cycles, including a sanitize option. It’s also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And at 48 dBA, it’s reasonably quiet. One of the things I love about this model is its sleek design, which looks great in any kitchen. If you’re a tech enthusiast, the GE dishwasher is definitely worth considering.

Best for Quick Wash Cycles: Whirlpool 18” Compact Dishwasher

For those who need a dishwasher that can handle quick cleanups, the Whirlpool 18” Compact Dishwasher is a fantastic option. This model comes with a speed wash cycle that can clean a full load of dishes in just 1 hour. That’s perfect for when you’re in a rush or have unexpected guests.

The Whirlpool dishwasher comes with 3 wash cycles, including a heavy wash cycle for tough stains. It’s also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And at 51 dBA, it’s reasonably quiet. This model is a bit more basic than some others on the list, but if you need a dishwasher that can handle quick wash cycles, it’s a great choice.

Best for Customization: KitchenAid 18” Compact Dishwasher

If you’re looking for a dishwasher that you can customize to your needs, the KitchenAid 18” Compact Dishwasher is a standout choice. This model comes with a variety of wash cycles and options, allowing you to tailor each wash to your specific needs. You can adjust the temperature, the wash intensity, and even the drying time.

The KitchenAid dishwasher is also energy-efficient, with an ENERGY STAR rating. And at 46 dBA, it’s incredibly quiet. One of the things I love about this model is its sleek design, which looks great in any kitchen. If you’re someone who likes to have control over every aspect of your dishwashing, the KitchenAid is definitely worth considering.

Where to Buy Compact Dishwashers

When it comes to buying a compact dishwasher, you have a few options. You can buy directly from the manufacturer, or you can purchase from a retailer. If you’re looking for the best deals, I recommend checking out Chef’s Deal. They offer a wide range of commercial kitchen equipment, including compact dishwashers, at competitive prices.

Another option is to buy from a local appliance store. This can be a good choice if you want to see the dishwasher in person before you buy. However, keep in mind that local stores may not have as wide a selection as online retailers.

Tips for Using a Compact Dishwasher

Once you’ve chosen the perfect compact dishwasher for your tiny kitchen, there are a few tips to keep in mind to get the most out of it. First, make sure you’re loading the dishwasher correctly. Overloading can lead to poor cleaning results, so make sure you’re following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Next, use the right detergent. Compact dishwashers typically require a specific type of detergent, so make sure you’re using the right one. And don’t forget to run the dishwasher regularly. Even if you don’t have a full load, it’s better to run a half load than to let dishes sit for too long.

Finally, consider using a rinse aid. Rinse aids help to remove water spots and improve drying results. Many compact dishwashers come with a rinse aid dispenser, so make sure you’re taking advantage of this feature.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to the best compact dishwashers for tiny kitchens. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, a model with smart features, or a dishwasher that can handle heavy-duty cleaning, there’s a compact dishwasher out there that’s perfect for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Say goodbye to washing dishes by hand and hello to the convenience of a compact dishwasher. Your tiny kitchen (and your hands) will thank you!

FAQ

Q: What is the best compact dishwasher for a small apartment?
A: The best compact dishwasher for a small apartment is the Bosch 300 Series 18” Compact Dishwasher. It offers a great balance of features, performance, and price, making it perfect for small spaces.

Q: How much does a compact dishwasher cost?
A: The cost of a compact dishwasher can vary depending on the brand and features. You can find budget-friendly options for around $400, while high-end models can cost upwards of $1,000.

Q: Are compact dishwashers energy-efficient?
A: Yes, compact dishwashers are typically very energy-efficient. Many models come with an ENERGY STAR rating, which means they use less water and electricity than standard dishwashers.

Q: Can I install a compact dishwasher myself?
A: It depends on the model and your comfort level with DIY projects. Some compact dishwashers are designed for easy installation, while others may require professional help. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional if you’re unsure.

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@article{top-compact-dishwashers-for-tiny-kitchens-in-2025,
    title   = {Top Compact Dishwashers for Tiny Kitchens in 2025},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/top-compact-dishwashers-for-tiny-kitchens/}
}

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