Tired of frequent trips to the laundromat? A portable washing machine could be your solution, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to do laundry at home or on the go. Whether you opt for a manual machine that requires some elbow grease, a semi-automatic model that handles most of the work for you, or a fully automatic version that mirrors the functionality of a standard washer, there’s a portable washing machine to meet your needs.
We’ve researched and reviewed the best portable washing machines across all categories, evaluating them based on ease of use, efficiency, wash cycles, power source, and overall effectiveness.
“Using a portable washing machine doesn’t have to mean compromising,” says Jawad Ahmed, a laundry merchant at The Home Depot. “Despite their smaller load capacities, these compact washers offer deep cleaning capabilities, saving water and energy while delivering the same outstanding performance as regular-sized washers.”
With this in mind, we’ve identified the top portable washing machines that pack enough cleaning power to handle everything from your clothes to linens and other household fabrics.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Black+Decker Small Portable Washer
Price: $242 at Amazon, Wayfair, and Home Depot
Pros:
- Multiple wash cycle settings
- Powerful spin cycle
- Delayed start and child lock features
- Lightweight and easy to move
Cons:
- Only cold water recommended by the manufacturer
The Black+Decker Small Portable Washer stands out as the best overall choice due to its impressive features and performance. This compact washer offers a 0.9-cubic-foot capacity and includes a digital control panel with options like delay wash, child lock, and a viewing window to monitor the washing process.
Although it has a relatively small drum that holds about 3.5 pounds of laundry—roughly equivalent to a pair of medium jeans, a medium sweatshirt, and two XL T-shirts—its powerful spin cycle, reaching up to 983 RPM, ensures your clothes come out nearly dry, reducing drying time significantly. The machine offers five wash settings, including heavy, gentle, normal, rapid, and soak, allowing you to tailor the wash according to the load size.
If you can work with the smaller drum capacity and prefer cold water washes (as recommended by the manufacturer), the Black+Decker BPWM09W is an energy-efficient option, costing only about $3 annually to operate. Its portability is enhanced by two rear caster wheels, making it easy to move around, and its 48-pound weight is manageable compared to other models.
Type: Automatic | Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet | Weight: 48.4 pounds | Cycles: 5
Best Value: Auertech Portable Washing Machine
Price: $110 at Amazon
Pros:
- Timer settings for wash and spin cycles
- Adjustable agitation for delicates
- Leaves clothes damp-dry
Cons:
- Short drain hose
For those seeking the best value, the Auertech Portable Washing Machine is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features. This semi-automatic model plugs into a standard 120V outlet and includes two tubs—one for washing and one for spinning. Although you need to manually transfer clothes between tubs, the process is straightforward.
Equipped with a 1,300 RPM motor, this washer efficiently spins clothes until they are damp-dry, comparable to more expensive models. With adjustable agitation settings and separate timers for wash and spin cycles, you can customize your laundry routine to suit delicate fabrics or more robust items.
While the drain hose is relatively short, requiring careful placement near a suitable drain, the machine’s lightweight design (22 pounds) makes it easy to transport. The wash tub can handle up to 9 pounds of clothes, and the spin tub holds up to 5 pounds, offering more capacity than our best overall pick.
Type: Semi-automatic | Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 22 pounds | Cycles: 2
Best Splurge: Whirlpool Compact Top Load Washer
Price: $1,049 at Home Depot, $999 at Lowe’s
Pros:
- Permanent or portable installation options
- Viewing window and digital timer
- Detergent dispenser
Cons:
- Average capacity
If you’re willing to invest in a high-end portable washing machine, the Whirlpool Compact Top Load Washer is an excellent choice. This model resembles a conventional top-loading washer but with a smaller footprint and enhanced portability. It offers six wash cycles, a detergent dispenser, and a stainless steel drum that resists corrosion and gently handles your clothes.
Despite its higher price, the Whirlpool washer is known for its ease of use and reliability. The 1.6-cubic-foot drum is spacious enough to handle about 4 pounds of laundry per load, making it suitable for small households. Its caster wheels allow for easy mobility, and it can be installed permanently or used as a portable unit. The main drawback is its average capacity, but this is offset by its durability and advanced features.
Type: Automatic | Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet | Weight: 81 pounds | Cycles: 6
Best for Apartments: Magic Chef Compact Top Load Washer
Price: $370 at Walmart, $285 at Target, $500 at Home Depot
Pros:
- Hot and cold water inlets
- Electronic controls with LED display
- Multiple wash cycle settings
Cons:
- Harder to transport
The Magic Chef Compact Top Load Washer is perfect for apartment living, where space is at a premium. At just 20 inches wide, this washer can fit in small spaces while offering a 1.7-cubic-foot drum capable of washing medium-sized loads. It features six wash cycles, including settings for bulky items, delicates, and heavily soiled clothes.
This washer’s electronic controls and LED display make it user-friendly, and its hot and cold water inlets provide flexibility in choosing the water temperature. Although it weighs more than some other portable models, making it less convenient to move, its larger capacity and multiple cycle options make it a worthwhile choice for apartment dwellers.
Type: Automatic | Capacity: 1.7 cubic feet | Weight: 72.8 pounds | Cycles: 6
Best Manual: The Laundry Alternative Portable Mini Washing Machine
Price: $70 at Amazon, Wayfair
Pros:
- Large capacity given its small footprint
- Cleans garments quickly
- Great for camping or RVs
Cons:
- Cannot accommodate large items like sheets
For those who need a manual washing machine, the Laundry Alternative Portable Mini Washing Machine is a top contender. This non-electric model is ideal for camping, RVs, or situations where power and water connections are limited. Despite its small size, it can handle up to 5 pounds of laundry, including heavy items like jeans and towels.
Operation is simple—just fill the drum with water, add detergent, and use the hand crank to agitate the clothes. The washing process takes only a few minutes, although heavily soiled items may require a second cycle. While it doesn’t spin clothes to remove excess water, making drying times longer, this washer is perfect for off-grid laundry needs.
Type: Manual | Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet | Weight: 5 pounds | Cycles: Not applicable
Best Mini: Giantex Mini Washer and Spinner Combo
Price: $90 at Amazon
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Great for dorm rooms
- Weighs only 11 pounds
Cons:
- No cycle adjustments
The Giantex Mini Washer and Spinner Combo is a compact, semi-automatic portable washer ideal for dorm rooms or other tight spaces. It weighs only 11 pounds, making it easy to move and store. This machine is perfect for small loads, holding up to 5.5 pounds of laundry in its washing tub.
Although it lacks cycle adjustments and has a limited spin capacity, the Giantex Mini Washer is an efficient option for those with minimal laundry needs. It’s also one of the lightest portable washers on the market, making it a convenient choice for students or anyone with limited space.
Type: Semi-automatic | Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 11 pounds | Cycles: Not applicable
Best for Camping: Scrubba Portable Wash Bag
Price: $55 at Amazon, REI
Pros:
- Folds up when not in use
- Requires only 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per load
Cons:
- Can leak
The Scrubba Portable Wash Bag is the perfect portable washer for camping and off-grid adventures. Weighing just 5 ounces, it folds up compactly to fit in your backpack. Despite its small size, this manual washer can clean clothes quickly and efficiently using minimal water.
The wash bag’s internal washboard effectively removes dirt and grime, making it ideal for small loads, such as two T-shirts, two pairs of socks, and two pairs of underwear. Although its capacity is limited and it may leak if overfilled, the Scrubba Portable Wash Bag is an excellent choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Type: Manual | Capacity: 0.2 cubic feet | Weight: 0.3 pounds | Cycles: Not applicable
Best Portable Washer and Dryer: GE Portable Washer & Portable Electric Dryer Set
Price: $899 at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Sears
Pros:
- Stainless steel wash drum
- Generous capacity
- 8 wash cycles
4oChatGPT
- Includes both washer and dryer
Cons:
- Higher price
For those seeking a comprehensive portable laundry solution, the GE Portable Washer & Portable Electric Dryer Set offers both washing and drying capabilities. This set includes a 2.8-cubic-foot washer and a matching 2.6-cubic-foot dryer, ideal for larger loads or multiple loads at once.
The washer features 8 wash cycles, a stainless steel drum, and a delayed start option. The dryer provides efficient drying with a variety of settings to accommodate different fabrics. Although it comes at a higher price, the convenience of having both appliances in one set makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a portable laundry solution.
Type: Automatic (washer and dryer) | Capacity: Washer: 2.8 cubic feet, Dryer: 2.6 cubic feet | Weight: 124 pounds (washer and dryer combined) | Cycles: 8 (washer)
How to Choose the Best Portable Washing Machine for Your Needs
Selecting the right portable washing machine involves considering several key factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Capacity
Portable washing machines come in various sizes, with capacities ranging from 0.7 to 2.8 cubic feet. The capacity you choose should align with your laundry needs:
- Small Capacity (0.7 – 1.0 cubic feet): Ideal for individuals or couples with limited space. These machines are best suited for small loads and lightweight items.
- Medium Capacity (1.1 – 1.6 cubic feet): Suitable for small families or those who do laundry frequently. They can handle more substantial loads, such as a few T-shirts or a small blanket.
- Large Capacity (1.7 – 2.8 cubic feet): Best for larger households or those with substantial laundry needs. These machines can manage larger loads, making them versatile for various fabrics and items.
2. Type of Washing Machine
Understanding the different types of portable washing machines will help you choose the right one for your lifestyle:
- Manual Washers: These require manual operation, including filling with water and hand-cranking for agitation. They are often compact and ideal for camping or off-grid situations but can be labor-intensive.
- Semi-Automatic Washers: These have a washing drum and a separate spin dryer. They need manual water filling and drainage but automate the washing and spinning processes, offering more convenience than manual models.
- Fully Automatic Washers: These machines handle washing and spinning automatically and require minimal manual intervention. They are more similar to standard washers but in a compact form, making them a great choice for regular home use.
3. Portability
Consider how often you’ll need to move the washer and the space you have available:
- Wheeled Models: These washers feature wheels for easy movement and are ideal if you plan to relocate the machine frequently.
- Compact and Lightweight Designs: Smaller and lighter machines are easier to store and transport, making them suitable for apartments or dorms.
4. Power Source
Portable washers can be powered in different ways:
- Electric Models: These require a standard electrical outlet and are typically more powerful and efficient. They offer various wash cycles and settings but need a nearby power source.
- Manual Models: These operate without electricity, relying on manual effort to agitate and rinse clothes. They are more versatile in off-grid situations but lack the convenience of automatic models.
5. Wash Cycles and Features
Evaluate the available wash cycles and features to ensure the machine meets your laundry needs:
- Wash Cycles: Look for machines with multiple wash cycles, such as heavy, delicate, and normal. This allows you to customize the wash based on different fabric types and soil levels.
- Features: Advanced features like delayed start, child lock, and digital controls enhance convenience and safety. Consider what features are important for your lifestyle.
6. Water and Drainage
Check how the washer handles water intake and drainage:
- Water Intake: Some models have hoses for connecting to a sink or faucet, while others require manual water filling.
- Drainage: Ensure the washer has a suitable drainage solution, such as a hose that can be placed in a sink or tub. Proper drainage is essential for avoiding water spills and ensuring efficient washing.
7. Budget
Portable washing machines come in a range of prices, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget while meeting your needs. Consider the long-term cost of operation and any additional accessories required for installation or maintenance.
Care and Maintenance Tips
To ensure your portable washing machine operates efficiently and lasts longer, follow these care and maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the drum, filter, and detergent dispensers regularly to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
- Proper Usage: Avoid overloading the machine to ensure effective washing and spinning. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load capacity.
- Water Quality: Use soft water if possible, as hard water can lead to mineral buildup and affect the machine’s efficiency.
- Storage: When not in use, store the washer in a dry, cool place to prevent damage. If the machine is not portable, ensure it is properly disconnected and drained.
Conclusion
Choosing the right portable washing machine involves assessing your specific needs and preferences. From compact manual models to advanced fully automatic units, there’s a portable washer to fit every lifestyle and budget. Consider the capacity, type, portability, power source, features, and maintenance requirements to find the perfect fit for your laundry needs.
By making an informed choice, you can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a portable washing machine, whether you’re living in a small apartment, traveling, or simply seeking a more flexible laundry solution.
