The Best Portable Washing Machine

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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Do you ever wish that there was a way to get your clothes clean without the costly and space-consuming assistance of full-sized washing machines? Well, now it's possible with the emergence of portable washing machines on the market.

These smaller units are lighter and more energy-efficient while still being capable of handling all your laundry needs. Since finding the right fit could take a lot of time, here's a review of the best portable washing machines you can buy, plus the considerations to keep in mind to make a good choice.

1. Best Overall: Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine

Sale
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine...
  • 【Easy to Operate】: This is our portable mini compact twin tub...
  • 【20LBS Large Capacity】: Washing tub: place clothing in the...
  • 【Semi-Automatic Design Relieves You from Hand Washing】: Using...
  • 【300W Wash Power &110W Spin Power】: Ideal for small loads....
  • 【Compact Twin Tub Washing Design 】: Convenient for home use....

Get some relief from hand washing your laundry with this compact twin tub washing machine. The Giantex Portable laundry washer is the perfect solution for cleaning your clothes in a small space. That is why it is ideal for the laundry room, dorms, camping, RVs, and mobile homes.

It has a lightweight build that makes it easy to move around while also packing a powerful wash motor. The gravity drain feature enables you to release the water after a wash but requires some elevation above the ground to function. The drainage tube will conveniently allow you to drain the water in a suitable location. While standard laundry machines have preprogrammed timer settings, this portable mini compact washing machine has separate settings for the washer and spinner.

Pros:

  • Compact design suitable for small spaces
  • Easy to use
  • Separate timer and spin operation settings
  • Energy-saving model
  • Efficient water drainage
  • Large laundry capacity

Cons:

  • You'll need to turn off the water manually since it doesn't have an automatic shut-off function.

2. COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine With Spin Dryer

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COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine with Spin Dryer, Electric...
  • ▲【Compact & Portable Washing Machine】This washing machine...
  • ▲【Easy Operation】This washing machine allows you to simply...
  • ▲【Timer Control】Single tub washing machine with spin basket...
  • ▲【User Friendly】Clear lid makes you easy to see and monitor...
  • ▲【Shipping & Customer Service】UPS or USPS will deliver the...

Next in line on our list of the best portable washing machines are the COSTWAY Mini washing machine which offers easy operation, excellent performance, and convenience. This single tub washer has a spinning function that dries clothes in 5 minutes and wash settings that clean in 10 minutes, making it designed to meet your specific laundry needs efficiently. As a result, you can use this versatile product both as a washer and a dryer.

It is quite compact, making it uniquely suited for use in limited spaces like dorms, movable homes, condos, RVs, or even a road trip. The lightweight structure makes it quite portable so that you can move it around according to necessity.

The clear lid of the top-load portable washer is designed to let you monitor the water condition as you operate it to wash your clothes. You'll save energy costs with this low-energy-consumption model, which is why it's an excellent choice for cleaning your clothes. After cleaning, the drain hose will facilitate a convenient flow of the dirty water into a suitable location.

Pros:

  • Versatile model
  • Compact design
  • Transparent lid
  • Drainage features
  • Easy to operate

Cons:

  • It lacks an automatic water shut-off function.
  • Unable to spin dry large items

3. KUPPET Compact Twin Tub Portable Mini Washing Machine

KUPPET Compact Twin Tub Portable Mini Washing Machine...
  • ▲【Large Capacity】Feature the twin tub dual function design...
  • ▲【Built-in Drain Pump】Built-in drain pump drains dirty...
  • ▲【Timer Control & Powerful Performance】Separate timer...
  • ▲【Easy Operation】 Simple design of the operation panel,...
  • ▲【Washing Capacity & Specifications】Total capacity:26...

The KUPPET Portable Mini Washing Machine is the next in line on our list of top picks. The operation panel on this model has a simple design that makes it suitable for people without any experience with washing machines.

The steps involved in using this portable washing unit are loading, adding water, setting the timer, and washing the clothes. With an in-built drain pump, the KUPPET Portable washer automatically drains the dirty water without requiring any physical effort from your end. Both Sides of this clothes washer have a water inlet that helps securely fill up the machine with water from your kitchen sink faucet.

The 1300 RPM motor provides enough power and speed to handle all your washing and drying needs efficiently. You can rest assured that the high performance of the KUPPET will be the solution to your laundering problems as it handles your light and medium loads.

Pros:

  • Large loading capacity
  • Convenient drainage system
  • Easy to use
  • Different timer controls for washing and spinning functions

Cons:

  • Turning on the dryer automatically triggers the drain function.
  • Unsuitable for washing large items

4. Black + Decker Portable Washer

Sale
Black + Decker BPWM09W Portable Washer
  • SMALL PORTABLE WASHING MACHINE – Ideal for camping trips & RVs,...
  • CONVENIENT DESIGN & LARGE CAPACITY - With a .9 cu. ft. tub that...
  • 5 CYCLE PROGRAMS & 3 WATER SETTINGS – Meet all your laundry...
  • ENERGY EFFICIENT OPERATION – This compact washing machine is...
  • AUTOMATIC UNBALANCE DETECTION- To avoid annoying vibration if the...

Another model you can consider among the best portable washing machines is the Black + Decker portable washer. This model will give you the freedom and moveability that full-size washing machines fail to offer. It features an elegant design that will be a stylish addition to your home appliances while taking minimum floor space.

One of the reasons it's among the most preferred washing machine options is the different wash cycles it offers for handling your various laundering needs. For additional safety, this portable washing machine contains a shutoff function that automatically turns off the machine if you open the lid mid-wash. Upon closing the lid, the wash cycle resumes completing washing the load.

The compact design is travel-friendly to let you carry this portable washing machine around in your RV during a road trip. Its size makes it convenient for storing since you can tuck it away in a corner after use. You can set a delayed start on this unit for as long as 24 hours which means you can program it to automatically turn at the precise time you need to wash your clothes.

Since it's built for cold water use, it can provide high energy efficiency. If the clothes are not distributed equally in the wash basin, the automatic unbalance detection function will kick in and correct the imbalance. This ensures that the wash basin doesn't produce annoying vibrations during operation.

Pros:

  • Energy efficient
  • Sleek and compact build
  • Various wash settings
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • It has an in-built lint filter requiring monthly cleaning.

5. The Laundry Alternative Wonderwash Non-Electric Washing Machine

The Laundry Alternative, WonderWash, Portable Washing...
  • PORTABLE: Wire-free MINI washer is perfect for travel, camping,...
  • ECO-FRIENDLY: Manual crank operation uses no electricity and 90%...
  • GENTLER ON CLOTHES: Best washer for woolens, silks, knits,...
  • HOW TO USE: Put the lid on and turn clockwise to fasten. While...
  • TRUST THE LAUNDRY ALTERNATIVE: We stand by our products. Every...

Our review would not be complete without the best non-electric portable washing machine, the Laundry Alternative Wonderwash. This compact, hand-operated machine weighs less than 6 lbs and offers the largest load capacity compared to other portable washers on the market.

This eco-friendly portable washing machine eliminates the need for electric power while requiring minimum water and detergent. Safe to say, it's one of the best non-electric models because of its energy-efficient capabilities.

When you need to get your delicates clothes clean, this portable washing machine will do it for you. It can safely wash silks, woolens, knitted, and cashmere garments, eliminating the need for a laundromat service.

The Wonderwash is designed for durability and can outlast its electric counterparts while performing exceptionally. The four retro-color options show that you won't go wrong with this portable washing machine.

Pros:

  • Non-electric
  • Sleek build
  • Durable
  • Hand crank mechanism that's easy to use
  • Safe for delicate fabrics

Cons:

  • You could experience hand fatigue if you have a large load to clean.
  • The bottom is not sturdy.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Portable Washing Machines

1. Type of Loading

Washing machines can be categorized into two main groups in terms of loading them; front-loading and top-loading.

  • Front-Load Washers

These portable washing machines feature a horizontal drum that spins the clothes out and back into the water. It typically uses fewer water levels and lacks a central agitator. As a result, it can accommodate larger loads of laundry at a higher speed. Unfortunately, they have a higher price tag than top-loading portables, have a lower life span, and once the wash cycle begins, it's not possible to open the lid.

  • Top-Load Washers

With a vertical drum, top-load washing machines are the more traditional types and use a central agitator (circular stirring paddles) or pulsator to launder the load. This type consumes more water and energy, making them expensive in the long run. A unique advantage of the top-loader is that you can open the lid at any point during the wash cycle.

2. Power-Consumption

If you select an electric portable washing machine, the amount of power it uses is an essential factor to consider. Check whether it has an electric savings class since that will inform you of the power consumption rate.

Class A features the least consumption while the "+" symbol further indicates less need for power. So, the best options would be the A or A+ washers; nevertheless, type B models can also serve your laundry needs well.

Practically, portable washing machines generally use less energy than the full-size types since they are smaller and have fewer features. If you select a model with a hot wash function, you should get ready for a spike in your utility bills since these washers use 80% more energy. As an alternative, you could add hot water to the washing machine directly from the heater.

3. Load-Size

You need to know the loading capacity of the portable washing machine beforehand to know the number of clothes you can clean in one wash. Since portable washing machines are small-sized, you should choose a model that could at least handle 10 clothes at a time. The most efficient compact washer-dryers can accommodate up to 4.5 kg or 11 pounds which is enough for a medium family.

4. Machine-Size

The dimensions of the portable laundry washer are also crucial to think about. Most people prefer models not higher than 30 inches since this could easily translate into more weight. Most portable washing machines range from about 1.5 to 18 kgs.

Depending on your routine and frequency of use, you should find an appropriate size that can meet all your laundry needs. Even with a smaller and lighter model, you could still handle large bulks of clothes by washing several small portions throughout the week. Another way to think of the size is in terms of the space you have available at home.

5. Speed of Spin-Cycle

The speed refers to the number of revolutions the portable washing machine makes each minute. A standard spin starts at 800 RPM, but the more high-end models could reach up to 3,200 revolutions. Nevertheless, a speed of at least 1350 RPM will suffice for compact washer dryers.

The spinning action drains water from the clothes and could leave them almost dry, which uses a lot of energy. So, this is something you should keep in mind as you look for the best portable laundry machine for mobile homes.

6. Manual or Automatic Units

Aside from the automatic and electric models, you could also get a manual portable washing machine. These types are easy to use and can offer excellent value for your money. If you can access electricity, you could go with an automatic wash tub, but a manual non-electric laundry machine could be the best option if you are going camping.

Manual models ultra-light, compact, and made of plastic which makes them easy to move around. They can handle up to 4.5 kg loads and agitate the clothes by spinning. These eco-friendly types generally come at a lower price tag.

7. Additional Features

Opting for a portable washing machine doesn't mean you won't get the unique features that come in the traditional full-size versions. Here are some programs you can keep an eye out for in portable electric models.

Fast Cycle: This program causes the laundry machine to wash clothes faster while maintaining the same efficiency and energy and water consumption rate.

Water-Saving Eco-Rinse: this function allows you to rinse clothes with lower water levels or cycle storage to reuse other chores.

Smart Sensor: This enables the machine to calculate the laundry's size and automatically dispenses a particular amount of water, detergent, and fabric softener.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best portable washing machine to buy?

The best overall is the Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine, a compact and lightweight design equipped to handle all your washing needs.

2. What should I look for in a portable washing machine?

Some of the features you want in a portable washing machine include a large loading capacity, energy efficiency, and a lightweight build.

3. Do portable washing machines really work?

If you consider the customer reviews, portable washing machines are definitely worth it since they provide a means to wash your clothes while using as little electricity and water as possible. Plus, they are travel-friendly, unlike traditional types.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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