If you live in a condo or apartment that doesn't have a dishwasher, or need a dishwasher for an office kitchen, a portable dishwasher might be the best option. Portable dishwashers offer similar cycle features and interior designs to built-in dishwashers, but can be moved around on wheels and hook up to your kitchen faucet and drain into the sink. In an older home or other areas with limited cabinet space, a portable dishwasher can provide the cleaning power of a built-in dishwasher without the hassle of installing it into the cabinetry and installing the necessary plumbing. 

Beyond the typical dishwasher dimensions of a standard built-in dishwasher, there are several additional options on the market today to suit different needs.

Built-in dishwashers come in two standard widths: 24 inches and 18 inches. There are also portable freestanding dishwashers that roll around on casters, which come in 18 and 24 inches, as well as countertop dishwashers and the unique drawer dishwasher from GE Cafe and Fisher & Paykel. These smaller options can be a great choice for apartments, condominiums, and mobile homes. There are also ADA compliant dishwashers that are typically slightly shorter than the standard 34 inches to suit lower countertops.

The dishwasher is a staple appliance wherever kitchens are found, but not all kitchens are compatible with the installation of a traditional built-in dishwasher. The portable dishwasher is a great alternative for apartments, offices, gathering facilities, and small kitchens. Designed to hook up to your kitchen sink, you can run your portable dishwasher and then tuck it out of the way until the next load of dirty dishes is ready. 

If you don't have room for a built-in dishwasher, a portable dishwasher might be the perfect option for you. We'll go over the features of a typical portable dishwasher and compare countertop dishwasher models to full-size portable dishwashers. We'll also review a popular Whirlpool portable dishwasher and a Danby countertop dishwasher, too! (For more information on choosing a new dishwasher, take a look at our dishwasher buying guide.)