What is the best countertop dishwasher?

Looking for the best countertop dishwasher to fit your needs? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make an informed purchase. We've taken into account factors like noise level, price, customer reviews, temperature capabilities, and plate diameter to bring you the top contenders on the market. Find out which models made the cut and make your countertop dishwashing a breeze!

RANKING

Well, my friend, let me introduce you to the world of countertop dishwashers!

These compact, efficient, and easy-to-use appliances are designed to fit even the tiniest kitchens, and they’ll save you from the nightmare of washing dishes by hand.

But the question remains: what is the best countertop dishwasher? Read on, and we’ll dive into the factors you need to consider, the cleaning process, maintenance tips, and more.

1. Hermitlux HMX-TDJ03

A Perfect Blend of Efficiency and Performance

If you’re in the market for a dishwasher that can handle the needs of a small family, the Hermitlux HMX-TDJ03 is definitely worth checking out. This machine has a 4-place setting capacity, which means you can easily fit 11” diameter plates in it. Plus, with a high temperature of 167°F, it’s more than capable of tackling even the toughest cleaning jobs. You’ll love the fact that it comes with 5 different washing programs, including options for fruit cleaning, strong cleaning, ECO mode, standard cleaning, and fast mode. So, whether you’re dealing with a pile of dirty dishes or just need to freshen up your fruit, this dishwasher has you covered.

User-Friendly Design

In addition to its impressive washing capabilities, the Hermitlux also has a drying function that removes moisture and the smell of water. This means you won’t have to worry about your dishes or fruit coming out damp and smelly. The machine also comes with a small plastic suction cup that allows you to stick the drain hose to the side of the sink, and with a drain hose length of 63”, you can easily place the machine a bit further away from the sink if you wish so. And with all the necessary accessories included, such as a storage rack, cutlery basket, inlet hose, drain hose, tableware and fruit basket cup, hose collar, and manual, you’ll be able to get started with your new dishwasher right away. All in all, the Hermitlux is a great choice for anyone who wants a powerful and versatile dishwasher in a compact and affordable package.

ADVANTAGES

✔ longer drying mode than competitors
✔ 2 washing arms
✔ quiet 50dB
✔ a large number of accessories in the set
DISADVANTAGES

❌ it has some weird quirks like ”will start only when the tank is full of water” which may take some time to get used to

2. NOVETE TDQR01

Space-Saving

With its 5-liter water consumption and two water supply modes, you can either connect it to the water supply or simply fill it up with water, depending on your preference. The NOVETE operates at a noise level of 50dB which is a really good result and has 5 pre-programmed wash cycles, including baby care for washing baby products at 167°F, and a fruit washing mode.

Energy-Efficient Solution

This 3-in-1 dishwasher not only washes your dishes but also dries them and acts as a cabinet. It has 72 hours of ventilation, allowing you to store your tableware in spotless condition. The set comes fully equipped with racks and baskets, including a fruit basket, so you don’t have to worry about buying extra accessories. In our opinion, this device passed all quality tests and is very solid, with all parts fitting well and being great to the touch. With a fast mode of just 29 minutes and 14 water ports inside, this dishwasher ensures your dishes are thoroughly washed and always sparkling clean!

ADVANTAGES

✔ it’s quiet, makes only 50dB
✔ short speed washing program
✔ can handle 12” plates
✔ 2 rotating arms
DISADVANTAGES

❌ lights on the LED panel don’t go off after the finished cycle

3. COMFEE’ CDC17P2AWW

The Ultimate Compact Solution

The water tank of this machine has a capacity of 6 liters, which means that you don’t need to worry about any complex installation processes. However, if you prefer, you can also connect the hose to the water faucet for added convenience. You can place plates up to 10.6 inches inside the dishwasher, and it can hold over 30 items at once, making it perfect for small to medium-sized families.

Easy To Use

This dishwasher comes with 5 washing programs including normal, hygiene, fruit, rapid, and glass, as well as 2 extra modes like auto open that dries your dishes and a UV hygiene program that gets rid of any leftovers bacterias on your cookware. With a maximum temperature of 192°F same as another model from the COMFEE’ brand that is in 5th place, both stand out from their competitors. It also has an auto-open function that opens the doors at the end of the cycle and removes moisture from the inside with the help of a fan. The only downside is that it operates at 62dB, making it a bit louder than the rest of the dishwashers.

ADVANTAGES

✔ auto open function
✔ UV light sterilization
✔ 6-liter water tank
✔ reaches a high 192°F temperature
DISADVANTAGES

❌ louder than competitors

4. ecozy DW-CT200A

Say Goodbye to Handwashing…

One of the standout features of this simple but sturdy device is its 5-liter built-in tank, which means you won’t need to worry about any complicated installation processes. Additionally, the dishwasher comes with a 72-hour extra dry dishes mode that keeps your dishes ventilated inside, ensuring they come out spotless and ready to use. And with a noise level of only 48dB, this dishwasher won’t disturb your household while working.

…and Save Time and Energy

Similarly to others, it is also equipped with two spray arms – one on the top and the other on the bottom – as well as a filter that’s easy to clean which design has been really well thought of. To be honest, this dishwasher is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, and efficient cleaning solution.

ADVANTAGES

✔ 2 big water-splashing arms
✔ the quietest dishwasher in this ranking – makes only 48dB
✔ blue light is a nice touch 
✔ 11” plates fit in
DISADVANTAGES

❌ may be complicated to set up at first so make sure you read the instruction

5. COMFEE’ CDC17P0ABB

A Multitude of Features at Your Fingertips

Despite its small size, this COMFEE’ model can wash even more than 30 items with a maximum plate diameter of 9.5 inches (which is the smallest plate diameter in this ranking). However, as we mentioned earlier describing 3rd product from the same brand it features six pre-programmed modes and can heat up to an impressive 192°F to eliminate bacteria. The air refresher function dries your dishes and gets rid of any remaining moisture, leaving them spotless and smelling fresh.

Your Ultimate Kitchen Companion

Not only is the CDC17P0ABB highly functional, but it’s also energy efficient. It only consumes 0.35 kilowatt-hours per year and uses only 5 liters of water per cycle. With 11 water nozzles, it ensures a thorough cleaning every time. While its short cycle takes 40 minutes, which is a bit longer than its competitors, it’s still a reliable and efficient option for those in need of a compact dishwasher.

ADVANTAGES

✔ reaches high temperatures up to 192°F
✔ 6 programs
✔ 2 spinning arms
✔ smart design of hose adaptor
DISADVANTAGES

❌ quick cycle could work better. It’s also a bit too long

6. COMFEE’ CDC22P1BWB

Stylish and Convenient

With a capacity of 6 place settings, you can place up to 14 categories and 70 pieces inside, making it a great choice for small families or couples. Although plates can only be a maximum of 10” in diameter, this dishwasher has 8 washing programs to choose from, including baby care, ECO, speed, normal, heavy, drying, rinse, and mini party.

Multiple Programs for Different Needs

The heavy program can reach up to 154°F, ensuring that your dishes are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. If you’re in a hurry, the speed program takes 45 minutes which, to be honest, could be shorter but on the other hand, it uses only 2.77 gallons of water. The set also includes a quick connection to your tap for easy installation, however in reality some people may find it a bit difficult to put it all together.

ADVANTAGES

✔ the possibility of built-in
✔ 3 colors available
✔ 6 place settings
✔ 8 washing cycles
DISADVANTAGES

❌ installing hoses may be a bit problematic

7. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W

Versatile

The dishwasher features 7 washing modes, including rapid, soak, glass, 90-minute, normal, ECO, and intense, providing you with various options for your needs. The quick-connect feature allows you to easily hook it up to your kitchen tap, although the adaptor is not included in the set and must be purchased separately which is a little bit of a shame.

Reliable

The BCD6W is also suitable for placement inside cupboards or shelves, making it a great space-saving option. Despite using 11 liters of water per cycle, which is slightly more than competitors, it still works efficiently. It operates quietly at 49dB which makes it one of the quietest in this ranking and comes with a delay start feature for added convenience. The dishwasher also boasts high-quality stainless steel construction, ensuring durability and longevity that’s what we could expect from BLACK+DECKER.

ADVANTAGES

✔ great quality of the whole device
✔ 6 place settings
✔ easy to install
✔ quiet
DISADVANTAGES

❌ the highest temperature could be higher than 140 °F 

8. ‎IAGREEA ‎IA-DW01

Top-Loading

Due to its larger interior, this dishwasher doesn’t have a built-in water tank and must be connected to the faucet. Fortunately, the manufacturer has provided a high-quality adapter that fits most faucets, making it easy to connect the device to your water supply. The IAGREEA ‎IA-DW01 offers 3 methods of installation, which is really nice but it still may be a little bit tricky for some. However, it will fit most taps.

Quiet Option for Your Home

This dishwasher boasts 7 different washing modes including normal, speedy, heavy, infant, glass, fruit, and store, the latter keeping your dishes ventilated inside for up to 72 hours. With a noise level of only 55dB, the IAGREEA is another quiet device you can get. In the set, you are going to find a fruit basket and other accessories. When it comes to efficiency it consumes 6l of water per cycle which yes, is 1l more than others but it’s a little bit larger. Additionally, the dishwasher features a nice display at the front, making it easy to operate and monitor. Overall, the IAGREEA is a fantastic option for those seeking a convenient and efficient dishwasher that offers a unique and user-friendly design.

ADVANTAGES

✔ easy to load dishes thanks to the door on the top 
✔ nicely designed easy to read screen
✔ easy-to-clean filter
✔ makes only 55dB
DISADVANTAGES

❌ require some manual skills to connect this to the faucet

The Programs: Quantity and Functionality

When looking for the perfect countertop dishwasher, one of the first things you should consider is the number and variety of programs it offers. The best models come with multiple wash cycles, such as normal, heavy, quick, and eco-friendly, to cater to different dishwashing needs.

For instance, let’s say you’ve had a big dinner party and need to clean those greasy, stuck-on food particles. You’d want a heavy-duty cycle for that. On the other hand, if you’ve only used a few dishes for a quick snack, the quick cycle will save you time and energy. And for those environmentally conscious folks, the eco-friendly cycle is a must-have.

The Cleaning Process: Step by Step, Hints, and Tips

Now that we’ve talked about the programs, let’s discuss the actual cleaning process. Fear not—it’s quite simple! Just follow these steps:

  1. Rinse and scrape off excess food: Before loading your countertop dishwasher, it’s important to remove any large food particles. This will prevent clogging and ensure a better overall cleaning experience.
  2. Load the dishwasher: Organize your dishes, glasses, and utensils according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Proper loading is essential for optimal cleaning results.
  3. Add detergent: Use a dishwasher detergent that’s specifically designed for your machine. Check the user manual to determine the correct amount to use.
  4. Select the wash cycle: Choose the appropriate program based on your dishwashing needs, as we discussed earlier.
  5. Start the dishwasher: Close the door and start the cycle. Make sure to connect the dishwasher to a faucet if it’s a portable model.
  6. Unload the dishwasher: Once the cycle is complete, carefully unload your clean dishes and enjoy the fruits of your dishwasher’s labor!

Here are some tips to enhance the cleaning process:

  • Use a rinse aid to reduce water spots and enhance drying.
  • Don’t overcrowd the dishwasher, as this can result in less effective cleaning.
  • Regularly clean the dishwasher filter to maintain peak performance.

Maintenance: What to Look For, Tips, and Hints

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your countertop dishwasher in tip-top shape. Here’s what you need to pay attention to:

  • Clean the filter: Check the user manual for instructions on how to remove and clean the filter. This should be done regularly to prevent clogging and maintain optimal performance.
  • Inspect the spray arms: Make sure the spray arms are clean and unobstructed. Remove any debris that may be caught in the holes to ensure efficient water flow.
  • Wipe down the interior: Occasionally, wipe down the interior of the dishwasher with a damp cloth to remove any built-up residue.
  • Check the hoses and connections: Regularly inspect the hoses and connections for any signs of wear or leaks. Replace them as needed to prevent water damage or reduced performance.
  • Run a cleaning cycle: Once a month, run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar to keep your dishwasher fresh and free of residue.

Size: Built-In or Standalone?

When it comes to size, countertop dishwashers come in two main types: built-in and standalone. Built-in models are integrated into your existing cabinetry, while standalone units can be placed on your countertop or moved around as needed.

Built-in countertop dishwashers are ideal for small kitchens with limited countertop space, as they blend seamlessly into your kitchen design. However, they may require professional installation and are not as portable as standalone units.

Standalone countertop dishwashers are perfect for those who need flexibility in their kitchen layout or for those who rent their homes and want a dishwasher they can take with them when they move. These models can be easily connected to a faucet and do not require any major modifications to your kitchen.

Capacity: Inner Size and Amount of Plates

The capacity of a countertop dishwasher is an important factor to consider, especially if you have a large household or frequently entertain guests. Most countertop dishwashers can hold around six place settings, which include a dinner plate, dessert plate, bowl, cup, saucer, and utensils.

However, some models may have a slightly larger or smaller capacity, so it’s important to check the specifications before making a purchase. Keep in mind that larger dishwashers may also be bulkier, taking up more countertop space.

Installing Your Countertop Dishwasher: Methods and Difficulty

Installing a countertop dishwasher is usually a simple process, but it may vary depending on whether you’ve chosen a built-in or standalone model.

For standalone units, the installation is typically quite easy. All you need to do is:

  1. Place the dishwasher on a stable, level surface near your sink.
  2. Connect the water supply hose to your faucet using the provided adapter.
  3. Attach the drain hose to your sink’s drain or garbage disposal, ensuring it’s properly secured to prevent leaks.
  4. Plug the dishwasher into a grounded electrical outlet, and you’re all set!

Built-in countertop dishwashers, on the other hand, may require a more involved installation process. This may include modifying your cabinetry, connecting the dishwasher to your plumbing, and wiring it to your electrical system. If you’re not comfortable with these tasks, it’s best to hire a professional installer.

Conclusion

By considering the factors we’ve discussed, such as programs, cleaning process, maintenance, size, capacity, and installation, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best countertop dishwasher for your needs. Say goodbye to the days of washing dishes by hand, and hello to the convenience and efficiency of a countertop dishwasher!

FAQ

Is it worth getting a countertop dishwasher?

Absolutely! Countertop dishwashers save time, water, and effort compared to washing dishes by hand. They’re ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or those who need a portable solution, making them a worthwhile investment.

What should I look for in a countertop dishwasher?

Consider factors like the number of programs, cleaning process, maintenance requirements, size, capacity, and installation method. Evaluate your specific needs and preferences to find the perfect fit.

Do countertop dishwashers use a lot of electricity?

Countertop dishwashers are generally energy-efficient, using less electricity than full-sized models. Look for units with an Energy Star rating to ensure optimal energy savings.

Can you have a dishwasher without plumbing?

Yes, standalone countertop dishwashers can be used without dedicated plumbing. They connect to your faucet with an adapter, making them an excellent choice for renters or those without existing dishwasher connections.

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