We researched the top portable washing machines based on capacity, convenience, noise level, and power source. Our favorite is the Magic Chef Compact Portable Top Load Washer because it is easy to use, quiet, and as powerful as a standard-size washing machine. Below, the best portable washing machine options on the market. Magic Chef’s portable washing machine is essentially a mini (and cheaper) version of a classic top-load washing machine. This is largely due to its physical features, including a see-through window, electronic controls, and rust-resistant tub. And thanks to the machine’s 3D waterfall and filter, you get the powerful washing performance of a standard washing machine. The Magic Chef top load washer features six wash cycles including normal, heavy, delicate, bulky, and quick. It also has three water temperature options, which you can tailor to the type of fabrics in your load and how much energy you want to use. A few things to note. First, Magic Chef’s machine only works with liquid or powdered detergent. Second, despite having “portable” in its name, the machine is not easy to move. Many customers recommended purchasing a roller dolly or a similar platform so you can move your machine with ease when it’s time to clean it. Price at time of publish: $430 Super Deal’s mini washer comes with an easy-to-attach drainage tube, which allows you to remove water from the wash side while your laundry spins on the other. Some customers said the tube was a little short, and used the machine in the tub for some extra protection against leaks. Keep in mind this machine can only handle about 5 pounds of laundry at a time, which is not ideal for the person who waits until they’re out of clean underwear before washing their clothes. But because the machine works fast—up to 15 minutes for wash cycles and 5 minutes for spin cycles—you’ll be able to work through any pile quickly. Price at time of publish: $108 In addition to being easy to use, it’s efficient. With an average yet spacious capacity of 1.6 cubic feet, Whirlpool’s portable washing machine can handle even bulkier items like sheets or denim jeans. The machine’s stainless steel basket helps protect fabrics from snagging, while its impeller drives clothes from the outer rim to the center for a more thorough clean. Although it doesn’t have a steam function to tackle wrinkles and stains, it has most of the bells and whistles of a full-sized unit, including five wash cycles, five water temperature settings, and dispensers for detergent, bleach, and fabric softener. Price at time of publish: $999 The machine is also quick to warn you of any abnormal conditions. After sounding the alarm, the machine will auto-stop and tell you what needs to be repaired. There is also a child-lock feature to keep kids from opening the machine mid-wash or playing with it. Customers note that the “dryer” part of the machine’s name is a bit misleading. Although the spin cycles help remove excess water, you will still need to use a drying machine or line-dry your clothing. Price at time of publish: $392 The Laundry Alternative Wonderwash Portable Washing Machine is designed to handle 5 pounds of laundry at a time—think 10 T-shirts, a few pairs of leggings, or a bath towel. And while that may seem like laundry will take longer, the machine can thoroughly clean most items in less than 2 minutes. (Fuller loads or heavier items, like a pair of jeans or a sweatshirt, may take a little longer.) With all that manual work, you may think the machine won’t last more than a few loads. But because it doesn’t have any motorized parts that often require repairs, the machine is built to last. Not to mention, the lack of a motor means clothes don’t get snagged or tangled during the wash. Now, this machine is not meant for the impatient types. You may have trouble assembling it at first, and you’ll need to get into a good rhythm when turning the hand crank. Turning it too slow can result in dirty or somewhat soapy clothes, as can turning it too fast. However, once you’re in a groove, this non-electric washer is easy to use and drain, thanks to a detachable spout. Price at time of publish: $70 The machine works by submerging a basket of clothes in water and pumping them up and down. Your once-dirty clothes will be completely clean within 20 minutes of pumping the basket. To dry your garments, simply wring out excess water and hang them up to dry. And don’t think you have to wash one item at a time. The Lavario’s 0.6-cubic-foot “drum” is comparable to other non-electric models on the market, providing plenty of room for multiple garments. Price at time of publish: $180 The smaller size doesn’t mean the Panda model lacks features. You’ll have 10 cycles and five water level options at your disposal for tackling tough stains. Additionally, the stainless steel tub helps to sanitize your items, keeping everything clean as you hit the road. Cycles run quietly, and there’s even a fabric softener dispenser so you can enjoy the luxuries of a permanent home while in your movable one. You will want to figure out a plan for storing this machine before buying, as it isn’t easy to move. Either pick a permanent spot in your motorhome that is out of the way, or invest in a dolly for moving and storing it when it’s not in use. Price at time of publish: $275 In addition to its multiple cycles and spacious drum, GE’s portable washer offers several other features you’d see on full-sized models, such as detergent, bleach, fabric softener dispensers, and automatic temperature control. In short, it’s the ideal machine for households that have a lot of laundry but don’t have the space for a full-sized machine—or, really, anyone who wants to save money and space. Just be aware: The tub doesn’t fill completely, so washing bulky items like a blanket is a no-go. You may also need to run an extra rinse cycle. Price at time of publish: $978 But that isn’t the only draw to Black+Decker’s portable washer. The machine can handle up to 15 pounds of laundry at once. It also offers six cycles to ensure your clothes are being properly spun and has three different water temperatures to help you save energy. There is one potential drawback. Some customers noted that the lack of an agitator might cause the clothes to get tangled during the washing process. Price at time of publish: $541
Power Source
Your portable washing machine can either be electric or non-electric. An electric model operates very similarly to a full-sized washer, where you plug it into an outlet and select a setting on a control panel. Just like a full-sized washer, portable electric washers typically require a 120-volt outlet. A non-electric model is also known as “hand-powered.” You become the power source that manually cranks or spins your clothes. Non-electric models are less convenient but suitable in a camping or RV environment.
Water Management
Some portable washers are more hands-on when it comes to getting water in and out of the machine. High-end picks can be hooked up to a kitchen or bathroom sink, while others can require you to fill and empty the washer’s tub at the start and end of each cycle. To find the right type for you, consider how much maintenance and energy you’re willing to put into your machine and how accessible a water source is for you.
Standout Features
Caster Wheels
Caster wheels allow you to move your portable washer anywhere you’d like with ease. Some models on the market have two in the front or back, while others have four positioned in each corner. This feature is typically seen in electric models with a larger capacity instead of non-electric varieties. It’s most suitable for those installing a portable washer in their RV or small apartment who may want their space to serve multiple purposes.
Viewing Window
A viewing window on a portable washing machine is usually located on the top door. It allows you to check in on your clothes throughout a cycle and ensure the water level is adequate. Although it’s unnecessary to have a viewing window, it makes your appliance look sleek and more similar to a full-sized, top-loading model.
Delay Start Function
If you’re trying to be more thoughtful about when and how you’re using your water, then a delay start function may be suitable for you. This specialty setting—which you can find in a more high-end portable washing machine—lets you select a cycle now and have it begin in a pre-set amount of time. It can ensure that you’re not depleting your hot water or running the machine while you’re out running a quick errand.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Leah Rocketto, a lifestyle writer and editor for The Spruce. To select the best picks for your consideration, she sorted through dozens of customer and third-party website reviews, and consulted Jawad Ahmed. As The Home Depot’s resident Laundry Merchant, Ahmed knows what products will take your clothes from dirty to spotless. In comparison, a manual model requires you to fill up a washtub with water and detergent and either crank or pump a handle to agitate the clothes. Then connect a spout to the washing machine and drain dirty water and soap into a location of your choosing. Add fresh water to rinse and spin your clothes. In this situation, you’re the agitator. Since every model is a little different, it’s important to follow your machine’s manual. The manual will also tell you which hoses to use for water access versus draining (which is essential). Plan to hook up your machine each time you want to use it.
