Portable Dishwashers

Tired of washing dishes by hand? Portable dishwashers are a great alternative to built-in dishwashers when space is an issue.  Portable dishwashers can be stored under a cabinet, in a closet, laundry room, or garage when not in use.  Many portable dishwashers are also convertible, which means they have the option of being built in to your kitchen at a later date.

So how do they work?

When in use, portable dishwashers are hooked up to a kitchen faucet.  The water from the faucet is carried to the dishwasher through a tube, and, after cleaning, is then put back through the tube, where it runs down the kitchen sink drain. 

The great divide

A portable dishwasher should work just as effectively and efficiently as a built-in dishwasher.  Most come with the same amount of washing and drying options and other special features.  There are a few key differences between a built-in and a portable dishwasher, though.

Portable dishwashers sit on wheels, rather than using legs.

Portable dishwashers have finished tops and sides.  Tops can be used as a work area, unlike a built in dishwasher.

Portable dishwashers use temporary connections.  As mentioned earlier, these dishwashers utilize the water and draining system of a faucet, rather than an internal system.

The ups and downs

There are advantages and disadvantages to owning a portable dishwasher.  Here are a few things to consider:

The upside to owning a portable dishwasher is that you can take it with you when you leave.  If you own a home, you won't have to leave your dishwasher behind if you move.  Another advantage is versatility, particularly if you are short on space.  Many portable dishwasher tops can function as a counter, providing additional space for tasks.  And you won't have to worry about losing the cabinet space that would be utilized by a built-in system.

The downside to using a portable dishwasher is that while the dishwasher is in use, the faucet it is hooked up to is not available for other things. You'll also have to forgo using other hookups to the facet you'll hook the dishwasher to, such as water filtration systems.  Some portable dishwashers are also said to be noisier than built-in models.   

Quality counts

For high quality portable dishwashers, look for stainless steel interiors, which are said to last longer, a variety of wash cycles, convertible dish racks, and a good filtration system. 

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