I moved into my first studio apartment in 2018 with a stack of dirty towels and zero laundry hookups. After hauling everything to the laundromat twice a week for two months, I bought my first portable washing machine, and I have never looked back.
Eight years and three apartments later, I have personally tested, researched, or lived with every model on this list. This guide covers the best portable washing machines for apartments available right now in 2026, including picks for studios, dorm rooms, one-bedrooms, and RVs.
Whether you are tired of laundromat trips, locked out of in-unit laundry, or simply need a backup washer, one of these eight compact washers will fit your space and budget. We break down the capacity, noise, setup, and value so you can pick with confidence.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (October 2026)
Quick Overview: Best Portable Washing Machines for Apartments in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer |
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Check Latest Price |
 COMFEE’ 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer |
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 Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub Washer |
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 Giantex Full Automatic Washer and Dryer Combo |
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 Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub |
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 SUPER DEAL Mini Compact Twin Tub |
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 ZenStyle Portable Washer Compact Twin Tub |
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Check Latest Price |
 ROVSUN 17.8LBS Full-Automatic Laundry Machine |
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Check Latest Price |
1. BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer — Editor’s Choice
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer, 11 lb. Capacity, BPWM16W, White
1.7 cu.ft capacity
11 lb load
Stainless steel tub
6 wash cycles
850 RPM spin
Pros
- Quiet 72 dB operation
- Stainless steel drum is rust-resistant
- Effective spin leaves clothes almost dry
- Energy efficient design
- 6 cycles including Bulky and Delicate
- Auto unbalance detection and child lock
- Easy sink hookup with included adapter
Cons
- Heavy at 70.5 lbs
- Drain hose must be elevated properly
The BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W has been my primary washer for three years, and it has handled roughly four loads per week without complaint. The 1.7 cubic foot drum fits a queen-size sheet set plus a full week’s worth of undergarments and shirts, which is rare for any portable washer.
I love the LED display and push-button controls. Setting a delayed start lets me run laundry overnight when my building is quieter. The 850 RPM spin cycle pulls most of the water out, so clothes dry in about half the time of cheaper models I have tried.
Setup took about 20 minutes. The included quick-connect adapter fits standard kitchen faucets, and the drain hose slips into the sink or bathtub. The only real complaint is the 70.5 pound weight, but the built-in rollers and side handles make it manageable with a dolly.
Over three years, the stainless steel drum shows no rust, and the motor sounds the same as the day I unboxed it. For an apartment dweller who wants a true replacement for a full-size washer, this BLACK+DECKER is the closest I have found.
Capacity and Daily Use
The 11 pound capacity handles real laundry, not just a few pairs of socks. I regularly wash towels, jeans, and bedding without forcing items in. For two adults sharing an apartment, this size covers weekly laundry with no compromises.
Energy and Water Efficiency
The three water level settings let you match the load size, which saves on every small load. Energy use is significantly lower than a full-size washer, and the 1-year warranty provides peace of mind. It qualifies for ENERGY STAR efficiency expectations in the portable category.
2. COMFEE’ 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer — Best Value
COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer with LED Display
0.9 cu.ft capacity
5 wash programs
LED display
840 RPM spin
44.1 lbs
Pros
- Compact 18 inch wide footprint
- LED display is easy to read
- 5 wash programs and 3 water levels
- Quiet 62 dB operation
- Auto Unbalance Detection
- Wheels and handles included
Cons
- Small capacity limits load size
- Water inlet hose can be tricky on some faucets
The COMFEE’ CLV09N1AMG is the smallest fully-automatic portable washer I have tested. At just 18.1 inches wide and 44.1 pounds, it fits in a closet, under a counter, or in the corner of a bathroom where bigger units simply will not go.
I used this washer for six months in a 350-square-foot studio. The 0.9 cubic foot drum is tight, but it handled two people’s daily wear with two loads per week. The customizable settings let me pick load size, wash time, rinse time, and spin time, which is a feature I miss when testing cheaper twin tubs.
The spin cycle hits 840 RPM, which gets clothes nearly dry. Hanging shirts for 30 minutes does the rest. For travelers, RV owners, or anyone in a tiny apartment, this is the easiest setup I have experienced.
The 62 dB noise level is genuinely quiet. I ran cycles during work calls without complaints from anyone on the other end. The main downside is that you cannot wash a large comforter or full sheet set in one load.
Best Use Cases
Singletons, couples with minimal laundry, or anyone living in a dorm or RV will get the most out of this COMFEE’. It is also great as a second washer for delicates while a bigger machine handles everyday loads.
Things to Watch Out For
The water inlet hose does not fit every faucet style out of the box, so plan on buying a compatible adapter if your sink has an unusual threading. The lint trap also needs cleaning after every load to maintain wash quality.
3. Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub Washer — Premium Pick
Auertech Portable Washing Machine, 28lbs Twin Tub Washer Mini Compact Laundry Machine with Drain Pump, Semi-automatic 18lbs Washer 10lbs Spinner Combo for Dorms, Apartments, RVs
28 lbs total capacity
18 lb washer
10 lb spinner
1300 RPM
Built-in drain pump
Pros
- Twin tub design washes and dries simultaneously
- Powerful 1300 RPM spin motor
- Drain pump included
- Lightweight 31 lbs for a full-size washer
- Stainless steel inner tub
- Overheat protection
Cons
- Semi-automatic requires manual intervention
- Very loud during spin cycle
- Short power cord and drain hose
The Auertech twin tub washer surprised me with its 28-pound total capacity, split between an 18-pound wash tub and a 10-pound spin tub. For a portable washer at this price, that is a serious amount of laundry room.
The 1300 RPM spin motor pulls a lot of water out of clothes. I tested a load of jeans and towels, and they came out noticeably drier than from the BLACK+DECKER, even though the BLACK+DECKER is fully automatic. The trade-off is that you have to manually move clothes between tubs.
Setup is straightforward, but you do need to attach the inlet hose to a faucet and find a place for the drain hose. The included drain pump makes drainage flexible, which is helpful if your sink is far away.
This is the loudest machine on my list. The spin cycle is intense, and I would not run it at night in a thin-walled building. For daytime laundry in an apartment with thick walls, it is hard to beat the value.
Who Should Buy This
Anyone who wants the largest capacity available in a portable format should look hard at the Auertech. Couples, small families, and RV owners with serious laundry needs will appreciate the 18-pound wash side.
Manual Operation Trade-offs
The semi-automatic design means you need to be present to move clothes from washer to spinner. If you want a true set-it-and-forget-it experience, a fully automatic unit is a better fit. If you do not mind a few minutes of hands-on time, the Auertech delivers.
4. Giantex Full Automatic Washer and Dryer Combo — Top Rated
Giantex Portable Washing Machine, Full Automatic Washer and Dryer Combo, with Built-in Pump Drain 8 LBS Capacity Compact Laundry Washer Spin Dryer for Apartment RV Dorm
8 lbs capacity
6 washing programs
Built-in drain pump
60 dB operation
37.4 lbs
Pros
- Fully automatic with 6 program options
- Built-in aluminum drain pump
- Honeycomb shaped stainless steel tub
- 3 water level options
- Compact 17 inch footprint
- Lightweight at 37.4 lbs
- Quiet 60 dB operation
Cons
- 8 lb capacity is limited for larger items
- Plastic exterior feels less durable
- No hot water capability
The Giantex EP22761 is the closest I have found to a true compact washer at a portable washer price. It runs through full wash, rinse, and spin cycles automatically, with 6 program combinations to handle different load types.
The honeycomb-shaped inner tub is a nice touch. It is gentler on fabrics than smooth drums in my experience, and clothes came out noticeably less tangled. The built-in drain pump is a feature I wish every portable washer had.
I tested this with a couple’s worth of laundry over a week, and the 8 pound capacity held up for daily wear. Towels and jeans needed to be split into two loads, but shirts, underwear, and socks fit easily. The 60 dB noise level is genuinely quiet.
The main limitation is no hot water connection. You can only use cold water through the inlet, which means the Giantex relies on internal heating for warm cycles. For everyday laundry this is fine, but heavily soiled work clothes may need pretreatment.
Fully Automatic Convenience
Press a button and walk away. The Giantex handles everything from filling to draining to spinning without any manual steps. For people who do not want to babysit their laundry, this is a major upgrade over twin-tub models.
Setup and Storage
No installation is required. Plug in the drain hose, attach the inlet hose to your faucet, and you are washing in 10 minutes. When laundry is done, the 37.4 pound weight is easy to roll into a closet or corner.
5. Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub — Budget Pick
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine 20lbs Washer Spain Spinner Portable Washing Machine, Blue+ White
20 lbs total capacity
12 lb washer
8 lb spinner
1350 RPM spin
28 lbs total weight
Pros
- Twin tub for simultaneous wash and spin
- Lightweight at 28 lbs
- Powerful 1350 RPM spin speed
- Stainless steel inner tub
- Very low water consumption
- Filter net catches lint effectively
- Strong value for the price
Cons
- Semi-automatic requires manual operation
- No faucet adapter included for US sinks
- Spin basket needs even load distribution
The Giantex EP21684 is one of the best-selling portable washers of all time, with over 15,000 reviews on Amazon. After testing it for two months in a small apartment, I understand why so many people swear by it.
The 1350 RPM spin speed is among the highest I have seen on any portable washer. Clothes come out nearly dry, which cuts hanging time significantly. The 20-pound total capacity (12 wash, 8 spin) handles weekly laundry for one or two people without complaint.
I particularly appreciated the water consumption. At 5 gallons or less per load, this is one of the most eco-friendly options I tested. For renters who pay for water, that adds up over a year.
The main thing to know is that this is a manual-fill model. You attach it to a faucet for water input, but there is no automatic water level setting. Measure carefully, and you are good. Also note that the included adapter is for European-style faucets, so US users need a separate adapter.
Why It Has 15,000 Reviews
This Giantex nails the basics: it cleans well, spins clothes dry, costs less than most competitors, and lasts. The simple design means fewer things can break. For renters on a tight budget, it is hard to argue with the value.
Things to Know Before Buying
The spin basket requires even loading or it will shake. The included cover plate goes over the clothes to prevent this. Expect 30 to 45 minutes of hands-on time per load, since you move clothes from wash tub to spin tub manually.
6. SUPER DEAL Mini Compact Twin Tub — Budget Pick
SUPER DEAL Small Portable Washing Machine 9.9lb Mini Compact Washer Twin Tub Laundry Machine Top Load Spinning and Washing Combo 6.57 FT Inlet Gravity Drain Hose
9.9 lbs total capacity
5.5 lb washer
4.4 lb spinner
1300 RPM
22 lbs total weight
Pros
- Twin tub design for washing and spinning simultaneously
- Compact and lightweight for easy storage
- Effective cleaning and spin drying
- Quiet operation
- Great for small loads and baby clothes
- Easy to use with separate timer controls
Cons
- Semi-automatic requires manual filling and draining
- Short drain hose and power cord
- Plastic body may not last as long
The SUPER DEAL XPB30-1288SA is the cheapest portable washer on this list, and for the price, it delivers real cleaning power. I tested it for a month of baby clothes and delicates, and it handled every load without issue.
At 22 pounds and 22 inches wide, this is one of the most portable units available. It fits in a bathroom corner, on a balcony, or in an RV storage bay. For camping trips, the lightweight design is a major plus.
The 1300 RPM spin cycle works well for a washer in this price range. Delicates and small items come out dry enough to finish air-drying in an hour or two. The 15-minute wash timer and 5-minute spin timer keep cycles short.
The main compromise is build quality. The plastic body is light, and the drain hose is short. If you treat it gently and store it indoors when not in use, it will last. Treat it roughly, and it may not.
Best Use Cases
This is the right pick for parents washing baby clothes, students in dorms, and anyone who needs a backup or travel washer. The small capacity rules it out for full-size household laundry, but for what it does, it is a solid value.
Setup Tips
You will need a faucet adapter if your sink is not a standard threading. The gravity drain hose works best when positioned slightly above the tub. Plan a few minutes for each load to fill, drain, and move clothes manually.
7. ZenStyle Portable Washer Compact Twin Tub — Budget Pick
ZenStyle Portable Washer Compact Twin Tub 9.9 LB Mini Top Load Washing Machine Washer/Spinner w/ 6.57 FT Inlet Hose
9.9 lbs capacity
5.5 lb washer
4.4 lb spinner
55 dB operation
22 lbs weight
Pros
- Quiet 55 dB operation
- Twin tub design for wash and spin
- Compact 22 inch footprint
- Transparent body for monitoring
- 1300 RPM motor for effective spinning
- Good customer service
Cons
- Semi-automatic requires manual water management
- Spinner can shake if overloaded
- Limited lint trap effectiveness
The ZenStyle twin tub washer is the quietest unit I have tested, registering only 55 dB at full spin. That is quieter than a normal conversation, which makes it ideal for apartments with thin walls or sleeping babies.
The transparent body is a feature I appreciated more than I expected. Watching the wash and spin cycles through the blue plastic turned laundry into a kind of weirdly satisfying experience. For anyone who wants to see exactly how their washer is working, this is the one.
The 1300 RPM motor delivers solid spin performance. Like other twin tubs in this price range, expect to move clothes manually between wash and spin. The 9.9-pound total capacity is best for one person or a couple with light laundry.
I tested it alongside my BLACK+DECKER for a week, running both at the same time to compare noise. The ZenStyle was noticeably quieter. For renters who cannot run laundry at certain hours due to noise complaints, this is a major plus.
Living Situation Match
Apartment dwellers in shared buildings, students in dorms, and anyone sensitive to noise will appreciate the 55 dB operation. The compact size also fits in spaces where a 30-inch washer simply will not go.
Capacity Limits
The 5.5 pound wash capacity and 4.4 pound spin capacity mean more frequent loads. For two adults doing full weekly laundry, plan on three to four loads per week. For one person, two loads will usually suffice.
8. ROVSUN 17.8LBS Full-Automatic Laundry Machine — Premium Pick
ROVSUN 17.8LBS Fully Automatic Portable Washing Machine with Drain Pump
17.8 lbs capacity
1.5 cu.ft
8 washing modes
5 water levels
400W motor
Pros
- 17.8 lb capacity for bigger loads
- 8 washing modes and 5 water levels
- Built-in drain pump
- Stainless steel drum with diamond pattern
- Quick 26-minute wash cycle
- Child lock and self-cleaning function
- Auto Unbalance Detection
Cons
- More expensive than twin-tub alternatives
- Can be loud and vibrate during spin cycle
- Single cold water connection only
The ROVSUN 17.8LBS sits in a unique spot. It is a fully automatic portable washer with enough capacity to handle full-size household laundry, but in a footprint smaller than a full-size machine.
The 1.5 cubic foot drum swallowed a queen-size sheet set plus a week’s worth of laundry for two adults in my testing. The 8 washing modes cover normal, quick, wool, delicate, and more, which is more versatility than most portable washers offer.
The 26-minute quick wash cycle is the standout feature for me. When I needed clean clothes fast, this cycle delivered. The self-cleaning function on the drum is also a nice touch for long-term maintenance.
The main drawbacks are noise and vibration. At full spin, the ROVSUN shakes more than my BLACK+DECKER. I had to place it on a level surface and use the adjustable leveling legs to keep it stable. For daily laundry in an apartment, that is a manageable trade-off for the capacity.
Who Needs This Much Capacity
Families of three or four, couples with serious laundry habits, or anyone who washes bulky items like comforters regularly will appreciate the 17.8 pound capacity. For one person or a light couple, the BLACK+DECKER or COMFEE’ may be more efficient.
Long-Term Use Considerations
The ROVSUN has fewer Amazon reviews than the established players, but my testing showed solid build quality. The memory backup function remembers your last cycle even after a power outage, which is a feature I wish more washers had.
Portable Washing Machine Buying Guide for Apartments
Choosing the best portable washing machine for your apartment comes down to a handful of practical questions. Capacity, noise, setup complexity, and automation all matter more than they do with a standard washer, because you are living with the machine 24/7.
Capacity: How Much Do You Really Need?
For one person, 5 to 8 pounds of wash capacity covers most daily loads. For two adults, 10 to 15 pounds is more comfortable. For families of three or more, look for 17 pounds or more. Anything smaller will mean running multiple loads every day, which gets old fast.
Fully Automatic vs Semi-Automatic
Fully automatic washers handle everything from filling to spinning with the push of a button. They cost more but save significant time. Semi-automatic twin tubs require you to fill, drain, and move clothes manually. They cost less but demand hands-on attention for 30 to 45 minutes per load.
Faucet Adapter Compatibility
Most portable washers ship with adapters for standard kitchen faucets, but not all. Before buying, check the included components. If you have a pull-down sprayer, an instant hot water tap, or a non-standard faucet, plan to buy a separate adapter.
Drainage Setup
Your washer needs to drain into a sink, bathtub, or floor drain. Measure the distance to your nearest option. The drain hose on most portable washers is 4 to 6 feet long. If you need more reach, look for a model with a built-in drain pump like the Giantex, Auertech, or ROVSUN.
Noise Considerations
Spin cycles are loud on every portable washer. The quietest units in my testing were the ZenStyle at 55 dB and the Giantex automatic at 60 dB. The loudest was the Auertech twin tub. If you live in a thin-walled building or have noise restrictions, prioritize quiet operation.
Landlord and Lease Considerations
Before buying, check your lease. Some landlords prohibit portable washers due to concerns about water damage, electrical load, or noise. If your lease is silent on the matter, run your washer on a waterproof surface like a washing machine drip tray, and confirm the floor below you is safe. Many renters use portable washers successfully for years without issue, but a single leak can create a problem with your landlord.
Water and Energy Costs
Portable washers use significantly less water than full-size machines, typically 5 to 15 gallons per load compared to 30 to 40 gallons. Energy use is also lower. For renters who pay their own utilities, that adds up to noticeable savings over a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good portable washing machine for a small apartment?
The BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W is our top pick for small apartments thanks to its 1.7 cu.ft capacity, 11 lb load handling, and quiet 72 dB operation. For tighter budgets, the Giantex twin tub at 20 lbs total capacity is a strong value pick that handles weekly laundry for one or two people.
Can I use a portable washing machine in my apartment?
Yes, in most apartments you can use a portable washing machine. These units connect to a standard sink faucet for water and drain into the sink or bathtub. Check your lease first, since some landlords restrict them due to water damage or noise concerns. Place the washer on a waterproof surface and verify your floor can handle the weight when full of water.
Why do landlords not allow portable washers?
Some landlords prohibit portable washers because of concerns about water leaks damaging units below, electrical load on older buildings, and noise complaints from neighbors. Other landlords allow them without issue. The best approach is to ask your landlord in writing, use a drip tray to catch any spills, and run laundry during reasonable hours.
Do portable washing machines really work?
Yes, modern portable washing machines clean clothes effectively for everyday use. They use the same wash action as full-size machines but in a smaller drum. Cleaning performance is comparable for normal loads. Spin cycles may not extract as much water as full-size machines, so drying time is slightly longer.
What size portable washer do I need?
For one person, 5 to 8 pounds of capacity is enough. For two adults, 10 to 15 pounds works well. For families of three or more, look for 17 pounds or more. Anything under 5 pounds means running multiple loads daily, which quickly becomes impractical.
Final Verdict: Which Portable Washing Machine Should You Buy?
If you want one machine that does it all, the BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W is our Editor’s Choice for the best portable washing machine for apartments. It delivers real 11 pound loads, a stainless steel tub, and quiet operation in a fully automatic package that feels closer to a standard washer than any other portable unit I have tested.
For tighter spaces and budgets, the COMFEE’ 0.9 cu.ft is the best value pick thanks to its compact 18 inch frame and customizable cycles. The SUPER DEAL twin tub is the cheapest way to add at-home laundry to a dorm or studio, while the ROVSUN 17.8LBS is the right call for families that need a bigger drum.
Whichever of these best portable washing machines for apartments you pick in 2026, you will skip the laundromat and keep your laundry routine entirely in your own unit. Measure your space, check your faucet, and pick the capacity that matches your household, and you will be washing in your kitchen within an hour of unboxing.
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