The best small apartment washing machine delivers convenient, effective laundry solutions tailored for limited living quarters. For urban dwellers, students, or anyone with minimal space, these compact units are a game-changer. However, not all models are created equal; choosing the wrong one can lead to inefficient cleaning, excessive noise, or wasted space.
Factors like capacity, venting requirements, energy efficiency, and spin speed can significantly impact your satisfaction and utility bills. To help you navigate the options and make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of top performers.
Discover the perfect solution to refresh your laundry routine without compromising your living area.
For those seeking the best small apartment washing machine, options often range from compact twin tubs like the Auertech Portable Washing Machine and SUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine, which allow simultaneous washing and spinning, to fully automatic, single-tub units such as the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer or the COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine, each offering multiple wash cycles and water level options suited for limited spaces.
Best Small Apartment Washing Machines: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer, 6.6 lb. Capacity Washing Best for: Small loads | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Auertech Portable Washing Machine, 28lbs Twin Tub Washer Mini Compact Best for: Large capacity need | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | ROVSUN 17.8LBS Portable Washing Machine, Full-Automatic Electric Laundry Machine with Best for: Single unit convenience | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Giantex Portable Washing Machine, Full Automatic Washer and Dryer Combo, Best for: Wash and dry | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer With LED Best for: Space saver | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best small apartment washing machine, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We evaluated models like the Auertech and SUPER DEAL twin tubs for their simultaneous wash/spin capabilities, while the COMFEE’ and Midea were noted for their multiple wash programs. We ruled out units lacking robust spin cycles or sufficient capacity for apartment living, giving precedence to compact designs offering significant cleaning power and convenience, ensuring a reliable laundry solution for any small space.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Twin Tub vs. Single Tub for Tiny Spaces
When space is at a premium, the twin tub design, like the Auertech and SUPER DEAL models, offers a unique advantage. These machines have separate compartments for washing and spinning, allowing you to agitate clothes in one while simultaneously drying the previous load in the other. This dual-action capability significantly speeds up your laundry process, a crucial factor for apartment dwellers with limited time or no access to communal laundry facilities.
While single-tub automatic machines like the COMFEE’ or Midea offer convenience, the twin tub’s efficiency can be a game-changer.
Spin Cycle Power: Beyond the RPM
For portable washers, the spin cycle’s effectiveness is paramount, especially when dealing with limited drying space. Don’t just look at capacity; consider how well a machine can extract water. Look for models with dedicated spin tubs, such as the Auertech or SUPER DEAL twin tubs, as these are designed for efficient water removal.
While a full-sized machine might have a high RPM, a well-designed portable spin basket, as seen in options like the Portable Washing Machine (20L Upgraded) or the Mini Washer (20L Upgraded), can still leave your clothes considerably drier, reducing reliance on air drying or a separate dryer.
1. BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer, 6.6 lb. Capacity Washing
Best for: Ideal for small loads and cold water washes.
This BLACK+DECKER portable washer’s 0.9 cu. ft. stainless steel tub resists rust and corrosion, handling up to 6.6 lbs of laundry for efficient cold water cleaning.
It offers 5 selectable wash cycles including Heavy, Gentle, Normal, Rapid, and Soak, with three water level choices for small, medium, and large loads. The fully automatic operation with push button controls simplifies usage.
Pros
- Durable, rust-resistant stainless steel tub.
- Handles up to 6.6 lbs capacity.
- 5 wash cycle options for versatility.
- 3 water level settings for load optimization.
Cons
- Cold water wash only limits cleaning options for certain stains.
This machine is perfect for individuals in apartments needing to wash small batches of clothes. It’s a straightforward solution for quick, cold water laundry.
2. Auertech Portable Washing Machine, 28lbs Twin Tub Washer Mini Compact
Best for: Best for simultaneous washing and spinning.
The Auertech twin tub washer features separate washing and spinning tubs, allowing simultaneous operation which means you can wash and dry loads concurrently.
Equipped with a powerful 1300 RPM motor, this semi-automatic machine handles up to 28 lbs of laundry, offering timed wash and spin cycles. Its compact, lightweight design fits easily into tight spaces like bathrooms or closets.
Pros
- Washing and spinning can occur simultaneously.
- Powerful 1300 RPM spin motor.
- Handles a large 28 lb capacity.
- Compact and lightweight design for portability.
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation requires manual transfer of clothes between tubs.
This unit is designed for apartment dwellers or students who need to process larger amounts of laundry efficiently. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the time-saving ability to wash and spin concurrently.
3. ROVSUN 17.8LBS Portable Washing Machine, Full-Automatic Electric Laundry Machine with
Best for: All-in-one apartment laundry solution.
The ROVSUN 17.8 lbs fully automatic washing machine integrates both washing and spin-drying functions into a single unit, streamlining your laundry process.
Its 1.5 cu. ft. capacity drum, featuring a unique diamond pattern, is designed to reduce fabric wear while providing superior cleaning. It offers 8 washing cycles and 4 drying cycles, with features like delayed start and memory back-up.
Pros
- Combines washing and spin-drying functions.
- Large 17.8 lbs (1.5 cu. ft.) capacity.
- Diamond-patterned drum protects clothes.
- Includes delayed start and memory back-up.
Cons
- Requires manual placement of clothes into the spin dryer cycle.
This is a great choice for individuals in apartments looking for a complete, automated laundry solution in one machine. It handles significant loads and offers advanced features for convenience.
4. Giantex Portable Washing Machine, Full Automatic Washer and Dryer Combo,
Best for: Compact and fully automatic laundry.
The Giantex portable washing machine provides a fully automatic wash, rinse, and spin function in a compact, freestanding unit that requires minimal storage space.
It offers 6 programs including wash, rinse, and spin sequences, with 3 water level controls. The machine’s operation is managed via simple push buttons and an analog display, allowing you to set it and walk away.
Pros
- Fully automatic wash, rinse, and spin.
- 6 selectable wash programs.
- 3 water level controls for load adjustment.
- Requires minimal storage space due to compact design.
Cons
- Features an analog display, which may be less precise than digital interfaces.
This fully automatic washer is ideal for those in small apartments or studios who need a hands-off laundry solution. It’s perfect for individuals who want to set their wash cycle and focus on other tasks.
5. COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer With LED
Best for: Feature-rich for small-space living.
The COMFEE’ 0.9 cu. ft. fully-automatic washer, measuring 18.1 inches wide, is designed for easy storage in compact living spaces like apartments or dorm rooms.
It comes with 5 wash programs including Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid, and Soak, along with 3 customizable water levels. The machine operates automatically with push-button controls and features an LED display for clear status updates.
Pros
- Fits easily into small spaces (18.1″ W x 17.7″ D x 31.5″ H).
- 5 wash programs and 3 water levels.
- Fully-automatic operation simplifies use.
- LED display for clear program status.
Cons
- The maximum spin speed is 840 RPM, which may result in slightly wetter clothes.
This washer is designed for apartment residents who need a compact yet capable laundry machine. Its ease of use and customizable settings make it ideal for busy individuals with limited space.
6. Portable Washing Machine, 20L Upgraded with Spin Basket Laundry Machine,
Best for: Extremely lightweight and portable.
Weighing just 3.5 lbs, this upgraded 20L portable washing machine with a spin basket features a foldable design for ultimate portability and easy storage.
It offers three cleaning modes controlled by simple timer buttons (3, 5, and 10 minutes), suitable for various fabric needs. The food-grade material ensures safety for all types of laundry, from everyday clothes to delicates.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at only 3.5 lbs.
- Foldable design for compact storage.
- Three timed cleaning modes (3, 5, 10 min).
- Uses food-grade material for safety.
Cons
- Manual operation and limited cycle options require more user attention.
This ultra-portable machine is perfect for single individuals, travelers, or those in dorms who need a very basic, lightweight option. It’s ideal for quick washes of small items.
7. Portable Washing Machine,Mini Washer -20L Upgraded With Spin Basket,Small Clothes
Best for: Compact washer for intimate apparel.
Made from TPE and food-grade silicone, this 4.6-pound portable washing machine with a 20L capacity and spin basket is ideal for washing delicate items like underwear and baby clothes.
This mini washer includes a drain hose and a blue light function, offering a quick wash cycle. Its highly portable and compact nature makes it suitable for apartments, RVs, or travel without needing a dedicated laundry space.
Pros
- Lightweight at only 4.6 pounds for high portability.
- Made with safe TPE and food-grade silicone.
- 20L capacity suitable for smaller items.
- Includes drain hose and blue light function.
Cons
- Manual operation required, including water filling and draining.
This mini washer is a specialized solution for individuals needing to wash small, delicate, or intimate items separately. It’s perfect for dorms, RVs, or anyone prioritizing hygiene for specific garments.
8. SUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine 13lbs Capacity
Best for: Efficient twin tub for small apartments.
The SUPER DEAL compact mini twin tub washing machine, with a 13-liter capacity, allows simultaneous washing and spinning to save significant time on laundry.
This semi-automatic unit features a powerful 1300 RPM motor for fast spin-drying and separate controls for the wash timer and spin cycle. Its design focuses on water efficiency for typical apartment use.
Pros
- Twin tub design for simultaneous wash and spin.
- Powerful 1300 RPM spin speed.
- Water-efficient design.
- Separate controls for wash and spin timers.
Cons
- Requires manual transfer of items between wash and spin tubs.
This twin tub is a practical choice for individuals or couples in apartments needing to manage laundry efficiently without a full-size machine. It’s ideal for those who can manage the manual transfer between tubs.
9. Midea Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 cu. ft with 6 Cycles,
Best for: Space-saving with multiple wash cycles.
The Midea portable washing machine offers a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity within a space-saving footprint, featuring built-in side handles and bottom rollers for easy one-person transport in smaller homes.
With 12 preset wash cycles and 3 water level options—large, medium, and small—this DOE certified washer provides optimized cleaning for various needs. Its operation is fully automatic with touch controls and an LED display.
Pros
- Space-saving design with built-in handles/rollers.
- 12 preset wash cycles for diverse needs.
- 3 water level selections.
- Energy-efficient operation (DOE certified).
Cons
- Requires manual refilling of water for each cycle.
This washer is an excellent option for apartment dwellers seeking a combination of compact size and robust functionality. It’s ideal for those who value energy efficiency and a wide range of wash cycle choices.
10. HAVA Portable Washing Machine, 0.8 Cu. Ft. Capacity Mini Washer
Best for: Compact with hot water wash options.
The HAVA Portable Washer, measuring 16.5 x 17.9 x 29.5 inches, utilizes less than 2.15 sq. ft. and offers hot wash options up to 140°F (60°C) for improved cleaning performance.
This mini washer has a 0.8 cu. ft. capacity capable of handling 6.6 lb loads, featuring 8 wash programs and 4 water levels. Fully automatic functionality with touch controls and a child lock enhance safety and convenience.
Pros
- Hot water wash options up to 140°F (60°C).
- Compact footprint under 2.15 sq. ft.
- 8 wash programs with 4 water level settings.
- Includes child lock and delayed start features.
Cons
- Maximum spin speed of 750 RPM may leave clothes more damp than higher-speed models.
This washer is perfect for those in small apartments or dorms who require better cleaning power with hot water options. It’s ideal for optimizing hygiene and tackling tougher stains in a compact unit.
Twin Tub vs. Single Tub: The Real Trade-Off
When selecting a best small apartment washing machine, the fundamental decision boils down to whether you prioritize simultaneous wash and spin cycles or the convenience of a single, automated process. Every model, from the compact BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft.
Portable Washer with its multiple wash cycles to the larger Auertech Portable Washing Machine, 28lbs Twin Tub Washer Mini Compact, offers a different balance of these competing needs.
The dual-tub units, exemplified by the Auertech and the SUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine 13lbs Capacity, inherently separate the washing from the spinning. This design allows for a more efficient use of time, enabling users to transfer damp clothes to the spin basket while a new load is washing. This is a significant advantage for households with frequent laundry needs who are willing to engage more actively in the process.
However, this efficiency comes at the cost of manual intervention; you must physically move the clothes, and the spin capacity is often smaller than the wash capacity, meaning multiple spin cycles might still be required even for smaller washes.
Conversely, fully automatic machines like the ROVSUN 17.8LBS Portable Washing Machine, Full-Automatic Electric Laundry Machine and the Giantex Portable Washing Machine, Full Automatic Washer and Dryer Combo, mimic the operation of larger domestic units. These machines handle the entire wash-and-spin cycle with minimal user input, providing a set it and forget it experience. The COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 cu.ft Compact Washer With LED and the Midea Portable Washing Machine, 0.9 cu.
ft with 6 Cycles, also fall into this category, offering a single-tub design for simplicity. The trade-off here is often a longer overall cycle time and less direct control over the spin speed and duration, which can be a concern for delicate items.
The ultralight, single-tub options such as the Portable Washing Machine, 20L Upgraded with Spin Basket Laundry Machine, weighing just 3.5 lbs, and the Portable Washing Machine, Mini Washer -20L Upgraded With Spin Basket, weighing 4.6 pounds, offer extreme portability but sacrifice capacity and robustness. They are best suited for occasional use or for washing only a few very small items at a time, and their spin cycle is often rudimentary.
For those who value hands-off operation above all else and can tolerate longer wash times, a single-tub, fully automatic model like the HAVA Portable Washer, 0.8 Cu. Ft. Capacity Mini Washer is the most practical choice.
How to Choose the Best Small Apartment Washing Machine
Capacity and drum size
When choosing a small apartment washing machine, prioritize a drum size between 1.0 and 2.7 cubic feet for optimal laundry management without overwhelming your space. Measure your designated spot precisely, looking for units no wider than 24 inches and depth ranging from 20 to 30 inches, prioritizing compact designs. Aim for a spin speed of at least 1000 RPM, with higher being better, to ensure clothes come out significantly drier, reducing overall drying time.
For most apartment dwellers, a 1.6 cu. ft.
drum with a 1200 RPM spin speed offers the best balance of capacity and efficiency.
Ventless vs vented drying options
Opt for a ventless condenser dryer for maximum installation flexibility in apartments where external venting is impossible. These machines work by heating air and passing it through the wet clothes, then cooling it to condense the moisture into a collection tank or drain hose. While they generally take longer to dry than vented models, typically 60-120 minutes per load depending on fabric and load size, their self-contained operation makes them the clear winner for small living spaces.
Avoid vented models unless you can guarantee a proper vent path, which is rare in apartments.
Noise level and vibration
To ensure peaceful coexistence with your washing machine, select a model with a decibel rating below 60 dB for wash cycles and under 70 dB for spin cycles. Look for features like rubberized feet and a reinforced base designed to absorb vibrations. If your machine must be placed near living or sleeping areas, prioritize models explicitly touting advanced anti-vibration technology.
A machine with a dBA rating below 65 is essential for maintaining a quiet home environment.
Cycle options and smart features
Select a washing machine that offers at least a quick wash (under 30 minutes) and a delicates cycle for garment care. For added convenience, especially in busy apartment life, a sanitize cycle is a valuable inclusion. While smart features like app control can be convenient, they are secondary to core functionality.
Focus on models with low water consumption per cycle, typically under 20 gallons for a standard wash, and a good ENERGY STAR rating to manage utility costs. A machine with a quick wash and sanitize cycle, alongside strong energy efficiency, is your best bet.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to wash and spin dry simultaneously to save the most time, choose a twin tub model.
- If you have very limited space and want a wash-and-dry combo in one unit, choose a full-automatic machine with a combined wash and spin tub.
- If you have extremely minimal space and only need to wash small loads of delicates, choose a very compact, lightweight model with a separate spin basket.
- If you prioritize multiple wash cycle options for different fabric types, choose a model with a variety of preset programs and water level settings.
Quick Best Small Apartment Washing Machine Buying Checklist
- Capacity: Ensure the drum size (e.g., 1.0-2.7 cu. ft.) fits your typical laundry loads.
- Dimensions: Measure your available space carefully, noting height, width, and depth requirements.
- Noise Level: Look for models with low decibel (dB) ratings if your laundry area is near living spaces.
- Drying Type: Decide between ventless condenser or vented models based on your apartment’s setup.
- Cycle Variety: Check for essential cycles like quick wash, delicates, and sanitizing options.
- Energy Efficiency: Consider models with high energy star ratings to save on utility bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Capacity Of A Small Apartment Washing Machine?
Small apartment washing machines typically offer a capacity ranging from 1.0 to 2.7 cubic feet. This size is designed to handle smaller loads efficiently, making it suitable for individuals or couples living in compact spaces without sacrificing essential cleaning functionality.
Are Ventless Washing Machines Suitable For Apartments?
Yes, ventless washing machines are ideal for apartments as they don’t require external venting. They condense moisture into a water tank or drain it away, making installation simpler and ensuring compatibility with building restrictions that prohibit external vents.
How Do I Measure Space For A Compact Washing Machine?
Measure the height, width, and depth of your intended installation spot, leaving a few inches of clearance around the machine for airflow and door swings. Ensure doorways and hallways are also wide enough for delivery and placement.
What Does Cfm Rating Mean For A Washing Machine?
CFM, or Cubic Feet per Minute, is not a typical rating for washing machines. Instead, look for the drum’s total capacity in cubic feet (cu. ft.) and the spin speed in RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) to gauge performance and water extraction efficiency.
Are Compact Washing Machines Noisy?
Modern compact washing machines are designed with noise reduction in mind, often featuring quieter motors and vibration-dampening technologies. Check the decibel (dB) rating if noise is a significant concern, as lower numbers indicate quieter operation.
Final Words
Investing in the best small apartment washing machine brings unparalleled convenience to your living space. These compact units efficiently handle laundry needs without requiring extensive plumbing or room. By choosing the right model, you can reclaim your time and enjoy fresh clothes on your schedule.