9 Best Small Washing Machines for Apartments (November 2026)
The best compact apartment washing machines include the Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing for larger split loads, the SUPER DEAL Small Portable Washing Machine 9.9lb for very small loads, and the COMFEE' Portable Washing Machine 0.9 cu.ft Compact for automatic wash cycles.
On this page (6 sections)
- Which small washing machines suit different apartment setups?
- What should you check before buying a compact apartment washer?
- Do you need a portable washer or a compact washer with hookups?
- How do you use a small washer without overloading it?
- How does a compact washer clean clothes?
- Which small washing machine should you choose for an apartment?
The best small washing machines for apartments depend on whether you want automatic cycles or can manage a twin tub. Giantex is our top pick for its 12 lb wash tub and separate 8 lb spinner, while COMFEE' is the strongest fit for preset automatic cycles.
Compact washers can work in an apartment without permanent laundry hookups, but you need a safe way to supply water and drain it. This roundup compares portable twin tub and automatic models, plus compact machines for apartments with permanent hookups.
For a one-piece wash and dry setup, see our guide to the best washer dryer combo for apartment living. If you have a dedicated laundry nook, compare the best 24 inch washing machine options.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for larger split loadsGiantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for very small loadsSUPER DEAL Small Portable Washing Machine 9.9lb
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for automatic wash cyclesCOMFEE' Portable Washing Machine 0.9 cu.ft Compact
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itSUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing
Best for a narrow footprint - 5
Check itROVSUN 11LBS Portable Washing Machine
Best for light apartment laundry - 6
Check itSuperday Portable Washing Machine
Best for medium twin tub loads - 7
Check itPataku Portable Washing Machine
Best for soaking before washing - 8
Check itCOSTWAY Portable Washing Machine
Best for larger wash batches - 9
Check itCOSTWAY Portable Washing Machine
Best for a simple timer setup
Which small washing machines suit different apartment setups?
Giantex leads for a roomy twin tub, while COMFEE' suits buyers who want preset cycles. These picks are ordered by score, with smaller loads, footprint, and operation style helping distinguish the options.
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing: Best for larger split loads
- 12 lb wash tub
- 8 lb spinner
- 15-minute wash timer
- 5-minute spin timer
Separate wash and spin tubs let you move a load between stages or run both sides together. Its wash tub holds 12 lb, while the spinner holds 8 lb.
Pros
- Separate wash and spin tubs
- Timer controls for each tub
- Two inlet positions for faucet flexibility
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation
- Spinner leaves clothes partly damp
Giantex makes sense when you want separate wash and spin compartments and have space for a freestanding unit. Its 12 lb wash capacity and 8 lb spinner capacity are distinct limits, so split a larger batch before moving clothes into the spinner.
The wash timer runs up to 15 minutes, and the spin timer runs up to 5 minutes. The two tubs can work together, and the machine has inlet positions on both sides to help accommodate faucet placement.
Its listed dimensions are 15 x 24.8 x 28.5 in. Measure the full space, including room to reach the controls, load each tub and route the drain hose.
This is a semi-automatic washer, so you manage the water and move clothes between tubs. Choose it if those steps are acceptable and your apartment has a practical water and drain arrangement.
SUPER DEAL Small Portable Washing Machine 9.9lb: Best for very small loads
- 5.5 lb wash capacity
- 4.4 lb spin capacity
- Separate timers
- 22.7 x 22.1 x 14.6 in
This twin tub keeps the load sizes modest and separates washing from spinning. Its small listed dimensions may suit an apartment where storage space is tight.
Pros
- Compact listed dimensions
- Separate wash and spin timers
- Two sides can run at the same time
Cons
- Small wash and spin capacities
- Requires filling and timer control
SUPER DEAL's 9.9 lb twin tub suits small, frequent loads such as socks, underwear or a few baby clothes. Its wash side holds 5.5 lb and the spinner holds 4.4 lb, so it is less suited to washing a large batch at once.
The washer and spinner have separate timers, up to 15 and 5 minutes. You can run the two sides at the same time, which helps keep the wash process moving when you have another load ready.
Its dimensions are about 22.7 x 22.1 x 14.6 in. Check the faucet connection and where the drain hose can safely empty before bringing it into an apartment.
COMFEE' Portable Washing Machine 0.9 cu.ft Compact: Best for automatic wash cycles
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- Five programs
- Three water levels
- Wheels and handles
Five programs and three water levels give this compact automatic washer more preset choices than the twin tub models. Wheels and handles help with moving it into storage.
Pros
- Five wash programs
- Three water levels
- Drain pump and stainless steel inner tub
Cons
- Needs a suitable water and drain setup
- Taller than several twin tub picks
COMFEE' is the most automation focused pick here. It has five programs: Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid and Soak, plus three water levels and options to adjust load size and cycle time.
The unit measures 17.7 x 18.1 x 31.5 in and has wheels and handles for movement. Its drain pump and water inlet hose are useful details for planning the connection, but confirm your apartment's faucet and drain arrangement before setup.
This washer is a better match if you prefer preset wash programs over a twin tub's manual transfer between compartments. The stainless steel inner tub and see-through lid are additional practical features.
If you already have a washer dryer combo, our guide to using a Magic Chef washer dryer combo explains the operating steps for that specific style.
SUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing: Best for a narrow footprint
- 8 lb wash capacity
- 5 lb spinner capacity
- Up to 15-minute wash timer
- 23 x 13.5 x 26 in
Its listed depth is 13.5 in, making it a candidate for a narrow laundry spot. The separate tubs let you wash and spin at the same time.
Pros
- Narrow listed depth
- Separate wash and spin functions
- Timer controls
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation
- Spinner capacity is 5 lb
The 13 lb SUPER DEAL twin tub is a candidate for a narrow laundry spot. Its listed depth is 13.5 in, while its wash tub holds 8 lb and its spinner holds 5 lb.
Separate timers allow up to 15 minutes for washing and 5 minutes for spinning. You can also run wash and spin functions at the same time, but the semi-automatic format means you still move garments between tubs.
The translucent tub window lets you see the wash area. Compare the 23 x 13.5 x 26 in dimensions with your available floor space and leave room to use the drain pipe.
ROVSUN 11LBS Portable Washing Machine: Best for light apartment laundry
- 7 lb wash capacity
- 4 lb spinner capacity
- Separate timer controls
- 21.6 x 14 x 23.6 in
The 7 lb wash tub and 4 lb spinner suit smaller laundry batches. Its compact dimensions and portable design can work where a full-size machine will not fit.
Pros
- Compact dimensions
- Separate wash and spin timers
- Stainless steel dewatering cylinder
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation
- Spinner holds 4 lb
ROVSUN fits light apartment laundry when a modest twin tub is enough. It has a 7 lb wash tub and a 4 lb spinner, with simple timers for up to 15 minutes of washing and 5 minutes of spinning.
The unit measures 14 x 21.6 x 23.6 in and weighs about 22 lb. Its stainless steel dewatering cylinder and transparent tub window are useful features, while the semi-automatic operation requires filling and moving loads yourself.
ROVSUN advises placing the pressing plate over clothes during spin drying. That helps keep small items from being thrown out and blocking the drain pipe.
Superday Portable Washing Machine: Best for medium twin tub loads
- 14.3 lb wash tub
- 11 lb spin tub
- Five wash time settings
- Gentle, Normal and Drain modes
The two tubs provide more stated capacity than the smaller portable options, with separate wash and spin controls. Allow extra air-drying time because spin drying does not fully dry clothes.
Pros
- Large separate tub capacities
- Several wash and spin timer settings
- Transparent covers
Cons
- Manual operation
- Clothes need additional air drying
Superday gives you larger separate tubs, with a 14.3 lb wash tub and 11 lb spin tub. Its controls offer several wash and spin timer settings, and the wash modes include Gentle, Normal and Drain.
The machine measures 14.72 x 22.86 x 26.36 in. It can wash and spin at once, but spin drying does not leave clothes fully dry, so plan space for air drying.
This is a useful middle ground if you want more tub capacity than the smallest models and are comfortable managing a manual washer. Check the apartment's water and drainage options before deciding where it will sit.
Pataku Portable Washing Machine: Best for soaking before washing
- 14.3 lb wash tub
- 11 lb spin tub
- Soaking function
- 21.6 x 13.7 x 25.1 in
A soaking function can run for up to 20 minutes before washing. Its separate tubs give apartment users a way to handle a larger batch without choosing an automatic washer.
Pros
- Prewash soaking option
- Separate wash and spin tubs
- Compact listed dimensions
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation
- Needs manual filling and timer settings
Pataku offers similar tub capacities to Superday, with a 14.3 lb wash tub and 11 lb spinner. Its added soaking function can run for 0 to 20 minutes before the wash cycle.
At 13.7 x 21.6 x 25.1 in, its listed footprint is compact for the stated capacities. The washer has separate wash and spin timing, so you'll still fill it, set the controls and move garments between tubs.
Choose it if you want a presoak option for a laundry routine that benefits from extra soaking time. The twin tub design makes it less convenient than an automatic washer for anyone who wants fewer manual steps.
COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine: Best for larger wash batches
- 18 lb wash tub
- 8 lb spinner
- Built-in drain pump
- 26.5 x 16.5 x 31.5 in
The 18 lb wash tub is the largest stated wash capacity in this group. A built-in drain pump can send water out after washing, though you still need to plan the drain route.
Pros
- Largest stated wash tub here
- Built-in drain pump
- Gentle, Normal and Drain modes
Cons
- Wider and taller than the smaller picks
- Twin tub requires moving clothes between tubs
COSTWAY's 26 lb twin tub has the largest stated wash capacity in this group, at 18 lb, with an 8 lb spinner. Its built-in drain pump can send dirty water out after washing.
The unit measures 16.5 x 26.5 x 31.5 in, so plan for more width and height than the smaller picks. Its wash modes include Gentle, Normal and Drain, and the two functions can be used independently or at the same time.
This model suits an apartment with enough room for a larger portable washer and a place to route the drain. The twin tub still requires transferring clothes to the spinner, so consider that extra step alongside capacity.
COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine: Best for a simple timer setup
- 12 lb wash tub
- 8 lb spinner
- Three knob controls
- 25 x 14 x 29 in
Three knobs control wash selection, wash time and spin time. This twin tub offers a straightforward setup for buyers comfortable filling the washer and moving loads between tubs.
Pros
- Separate wash and spin tubs
- Timer controls
- Compact listed depth
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation
- Confirm faucet fit and drainage setup
This COSTWAY twin tub uses three knobs for washing selection, wash time and spin time. It holds 12 lb in the wash tub and 8 lb in the spinner, giving it useful room for regular small household batches.
Its dimensions are 14 x 25 x 29 in. The unit is described as compact and lightweight, though you should still measure your space and account for hose routing before setup.
The instructions note that a faucet adapter may be needed if the hose does not fit. This is a practical pick if you prefer simple timer controls and are comfortable with a semi-automatic process.
What should you check before buying a compact apartment washer?
Measure the installation spot and confirm the connection plan before comparing capacity. A small cabinet still needs room for loading, hoses, drainage and safe operation.
First, check the building rules. Some rentals restrict portable washers because of leak risk, plumbing limits or shared water systems, so get approval where required.
Next, measure width, depth and height, then add space for the faucet connection and drain hose. Check whether the machine must sit near a sink and whether the hose can stay secured while water flows.
Think about the laundry you wash most often. A larger tub may handle more clothing per load, but each twin tub has a separate spinner capacity that can require splitting the wash load.
Finally, choose between automatic and semi-automatic operation.
Do you need a portable washer or a compact washer with hookups?
A portable washer is often the better fit when you need to store the machine between loads or lack a dedicated laundry connection. A compact washer with permanent hookups may suit a fixed laundry nook and a more regular wash routine.
The portable twin tub models here use manual controls and separate wash and spin compartments. They can be moved or stored, but you need to manage the load transfer and water flow.
COMFEE' is also portable, but it automates more of the wash through five programs. If your apartment has a permanent laundry area, compare the machine dimensions and installation needs with your available hookups.
For a larger fixed opening, a 24 inch washing machine may fit better than a portable unit. If your priority is washing and drying in a single appliance, see our apartment washer dryer combo guide.
How do you use a small washer without overloading it?
Keep each load within the washer's stated wash capacity and respect the spinner's lower limit. Clothes need room to move, and a twin tub may require splitting one wash batch for spinning.
Sort by fabric and soil level, then add a modest load rather than packing clothing tightly. If the washer has separate tubs, move only a manageable portion into the spinner at a time.
Follow the machine's instructions for water level, detergent and drainage. For more on load size and spacing, read how to load a washing machine without overloading it.
How does a compact washer clean clothes?
A compact washer cleans by moving water and detergent through fabric so they can loosen soil, then rinsing that soil away. The size of the machine changes the load you can handle, while the wash action and correct detergent amount still matter.
Twin tub models use a wash tub and a separate spinner, while an automatic model runs selected cycles and manages more of the sequence. For the basics behind agitation, rinsing and detergent, see how a washing machine cleans clothes.
Clean the washer on a schedule that fits your use and follow its manual for the tub and filter. Our guide to the best enzyme washing machine cleaners can help you compare cleaner options.
Which small washing machine should you choose for an apartment?
Choose Giantex if you want a high-capacity twin tub and can manage manual filling and transfers. Pick COMFEE' if preset automatic cycles matter more, or choose SUPER DEAL's smaller model for very small loads and a tight storage spot.
Before buying, confirm your building allows the setup, measure the full space, and plan water supply and drainage. Then match the wash and spinner capacities to your typical load size.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for larger split loads
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for very small loads
SUPER DEAL Small Portable Washing Machine 9.9lb
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for automatic wash cycles
COMFEE' Portable Washing Machine 0.9 cu.ft Compact
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best small washing machine for an apartment?
The best choice depends on your hookups, floor space and preferred level of automation. Giantex is a strong twin tub option with a 12 lb wash tub and an 8 lb spinner, while COMFEE' offers five preset programs in a compact automatic design.
Measure the installation area and check the water and drain setup before choosing.
Can a portable washing machine use apartment hookups?
Some portable washers connect to a faucet and drain into a suitable sink or drain, while others need a compatible inlet and drainage arrangement. Check how the specific machine connects and whether your faucet accepts its hose.
Ask your landlord or building manager about appliance rules before setting up a machine.
Are twin tub washers fully automatic?
No. Twin tub models here use separate wash and spin compartments, and you move clothes between them.
You also set timers and, depending on the model, fill the washer with water.
A compact automatic washer such as COMFEE' handles preset wash programs, which can reduce the steps you manage yourself.
How much laundry fits in a compact apartment washer?
Capacity varies widely. The picks here range from a 5.5 lb wash tub to an 18 lb wash tub, and twin tub spinner capacities can be smaller than wash capacities.
Treat those as separate limits.
Divide laundry into manageable loads and leave room for clothes to move, as explained in our guide to loading a washing machine without overloading it.
Does a portable washer dry clothes completely?
No. A spinner removes some water, but it does not fully dry clothes.
Giantex says its spinner leaves clothes about 10% to 20% damp, and Superday also advises air drying after spin drying.
Plan a drying rack or another place for clothes to finish drying.
