Laundry day in an apartment without an in-unit machine usually means dragging a basket down the hall, feeding a coin meter, and waiting around for someone to free up a dryer. After helping my sister furnish a 580 square foot one-bedroom, I spent the past three months comparing twelve of the most searched compact laundry units to find the ones that actually hold up to real apartment life. If you came here searching for the best portable washing machines for apartments, this guide is the shortlist I wish I had on move-in day.
Quick picks for 2026:
Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W (1.7 cu. ft., fully automatic, quiet stainless drum)
Best Value: SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb Mini Twin Tub (lightweight, true twin-tub design under 25 pounds)
Best Budget: Auertech 14 lb Mini Washer and Spin Dryer Combo (compact, simple knobs, easy to store)
Best Fully Automatic: COMFEE’ 1.6 cu. ft. (child lock, delay start, six programs)
Best Twin Tub Capacity: Giantex 20 lb Portable Mini Twin Tub (12 lb wash, 8 lb spin)
Below is the full review, our buying guide, the landlord and lease checklist, and answers to the questions apartment renters ask most about portable washers.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Portable Washing Machines for Apartments in September
Portable Washing Machines for Apartments in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W |
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Check Latest Price |
| SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb Mini Twin Tub |
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| Auertech 14 lb Mini Twin Tub |
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 COMFEE’ 1.6 cu ft Portable Washer |
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 Giantex 1.34 cu ft Full Automatic |
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 Panda 1.34 cu ft Portable Washer |
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 Giantex 8 lb Full Automatic Washer |
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 Auertech 28 lb Twin Tub Washer |
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 Giantex 20 lb Twin Tub Washer |
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 SUPER DEAL 13 lb Twin Tub Washer |
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 COSTWAY 12 lb Twin Tub Washer |
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 INTERGREAT 25.4 lb Twin Tub Washer |
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1. BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W – Best Overall Portable Washer for Apartments
BLACK+DECKER 1.7 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer, 11 lb. Capacity, BPWM16W, White
1.7 cu ft fully automatic tub
6 wash cycles, delay start
72 dB, 70.5 lb
Pros
- Largest portable capacity we tested with 11 lb wash load
- Six cycles including Bulky
- Heavy
- Delicate
- Quick
- Normal
- Spin Only
- Stainless steel drum resists rust and odor
- Auto unbalance detection and child lock
- Two rollers plus side handles for moving
- Built-in lint filter does not require replacement
Cons
- Sink adapter may not fit all US faucet styles
- Drain hose must sit at the right elevation or water drains early
- 70.5 lb is heavier than twin tub competitors
This is the machine I kept coming back to during testing. The 1.7 cubic foot drum handled a king-size pillowcase plus a week of dress shirts in a single load, which is rare in a portable form factor. I ran it three times a week for a month in a 1 bedroom apartment with thin walls, and at 72 dB during the spin cycle it never woke up my downstairs neighbor.
The reason it earned the EDITOR’S CHOICE badge is that nothing else in this list pairs a stainless drum, six real cycles, and delay start in such a small footprint. Setup was the same as every other fully automatic portable washer we tried: the included quick-connect adapter screws onto a standard kitchen faucet, the drain hose hooks over the sink edge, and you are washing in under ten minutes. Pairing it with a smart apartment-friendly vibration sensor lets you know when the cycle wraps without leaving the couch.
The push-button LED panel is straightforward, and the auto unbalance detection means I can toss in a denim load without the whole machine walking across the tile floor. Reviewers consistently mention that the stainless steel tub does not develop the musty smell that plastic tubs sometimes pick up, and after 30 days of testing I can confirm the drum still smelled neutral. Delay start up to 24 hours also means you can load it at bedtime and schedule it to finish just before you wake up.
Two minor points worth knowing. The included faucet adapter fits standard round US faucets but not all pull-out sprayer heads, so check your kitchen before buying. Second, the drain hose relies on gravity plus a small internal pump, so the hose exit point has to sit below the drum or water can siphon out mid-cycle.
For whom it’s good
Couples and singles with a moderate weekly laundry load will appreciate the 11 lb drum and the six cycles that cover everything from delicates to bulky bedding. Renters in studios or one-bedroom apartments get the most benefit because the machine rolls on its side casters between uses and stores in a closet. Anyone sensitive to noise will value the 72 dB spin cycle, which is quieter than most twin tubs.
For whom it’s bad
If your apartment only has a pull-out kitchen faucet, prepare to buy a third-party adapter. Heavy movers should know that 70.5 pounds is at the high end of the portable category, so dragging it up three flights of stairs every weekend is not realistic. People who want to wash comforters in one load should look at the larger twin tub options below.
2. SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb Mini Twin Tub – Budget Pick Portable Washing Machine for Apartments
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
5.5 lb wash + 4.4 lb spin
1300 RPM motor
22 lb, gravity drain
Pros
- Lightest twin tub in the lineup at only 22 lb
- True twin tub lets you wash and spin at the same time
- Translucent tub window shows wash progress
- Simple rotary knobs with separate wash and spin timers
- Lid safety switch prevents operation when open
Cons
- 5.5 lb wash capacity is small for couples
- Requires manual water filling without a faucet connection
- Gravity drain hose must sit below the unit
The SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb is the kind of washer that disappears into a corner of a studio and only comes out twice a week. At 22 pounds it is genuinely portable, and two side handles make it easy to slide off a shelf and onto the bathroom floor. Reviewers on forum threads specifically mention it as a strong pick for users who lack a permanent laundry hookup but do have a bathtub to drain into.
The 1300 RPM motor pulls more water out of the spin basket than I expected from a sub-25 lb unit. My gym clothes came out about 80 percent dry, which let me skip the dryer for shirts and hang towels over the shower rod instead. Two independent timers run the wash side and spin side separately, so you can be washing a second small load while the first is still spinning.
This is a manual-fill machine, so there is no faucet hookup. Instead, you pour water in with a bucket or use the short fill hose to siphon from a sink. That sounds like a hassle, but for renters whose landlords object to permanent plumbing modifications, no hookup is actually a feature. The hose hooks onto a kitchen faucet with a simple adapter, fills in about three minutes, and disconnects when the cycle starts.
The 5.5 lb wash capacity is the obvious trade-off. Two days of underwear and socks is fine, two pairs of jeans is the realistic ceiling, and comforters are out of the question. For the price tier and the 22 pound carry weight though, reviewers consistently call this the value sweet spot in the mini washer category.
For whom it’s good
Singles in studios or dorms who do two or three small loads a week. Travelers who need a washer that fits in an RV or van. Anyone whose lease forbids faucet modifications will appreciate the bucket-fill design. People who like to wash and spin in parallel will save real time compared to single-tub units.
For whom it’s bad
Couples producing more than about 15 lb of laundry a week will run too many cycles. Anyone who hates waiting on a machine to fill water manually should look at the fully automatic options. Filling with buckets is awkward in a second-floor walk-up where the bathroom sink is far from where you store the unit.
3. Auertech 14 lb Mini Twin Tub – Best Value for Small Apartments
Auertech Portable Washing Machine, 14 Lbs Mini Washer and Spin Dryer Combo, 9 lbs Washer, 5 lbs Spinner, Compact Laundry Machine with Drain Hose, Small Washing Machine for Apartments, Dorm, RV
9 lb wash + 5 lb spin tub
1300 RPM motor
22 lb, PP body
Pros
- 22 lb carry weight
- lightest in the twin tub category
- Clothes come out about 80 to 90 percent dry after spin
- 1300 RPM motor pulls strong water flow
- Rust resistant PP plastic body
- Includes drain hose
- inlet hose
- and manual
Cons
- 5 lb spinner basket is smaller than the 9 lb washer
- Fill hose attachment may not fit all faucet styles
- Instructions are minimal out of the box
The Auertech 14 lb Mini is the cheapest way I found to get a real twin tub into an apartment that lacks laundry hookups. It weighs 22 pounds, which is the same as the SUPER DEAL above, but the wash tub is larger at 9 lb versus 5.5 lb. For a single person doing a few outfits a week, that one extra pound of capacity tends to remove an entire load day from the week.
In testing, the spin cycle pulled most of the water out of a load of cotton tees, leaving them damp enough that I could finish drying on a drying rack in under two hours. The PP plastic body feels light but does not flex or pop the way cheaper plastic tubs sometimes do. Reviewers on long-running appliance threads note this model as a solid budget option that lasts a year or more with light use.
The honest drawback is that the spinner at 5 lb is not big enough to take a full 9 lb wash in one batch. You end up splitting the wash into two spin cycles, which adds a few minutes to the overall run time but is no real hardship. The other thing to know is that the inlet hose attachment is a simple screw-on and may not seat perfectly on every faucet shape.
After three months of weekly testing, I noticed a slight drop in spin force on the heaviest wet items, which some long-term reviewers also report after 12 to 24 months of frequent use. Treat it as a 1 to 3 year budget washer rather than a decade investment and the math works out well.
For whom it’s good
Students in dorms or anyone with fewer than two loads per week. People who already own a drying rack and do not mind air-drying most items. Buyers who want the lowest possible entry into the portable washer market without giving up the twin tub format.
For whom it’s bad
Households that generate bulky bedding or heavy towels will hit the spinner limit quickly. Anyone whose lease requires a quiet machine should compare decibel ratings since semi-automatic units tend to run louder than the fully automatic options on this list.
4. COMFEE’ 1.6 cu ft – Best Fully Automatic Portable Washer for Apartments
COMFEE’ 1.6 Cu.ft Portable Washing Machine, 11lbs Capacity Fully Automatic Compact Washer with Wheels, 6 Wash Programs Laundry Drain Pump, Ideal for Apartments, RV, Camping, Magnetic Gray
1.6 cu ft fully automatic
6 programs + child lock
62 dB, 79.4 lb
Pros
- Six programs including Quick
- Heavy
- Bulky
- Delicate
- Normal
- Spin Only
- Child lock freezes the panel during cycles
- Delay start plus reloading mid-cycle
- Energy savings up to 84 percent versus similar models
- Stainless steel drum resists odor and rust
- Extra rinse button for sensitive skin
- Three water temperature options
Cons
- 79.4 lb makes it the heaviest portable in this guide
- Faucet adapter may need a third party part for some kitchen setups
COMFEE’ is the brand apartment reviewers mention most when they want fully automatic cycles in a body that still fits through a standard apartment doorway. The 1.6 cu ft drum is essentially the same usable size as the BLACK+DECKER above, but the cycle logic is tuned slightly differently. I measured 62 dB during the spin, making this the quietest fully automatic portable washer I tested.
The child lock feature is unusual at this price tier. Hold down the Temp and Program buttons together for three seconds and the panel locks until the cycle ends, which is genuinely useful in homes with curious toddlers. Delay start lets you load it at 11 pm and have the cycle wrap at 6 am so the noise happens while you are asleep.
Mid-cycle reload is the killer feature for me. With most fully automatic washers, you cannot open the lid once water starts pooling, but COMFEE’ has a brief window early in the cycle where the drum pauses and unlocks. I lost count of how many times I added a forgotten sock or a hand towel without having to drain and restart.
The unit weighs 79.4 lb, which is heavier than the BLACK+DECKER by almost 9 lb. Once you position it in a closet or corner, you do not move it often, but the side handles and rear rollers do help if you need to pull it forward for hose access.
For whom it’s good
Couples who want full automation but care about noise. Families with small kids benefit from child lock and the reloading window. People who want delay start in a small footprint will appreciate that the controls are dead simple.
For whom it’s bad
Anyone who needs to carry the washer up stairs frequently. Renters with unusual faucet shapes may need an extra adapter. Buyers who want a dedicated sanitize cycle at very hot temperatures may want a full-size unit instead.
5. Giantex 1.34 cu ft Full Automatic Washer – Quietest in the Lineup
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Compact 1.34 Cu.ft Laundry Washer Spin with Drain Pump, 10 programs 8 Water Level Selections with LED Display 12 Lbs Capacity
1.34 cu ft fully automatic
10 programs, 8 water levels
55 dB
Pros
- 10 wash programs with 8 water level selections
- LED display with transparent lid
- 55 dB spin makes it the quietest fully automatic model we tested
- 12 lb capacity in a 1.34 cu ft footprint
- Automatic imbalance adjustment reduces walking
- Adjustable leveling feet for uneven floors
- Child lock and error alarms
Cons
- Setup may need a third party faucet adapter for some sinks
- Overloading triggers imbalance protection mid cycle
The Giantex 1.34 cu ft is one of the highest rated fully automatic portable washers on the market, and after running it through ten cycles I can see why. At 55 dB the spin cycle is quieter than a bathroom exhaust fan, which matters enormously in buildings where you can hear your neighbor sneeze.
Ten programs include the usual Normal, Heavy, Delicate, and Quick, plus specialty settings for baby clothes, blankets, and a soak-wash combo. The 8 water level selections are more granular than most of the competition, which lets you tune the machine for very small loads and save water accordingly.
The transparent lid is a feature I underestimated. Watching the wash motion through the lid is genuinely useful for catching a forgotten pen before it ruins a load. The honeycomb inner drum is gentler on knits than the smooth stainless tubs in some competitors.
The one operational note reviewers highlight is that overloading trips the automatic imbalance protection, which stops the spin and asks you to redistribute the load. Once you learn the right load size for your typical laundry, it does not happen often.
For whom it’s good
Night washers who need low decibel output. Anyone who wants the most program variety in a portable form factor. Apartment dwellers with uneven flooring benefit from the adjustable leveling feet.
For whom it’s bad
If your sink lacks a standard threaded faucet spout, get an adapter before unboxing. Heavy-duty families who run very large loads will be limited by the 12 lb drum.
6. Panda 1.34 cu ft – Premium Fully Automatic Portable Washer
Panda 1.34 Cu.Ft. Portable Washing Machine, Fully Automatic Portable Washer
1.34 cu ft fully automatic
10 programs + drain pump
74 dB
Pros
- Quick connect adapter included in the box
- 10 programs including Quick Wash and Soak and Wash
- 5 adjustable water levels from 1 to 33 L
- Stainless steel drum and rust resistant body
- Child lock
- delay start
- and auto unbalance
- Built-in drain pump removes need for gravity drain
- 1600 RPM spin speed
Cons
- Loudest fully automatic model here at 74 dB
- Drum capacity is smaller than full-size machines
Panda’s portable washer is a long-standing favorite of renters thanks to the quick connect adapter that ships in the box. You do not have to buy a third party part to fit most US faucets. The 1.34 cu ft capacity is the same as the Giantex above, but the cycle lineup is tuned for slightly different priorities.
Reviewers specifically call out the Soak and Wash combo for stained work clothes and pet blankets. The internal pump pushes drain water up rather than relying on gravity, so the drain hose can run to a sink, a bathtub, or a bucket without siphoning issues. During testing that flexibility let me position the unit in a closet while still draining into the bathtub ten feet away.
The tradeoff is decibel level. At 74 dB during the spin, the Panda is the loudest fully automatic unit in this lineup. In a concrete building this matters less than in a wood-framed walk-up. If your apartment has thick floors and tolerant neighbors, the extra wash power is worth the noise.
Quality of construction is high. The stainless steel drum does not flex, the lid closes with a solid click, and the drum is balanced well enough that I did not need to use the leveling feet on a flat tile floor.
For whom it’s good
Buyers who want everything in the box, including the adapter. Apartments with bathtubs rather than kitchen sinks benefit from the internal drain pump. Anyone who runs lots of heavily soiled laundry will appreciate the Soak and Wash cycle.
For whom it’s bad
Light sleepers in thin-walled buildings will want the quieter Giantex above. Single-load households do not need ten programs and may prefer a simpler model.
7. Giantex 8 lb Full Automatic Washer – Best Compact Fully Automatic
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 lb fully automatic
6 modes, 3 water levels
60 dB
Pros
- Smallest fully automatic washer we tested at 17 by 17 inches
- 6 programmable wash modes with 3 water levels
- Built-in aluminum drain pump
- 60 dB quiet operation
- Honeycomb inner tub protects fabrics
- Compact enough to fit inside a standard closet
- Rolling wheels for moving
Cons
- 8 lb capacity is small for two person households
- Some users report overflow at the high water setting
- Inlet hose may need an adapter for some US faucets
The Giantex 8 lb is the answer for renters with truly zero floor space. At 17 by 17 inches wide and deep, it fits in a pantry, a deep closet, or even beside the fridge. The 60 dB noise level is impressively low for a fully automatic unit at this footprint.
Six wash modes cover the bases: normal, heavy, gentle, quick, soak, and drain. The honeycomb inner tub is gentler on knits and sweaters than smooth stainless baskets.
The internal pump drains into a sink or bathtub without gravity siphon, which is helpful when the only practical place for the unit is a closet without a sink directly above.
Be conservative with the high water setting. Some users report a small overflow if you set 30 L on a high-pressure faucet. The medium setting of 23 L works for nearly every normal load.
For whom it’s good
Studio dwellers where every square foot counts. Renters who need a closet-friendly washer between cycles. Buyers looking for a low-noise fully automatic machine without paying a premium.
For whom it’s bad
Couples producing more than 8 lb of laundry per cycle. People with pull-out faucets who do not want to buy adapters.
8. Auertech 28 lb Twin Tub Washer – Largest Twin Tub Portable
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
18 lb wash + 10 lb spin
1300 RPM, drain pump
31 lb
Pros
- Largest twin tub capacity in this roundup at 28 lb total
- Built-in drain pump drains to higher elevation
- Adjustable inlet hose for faucet hookup
- 1300 RPM motor handles bedding and towels
- Transparent window to monitor cycles
- Overheat protection cuts motor at 275 F
- Stainless steel drum resists rust
Cons
- Semi-automatic operation requires manual transfer
- Spinner balance sensitive to overloading
- 31 lb weight is heavier than smaller twin tubs
The Auertech 28 lb is the twin tub for renters who wash real volume. With 18 lb in the washer and 10 lb in the spinner, you can run a set of sheets and a comforter top in one go. The 1300 RPM motor is among the strongest we tested, and the included pump drains water uphill into a sink or bathtub.
Reviewers specifically mention the overheat protection as a real safety feature. If the motor hits 275 F during a heavy load, it stops automatically and resumes after a 20 to 30 minute cooldown. After a year of weekly use that protection tends to extend the life of the motor.
Semi-automatic means you do move the clothes from the wash tub into the spin tub yourself. With 18 lb batches the transfer is heavier than the smaller twin tubs. The adjustable inlet hose helps with awkward faucets, and reviewers consistently note that the spin basket needs careful balance to avoid the imbalance sensor pausing the cycle.
At 31 lb, this is not a one-hand carry across the apartment. Plan a storage spot near where you will use it.
For whom it’s good
Two-person or small family households. Apartments with a bathtub drain where the pump can push water uphill. Buyers who want twin tub simplicity with the largest possible footprint.
For whom it’s bad
Renters who want one-button convenience will be happier with a fully automatic unit. Anyone needing to stow the washer in a high closet will struggle with the 31 lb weight.
9. Giantex 20 lb Portable Mini Twin Tub – Best Selling Twin Tub
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine 20lbs Washer Spain Spinner Portable Washing Machine, Blue+ White
12 lb wash + 8 lb spin
1350 RPM
28 lb
Pros
- Long-standing best seller with over 15k reviews
- 12 lb wash and 8 lb spin in a 28 lb body
- 1350 RPM motor removes most water in spin
- Stainless steel wash tub and lint filter
- Lightweight and easy to roll to a closet
- 300W wash power plus 110W spin power
- Easy to operate knob controls
Cons
- Manual fill and drain with no faucet connection
- Inlet hose may require adapters for US sinks
- Drain hose placement matters for proper operation
Few portable washers can claim the kind of long-term track record of the Giantex 20 lb. With thousands of reviews stretching back years, this is the machine renters turn to when they want proven reliability. The 12 lb wash tub plus 8 lb spinner is large enough for two people’s weekly basics.
I tested it as my primary washer for a six week stretch in a basement apartment during a renovation. The 1350 RPM spin left towels light enough that I could hang them on a clothesline and finish drying in under 90 minutes.
The build feels closer to a real washer than a budget unit. The stainless steel drum and ABS body hold up to bangs, and the lint filter on the side of the wash barrel cleans out in seconds.
Setup is the usual semi-automatic drill. Fill manually or via the inlet hose, run the wash cycle up to 15 minutes, transfer the load to the spinner, and run the spin for 5 minutes. Draining the wash water is gravity based, so plan the hose exit point to drain into a tub or floor drain.
For whom it’s good
Renters who want a proven model backed by years of long-term reviews. Couples producing roughly 15 to 20 lb of laundry per week. Anyone with a floor drain or bathtub who can route a gravity drain hose easily.
For whom it’s bad
Buyers who want automatic cycles will be happier with a fully automatic model. Apartments without a bathtub drain may struggle to route the drain hose.
10. SUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub – Lightweight for Stairs
SUPER DEAL Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine 13lbs Capacity Portable Washer Wash and Spin Cycle Combo, Built-in Gravity Drain for Camping, Apartments, Dorms, College, RV’s and Small Spaces
Twin tub, 1300 RPM
26.5 lb
15 min wash + 5 min spin
Pros
- Twin tub design washes and spins simultaneously
- 1300 RPM motor with 60 Hz frequency
- Translucent tub container window lets you monitor progress
- Simple rotary knobs for wash and spin timers
- Lightweight at 26.5 lb for transport
- Rust-resistant plastic body
Cons
- Wash and spin capacities are smaller than full-size machines
- Drain tube diameter is small at about 0.91 inches
- Manual operation requires monitoring
The SUPER DEAL Compact Mini sits in the sweet spot between the SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb above and a mid-size twin tub. At 26.5 pounds it is light enough to carry upstairs but it still offers a usable wash tub for one to two people’s laundry.
The simultaneous wash and spin design is what makes this category work. While the spin side runs the previous load, the wash side starts the next one. Total cycle time drops dramatically compared to single-tub designs.
I used this for a two week RV trip where hookups were limited. The translucent window made it easy to check water level without opening the lid mid-cycle. The plastic body does not develop rust spots from humid storage, which matters when the unit lives in a damp RV bay for weeks.
The drain tube is narrow at about 0.91 inches. That is fine for grey water on flat ground, but if you have to drain uphill or into a tight floor drain, expect slow flow.
For whom it’s good
RV and van life owners who need a travel washer. Renters who want to carry the washer up and down stairs. Light users who prioritize speed and portability over capacity.
For whom it’s bad
Heavy use households will outgrow the spin capacity quickly. Anyone needing to drain into a tight pipe should look at machines with built-in drain pumps.
11. COSTWAY 12 lb Twin Tub Washer – Best Simple Knob Controls
COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine, 12Lbs Washer and 8Lbs Spinner, Blue+White
12 lb wash + 8 lb spin
330W wash, 110W spin
29 lb
Pros
- Large 20 lb total capacity in a compact body
- Effortless 3 knob control layout
- Spinner removes most water from a load
- Lightweight and portable at 29 lb
- Good value for the money
Cons
- Requires manual filling and draining
- Spinner basket is smaller than the wash tub
- Short inlet hose may not fit all fixtures
- Noisy during operation
- Not suitable for bulky comforters
COSTWAY’s 12 lb twin tub is the no-frills option for renters who just want three knobs and a working machine. The 12 lb wash capacity is generous for a 29 pound unit, and the spinner handled towels effectively in my test runs. The painted ABS body feels a bit cheaper than the higher-priced Giantex but held up fine during a month of weekly use.
The simple 3-knob control panel is a relief if you have looked at ten-program LED displays and felt overwhelmed. Anyone over 50 will appreciate the large, clearly labeled dials.
The spin basket at 8 lb is smaller than the wash tub. Long-term users learn to split loads into two or three spin batches, which is normal for the category. The short inlet hose may not reach every kitchen, and the unit is louder than the fully automatic options.
Reviewers consistently rate this as a strong budget pick for the basic twin tub category. It costs less than most competitors and washes just as well.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants a simple, no-menu washer. Seniors who want large knobs. Budget buyers focused on basic wash and spin performance.
For whom it’s bad
Anyone needing to wash comforters or oversized bedding. Renters with thin walls should pick a quieter fully automatic model instead.
12. INTERGREAT 25.4 lb Twin Tub – Lightest Twin Tub with Drain Pump
INTERGREAT Portable Washing Machine, 25.4lbs Twin Tub Portable Washer with Spin Cycle and Dryer, Semi-automatic Washer Machine Combo for Dorms, Apartments, Blue
9.6 lb wash + 5.4 lb spin
1300 RPM
17 lb total
Pros
- Lightest twin tub in the lineup at 17 lb total
- 1300 RPM motor with 250W wash and 140W spin
- Lid safety switch prevents operation when open
- Filter net on the wash tub for quick lint removal
- Three washing modes: gentle
- normal
- drain
- Compact 13.4 inch depth fits in closets
Cons
- Spinner basket is very small relative to the 9.6 lb wash tub
- Requires manual water filling and draining
- Instructions are unclear out of the box
- Lint trap can be difficult to remove
- Not suitable for blankets or oversized bedding
INTERGREAT is the lightest twin tub I tested at just 17 pounds total. If you live on a third floor walk-up and the washer has to come out of a closet twice a week, that 5 pound saving versus the next lightest option matters. The 1300 RPM motor pulls strong water flow despite the small body.
The lid safety switch is a feature more common on fully automatic units. Open the lid mid-spin and the motor cuts out, which prevents the kind of towel-tangle incidents that occasionally happen with simpler twin tubs.
The honest trade-off is that the spinner basket is tiny. You will run multiple spin cycles per wash batch. That adds time but does not change the actual cleaning result. The instructions in the box are sparse, so I had to call their support line once to confirm the lid switch behavior, which they walked me through in under five minutes.
Reviewers consistently mention decreased motor performance after 12 to 18 months of heavy use. For light weekly loads it is excellent; for daily use, prefer a more robust unit.
For whom it’s good
Staircase-heavy renters who cannot lift 30 lb units. Light weekly users. Buyers who want lid-switch safety in a budget build.
For whom it’s bad
Daily laundry households. Anyone wanting a one-touch automatic cycle will be happier with the fully automatic units above.
Portable Washing Machine Buying Guide for Apartments
Picking a portable washer for an apartment involves trade-offs that full-size machine owners never consider. These are the seven factors that consistently came up during testing, plus what to check before you buy.
Capacity Sizing for Apartment Households
The single biggest mistake I see is buying a washer that is too small for the household laundry load. A rule of thumb that holds up well across this category: one to two pounds of dry laundry per household member per day. A two person household averaging one change of clothes a day needs roughly 14 lb per week, which means a 5 to 8 lb drum means running the machine three times a week.
The fully automatic portable washers above top out around 12 lb drum capacity, which is enough for a couple handling normal laundry. Twin tubs typically split capacity between wash and spin sides, so the largest is the Auertech 28 lb with 18 lb in the wash tub. Renters should measure the floor space they have available first, then pick the largest drum that fits.
Fully Automatic vs Twin Tub vs Mini
Fully automatic portable washers work like a normal washer. You load, push a button, and walk away. The machine fills, washes, drains, and spins on its own. The trade-off is size and weight: even the lightest fully automatic unit is 70 lb or more, which makes them harder to store.
Twin tub washers have two side-by-side tubs. One washes, one spins. You transfer the load from wash to spin manually, which adds a step but cuts cycle time because you can run both tubs at once. They are lighter, cheaper, and more portable, but require a bit of attention.
Mini washers are the smallest category, often under 25 lb total. They work best for one-person households who do two or three small loads a week. The smallest super-compact units can be stored in a closet and rolled out only on laundry day.
Hookup Requirements and Faucet Compatibility
Fully automatic portable washers connect to a standard kitchen faucet with a quick-connect adapter. Pull-out sprayer faucets often need a third-party adapter. Most machines ship with a US-standard adapter included, but verify before you buy. The Panda and the SUPER DEAL units both ship adapters that fit most standard round faucets without extra parts.
Twin tubs typically have two options. Some include an inlet hose for faucet fill, others expect you to fill manually with a bucket. If you have a bathtub and a bucket, manual fill is perfectly workable. If you want to fill from the kitchen sink, look for a unit with an inlet hose rated for your faucet shape.
Draining is the other side of hookup. Gravity drain hoses need to sit below the drum to drain correctly. Built-in drain pumps (like the Panda and Auertech 28 lb) push water uphill, which lets you store the unit in a closet while draining into a bathtub ten feet away.
Space, Storage and Noise Considerations
Measure the space where you will use the washer before you buy. Most fully automatic units need about 2 by 2 feet of floor space plus a few inches of clearance behind for hose routing. Twin tubs are more flexible, but the largest 28 lb units approach the same footprint.
Noise is a real concern in apartments. The quietest units in this roundup are the Giantex 1.34 cu ft at 55 dB and the Giantex 8 lb at 60 dB. Reviewers report that the louder units in the 70 plus dB range are usually still tolerable in concrete buildings but noticeable in wood-framed walk-ups.
For noise-sensitive situations, run the washer during the day when neighbors are likely out. Delay start helps with this strategy. The best mesh routers for apartments guide pairs well with running a smart plug schedule for your washer cycles.
Landlord and Lease Checklist
Some landlords do not allow portable washers in their units. The most common reasons are noise complaints, water damage to floors below, and concerns about electrical load. Before buying, check your lease for language about appliances and ask your property manager directly if a portable washer is allowed.
Most lease agreements do not ban washing machines outright but require disclosure or written consent. If your building has flooded below you in the past, expect stricter rules. Document the drain setup with photos before first use. Vibration sensors like the zigbee vibration sensor for washing machine alerts catch leaks before they become water damage.
Portable washers that do not require permanent plumbing modifications are usually easier to get approved than machines that need a Y-fitting installed under the sink. Twin tubs with manual filling and gravity draining fall into this easier category and are the safest bet for tight leases.
Energy, Water and Maintenance
Portable washers typically use 5 to 15 gallons per load, depending on the water level setting and machine size. Compared to a laundromat at 30 to 45 gallons per cycle, even the thirstiest portable washer cuts water use significantly. Electric draw is modest, in the 200 to 400 watt range during wash and up to 800 watts during a fully automatic heated cycle.
Maintenance is mostly about keeping the lint filter clean and the drum dry between uses. Leave the lid open after each cycle to air out the drum. Run a quick hot water cycle with a washing machine cleaner monthly. Stainless steel drums resist odor better than plastic, but even plastic drums stay fresh if you let them dry.
For an energy-efficient apartment setup, pair the washer with a smart plug and schedule cycles during off-peak utility hours. The compact NAS storage we recommend for small apartments also doubles as a home automation hub for scheduling.
Apartment Layout Considerations
Where you put the washer matters as much as which one you buy. The most practical spots are next to the kitchen sink (for the faucet hookup), inside a deep bathroom closet, or beside a bathtub (for drainage). The worst spot is in a corner with no faucet or drain access. In smaller apartments where the kitchen doubles as the laundry zone, you can keep heat and noise away from seating by positioning the unit near a window with good ventilation.
Measure the doorway widths along the path from delivery to the final position. Most fully automatic units are 21 inches wide, which fits a standard door, but some twin tubs at 25 inches need to be tilted. If you are also furnishing the rest of the apartment, our picks for the best portable air conditioners for apartments pair well with compact washers since both rely on the same quick-connect-and-store-in-a-closet philosophy. For living room seating, the best sofas for apartments guide covers small-footprint couches that leave room for laundry equipment without crowding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are portable washers good for apartments?
Yes, portable washers are good for apartments because they connect to a standard kitchen faucet, do not require permanent plumbing, and can be stored away when not in use. They handle one to two person households well, run more quietly than full-size machines, and cost less than a year of laundromat fees. The main trade-offs are smaller drum capacity and the need to load and unload each cycle manually for twin tub models.
Why do landlords not allow portable washers?
Some landlords restrict portable washers because of three concerns: noise complaints from neighbors, water damage to units below if a hose fails, and electrical load on older building wiring. Most leases do not ban washing machines outright but require written approval before installation. To get approval faster, choose a unit without permanent plumbing modifications, place a leak sensor under the machine, and run cycles during daytime hours when possible.
What is a good mini washer for an apartment?
A good mini washer for an apartment is light enough to carry (under 30 lb), fits your storage space, and has a drum capacity that matches your laundry volume. For most renters the BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W (1.7 cu ft) or the COMFEE’ 1.6 cu ft are the best fully automatic picks. For budget buyers the SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb or the Auertech 14 lb mini twin tub offer proven performance in a smaller body.
What is the best portable washing machine for an apartment with no hookups?
The best portable washing machine for an apartment with no hookups is one that fills and drains without faucet or drain modifications. Twin tub models with manual bucket filling and gravity drain are the easiest option. The Giantex 20 lb Twin Tub and the Auertech 28 lb Twin Tub both drain via gravity hose into a bathtub. For fully automatic options in no-hookup setups, the Panda and the Giantex 1.34 cu ft both have internal drain pumps that push water uphill into a bathtub without gravity siphon issues.
Can I use a portable washing machine in an apartment?
Yes, you can use a portable washing machine in an apartment if your lease allows it. Start by checking your lease for appliance clauses or asking your property manager directly. Choose a quiet model if walls are thin, place a waterproof tray under the unit, and run cycles during reasonable hours. Most leases allow portable washers as long as no permanent plumbing is installed and there is no risk of water damage to neighboring units.
Conclusion
If you want a single answer for an apartment, the BLACK+DECKER BPWM16W remains our EDITOR’S CHOICE for 2026 because it balances capacity, cycle variety, and quiet operation better than anything else at the portable size. Couples who want full automation should look at the COMFEE’ 1.6 cu ft next, while budget buyers get the most washer per dollar from the SUPER DEAL 9.9 lb Mini Twin Tub.
Singles who only do two or three loads a week will be happiest with the Auertech 14 lb Mini or the INTERGREAT 25.4 lb Twin Tub. Heavy laundry households should pick the Auertech 28 lb Twin Tub for twin tub simplicity or the Giantex 1.34 cu ft for quiet automation. Pair your pick with a leak sensor, a smart plug, and a quick chat with your landlord, and you will skip laundromat trips for good.