One of the biggest challenges of full-time RV living is dealing with dishes. Whether you're in a Class A motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, or van conversion, hand-washing dishes in a tiny sink gets old fast. A portable dishwasher transforms RV life by eliminating tedious dish duty and freeing up time for adventure.
The good news? Portable dishwashers are perfect for RVs. They're compact, require minimal water, work with standard 120V power, and don't require permanent installation. Many full-time RVers swear by them.
This guide covers everything RVers need to know about choosing, installing, and using a portable dishwasher on the road.
RV kitchens are notoriously small. Portable dishwashers fit easily on countertops or can be stored when not in use. No permanent modification needed.
RVers have limited fresh water tanks (typically 50-100 gallons). Portable dishwashers use 5 gallons per cycle—far less than hand-washing multiple times.
No special electrical hookup needed. Just plug into a standard outlet. Works while boondocking with a generator if needed.
Connect to your faucet, drain into your sink, and you're done. When you upgrade or move, take it with you. Perfect for renters and travelers.
Load up before heading to the next campground. Dishes get cleaned while you explore. Arrive with a fresh batch of clean dishes.
Hand-washing in a cramped RV sink is exhausting. A dishwasher handles it automatically, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the RV lifestyle.
Real Talk: Many full-time RVers consider a portable dishwasher a game-changer. It's one of the best quality-of-life improvements for RV living.
RVs present unique challenges for appliances. Before buying, consider these factors:
RV kitchens are tight. Look for models under 24" wide. Depth shouldn't exceed 20". Height around 35" is standard.
Ensure it runs on standard 120V (all portable dishwashers do). Check amp draw—shouldn't exceed 10 amps for generator use.
In close quarters, noise matters. Look for models ≤50 dB. You'll be sleeping near the kitchen, and neighbors in adjacent sites will appreciate quiet operation.
ENERGY STAR models use less water (4.8-5.0 gal/cycle vs. 6+ gal). Critical for RVers with limited tanks. Consider one as a long-term investment.
For 2-4 people, 6 place settings is adequate. A couple can run every other day. Larger families might need two units or accept higher frequency.
Shorter cycles are better for mobile living. Look for "quick" or "express" cycles that run 60-90 minutes instead of 120+.
Step 1: Position the Unit - Place on a stable counter or secure location. Ensure it's level using a level tool.
Step 2: Attach Faucet Adapter - Remove your RV faucet aerator. Attach the included adapter (just like in a home kitchen).
Step 3: Connect Inlet Hose - Attach the inlet hose to your faucet adapter. Tighten by hand (don't over-tighten).
Step 4: Position Drain Hose - Place the drain hose into your RV sink. Secure with an adapter if your sink is unusual.
Step 5: Secure for Travel - Use bungee cords or cargo straps to secure the unit so it won't move during travel.
Step 6: Plug In - Connect to your RV's 120V outlet (usually under the sink or on the wall).
Step 7: Test - Run an empty cycle to check for leaks and proper operation.
💡 Pro Tip: Some RVers use hose extensions (available at RV stores) to position the dishwasher away from the sink, opening up counter space. Just ensure the hose doesn't kink.
Running efficiently:
Using a generator:
Tips for better performance:
These models are trusted by full-time RVers and work exceptionally well in mobile living:
The #1 choice for RVers. Energy-efficient, quiet, and water-efficient. Compact size fits RV kitchens perfectly.
Size: 22"W × 20"D × 35"H (fits RV counters)
Capacity: 6 place settings
Water Use: 4.8 gal/cycle (water efficient for RVs)
Power Draw: ~9 amps (generator friendly)
Noise Level: 49 dB (quiet for close quarters)
Cycle Time: 120 minutes (standard)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5 (2,156 reviews)
Price: $275.05
Premium model with 360° spray system. Best cleaning power for serious cooks. Slightly higher power draw but excellent performance.
Size: 22"W × 20"D × 35"H
Capacity: 6 place settings
Water Use: ~5.2 gal/cycle
Power Draw: ~10 amps (still generator safe)
Noise Level: 49 dB (very quiet)
Cycle Time: 95-120 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5 (2,847 reviews)
Price: $295.95
Ultra-compact for small RVs and vans. Class B and van dwellers love this. Smallest footprint available.
Size: 20"W × 18"D × 34"H (most compact)
Capacity: 6 place settings
Water Use: 4.8 gal/cycle
Power Draw: ~8 amps (most efficient)
Noise Level: 49 dB
Cycle Time: 120 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ 4.7/5
Price: $299.99
RV Community Favorite: The COMFEE Energy Star dominates RV forums and Facebook groups. RVers rave about its water efficiency, quiet operation, and reliability.
Never run the dishwasher while the RV is moving. Always secure it with cargo straps or bungee cords during travel. Movement can damage the unit.
Before winter storage or traveling to cold climates, drain all water from the dishwasher. Frozen water can crack hoses and damage the unit.
In summer, ensure your RV is well-ventilated during cycles. Excessive heat can damage the unit. Run cycles in early morning or evening when cooler.
RV-specific hose extensions are available to move the dishwasher away from the sink. This opens counter space. Extensions come in 3-6 foot lengths.
Use biodegradable detergents when boondocking—your gray water helps nature. Brands like Seventh Generation are eco-friendly and work great.
Run your dishwasher while exploring. Load before a day hike, come back to clean dishes. Plan cycles around activities and water fill-ups.
Some RVers use a shower filter and tankless heater combo to maximize water. Others only run the dishwasher when at hookups for unlimited water.
Run the dishwasher while the RV is being driven (engine on). This keeps the battery charged and uses existing fuel instead of additional generator fuel.
For large families, consider two compact units. Run them on alternate days instead of one large unit. Spreads water/power load more evenly.
A portable dishwasher is one of the best quality-of-life upgrades for RVers. It eliminates the tedious task of hand-washing in a cramped sink, saves water compared to repeated hand-washing sessions, and frees up time to explore and enjoy the road.
At under $300, it's affordable and easily moveable between RVs. The COMFEE Energy Star is the clear favorite among the RV community, offering the perfect balance of efficiency, performance, and price.
Whether you're full-timing, weekending, or taking extended road trips, a portable dishwasher will transform your RV experience. Ask any RVer who owns one—they'll tell you it was the best money they ever spent.
Ready to upgrade your RV kitchen? Start with the COMFEE Energy Star. Thousands of RVers have already made the switch, and they love it.