Tired of endless scrubbing after every meal? A dishwasher sounds like a dream, but then you see the price tags, and that dream starts to feel expensive. Many people want sparkling clean dishes without emptying their wallets. Finding a truly affordable dishwasher that actually works well can feel like a treasure hunt where the map is missing.
The market is flooded with choices. You worry about buying something cheap that breaks quickly or doesn’t clean properly. This confusion stops you from getting the help you need in the kitchen. We understand that balancing budget and quality is tough when buying new appliances.
This post cuts through the noise. We will show you exactly where to find reliable, budget-friendly dishwashers. You will learn the key features to look for and which brands offer the best value for less money. Get ready to save time and cash!
Let’s dive into our top picks for the best cheap dishwashers available right now.
Top Cheap Dishwasher Recommendations
- Counter Top Dishwasher - Holds up to 6 Standard Place Settings
- Low Water Consumption
- Easy to Connect to any Kitchen Tap
- Resistant Stainless Steel Interior
- Fits under most kitchen cabinets
- 6 Place Setting- A perfect size (H17.2″×W21.6″×D19.7″) for 2-3 people, COMFEE’ compact dishwasher is suitable for dorms, RVs, and apartments. This countertop dishwasher can fit up to 70 pieces of tableware and has a plate size of up to 10 inches in diameter. Note: COMFEE dishwashers are tested at the factory before they are shipped. If your new dishwasher has some water inside, this is normal.
- Simple Installation- COMFEE' portable dishwasher can be connected to faucet directly (Suitable adaptor needed). Depending on your needs, it can be flexibly placed on the table or fitted in the cupboard.
- 8 Washing Cycles- Most of the cleaning cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed, helped with extra-drying function, and deliver sparklingly cleaned and dried dishes. Three more cleaning options, including Speed, Mini-party, and Rinse, are designed for COMFEE' compact dishwasher, providing high flexibility for you to choose in different situations.
- Heavy Program- Heavily soiled dishes are cleaned evenly with 12 washing nozzles, accompanied with 360° spiral spray wash to ensure complete washing of all the dishes from all angles. Also, high water temperature, which is up to 154℉, together with high water pressure, offer you the best cleaning towards the most stubborn stains.
- Speed Program- Only takes you 45 minutes to get all dishes cleaned, perfect for hurry-up situations, like holding a multi-round party. Accompanied with Energy Star compliant, water consumption can be as low as 2.77 gallons of water, which greatly saves your costs.
- 6 Place Setting: A perfect size for 2-3 people, Midea compact dishwasher is suitable for dorms, RVs and apartments. Note: Midea dishwashers are tested at the factory before they are shipped. If your new dishwasher has some water inside, this is normal.
- Simple Installation: Midea portable dishwasher can be connected to faucet directly (Suitable adaptor needed). Depending on your needs, it can be flexibly placed on the table or fitted in the cupboard.
- 8 Washing Cycles: Most of the cleaning cycles, including Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, and Speed, helped with extra-drying function, and deliver sparklingly cleaned and dried dishes. Three more cleaning options, including Speed, Mini-party, and Rinse, are designed for Midea compact dishwasher, providing high flexibility for you to choose in different situations.
- Heavy Program: If you want to wash very dirty, hard to clean dishes, please select this function. Heavily soiled dishes are cleaned evenly with washing nozzles, accompanied with 360° spiral spray wash to ensure complete washing of all the dishes from all angles. Also, high water temperature 154℉with high water pressure, offer you the best cleaning towards the most stubborn stains.
- Speed Program: Only takes you 45 minutes to get all dishes cleaned, perfect for hurry-up situations, like holding a multi-round party. Accompanied with Energy Star compliant, water consumption can be as low as 2.77 gallons of water, which greatly saves your costs.
- Please make sure the distance between your countertop and wall cupboard is more than 19.6" 【No installation needed】: Adding water manually in the 5L built-in water tank, you can put the dishwasher in any suitable place without connecting to tap water. Or it can be hooked to the kitchen faucet directly with the included water hose (Adapter included).Water pressure : 0.04 - 1.0MPa.
- [ Ultra-compact Design]: The ultra-compact design allows the dishwasher to wash 30+ items（Max to 9.5-inch plates) at a time while occupying a small area, which is ideal for small houses, apartments, dorms, boats, and campers/RVs.
- [ 6 Program Options ]: NORMAL, RAPID, STEAM, FRUIT, GLASS washing programs, and AIR REFRESH extra drying mode meet all your daily needs. Note: Use the standard dishwasher powders or detergents because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems. (No detergent is needed for the FRUIT program, and RAPID just needs half of the standard quantity. )
- [ 192 ℉ HIGH-TEMP HYGIENE ]: The HYGIENE wash cycle boosts water temperature to 162 ℉ Rinsing and Max to 192 ℉ which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes and is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children’s dinner sets.
- [ Extra Drying & Stay Fresh ]: Circulation of AIR REFRESH removes moisture and odor, keeping your plates and machine dry and fresh for a long time. The function is enabled by default and you can also inactivate the function if unnecessary.
- Slimline Design with Large Capacity : The Midea built-in dishwasher boasts a slim body that takes up minimal space and is easy to fit. It features a digital control panel with an LED display and has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate larger plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches in height.
- 8 Place Settings Dishwasher : With dimensions of 22.6D x 17.6W x 32.4H with adjustable legs, this under sink dishwasher provides a spacious and flexible interior for maximum dishware loading.
- 6 programs+3 functions : The 18-inch dishwasher offers six programs, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse washing programs. It also features Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize functions that meet all your daily needs. Note: ONLY use detergent specially for dishwasher because regular liquid dish soap will cause dishwasher problems.
- Heated Dry : Smart dishwasher ensures the best drying performance. The extra drying function offers a thorough drying performance (except for the Rapid and Self-clean cycle) with no additional towel drying required.
- HI TEMP : The HYGIENE wash cycle maintains the water temperature at 136°F (58°C) max , which can tackle even the heaviest soiled dishes. It is also suitable for cleaning baby bottles and children's dinner sets.
- 14 PLACE SETTINGS: Racks are suitable to fit 14 place settings of dishes. There is a top cutlery rack and 2 other racks with a large removable cutlery basket.
- MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: There are 6 washing programs to choose from- pots & pans, normal wash, china, quick wash, rinse only, and energy saver. Up to 24 hour delay start for you added convenience.
- DURABLE TUB: The tub is made of stainless steel for better efficiency performance.
- ENERGY STAR: Low energy consumption according to Energy Star standards.
- BUILT-IN STYLE: The dimensions of the unit are 22.6"D x 18"W x 32.4"H. This stainless steel built-in dishwasher is ADA-compliant
- 8 PLACE SETTINGS: Racks are suitable to fit 8 place settings of dishes. There are 2 racks with a removable cutlery basket.
- MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: There are 6 washing programs to choose from- heavy, normal, eco, glass, rapid, and rinse.
- DURABLE TUB: The tub is made of stainless steel for better efficiency performance.
- ENERGY STAR: Low energy consumption according to Energy Star standards.
- TIMER: Up to 24 hour delay start for you added convenience.
- 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Measuring just 16.83 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches, this sleek appliance fits effortlessly into any kitchen setting. Thanks to its smartly designed interior, you can load and clean over 30 dishes at once—making it a great choice for busy families and people who value convenience. The spacious rack accommodates plates up to 10.25 inches in diameter, ensuring versatility for all your dishwashing needs. Perfect for apartment,home, dorm room, boat, and RV, this compact dishwasher brings modern efficiency to spaces where traditional dishwashers can’t go
- 𝐍𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝: Tank mode and faucet mode are the two adaptable water supply options available for the Euhomy portable countertop dishwasher. Simply fill the 5-liter built-in reservoir when in tank mode, and the automatic water level indicator will notify you when the ideal level is reached, making setup simple and quick. Attach the provided hose to your faucet to provide a direct water supply for ongoing cleaning. This little dishwasher's multiple water input options allow it to easily fit into any kitchen setting, guaranteeing maximum convenience and ease of use
- 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐬: Normal, Fast, Glass, Baby Care/Heavy Duty, and Fruit are the five different cleaning modes that the Euhomy compact dishwasher offers to meet all of your demands. The Fast cycle can finish a full wash in just 29 minutes. The Baby Care/Heavy Duty mode boils water to 167°F, providing a thorough and sanitary clean for greasy cookware, baby bottles, and filthy dishes. Even for pet accessories like bowls, collars, and leashes, the dual spray arm system guarantees thorough cleaning power
- 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Equipped with an advanced drying mode, the Euhomy compact dishwasher provides 60 minutes of hot air drying followed by 73 hours of automatic ventilation. This tabletop dishwasher can ensure your dishes stay clean, dry, and free from unpleasant odors. For added flexibility and hygiene, the drying function can be activated alongside any washing cycle—except the fruit mode—or used independently as needed
- 𝐄𝐜𝐨-𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧: Euhomy compact dishwasher's 1.32 gallon of water in the water tank can handle multiple cleaning operations, saving up to 80% compared to handwashing. ETL and DOE certified for safety and quality, the Euhomy countertop dishwasher also delivers energy-efficient performance. Plus, we offer a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind. Please note: this dishwasher is not compatible with liquid detergent; please use dishwashing powder or tablets instead. If you have any questions, our team is always here to help!
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Buying a Cheap Dishwasher
Buying a new dishwasher does not have to empty your wallet. You can find a great machine that cleans well without spending a lot of money. This guide helps you spot the best deals and avoid lemons. We focus on what matters most when your budget is tight.
Key Features to Look For in Budget Dishwashers
Even cheap dishwashers offer important functions. Do not skip these basics. They make a big difference in how happy you are with your purchase.
- Basic Wash Cycles: Look for at least three cycles: Normal, Heavy, and Quick. The Quick cycle saves time when you have lightly soiled dishes.
- Drying Method: Cheaper models often use “heated dry” or “condensation dry.” Condensation dry uses less energy but might leave some spots wet. Heated dry works faster but uses more electricity.
- Noise Level (dBA): Noise matters, even on a budget. Anything under 50 dBA is usually quiet enough for most kitchens. Lower numbers mean quieter operation.
- Racks and Baskets: Check that the racks slide smoothly. Ensure there is enough space for large plates and tall glasses. Adjustable tines are a bonus feature, even on cheaper models.
Important Materials Matter
The materials inside the dishwasher affect how long it lasts and how well it cleans.
Tub Material: Plastic vs. Stainless Steel
Most budget dishwashers use a **plastic tub**. Plastic is cheaper upfront. However, stainless steel tubs dry dishes better and resist staining over time. If you can stretch your budget slightly, a stainless steel tub is a worthwhile upgrade for durability.
Spray Arms: Plastic is Common
Cheap models usually feature plastic spray arms. These work fine for basic cleaning. Higher-end models use stainless steel arms, which resist breaking. Inspect the plastic arms to ensure they feel sturdy, not flimsy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some small details show whether a dishwasher is built tough or built cheap.
Quality Boosters:
- Soil Sensors: Some budget models include a sensor that checks how dirty your dishes are. The machine then adjusts water use. This saves water and energy.
- Delayed Start Option: This lets you run the dishwasher late at night when electricity rates might be lower.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Controls: If the buttons feel mushy or hard to press, the electronics might fail sooner.
- Poor Insulation: Less insulation means the dishwasher will run louder and might use more energy to heat the water.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you live. A small apartment has different needs than a busy family home.
For Small Households (1-2 People): A slimline or compact model might save space and money. Focus on the Quick cycle for daily use.
For Busy Families: You need capacity. Check the loading flexibility. Can it fit big pots easily? A reliable Heavy cycle is essential for baked-on messes.
Installation Note: Remember that installation costs are often separate. Make sure the price quoted includes only the unit itself. Professional installation can add to the total cost.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Dishwashers
Q: How long should a cheap dishwasher last?
A: A well-maintained, budget-friendly dishwasher should last between 6 to 10 years. Better maintenance means longer life.
Q: Are cheap dishwashers energy efficient?
A: Many new budget models meet basic Energy Star standards. Always check the yellow EnergyGuide label for estimated yearly costs.
Q: Can I find a cheap dishwasher with a third rack?
A: It is rare. Third racks (for silverware) are usually reserved for mid-range or premium models. You will likely have a standard silverware basket.
Q: What is the biggest trade-off when buying cheap?
A: The biggest trade-off is usually noise level and drying performance. They are often louder and may require you to towel-dry items after the cycle finishes.
Q: Should I buy a refurbished or open-box model?
A: Yes, this is a great way to save money. Just ensure the seller offers a reasonable warranty or return policy in case of immediate issues.
Q: What size dishwasher is the cheapest?
A: Standard 24-inch models offer the most competition, which drives prices down. Compact 18-inch models can sometimes be cheaper but have fewer options.
Q: Do cheap dishwashers clean as well as expensive ones?
A: For everyday messes, yes, they clean very well. Heavily soiled, baked-on casseroles might require pre-rinsing or using the Heavy cycle.
Q: What about water usage?
A: Modern budget dishwashers are much better than old ones. They usually use between 3 to 5 gallons per cycle.
Q: Is installation difficult on budget models?
A: Installation requirements are the same for all dishwashers. If you are handy, you can install it yourself. Otherwise, budget for a professional.
Q: Where should I look for the best deals?
A: Check major appliance retailers during holiday sales (like Black Friday or Presidents’ Day). Also, look at scratch-and-dent sections for great savings.