8 Best Washing Machines for Apartment Living (October 2026)
The best apartment washing machines include the BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW for larger apartment loads, the BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM20W for balanced capacity and footprint, and the ROVSUN 25 lb Full-Automatic Portable Washer for automatic wash and spin.
On this page (4 sections)
The best washing machine for apartment living for most households is the BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW. It holds up to 26.5 lb and has six cycles, while smaller models suit tighter laundry corners or lighter loads.
An apartment washer needs to fit more than the floor plan. Check where it will sit during use, where it can drain, how it will connect to water and where it can be stored if it must move between uses.
If you are still deciding between sizes and washer styles, start with how to choose a washing machine for your home and the washing machine size guide. For other small-space options, see our best compact washers.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for larger apartment loadsBLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for balanced capacity and footprintBLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM20W
8.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for automatic wash and spinROVSUN 25 lb Full-Automatic Portable Washer
8.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itHamilton Beach 2.65 Cu Ft Washer Dryer Combo
Best for washing and drying in one unit - 5
Check itROVSUN 17.8 lb Washer and 1.5 Cu Ft Dryer Set
Best for a separate washer and dryer - 6
Check itGiantex Full-Automatic Portable Washer
Best for very small loads - 7
Check itCOMFEE' 1.6 Cu Ft Portable Washer
Best for a compact daily washer - 8
Check itBLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM09W
Best for occasional small batches
Which washing machines work best for apartment living?
The best apartment washing machine is the one that fits your load size, available space and hookups. Portable washers are the main focus here, with a combo and a separate washer dryer set for homes that need drying too.
We compared the stated capacities, dimensions, wash options and mobility features for these picks. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Dimensions | Wash cycles | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW | larger apartment loads | 26.5 lb | 23.7 x 24.8 x 39.4 in | Six | 8.7 |
| BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM20W | balanced capacity and footprint | 15.4 lb | 21.6 x 22.2 x 37.4 in | Six | 8.5 |
| ROVSUN 25 lb Full-Automatic Portable Washer | automatic wash and spin | 25 lb | 22.3 x 22.5 x 36 in | 8.3 | |
| Hamilton Beach 2.65 Cu Ft Washer Dryer Combo | washing and drying in one unit | 26.4 lb wash, 17.6 lb dry | 23.4 x 25.2 x 33.5 in | 8.0 | |
| ROVSUN 17.8 lb Washer and 1.5 Cu Ft Dryer Set | a separate washer and dryer | 8.0 | |||
| Giantex Full-Automatic Portable Washer | very small loads | 8 lb | 17 x 17 x 29.5 in | 7.6 | |
| COMFEE' 1.6 Cu Ft Portable Washer | a compact daily washer | 11 lb | 20.7 x 20.3 x 37 in | 7.5 | |
| BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM09W | occasional small batches | 6.6 lb | 17.7 x 31.1 x 17.3 in | Five | 7.3 |
The best washing machines for apartment living
The BLACK+DECKER 3.0 cu ft model leads for households that want a larger portable washer, while the smaller options address less space or smaller laundry needs. The combo and separate set are alternatives for buyers who also need a drying setup.
BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW: Best for larger apartment loads
- 26.5 lb capacity
- Six wash cycles
- Three water levels
- Two roller wheels and side handles
A larger portable washer for households that need more room per load. Its wheels and side handles help with moving it between use and storage.
Pros
- Largest stated capacity in this roundup
- Six cycles including Bulky and Delicate
- Three water levels
Cons
- Needs more floor space than the smaller picks
- At 99.2 lb, it is not light to move
The BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW suits apartment households that want to wash a larger load at home. Its 26.5 lb capacity is the largest stated capacity in this group, and six cycles cover Normal, Heavy, Delicate, Quick, Bulky and Spin Only.
The washer measures 23.7 x 24.8 x 39.4 in. Compare those measurements with the spot where it will operate, including the height needed to open its transparent top lid.
Three water levels give you small, medium and large load choices. It also has auto unbalance detection, auto shutoff and child lock protection.
Two roller wheels and side handles can help move the washer between the kitchen or bathroom and a storage spot. At 99.2 lb, plan where it will live before moving it; portability does not mean it is light.
Choose this model if your apartment has room for its footprint and you prefer fewer, larger loads. For a smaller capacity and footprint, compare the 2.0 cu ft BLACK+DECKER below.
BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM20W: Best for balanced capacity and footprint
- 15.4 lb capacity
- Six wash cycles
- Three water levels
- Quick connect adapter and hoses
A middle-size portable washer with six cycles and a stainless steel tub. The smaller footprint than the 3.0 cu ft pick can suit apartments with limited laundry space.
Pros
- Six cycles including Quick and Bulky
- Three water levels and temperatures
- Wheels, handles and adjustable leveling legs
Cons
- Smaller capacity than the top pick
- Weighs 79.4 lb
The BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM20W is a balanced choice when a full-size portable washer feels too large. It holds 15.4 lb and measures 21.6 x 22.2 x 37.4 in.
Its six cycles include Normal, Heavy, Delicate, Quick, Bulky and Spin Only. Three water levels and hot, warm and cold temperature choices give you options for different load sizes and fabrics.
The stainless steel tub has a transparent quiet-close lid. Two rollers, side handles and adjustable leveling legs help with placement, while the included quick connect adapter, water supply hose and drain hose support setup.
This washer weighs 79.4 lb, so choose a storage spot that does not require frequent lifting. It fits buyers who want a mid-size portable machine and can accommodate its height and water connection.
ROVSUN 25 lb Full-Automatic Portable Washer: Best for automatic wash and spin
- 25 lb capacity
- Ten wash modes
- Five water levels
- Built-in drain pump
This full-automatic portable washer combines washing and spin drying, with ten modes and five water levels. It has adjustable feet and a built-in drain pump.
Pros
- 25 lb capacity
- Ten modes and five water levels
- Built-in drain pump
Cons
- Confirm the dimensions and hookup plan for your apartment
- Drying is spin drying, not a separate heated dryer
The ROVSUN 25 lb Full-Automatic Portable Washer suits buyers who want automatic washing and spin drying in one portable machine. It has a 25 lb capacity, ten wash modes and five water levels.
Its stated dimensions are 22.3 x 22.5 x 36 in, close to the 2.0 cu ft BLACK+DECKER footprint but with a larger stated capacity. The built-in drain pump moves water out, and adjustable feet help stabilize the washer.
ROVSUN includes modes for different laundry needs, including quick, delicate and tub clean. The brand describes the machine as combining washing and spin drying, so plan on air drying or another dryer for loads that need fully dried clothes.
Choose it if you want a larger automatic portable washer and value a drain pump. Before buying, check the machine's footprint and how its water supply will connect in your apartment.
Hamilton Beach 2.65 Cu Ft Washer Dryer Combo: Best for washing and drying in one unit
- 2.65 cu ft washer dryer combo
- 26.4 lb wash capacity
- 17.6 lb dry capacity
- Front load design
A single front load unit handles washing and drying, which can help when there is room for only one appliance. Its stated drying capacity is lower than its wash capacity.
Pros
- Washing and drying in one unit
- Multiple wash programs and temperatures
- Delay start
Cons
- Drying capacity is lower than wash capacity
- Confirm installation and venting needs before choosing
The Hamilton Beach 2.65 Cu Ft Washer Dryer Combo is for apartment residents who need washing and drying in one appliance. It combines a front load washer and dryer, with a stated 26.4 lb washing capacity and 17.6 lb drying capacity.
Its dimensions are 23.4 x 25.2 x 33.5 in. The lower drying capacity means you may need to dry a load in smaller portions than you wash it.
The combo offers multiple wash temperatures and programs such as Cotton/Normal, Bulky/Large, Sport, Delicate, Babywear, Speed Wash and Sanitary. It also has delay start and an LED display.
A combo can help when there is room for one unit but not a washer and separate dryer. Check the installation, electrical and venting requirements for your intended setup before choosing it.
ROVSUN 17.8 lb Washer and 1.5 Cu Ft Dryer Set: Best for a separate washer and dryer
- 17.8 lb automatic washer
- 1.5 cu ft dryer
- Eight washer modes
- Dryer can be wall mounted with included kit
This set pairs an automatic washer with a separate compact dryer. The dryer can be wall mounted with the included kit, but the pair needs a plan for two appliances.
Pros
- Separate washer and dryer
- Dryer includes a wall-mounting kit
- Washer has eight modes
Cons
- Two appliances need placement space
- Dryer load guidance says no more than 5.5 lb for quick drying
The ROVSUN 17.8 lb Washer and 1.5 Cu Ft Dryer Set gives you separate appliances in a compact pair. The washer has an 8-mode automatic wash program, while the dryer has a maximum stated capacity of 10 lb.
The dryer can be wall mounted with the included kit, which may help free floor space if your wall and installation allow it. The washer measures 20.1 x 18.6 x 34.1 in; plan space for the dryer too.
ROVSUN says the dryer can handle up to 10 lb, but recommends no more than 5.5 lb at a time for quick drying. This is a useful distinction if you expect to move a full washer load directly into the dryer.
Choose the set if you want separate washing and drying functions and can place two units. Compare it with our guide to washer dryer combos versus separate machines if you are weighing the layout tradeoff.
Giantex Full-Automatic Portable Washer: Best for very small loads
- 8 lb capacity
- Six programs
- Three water levels
- Built-in drain pump
A compact full-automatic washer for light laundry needs. Its 8 lb capacity makes it better suited to modest loads than weekly family laundry.
Pros
- Small footprint
- Built-in drain pump
- Six wash and rinse program choices
Cons
- 8 lb capacity limits load size
- Simple analog display
The Giantex Full-Automatic Portable Washer suits occasional laundry and very small loads. Its 8 lb capacity is much lower than the larger picks, but it measures 17 x 17 x 29.5 in.
Six program choices cover combinations such as wash-rinse-spin and rinse-spin, with three water levels. A built-in drain pump and drainage tube help move used water out of the machine.
The compact footprint can be useful in a dorm or apartment where storage is tight. Its 8 lb capacity is better for a few garments than bedding or a full household load.
Pick Giantex if small loads and a compact cabinet matter more than capacity. For a little more room per load, the COMFEE' option offers 11 lb capacity.
COMFEE' 1.6 Cu Ft Portable Washer: Best for a compact daily washer
- 11 lb capacity
- Six wash programs
- Three water temperatures
- Delay start and reload feature
This 1.6 cu ft portable washer offers six programs, three temperatures and a reload feature. Its wheels can help when you need to move it for storage.
Pros
- Six common wash programs
- Reload feature lets you add forgotten items
- Wheels and child lock
Cons
- 11 lb capacity is modest
- Still needs a suitable water and drain setup
The COMFEE' 1.6 Cu Ft Portable Washer is a practical fit for modest everyday loads. It holds 11 lb and measures 20.7 x 20.3 x 37 in, with wheels to help move it.
Six programs include Normal, Quick, Heavy, Bulky, Delicate and Spin Only. The washer also offers three water temperatures, delay start and a reload feature that lets you pause to add forgotten clothing.
Its child lock can freeze the control panel, and the stainless steel inner tub has a clear lid. The 11 lb capacity is still limited, so match it to your usual laundry volume rather than choosing by the cu ft label alone.
Choose it when you want more capacity than the Giantex but prefer a compact portable model. If you only need to wash a few items at a time, the smallest BLACK+DECKER may take up less room.
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM09W: Best for occasional small batches
- 6.6 lb capacity
- Five wash cycles
- Three water levels
- Cold water only
The smallest-capacity pick is meant for a few items at a time. It offers five cycles and cold-water washing, with rollers and side handles for moving it.
Pros
- Small 6.6 lb loads suit occasional washing
- Five cycles
- Rollers and side handles
Cons
- Too small for full household loads
- Cold water only
The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM09W is designed for a few items at a time, with a 6.6 lb capacity. Its stated dimensions are 17.7 x 31.1 x 17.3 in, so compare the exact orientation and lid clearance with your available spot.
Five cycles include Heavy, Gentle, Normal, Rapid and Soak. It washes with cold water only and has three water level choices.
Rollers and side handles help with moving it, while its stainless steel tub and transparent lid give you a view of the wash. The small capacity makes it a better fit for occasional batches than a primary washer for a busy household.
Choose it when storage is tight and your loads are small. If you expect to wash towels, bedding or several days of clothing together, consider a higher-capacity model.
What should you check before buying an apartment washer?
Measure the space, confirm the hookup and decide where the washer will go between loads. These checks can rule out a model before its cycle count or extra settings matter.
How much space does an apartment washing machine need?
An apartment washing machine needs enough room for its body, lid or door, hoses and safe access. Measure width, depth and height, then check nearby cabinets, counters and doors.
Portable washers in this guide range from 17 in wide to about 24 in wide. A top load model also needs enough clearance above the cabinet for its lid to open.
For more on fit, see how much space to leave between a washer and dryer. If you are comparing full-size machines as well, our washing machine buying and fit guide covers planning measurements.
Where will the washer get water and drain?
A portable washer needs a water source and a safe drain route. Some models include faucet adapters and hoses, but apartment faucets and sink layouts vary.
Measure the distance from the washer to the sink, check the faucet type and identify where the drain hose can empty. Keep water away from electrical outlets, rugs and areas where a spill could damage the floor.
Ask building management about appliance rules before setting up a machine. A lease or building policy may limit portable washers or require specific installation steps.
How often will you need to move it?
A portable washer is useful when you can connect it for a wash and store it afterward, but its weight still matters. The BLACK+DECKER 3.0 cu ft model weighs 99.2 lb, while wheels and handles help with rolling rather than lifting.
If the washer must travel between rooms or storage, check its weight, wheel setup and the path through doorways. A dedicated spot near the water source can make setup easier.
Do you need a dryer too?
Choose a washer dryer combo if you need both functions in one appliance and can support its installation. A separate set can offer a different layout, but it needs space for two machines.
The Hamilton Beach combo has a lower stated drying capacity than washing capacity. With the ROVSUN set, follow the dryer load guidance and plan for moving clothes from one appliance to the other.
Which apartment washing machine should you choose?
Pick the BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW if you have space for a larger portable model and want a 26.5 lb capacity. Choose the 2.0 cu ft BLACK+DECKER for a smaller footprint, Giantex or the 0.9 cu ft BLACK+DECKER for small batches, and a combo or separate set if you also need drying.
Before you decide, confirm apartment rules, measurements and hookup details. If you are still narrowing the size, use our washing machine size guide to compare your regular loads with the capacity you need.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for larger apartment loads
BLACK+DECKER 3.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPW30MW
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for balanced capacity and footprint
BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft Portable Washer BPWM20W
8.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for automatic wash and spin
ROVSUN 25 lb Full-Automatic Portable Washer
8.3/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best washing machine for an apartment?
The best choice depends on your laundry space, load size and hookups. A portable washer can work where a full laundry room is unavailable, while a washer dryer combo can save room when one appliance must handle both jobs.
Measure the space and check faucet, drain and electrical requirements before choosing.
Are portable washing machines allowed in apartments?
Apartment rules vary, so check your lease or ask building management before using a portable washer. Also confirm that your faucet connection, drain setup and floor can support the appliance and its water use.
Some buildings limit appliance hookups or require approved installations.
How much capacity do I need for an apartment washer?
Choose capacity based on how much laundry you want to wash per load. The picks here range from 6.6 lb for occasional small batches to 26.5 lb for larger loads.
Bedding and bulky items may need more space than everyday clothing, so consider your largest regular load.
Do portable washers need a special hookup?
Portable washers need a way to take in water and drain it. Some include a quick connect sink adapter or faucet connector, but faucet types and apartment plumbing differ.
Check the connection requirements and measure the distance to the sink before setting up a washer.
Should I get a washer dryer combo for an apartment?
A washer dryer combo can make sense when you have room for one appliance and want both functions in that spot. Separate compact machines can offer a different layout, but need space for two units.
Compare capacity, hookups and installation needs before deciding.
