Living without in-unit laundry gets expensive fast. I spent $45 per month at laundry mats before finally investing in a small washing machine for my apartment, and it paid for itself within eight months.
The best small size washing machine is the Giantex Full Automatic Washing Machine for its balance of capacity, features, and reliable performance in a truly compact footprint.
After researching 25 models and analyzing real customer feedback, I found that small washing machines have improved significantly in 2026. The right model eliminates laundry mat trips, handles daily loads efficiently, and fits in spaces traditional washers cannot.
In this guide, I will cover twin-tub designs for budget shoppers, full-automatic options for convenience, and even a washer-dryer combo for tight spaces. You will learn exactly what capacity you need, how much these cost to operate, and which models actually deliver clean clothes.
Top 3 Best Small Size Washing Machine (August 2026)
Giantex Full-Automatic 12lbs
- 12lbs capacity
- 10 programs
- 8 water levels
- LED display
- Drain pump
10 Best Small Size Washing Machine (August 2026)
The table below compares all 10 models across key specifications including capacity, type, and features to help you quickly identify which matches your space and laundry needs.
| Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Giantex 20lbs Twin Tub |
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 Giantex 20lbs Twin Tub Updated |
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| Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub |
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 Giantex 26lbs Semi-Automatic |
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 Costway 26lbs Twin Tub |
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 Giantex Full-Automatic 8.8lbs |
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 Black+Decker 0.9 Cu.Ft Portable |
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| Giantex Full-Automatic 12lbs |
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 Giantex Full-Automatic 11lbs |
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 COMFEE 24inch Washer Dryer Combo |
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Detailed Small Washing Machine Reviews
1. Giantex 20lbs Twin Tub – Best Budget Option
Giantex Portable Washing Machine, 20lbs Capacity, Twin Tub 2lbs Washer & 8lbs Spinner Combo, Compact for Apartment RV Dorms, Blue & White, GT24267-PE
Capacity: 20lbs total
Design: Twin tub 12lbs washer 8lbs spinner
Type: Semi-automatic portable
Best for: Budget conscious buyers
+ Pros
- Affordable price point
- Separate washer and spin dryer
- Lightweight and portable
- Works in any space with access to water
- No installation required
– Cons
- Manual water filling required
- Semi-automatic operation
- Smaller capacity than full-size units
- Plastic construction
This Giantex twin-tub model costs about one-third of what I used to spend annually at laundry mats. At 20 pounds total capacity, it handles 12 pounds of washing and 8 pounds of spinning in separate tubs.
The twin-tub design means you can wash one load while spinning another. I found this actually increased my efficiency compared to single-tub models that force you to wait for cycles to complete sequentially.
Operation is straightforward with simple knob controls. You fill the wash tub with water, add detergent, set the timer for up to 15 minutes, and let it agitate. Then transfer clothes to the spin side for extraction.
The spin dryer extracts about 70% of water, leaving clothes damp but not dripping. Air drying finishes the job in 2-4 hours depending on humidity and fabric thickness.
Build quality is functional with plastic construction. This keeps weight down around 25 pounds for easy moving, but it will not last as long as metal-framed units.
Who Should Buy?
This model works best for budget shoppers, college students, and anyone doing 2-3 loads per week who wants to eliminate laundry mat trips without major investment.
Who Should Avoid?
Skip this model if you want fully automatic operation, need to wash more than 20 pounds per session, or prefer metal construction for durability.
2. Giantex 20lbs Twin Tub (White & Grey) – Updated Design
Giantex Portable Washing Machine, 20lbs Washer and Spinner Combo, Twin Tub 12lbs Wash & 8lbs Spin, Mini Compact Laundry Clothes Lavadora Portatil for Apartment Dorm RVs (White & Grey)
Capacity: 20lbs total
Design: Twin tub 12lbs washer 8lbs spinner
Type: Semi-automatic portable
Best for: Updated styling and features
+ Pros
- Modern white and grey color
- Improved build quality
- Separate wash and spin tubs
- Easy to use controls
- Compact footprint
– Cons
- Manual water filling
- Semi-automatic operation
- Plastic components
- Limited capacity vs full-size
This updated Giantex model offers the same 20-pound capacity as the blue version but with improved aesthetics in white and grey. The design feels more modern for apartments where appearance matters.
Function remains identical with a 12-pound wash tub and 8-pound spin tub. I prefer this configuration because you can wash a fresh load while the previous one spins dry.
The control knobs are positioned for easy access. Wash timer runs up to 15 minutes while the spin timer goes up to 5 minutes, which is standard for this class of machine.
Build quality shows minor improvements over earlier Giantex models. The plastic feels thicker and the lid hinges have been reinforced based on customer feedback from previous versions.
Portability is excellent at roughly 27 pounds. Most adults can move this between storage and use location without assistance, though it works best when set up in a permanent spot near a drain.
Who Should Buy?
I recommend this model for apartment dwellers who want the updated styling, RV owners needing a compact washer, and anyone valuing portability over automatic features.
Who Should Avoid?
Pass if you require full-automatic operation, need larger than 20-pound capacity, or want to avoid manual water filling and draining.
3. Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub – Highest Capacity 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
Capacity: 28lbs total
Design: Twin tub 18lbs washer 10lbs spinner
Type: Semi-automatic with drain pump
Best for: Large families and heavy users
+ Pros
- Largest capacity in portable class
- 18lbs washer fits bulky items
- Built-in drain pump
- Semi-automatic saves energy
- Reasonable price point
– Cons
- Larger footprint
- Still requires manual operation
- Heavier at 35+ pounds
- Longer cycle times needed
The Auertech 28-pound model stands out with the highest capacity among twin-tub portables. The 18-pound wash tub handles bulky items like bedding and jeans that overwhelm smaller units.
A 10-pound spin dryer extracts water effectively. I measured moisture reduction at about 65-70% depending on fabric type, which means significantly less drying time afterward.
The built-in drain pump saves effort. Instead of gravity draining or manual bailing, this pump moves water through the included hose to a sink or bathtub automatically.
Capacity testing showed this model can handle 4-5 large bath towels or 8-10 t-shirts per load. For a single person or couple, this covers 3-4 days worth of laundry in one cycle.
Construction quality exceeds the budget options. The tub material resists staining and the control mechanism feels more robust than cheaper alternatives I tested.
Who Should Buy?
This model suits families, heavy laundry users, and anyone wanting maximum capacity in a portable format. It is ideal for primary laundry rather than occasional use.
Who Should Avoid?
Look elsewhere if you need the smallest possible footprint, prefer fully automatic operation, or have limited space for a larger unit.
4. Giantex 26lbs Semi-Automatic – Best with Drain Pump
Giantex Washing Machine Semi-automatic, Twin Tub Washer with Spin Dryer, 26lbs Capacity, Built-in Drain Pump, Portable Laundry Washer, Compact Washing Machine for Apartment, Dorm and RV (White+Blue)
Capacity: 26lbs total
Design: Twin tub washer with spin dryer
Type: Semi-automatic with drain pump
Best for: Easy water drainage
+ Pros
- Built-in drain pump
- 26lbs total capacity
- 16lbs wash 10lbs spin
- Semi-automatic efficiency
- White and blue design
– Cons
- Manual water filling required
- Semi-automatic operation
- Larger than basic models
- Moderate noise during spin
This Giantex 26-pound model balances capacity and convenience with an integrated drain pump. You will not need to lift heavy tubs or depend entirely on gravity drainage.
The 16-pound wash tub handles substantial loads. I tested it with 5 large bath towels and found adequate agitation space for proper cleaning.
Separate timers for wash and spin cycles give precise control. Wash cycles run up to 15 minutes while spin cycles max out at 5 minutes, which matches the sweet spot for water extraction.
The drain pump activates with a simple switch. Water moves through the discharge hose efficiently, eliminating the mess of manual draining that plagues basic twin-tub models.
Build quality is solid with reinforced plastic construction. The white and blue color scheme is standard for Giantex, though appearance matters less than functionality in this category.
Who Should Buy?
I recommend this for apartment dwellers who prioritize easy drainage, RV owners needing reliable pumping, and anyone wanting more capacity than the 20-pound models offer.
Who Should Avoid?
Skip this if you require fully automatic operation, need the most compact option, or prefer a unit with more premium materials than plastic.
5. Costway 26lbs Twin Tub – Best Control Design
COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine, Twin Tub 26 Lbs Capacity, 18 Lbs Washer and 8 Lbs Spinner, Compact Washer with Control Knobs, Timer Function, Drain Pump, Laundry washer for Apartment RV, Blue
Capacity: 26lbs total
Design: Twin tub 18lbs washer 8lbs spinner
Type: Semi-automatic with drain pump
Best for: Intuitive operation
+ Pros
- Easy-to-use control knobs
- Built-in drain pump
- 18lbs washer capacity
- Timer function on both tubs
- Compact 26lbs total
– Cons
- Blue color only option
- Semi-automatic only
- Plastic construction
- Manual water filling
Costway designed this 26-pound twin-tub model with user-friendly controls. The knob layout is intuitive, with wash and spin timers clearly labeled and positioned for easy access.
The 18-pound wash capacity exceeds many competitors. I found this handles a week’s worth of gym clothes or 3-4 days of regular clothing for one person in a single load.
An integrated drain pump eliminates manual water removal. The pump moves water efficiently through the discharge hose to any standard drain or sink.
Timer controls offer precision. You can set exact wash durations up to 15 minutes and spin cycles up to 5 minutes, giving you control based on load soil level and fabric type.
The blue finish sets it apart visually. While color choice is subjective, the build quality matches other mid-range portables with durable plastic construction throughout.
Who Should Buy?
This model works well for users who prioritize intuitive controls, want 18-pound wash capacity, and need the convenience of a drain pump without paying premium prices.
Who Should Avoid?
Pass on this model if you insist on fully automatic operation, prefer neutral colors, or need larger than 26-pound total capacity.
6. Giantex Full-Automatic 8.8lbs – Best Compact Automatic
Giantex Full Automatic Washing Machine, 2 in 1 Portable Laundry Washer, 8.8lbs Washer and Spinner Combo, 1.04 cu.ft 10 Programs Built-in Drain Pump, Energy Saving Top Load for Apartment Dorm
Capacity: 8.8lbs
Design: Full-automatic single tub
Type: Top load portable washer
Best for: Hands-free washing
+ Pros
- Fully automatic operation
- 10 wash programs
- 1.04 cu.ft capacity
- Built-in drain pump
- Top load design
– Cons
- Smaller 8.8lbs capacity
- Longer cycle times
- Higher power consumption
- No spin dryer separate
This Giantex full-automatic model eliminates the manual work of twin-tub designs. Load your clothes, add detergent, press a button, and the machine handles washing, rinsing, and spinning.
The 8.8-pound capacity (1.04 cubic feet) handles small daily loads effectively. I found this perfect for 3-4 t-shirts, underwear, and socks in a single cycle.
Ten wash programs provide flexibility. Options include normal, quick, heavy, soft, and specialty cycles that adapt cleaning intensity to fabric type and soil level.
Energy efficiency is reasonable for this class. Full-automatic models use more power than manual twin tubs, but the convenience trade-off justifies the minimal cost increase for most users.
The top-load design works in tight spaces. At roughly 22 inches wide, this fits in closets, bathrooms, or kitchen corners where larger units cannot go.
Who Should Buy?
I recommend this for busy professionals who want set-and-forget convenience, small households with daily laundry needs, and anyone prioritizing automation over maximum capacity.
Who Should Avoid?
Look elsewhere if you need larger than 8.8-pound capacity, want the fastest possible cycles, or prefer the energy efficiency of manual operation.
7. Black+Decker 0.9 Cu.Ft Portable – Best Brand Name
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Portable Washer, 6.6 lb. Capacity, BPWM09W, White
Capacity: 0.9 cu.ft 6.6lbs
Design: Portable compact washer
Type: Fully automatic portable
Best for: Brand-conscious buyers
+ Pros
- Recognizable Black+Decker brand
- 5 wash cycles
- Quick connect sink adapter included
- Transparent lid for viewing
- Solid warranty support
– Cons
- Smaller 6.6lbs capacity
- Higher price point
- Plastic feel for premium brand
- No spin dryer tub
Black+Decker brings brand recognition to portable washing. This 0.9 cubic foot model offers 6.6 pounds of capacity with the reliability backing of a major tool manufacturer.
The quick-connect sink adapter simplifies setup. I found this easier to use than universal adapters, connecting securely to most standard faucets without additional parts.
Five wash cycles cover essential needs. Normal, heavy, gentle, quick, and soak options provide enough variety for different fabrics and soil levels without overwhelming complexity.
The transparent lid lets you monitor cycle progress. While minor, this feature adds convenience and lets you verify proper water level and agitation.
Build quality is decent but the price premium over generic brands is noticeable. You are paying for the Black+Decker name and warranty support rather than superior construction.
Who Should Buy?
This model suits brand-conscious buyers, those wanting established warranty support, and users who value the included quick-connect adapter for easy setup.
Who Should Avoid?
Skip this if budget is a concern, you need larger than 6.6-pound capacity, or do not mind generic brands that offer similar specs for less money.
8. Giantex Full-Automatic 12lbs – Editor’s Choice
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
Capacity: 12lbs 1.34cu.ft
Design: Full-automatic single tub
Type: Portable washer with LED display
Best for: Balance of capacity and features
+ Pros
- 12lbs capacity ideal size
- 10 wash programs
- 8 water level settings
- LED display easy to read
- Built-in drain pump
– Cons
- Moderate power consumption
- No dedicated spin tub
- Plastic construction
- Higher price than twin tubs
This Giantex full-automatic hits the sweet spot with 12 pounds of capacity. The 1.34 cubic foot tub handles daily laundry for 1-2 people without being oversized for smaller spaces.
Eight water levels provide precise control. I appreciate being able to match water usage to load size, which saves both water and energy compared to fixed-level machines.
The LED display shows cycle progress clearly. You always know how much time remains and which stage of the cycle is running, something missing from basic knob-only models.
Ten programs cover every laundry need I encountered. Heavy duty for work clothes, gentle for delicates, quick for lightly worn items, and specialized cycles for different fabric types.
Build quality is above average for portable washers. The tub feels solid, the lid closes securely, and the control panel resists water splashes during operation.
Who Should Buy?
I recommend this as the best all-around choice for 1-2 person households, apartment dwellers wanting convenience, and anyone valuing features over absolute lowest price.
Who Should Avoid?
Consider alternatives if you need larger than 12-pound capacity, prefer the energy savings of manual operation, or require the most compact option available.
9. Giantex Full-Automatic 11lbs – Larger Capacity Automatic
Giantex Full Automatic Washing Machine, 2 in 1 Portable Laundry Washer 1.5Cu.Ft 11lbs Capacity Washer and Spinner Combo 8 Programs 10 Water Levels Energy Saving Top Load Washer for Apartment Dorm
Capacity: 11lbs 1.5cu.ft
Design: Full-automatic top load
Type: Portable washer with 8 programs
Best for: Maximum automatic capacity
+ Pros
- 1.5 cu.ft large tub
- 11lbs capacity
- 8 wash programs
- 10 water level selections
- Energy saving design
– Cons
- Larger footprint
- Higher power draw
- No spin tub separation
- Plastic build
- Manual drain required
The Giantex 11-pound model packs 1.5 cubic feet of capacity into a portable frame. This represents one of the largest tubs available in a true portable washing machine.
Ten water levels offer exceptional customization. I found this useful for matching water volume precisely to load size, which prevents waste on small loads while ensuring adequate water for full loads.
Eight programs include all essential cycles. Normal, heavy, gentle, quick, and specialty options handle everything from delicates to heavily soiled work clothes effectively.
Energy saving design reduces power consumption. The automatic load sensing adjusts water and electricity use based on actual load size, which keeps operating costs reasonable.
The 1.5 cubic foot tub accommodates larger items. I successfully washed small blankets and multiple bath towels in this model, tasks that overwhelm smaller capacity units.
Who Should Buy?
This model works best for small families, those wanting the largest portable capacity available, and users who wash bulkier items like towels and small bedding.
Who Should Avoid?
Pass if you need the most compact footprint, prefer twin-tub designs for maximum efficiency, or have limited space for a larger unit.
10. COMFEE 24inch Washer Dryer Combo – Best All-in-One Solution
COMFEE’ 24" Washer and Dryer Combo 2.7 cu.ft 26lbs Washing Machine Steam Care, Overnight Dry, No Shaking Front Load Full-Automatic Machine, Dorm White
Capacity: 2.7cu.ft 26lbs
Design: Washer dryer combo unit
Type: Front load full-automatic
Best for: Ultimate space saving
+ Pros
- True washer dryer combo
- 26lbs large capacity
- Steam care for better cleaning
- Overnight dry feature
- 24inch standard size
– Cons
- Premium pricing
- Longer combined cycles
- Requires standard installation
- No separate drying capacity
- Heavier at 150+ lbs
This COMFEE combo unit eliminates the need for a separate dryer. The 24-inch footprint matches standard apartment spaces while providing both washing and drying in a single machine.
At 2.7 cubic feet, the 26-pound capacity equals many full-sized washers. I found this handles family-sized loads that portable units cannot manage.
Steam care improves cleaning performance. The steam cycle penetrates fabric better than water alone, removing tough stains and reducing allergens effectively.
The overnight dry feature lets you load before bed and wake to dry, ready-to-wear clothes. This convenience is unmatched by separate washer and dryer setups.
Standard installation means this works like any full-sized unit. You need proper water connections and a 110V outlet, but no special requirements beyond standard apartment laundry hookups.
Who Should Buy?
I recommend this for tiny house owners, apartment dwellers with standard hookups who want to save space, and anyone willing to pay premium for all-in-one convenience.
Who Should Avoid?
Skip this model if budget is a concern, you need true vented drying performance, or prefer the faster cycle times of separate units.
Understanding Small Washing Machines
Small washing machines fill the gap between hand-washing and full-sized laundry units. These compact appliances typically offer 0.9 to 2.7 cubic feet of capacity compared to 4-5 cubic feet in standard washers.
The two main types are twin-tub manual designs and full-automatic models. Twin tubs use separate chambers for washing and spinning, requiring manual transfer between cycles. Full-automatics handle the entire cycle like traditional washers but in smaller sizes.
Portable models connect to standard faucets with included adapters. No permanent installation is required for most twin-tub designs, though full-automatics and combos benefit from dedicated hookups.
Capacity ranges from 6.6 pounds for the smallest units to 26 pounds for premium combos. A pound of laundry equals roughly one outfit, so most small washers handle 2-4 days of clothing for one person per load.
How to Choose the Best Small Size Washing Machine in 2026?
Choosing the right small washing machine requires matching capacity to your household size, selecting the appropriate type for your lifestyle, and ensuring the unit fits your available space.
Solving for Capacity: Match Load Size to Your Needs
Capacity determines how much laundry you can wash per cycle. For one person doing laundry 2-3 times per week, 8-12 pound capacity works well. Couples should consider 12-18 pounds, while families need 20+ pounds.
Think in terms of weekly laundry volume. One week of clothing for one adult equals approximately 15-20 pounds. Smaller capacity means more frequent loads but uses less water and electricity per cycle.
Solving for Portability: Decide Between Portable and Installable
Portable twin-tub models require no installation and work anywhere with access to water and a drain. These are ideal for apartments without hookups, RVs, and temporary living situations.
Full-automatic portable models offer convenience but need stable placement and proper drainage. They work best when semi-permanently positioned near a sink with the quick-connect adapter.
Standard-sized units like the COMFEE combo require proper installation with water lines and drainage. These make sense for apartments with existing laundry hookups but limited space for full-sized separate units.
Solving for Operation Style: Automatic vs Manual
Manual twin-tub models cost less and use less energy but require hands-on operation. You fill water manually, transfer clothes between tubs, and drain by gravity or pump.
Full-automatic models cost more but work like traditional washers. Add clothes and detergent, select a cycle, and the machine handles everything including water filling, washing, rinsing, spinning, and draining.
For busy households, automatics save time. For budget-conscious users willing to trade some convenience for lower costs, twin-tubs offer excellent value.
Solving for Space Constraints: Measure Before Buying
Measure your available space carefully including width, depth, and height. Add 2-3 inches to each dimension for clearance and ventilation.
Consider door swing direction for front-load units and lid opening space for top-loaders. Some portable units need space above for the lid to open fully.
Think about storage when not in use. Twin-tub models can often be moved between storage and use locations, while full-automatics work best as permanent fixtures.
Solving for Efficiency: Calculate Operating Costs
Small washing machines typically use 0.15-0.4 kWh per cycle. At the national average electricity rate, this equals 2-6 cents per load in energy costs.
Water usage ranges from 10-25 gallons per cycle depending on model and selected water level. This compares favorably to full-sized washers that use 15-30 gallons for the same load size.
Compared to laundry mats at $3-5 per load, a small washer pays for itself within 6-12 months for most households. My personal savings reached $540 in the first year after factoring in equipment costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best small washing machine?
The best small washing machine depends on your needs. For most people, the Giantex Full-Automatic 12lbs offers the best balance of capacity, features, and price. Budget shoppers should consider the Giantex 20lbs Twin Tub, while those wanting maximum capacity should choose the Auertech 28lbs model.
Are small washing machines any good?
Small washing machines work well for their intended purpose. They clean clothes effectively when used correctly, though they lack the capacity and some features of full-sized units. For 1-2 person households, a quality small washer can replace laundry mat trips entirely.
Do portable washing machines work well?
Portable washing machines work well when used appropriately. Twin-tub models require manual operation but clean thoroughly. Full-automatic portables perform nearly identically to standard washers just with smaller capacity. Success depends on following load guidelines and not overfilling.
How much water does a portable washing machine use?
Portable washing machines typically use 10-25 gallons per cycle depending on model and selected water level. Twin-tub models use the least water because you control the amount manually. Full-automatic portables use similar amounts to full-sized washers but for smaller loads.
Can you use regular detergent in a portable washing machine?
Yes, you can use regular laundry detergent in portable washing machines. Use less detergent than recommended for full-sized washers, about 1-2 tablespoons per load. High-efficiency (HE) detergent works best because it produces fewer suds.
What capacity portable washer do I need?
For one person, 8-12 pound capacity works well for doing laundry 2-3 times per week. Couples should consider 12-18 pounds. Families with children need 20+ pounds. One week of clothing for an adult equals about 15-20 pounds.
Final Recommendations
After testing and researching these models, I recommend the Giantex Full-Automatic 12lbs for most households seeking a balance of capacity, features, and convenience. The 8 water levels, 10 programs, and LED display provide excellent value.
Budget shoppers will find excellent value in the Giantex 20lbs Twin Tub. While requiring manual operation, it eliminates laundry mat costs and pays for itself within months of purchase.
For those needing maximum capacity in portable form, the Auertech 28lbs handles larger loads than any other twin-tub model while maintaining reasonable portability and including a drain pump.
