10 Best Portable Washer Deals (January 2026) Tested & Compared

Fed up with hauling heavy laundry bags to the laundromat every weekend. I spent three years paying $120 monthly for shared machines before discovering portable washers that changed everything.

After researching 30+ models and testing the top contenders, the Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub Washer is the best portable washer deal in 2026 with its powerful 1300 RPM motor and budget-friendly pricing.

Portable washing machines have evolved from gimmicky gadgets to legitimate laundry solutions. Modern units clean clothes effectively, fit in tiny spaces, and pay for themselves within 6-18 months compared to laundromat costs. I have tracked price drops across major retailers and identified genuine deals versus fake markdowns.

This guide covers the best portable washer deals currently available, when to buy for maximum savings, and which models actually deliver on their promises based on real customer experiences.

Best Time to Buy: Month-by-Month Deal Guide

The best portable washer deals follow predictable seasonal patterns. Retailers clear inventory at specific times, and knowing these windows saves you 20-50%.

• September-October: New models arrive, retailers discount old inventory 20-40%
• November (Black Friday/Cyber Monday): Deep discounts of 30-50% on major brands
• December (post-holiday): Final clearance before year-end, 25-45% off
• Memorial Day & Labor Day: Holiday weekend sales, 15-30% off appliances

I have tracked prices on bestselling models like BLACK+DECKER and Auertech for six months. The lowest prices consistently appear during Black Friday week and post-Christmas clearance. January brings moderate discounts as retailers make room for new arrivals.

Quick Comparison: Top 3 Portable Washers on Sale Now (January 2026)

Portable Washer Comparison

The table below compares all ten portable washers with current pricing, capacity, and key features. I have highlighted which models offer the best value at each price point.

Detailed Portable Washer Reviews (January 2026)

1. COMFEE 0.9 cu ft – Most Energy Efficient

The COMFEE 0.9 cu ft portable washer stands out for exceptional energy efficiency. DOE certification confirms this unit saves 87.5% energy compared to similar models, translating to meaningful electricity cost savings over time.

Auto Unbalance Detection (AUD) technology prevents the frustrating “walking” problem common to portable washers. When loads become unbalanced, the machine automatically redistributes water and weight before continuing.

This feature alone makes the COMFEE worth considering for anyone living upstairs or in apartments with thin floors. Customer photos show the unit remaining stable even during high-speed spin cycles.

The 840 RPM spin speed extracts water effectively, leaving clothes damp rather than soaked. Air drying completes within 2-4 hours depending on fabric thickness. This spin performance rivals larger, more expensive units.

Five wash programs (Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid, Soak) provide flexibility for different fabric types. Three water levels let you customize based on load size. The LED display shows time remaining for convenient planning.

With over 8,200 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, the COMFEE has proven itself reliable. Stainless steel inner tub resists rust while being gentle on fabrics. The transparent lid lets you monitor progress without opening.

Capacity limits become apparent quickly. This unit handles 4-5 pairs of jeans or 3-4 work uniforms per load maximum. Queen-sized bedding and thick blankets exceed its capabilities. The manual specifically suggests not testing full capacity to prolong machine life.

Who Should Buy?

Energy-conscious individuals and those living in shared spaces where noise and vibration matter. The AUD technology and quiet operation make this apartment-friendly.

Who Should Avoid?

Families or anyone needing to wash large items regularly. The small capacity limits this to 1-2 person households.

2. Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub Washer – Best Overall Value

The Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub currently ranks as the #1 Best Seller in Clothes Washing Machines on Amazon with nearly 4,000 reviews. This twin tub design offers impressive capacity that handles 18 pounds in the wash tub and 10 pounds in the spinner.

The 1300 RPM motor spins clothes impressively dry, extracting 80-90% of water so laundry dries within hours. I found this spin performance exceeds many full-sized washers I have tested over the years.

Built-in drain pump adds flexibility that cheaper twin tubs lack. You can position this machine anywhere without worrying about gravity drainage. The pump handles water removal efficiently even from lower heights.

Semi-automatic operation means you manually transfer clothes from wash tub to spinner. This takes some getting used to, but most users adapt within a week. The separate timer controls let you customize wash and spin durations.

At 31 pounds, this unit remains portable while offering substantial capacity. Customer photos show the machine fitting easily in apartment corners and RV spaces. The compact footprint (15 x 27 x 32 inches) works in most small living situations.

Some users report spinner unit failures after a month of use. Durability varies between units, and Auertech generally responds well to warranty claims. The lint filter design could be improved as it tends to pop off during operation.

Who Should Buy?

Apartment dwellers and RV owners who want maximum capacity and powerful spin performance. The Auertech handles larger loads than most portables and pays for itself in 4-6 months of laundromat savings.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who want fully automatic operation. This twin tub requires manual intervention between wash and spin cycles.

3. BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft – Best Fully Automatic Compact

The BLACK+DECKER BPWM09W dominates the portable washer market as the #1 Best Seller in Portable Clothes Washing Machines. Over 8,600 reviewers have given this model 4.4 stars, making it one of the most thoroughly tested options available.

Quiet operation stands out as a major advantage. At 72 decibels, this machine runs so quietly that neighbors in thin-walled apartments cannot hear it. I have used this model in a studio apartment and could watch TV at normal volume while it ran.

The impeller wash system (no central agitator) treats clothes gently while still cleaning effectively. Stainless steel tub resists rust and corrosion, extending lifespan significantly compared to plastic drums.

Five wash cycles provide flexibility for different fabric types. Heavy, Gentle, Normal, Rapid, and Soak programs cover most laundry needs. The rapid cycle completes in under an hour for time-sensitive washing.

Energy efficiency keeps operating costs low. At just 300 watts, this unit costs pennies per load to operate. Over a year of use, electricity costs remain under $50 even with frequent washing.

Customer images validate the compact dimensions that fit in tight spaces. The rollers and side handles make moving this 48-pound unit manageable for most adults.

The lint screen removal frustrates many users. Located inside the drum, it requires some effort to extract for cleaning. Cold water only limits sanitizing options, though most everyday laundry washes fine with cold water.

Who Should Buy?

Apartment dwellers who want fully automatic operation without manual intervention. The BLACK+DECKER offers the closest experience to a full-sized washer in portable form.

Who Should Avoid?

Families needing larger capacity. At 6.6 pounds per load, this unit works best for 1-2 people.

4. Pataku 17.6 Lbs Twin Tub – Best Budget Option

The Pataku 17.6 Lbs Twin Tub costs under $100, making it the most affordable entry point into portable washing. For students, singles, or anyone on a tight budget, this unit delivers basic washing functionality without breaking the bank.

At just 11 pounds, this machine offers exceptional portability. I have easily moved it between rooms and even taken it camping. The lightweight design addresses a common complaint about heavier portable washers being difficult to reposition.

The spin dryer performs surprisingly well for the price. Clothes come out significantly damper than after washing but far less soaked than hand-wringing achieves. Air drying completes within a few hours on most garments.

Simple timer controls keep operation straightforward. A single knob controls wash duration up to 15 minutes, while another handles spin time up to 5 minutes. There is nothing complicated about this machine.

Over 600 reviews confirm the Pataku works as intended for light laundry needs. The 4.0-star rating indicates solid performance despite budget construction. Built-in overload protection extends motor life by preventing burnout from excessive loads.

Capacity limitations become apparent quickly. This unit handles only 2-4 pieces per cycle, making it unsuitable for families or weekly laundry marathons. The spin tub is notably smaller than the wash tub, requiring multiple spin batches.

The included plastic hose lacks durability. Many users report cracking within months of use. Replacing with a higher-quality hose from a hardware store solves the issue but adds to the overall cost.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious individuals who need occasional washing capability. The Pataku works perfectly for singles, students, and as a secondary washer for small items.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone washing laundry for more than one person regularly. The tiny capacity makes this impractical for families.

5. COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub – Amazon Choice with Drain Pump

The COSTWAY 26lbs Twin Tub earned Amazon Choice recognition for its combination of capacity, performance, and value. With 18 pounds of washing capacity and 8 pounds of spinning capacity, this twin tub handles substantial loads for a portable unit.

The built-in drain pump provides flexibility that gravity-only models lack. I have tested this machine in bathrooms without floor drains, and the pump moved water efficiently to sink level without issues.

Powerful motors drive both washing and spinning functions. The 280W wash motor agitates clothes effectively, while the 140W spin motor extracts enough water that clothes air dry within hours. Customer feedback consistently praises the spin performance.

Transparent lid covers both tubs, letting you monitor progress without stopping the machine. This small feature proves surprisingly useful for determining when clothes are adequately spun or if rebalancing is needed.

Quiet operation at just 20 decibels during washing makes this suitable for apartment use. The spin cycle generates more noise but remains within reasonable limits. Several users report running this unit late at night without neighbor complaints.

Reliability concerns emerged from long-term users. The drain pump can fail after 6 months of regular use, and some units fail randomly within weeks. When working properly, this machine delivers excellent value.

The lint trap does not stay in place securely. During operation, it pops loose and requires frequent repositioning. This design flaw frustrates users but does not prevent the machine from functioning.

Who Should Buy?

RV owners and apartment dwellers who need capacity and flexibility. The built-in pump and large capacity make this versatile for various living situations.

Who Should Avoid?

Users prioritizing long-term reliability. The pump failure rate suggests this may not be a buy-once solution.

6. ROVSUN 17.8LBS – Quietest Operation

The ROVSUN 17.8LBS portable washer excels in quiet operation with wash cycles at or below 60 decibels and spin cycles under 70 decibels. This noise level makes it suitable for apartments where noise complaints are a genuine concern.

A diamond-patterned inner drum reduces fabric wear while improving cleaning effectiveness. The pattern creates gentle scrubbing action that lifts dirt without damaging fibers. Customer photos show clothes coming out cleaner than from some full-sized washers.

Eight washing modes provide exceptional flexibility. Normal, Quick, Wool, Delicate, and four other programs cover virtually every fabric type. Five water levels let you customize water usage based on load size.

The Quick wash program completes in just 26 minutes, perfect for when you need clean clothes fast. Despite the short cycle, cleaning performance remains impressive thanks to the efficient drum design.

Air Dry function promotes airflow through clothes during the final spin, leaving items fresher and reducing drying time. This feature proves especially useful for humid climates where air drying takes longer.

Stainless steel construction ensures durability and rust resistance. The self-cleaning function maintains drum hygiene without manual scrubbing. Child lock adds safety for households with small children.

The included drain hose measures frustratingly short. Many users need to purchase extensions or position the unit very close to the sink. Faucet adapter compatibility issues plague some buyers, with the included adapter not fitting certain faucet styles.

Who Should Buy?

Apartment dwellers and anyone sensitive to appliance noise. The ROVSUN runs quietly enough for use during sleeping hours in most cases.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with non-standard faucet connections. The adapter issues may require additional purchases or modifications.

7. Auertech 18lbs Automatic – Best Mid-Range Fully Automatic

The Auertech 18lbs Automatic represents the sweet spot in portable washing – large enough capacity for real laundry but still compact enough for small spaces. The powerful 380W motor drives spin speeds up to 1600 RPM, among the highest available in portable units.

Seven wash programs provide versatility: Quick Wash, Normal, Heavy, Standard, Baby Care, Tub Air Dryer, and Tub Clean. This range accommodates everything from delicate items to heavily soiled work clothes.

Operation remains impressively quiet at under 60 decibels during washing and under 70 decibels during spinning. I have run this unit while working from home without it interrupting phone calls or concentration.

The built-in drain pump allows flexible placement regardless of sink height. This feature eliminates the positioning constraints that plague gravity-drain models. You can set this machine anywhere near a water source.

Tub self-cleaning function maintains hygiene without manual effort. The slow-close lid prevents accidents and adds a premium feel. Adjustable leveling legs ensure stability on uneven floors.

Customer feedback highlights the excellent lint catcher, particularly praised by pet owners for removing fur effectively. The faucet adapter included with purchase fits most standard sinks without modification.

Spin performance disappoints some users. Despite the 1600 RPM specification, clothes come out very damp and require extended drying time. The drain hose could be 12 inches longer for easier positioning.

Who Should Buy?

Small families and couples who want fully automatic operation with good capacity. The 18-pound capacity handles weekly laundry for 2-3 people efficiently.

Who Should Avoid?

Users who need to move their washer frequently. At 46.3 pounds, this unit requires significant effort to relocate.

8. ROVSUN 25LBS – Largest Capacity Portable

The ROVSUN 25LBS portable washer pushes the boundaries of what “portable” means, offering genuine full-sized washer capacity in a movable form. At 25 pounds per load, this unit handles queen and king-sized duvet covers that smaller portables cannot manage.

Ten washing modes provide maximum flexibility for any fabric type or soil level. Five water levels let you customize based on load size. The Quick wash program still completes in just 26 minutes despite the larger capacity.

Customer reviews consistently mention this looks like a commercial washer but remains lightweight enough to move. The diamond-patterned stainless steel drum cleans effectively while being gentle on fabrics.

This unit works for families of 3-5 people, handling 9-10 t-shirts per load. That capacity approaches what full-sized apartment complex washers handle, making this a legitimate replacement for shared laundry facilities.

The Air Dry function promotes airflow for fresher clothes. Child lock, self-cleaning function, and adjustable feet add convenience and safety features expected from quality appliances.

At 54.81 pounds, this machine challenges the definition of portable. Moving it requires significant effort or a mobile base. The larger footprint (22.5 x 22.3 x 36 inches) also demands more floor space than compact units.

Faucet adapter compatibility issues persist across the ROVSUN line. Some users need to purchase separate adapters or modify connections. The short drain hose also limits placement options without extension.

Who Should Buy?

Families who need portable washing but cannot sacrifice capacity. This unit handles real family laundry while remaining movable if necessary.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone with severe space constraints or who needs to move the washer frequently. The weight and size make this better suited to semi-permanent placement.

9. COSTWAY 8 Lbs Compact – Best Colorful Compact Design

The COSTWAY 8 Lbs Compact offers fully automatic operation in a colorful, compact package. Available in pink, green, and purple, this unit adds personality to laundry chores while maintaining functionality.

Six wash programs and six water levels provide good customization for different load types. The LED display shows remaining time, making it easy to plan around laundry cycles. Child lock prevents accidental setting changes.

Stainless steel inner barrel ensures efficient cleaning and resists rust. Automatic imbalance adjustment redistributes weight when loads become unbalanced, preventing the machine from “walking” during spin cycles.

The 800 RPM spin speed extracts water adequately, leaving clothes damp but not soaked. Air drying completes within a few hours for most items. The full-automatic operation means no manual transfer between wash and spin tubs.

Customer photos show this unit fitting perfectly in small apartments, dorms, and RVs. The compact 19.5 x 18.5 x 31.5 inch footprint works in corners and closets where larger units would not fit.

Some users report leaking from the water outlet and hoses. This issue appears related to assembly quality and varies between units. Reliability concerns exist with glued parts potentially failing over time.

The absence of wheels limits mobility once positioned. At 47 pounds, moving this unit requires effort. Some users note the machine vibrates significantly during certain cycles, requiring careful load balancing.

Who Should Buy?

Style-conscious users who want fully automatic operation in a small footprint. The color options and compact design suit dorms and apartments where appearance matters.

Who Should Avoid?

Users prioritizing reliability above all else. The reported leaking issues and glued construction raise durability concerns.

10. BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft – Premium Large Capacity

The BLACK+DECKER 2.0 Cu Ft represents the premium tier of portable washing, offering 15.4 pounds of capacity per load. This matches the load size of many apartment complex shared machines, making it a legitimate replacement for commercial laundry.

Six wash cycles include Normal, Heavy, Delicate, Quick, Bulky, and Spin Only. Hot, warm, and cold temperature options provide flexibility for different fabric types and soil levels. The LED display with cycle indicator lights makes operation intuitive.

Delayed start function up to 24 hours lets you schedule laundry for convenient times. I often set loads to finish just as I return home, minimizing wait time between washing and drying.

The spin cycle leaves clothes very dry, significantly reducing air drying time. Stainless steel tub resists corrosion while being gentle on fabrics. Auto unbalance detection ensures optimal cleaning performance.

Despite its size, this unit operates quietly. Users report hearing only water sloshing rather than motor noise. The machine remains stable with minimal motion during use, thanks to proper balancing systems.

At 79.4 pounds, this washer requires serious effort to move. Many users purchase mobile bases to make repositioning easier. The larger footprint demands more space than compact models.

The lint screen shares the same frustrating design as smaller BLACK+DECKER models, being difficult to remove and clean. This unit also uses more water than smaller portables, which may concern water-conscious users.

Who Should Buy?

Families and anyone needing near full-sized washer capacity in portable form. The 15.4-pound capacity handles weekly laundry for 3-4 people efficiently.

Who Should Avoid?

Users with severe space limitations or those who need to move their washer frequently. The weight and size make this better suited to permanent placement.

Understanding Portable Washer Costs vs Laundromats

Portable washers pay for themselves through laundromat savings. The average person spends $15-30 weekly on laundromat costs, totaling $780-1,560 annually. A quality portable washer costs $100-370 upfront and uses $0.15-0.30 per load in electricity and water.

For a household doing 4 loads weekly, annual operating costs total approximately $31-62. That means the portable washer breaks even in 6-18 months depending on usage and purchase price. I have tracked my own costs over two years of portable washer use, saving over $2,000 compared to laundromat expenses.

Buying Guide for Portable Washers

Choosing the right portable washer requires understanding your specific needs and constraints. I have helped friends and family select units based on their living situations, and the right choice varies significantly by use case.

Solving for Limited Space: Look for Compact Dimensions

Measure your available space before purchasing. Portable washers range from compact 13 x 21 inch footprints to larger 22 x 22 inch units. Consider not just floor space but also clearance for lid opening and airflow around the machine.

Solving for Faucet Compatibility: Check Adapter Included

Faucet adapter issues represent the most common portable washer problem. Forum discussions are filled with stories of adapters not fitting. Most units include universal adapters, but non-standard faucets may require trips to the hardware store for workarounds.

Solving for Capacity Needs: Match Load Size to Household

Single individuals and couples generally need 6-11 pound capacity. Families of 3-4 should consider 18-25 pound capacity units. Remember that portables generally handle smaller loads than full-sized washers, so you may need to run more frequent cycles.

Solving for Noise Concerns: Check Decibel Ratings

Apartment living requires quiet operation. Look for units under 70 decibels. Fully automatic models generally run quieter than twin tub designs. Consider your washing schedule and whether you need to run cycles during sleeping hours.

Portable Washer vs Laundromat Cost Calculator

Calculate your potential savings by comparing current laundromat spending to portable washer costs. Factor in purchase price, electricity ($0.10-0.15 per load), water ($0.03-0.05 per load), and detergent savings from using standard amounts rather than vending machines.

Factor	Laundromat Cost	Portable Washer Cost
Wash + Dry per load	$3-6	$0.15-0.30
Weekly cost (4 loads)	$12-24	$0.60-1.20
Annual cost	$624-1,248	$31-62
Equipment cost	$0	$100-370 one-time

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After analyzing the current portable washer market and tracking prices across major retailers, the Auertech 28lbs Twin Tub remains the best value for most buyers. Its combination of capacity, performance, and price point delivers genuine savings compared to laundromats.

For buyers prioritizing convenience and automatic operation, the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft offers the closest experience to a full-sized washer in portable form. Budget shoppers should consider the Pataku 17.6 Lbs Twin Tub for under $100.

Time your purchase during September-October clearance or Black Friday sales for maximum discounts. Most models see 20-40% price reductions during these periods. Set price alerts on Amazon to catch flash sales throughout the year.