The Best Simple Washing Machine

If you live in a small apartment, dorm, or RV, a full-size washing machine often feels like overkill. A simple washing machine, compact, portable, and easy to set up, can handle your weekly laundry without taking over your space.

Whether you need a mini washer for delicates or a twin-tub unit for faster drying, the right model saves time and effort.

Our research-based guide breaks down the top options, from portable washers to essential cleaning tablets, so you can find a simple washing machine that fits your lifestyle and budget.

At BestProducts, we evaluate every simple washing machine using a consistent methodology: we analyze specifications, aggregate expert review consensus, study verified buyer feedback, and cross-reference published data from trusted sources.

Each product earns a BP Score on a 0-to-10 scale, reflecting its overall value and performance in its category. Below, you’ll find our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide and answers to common questions.

Best Simple Washing Machine Buying Guide

Capacity and Size

The first thing to consider is how much laundry you typically do in a week. Simple washing machines range from compact 9-pound models to twin-tub units that can handle 19 pounds of clothes.

For a single person or couple, a 9, 12 pound portable washer is usually sufficient. If you wash bulky items like towels or jeans regularly, a larger 15, 20 pound capacity model offers more flexibility.

Always measure your available floor space, many mini washers are only 20 inches wide and can fit under a counter or in a closet. For a broader look at space-saving options, check out our mini washing machine guide.

Portable washers often have a smaller drum, so you may need to do multiple loads for a full week’s laundry. However, their compact size makes them ideal for apartments, RVs, and dorms where a standard machine won’t fit.

If you’re tight on space, a foldable model like the 20L option can be stored in a drawer when not in use.

Portability and Setup

A simple washing machine should be easy to move and set up. Most portable models have built-in handles or wheels, and they connect to a standard faucet with a quick-connect adapter, no permanent plumbing required.

Some twin-tub units have separate wash and spin compartments, which can speed up drying but require a bit more counter space. If you plan to move frequently, look for a lightweight model under 25 pounds.

For a dedicated roundup of travel-friendly options, see our portable washing machine and dryer guide.

Setup usually involves attaching a hose to the sink and plugging the machine into a standard outlet. Many portable washers also have a gravity drain hose that lets water flow into a sink or tub.

No special tools or installation skills are needed, making them a practical choice for renters.

Wash and Spin Performance

Don’t let the small size fool you, modern simple washing machines can deliver a thorough clean. Look for models with multiple wash modes (normal, gentle, quick) and a high spin speed (1,000, 1,500 RPM) to extract more water and reduce drying time.

Twin-tub designs allow you to wash and spin simultaneously, cutting total laundry time in half. For everyday loads, a portable washer with a 7-pound spinner works well for delicates and small batches.

If you need more power, consider a semi-automatic model with separate controls for wash and spin cycles.

Many portable washers now include a built-in drying rack or hangers, which is a nice bonus for air-drying clothes. While they won’t replace a full-size dryer, they do help with quick-drying items like underwear, socks, and baby clothes.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

A simple washing machine should be straightforward to operate. Look for intuitive controls, clear cycle labels, and a transparent lid so you can monitor the wash.

Many models have a timer dial that lets you set the wash duration from 1 to 15 minutes. Maintenance is also key: after each use, wipe down the drum and gasket to prevent mold and odors.

To keep your machine running smoothly, use a washing machine cleaner every month. For the best products, browse our washing machine tablet guide.

Some portable washers have a self-cleaning cycle, which simplifies upkeep. If you choose a twin-tub model, remember to clean the lint filter in the spinner regularly. With proper care, a simple washing machine can last for years.

Keeping Your Washer Clean

Even the best simple washing machine needs regular cleaning to remove detergent residue, hard water deposits, and bacteria. Dedicated washing machine cleaners, available as tablets, powders, or gels, break down buildup and eliminate odors.

For top-load and front-load machines, a monthly cleaning cycle with an enzymatic cleaner can extend the life of your washer and keep laundry smelling fresh.

If you have pets, look for a cleaner specifically formulated to remove pet hair and urine residue. Our washing machine cleaners guide covers the most effective options.

For mold and mildew on front-loader gaskets, a gel cleaner can be applied directly to the seal. These products are also useful for bathroom grout and shower caulk, making them a versatile addition to your cleaning routine.

Why You Should Trust Us

BestProducts is an independent review site that does not sell products or accept freebies from manufacturers.

We evaluate each simple washing machine using a consistent BP Score (0, 10) based on four pillars: technical specifications, expert review consensus, verified buyer feedback, and published data from reputable sources.

We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. This methodology ensures our recommendations are objective, transparent, and focused on what matters most to you.

Our team of editors has years of experience covering home appliances and laundry products. We monitor market trends, evaluation (through research) new releases, and update our guides regularly to reflect the best options available.

When you see a BP Score on our site, you can trust it represents a thorough, unbiased analysis.

Final Thoughts

After evaluating dozens of products, here are our top recommendations for a simple washing machine in 2026:

• Best Overall: SUPER DEAL Small Portable Washing Machine, With a 9.9 BP Score, this twin-tub model offers excellent wash and spin performance, a compact footprint, and easy setup. It’s the perfect balance of capacity, portability, and value.
• Best Portable Washer for Small Loads: Erivess Portable Twin Tub 19lbs, This unit pairs a 12-pound washer with a 7-pound spinner, plus a drying rack and hangers. It’s ideal for apartments and dorms where space is at a premium.
• Best Budget-Friendly Mini Washer: Minwoch 20L Foldable Portable Washing Machine, At a quiet 45 dB, this foldable washer is great for travel, camping, or small closets. Its three modes handle delicates and everyday items with ease.
• Best Washing Machine Cleaner: Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner 12 Ct, With a 9.9 BP Score, these tablets dissolve residue and odors effectively. They’re the #1 choice for maintaining any washer.
• Best for Pet Owners: ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner for Pet Owners, This enzymatic formula tackles pet hair, urine, and odors, keeping your washer fresh and your clothes clean. It’s septic-safe and lasts a full year.

For more options, check out our guides to small washing machines and apartment washing machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size simple washing machine do I need for an apartment?

For a studio or one-bedroom apartment, a portable washer with 9, 12 pounds capacity is usually enough. If you have a family, consider a twin-tub model with 15, 19 pounds. Measure your space before buying, most compact washers are under 24 inches wide.

Our freestanding washing machine guide offers additional space-saving ideas.

Can I use a portable washing machine in an RV?

Yes, many portable washers are designed for RV use. They connect to a standard water faucet and drain into a sink or holding tank. Look for a lightweight, compact model with a gravity drain hose. Some even have a 12V option for off-grid use.

How often should I clean my washing machine?

We recommend running a cleaning cycle every 30 washes or once a month, whichever comes first. Use a washing machine cleaner tablet or powder to remove buildup and odors. If you notice a musty smell, clean immediately. For front-loaders, also wipe the door gasket regularly.

Are washing machine cleaners safe for septic systems?

Most modern washing machine cleaners are septic-safe. Look for products labeled as such, like the ACTIVE enzymatic cleaner. Avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine, which can harm septic bacteria. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

What is the best simple washing machine for a dorm room?

For a dorm, a compact, quiet, and easy-to-store model is key. The Minwoch 20L foldable washer (BP Score 9.8) is a top choice, it’s ultra-quiet at 45 dB, folds flat for storage, and has three wash modes.

Another great option is the NIXOD portable washer (BP Score 9.9), which includes a spin basket. Check your dorm’s policy on appliances before buying.

Do simple washing machines use a lot of electricity?

No, portable and mini washers are generally energy-efficient. They use less water and electricity than full-size machines because they handle smaller loads. Most models consume between 200 and 400 watts per cycle, which is comparable to a laptop. They’re also gentler on clothes, reducing wear and tear.

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