Best 12 RV Dishwashers: Road Tripping Without Hand Washing The Dishes

Have you been trying to find the best RV dishwasher that can meet your needs while you are on your camping trips?

Then this post is for you!

You can find my reviews of the 12 best models that are currently available on the market. Read on to find out more about their designs, features, and prices, and choose the model that meets your needs the best.

The Rundown

Can I Put A Dishwasher In An RV?

Yes. This kitchen feature has been available in Class A RVs and fifth wheels for years now. If your new RV doesn’t already have a dishwasher, you can easily add it to the kitchen space. It will not only enhance the RV but also be a convenient appliance to use while road-tripping.

3 Different Model Options

There are 3 different dishwasher types you can choose from. Here are the details.

• A countertop dishwasher is most commonly used in RVs. That is because it is small in size so you can place it anywhere. This dishwasher model is freestanding.
• A classic built-in dishwasher can also be placed inside an RV. This is an ideal option if your RV is bigger in size so you can built-in a tall tub model or dishwasher drawer. A tall tub is also known as a narrow type and it features an 18-inch unit. A dishwasher drawer is a small model that pulls out per your request.
• A portable dishwasher comes with wheels. However, even though you can buy it and go with it, it isn’t that often such a model is used in RVs as they get way too much space than the other 2 mentioned dishwasher types.

Key Factors For Camping Dishwashing Machine

Now, before buying a dishwasher for your RV, here are a couple of components you need to bear in mind.

• Size. Depending on the size of your RV, you need to choose a model that will actually fit the space. Luckily, you can find a variety of different sizes. All the mentioned models feature between 12 and 18 inches big units. That size-range will let you choose the best dishwasher for your RV, suitable for the space you have.
• Portability. Now, this is a great feature, especially if you don’t have enough space to place your dishwasher in the RV permanently. For portability, go with a countertop, apartment-size model. You can use it and then simply store it back so it doesn’t take your already limited RV space.
• Water Inlet. This is something to think about. If you have a smaller RV unit with low-energy and water sources, some countertop models come with a built-in water tank. You need to add water to it and a dishwasher will use only that amount of water. What is great is that you’re in control of the water consumption.



• Energy-Efficiency. RVs don’t have a lot of available electricity and water, that is a fact. So, to make sure your motor home doesn’t run out of all the energy, choose a dishwasher that has an Energy Star certificate. Such a model uses only 3 gallons of water and 0.87 kWh of energy per load. Models without a certificate use up to 15 gallons of water and 1.59 kWh of energy per load.

Can You Use Any Dishwasher In An RV?

Yes. However, you must bear in mind all the mentioned components, as well as your RV’s storage capacity and available space.

What RV Types Come With Dishwashers?

Besides the mentioned Class A, the largest RV types are the most common ones to have a dishwasher. That is because of the RV’s size and weight capacity. Dishwashers are mostly found in large diesel pusher motorhomes.

Are These Dishwashers Difficult To Operate?

No. They are actually really easy to operate, even children can use them. Such models, like other dishwasher types, can be controlled electronically with features like LED display and classic warning indicators.

Are They Hard To Install?

This depends on the model you buy. For example, bigger dishwashers need more space and plumbing, so you’ll have to remove certain parts of the RV furniture. On the other hand, countertop models only need a bit of space on the countertop and a nearby sink for draining.

What Is The Price Range For These Models?

These dishwashers are relatively inexpensive. Their usual price range goes from $300 to $800. That range is actually the most common one for classic dishwashers too.

What Unique Features Come With Dishwashers For RV?

These models can feature a delayed start so you can set the cleaning cycle in advance for 3, 6, 9, or even 24 hours. Some of them even feature unique cycles such as glass, china, baby toys, and bottles. Also, these dishwashers may have a disinfectant function for fruits and vegetables.

Is An RV Dishwasher Right For Me?

It depends on your needs and preferences, however, such a dishwasher will definitely enhance the cleaning experience while traveling. Here are some other benefits of having a dishwasher in your RV.

Time-Saver

It can take 10 to 15 minutes to hand wash all the dishes and cookware. A dishwasher will take only a minute or two for loading.

Better Cleaning Operation

A dishwasher uses high temperatures up to 160 Fahrenheit degrees. That high heat level kills all the germs and bacteria, and you won’t do that by hand washing the dishes.

Cost-Effective

By using a dishwasher, you will actually spend a lot less water than by hand washing it. So you will be paying less for your water supply and save money.

Things You Need To Know About RV Dishwashers

Now, let’s talk about all the specifications and functions this dishwasher type will give you. After all, it is all about the cleaning performance it will deliver.

Strong & Stable Construction

You can choose between stainless steel models and those that are plastic. Both materials are good, strong, and durable, however, if you need to choose, go with stainless steel. This material of the making is the best one on the market, it is resistant to high temperatures, odors, and stains, and it contributes to better drying results.

Interior Capacity Details

The amount of dishes that can be washed at the same time depends on the model you choose. Countertop dishwashers can hold between 4 and 8 place settings, while built-in models can usually hold between 10 and 12 place settings per load.

Adjustable Racks For Customization

This is a great feature that will allow you to customize the dishwasher’s interior in order to fit in all the cookware and dishes, no matter how awkwardly shaped they are. The adjustable interior will let you rearrange the racks, baskets, and compartments.

Cleaning Cycles & Options

All the motorhome dishwashers are specially designed to ensure that you can clean both heavily souled and delicate dishwashers in the same machine. Most of them combine cycles such as normal, heavy, light, ECO mode, rinse only, baby care, and quick wash.

Will I Get A Drying Function Too?

This depends on the model, but yes, most dishwashers come with a drying function. However, it is important that you get a model with an air-drying function as it uses 15% less energy than heated drying.

Sanitazing Performance

What is great about dishwashers is that they use very high temperatures during the cleaning and drying process. Thanks to that, you can be sure that all your dishes and cookware will get deeply sanitized and completely clean.

What Is The Noise Level In These Models?

Since there are different models to choose from, the noise level can vary from 40 dB to 55 dB. If you wish to have a quieter dishwasher, make sure to choose the one that comes with less than 48 dB.

Best 12 RV Dishwasher

Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Dishwasher

Multiple Cleaning Options
Similar to many models on the market, this camper dishwasher also provides multiple cleaning cycles and options. Its control panel features digital touch controls you can easily set or adjust with a simple touch of a finger. Even though it is a somewhat smaller model, it can still accommodate up to 6 place settings.

Safety Child Lock
The feature that makes this dishwasher such an amazing choice for families is its safety child lock feature. It allows you to lock the control panel and prevents your kids from accidentally running the dishwasher.

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SPT SD-6501SS Dishwasher

Built-In Design
This dishwasher with built-in unit is made for more spacious RVs and campers. It is 24-inches wide and can accommodate up to 14 place settings. It has 3 separate racks and an additional cutlery rack.

Heat-Drying Performance
Not only does this RV built-in dishwasher provide you with multiple cleaning cycles and options, but it also provides a very powerful drying performance. The best thing is that during its drying cycle, it uses a high temperature that additionally sanitizes the dishware inside the tub.

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Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Dishwasher

Digital Touch Controls
This countertop dishwasher comes with user-friendly backlit digital controls. An additional faucet indicator will inform you if your hookups (if you do decide to make them) aren’t properly connected. To activate the desired cleaning program, simply touch the designated key and let the machine do the rest.

Steam Cycle
Amongst the many cleaning cycles and options this countertop dishwasher model provides, you will also find a powerful “steam” cycle. It is specially designed to additionally sanitize the dishware and provide impeccable results. It can also come conveniently if you want to sanitize your baby’s bottles, pacifiers, or toys.

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BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Dishwasher

Compact Size
This compact designed dishwasher is a great choice for everyone looking for a freestanding countertop design. Since it comes with a 59″ connector hose, you can easily attach it to your sink. There is no need for any permanent installations.

Impressive Capacity
Even though this camper dishwasher comes in a space-saving size, it can easily accommodate up to 6 place settings. You will have enough room for your bowls, plates, cups, mugs, wine glasses, and utensils. You can safely position all you’re dishware and expect amazing results.

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NOVETE TDQR01 Dishwasher

Deep Cleaning Performance
Because of its dual rotating spray arms, this campervan dishwasher provides a very thorough, deep cleaning performance. They are specially designed to ensure that all parts of the machine get full 360-degree coverage. Its cleaning and drying cycles will completely sanitize all dishware inside the tub.

Low Noise
The best thing about this model is that it produces very low noise levels. Thanks to this feature you will be able to run it at any point during the day or night.

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Danby DDW631SDB Dishwasher

Stainless Steel Design
You can be sure that this dishwasher will provide you with exceptional quality and durability. It is made out of high-quality stainless steel material that has high resistance to rust, corrosion, and versatile small exterior damages.

Delay Start Feature
Another amazing thing about this RV steel dishwasher is that it comes with a convenient delay start feature. It allows you to set the exact time you want the dishwasher to start the next cleaning process up to several hours in advance.

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Red Tide Mini Dishwasher

Automatic Performance
This dishwasher for the trailer provides you with fully automatic cleaning performance. This means that you only need to add detergent and rinsing aid and choose the best cleaning cycle and operating mode. The machine will do the rest of the job for you.

Versatile Accessories
Included with this automatic dishwasher, there comes a full set of versatile accessories for the dishwasher. It includes a drain pump, inlet pipe, suction tube, double wire clamp, dishware bowl, one dishwashing block, and a manual.

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hOmeLabs HME010033N Dishwasher

Simple Design
Because of its simple compact design, you will be able to easily move this dishwasher from your home kitchen to your camper. Everything you need to have is a water source you can hook it up to.

Energy Star Certified
Another reason why this camper dishwasher is such a great choice is its Energy Star certificate. It ensures that the dishwasher consumes very small amounts of water and electricity per wash (and by extension, throughout the year), meaning, your utility bills won’t become too much higher than they already are.

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SPT SD-9263W Dishwasher

Freestanding Design
This domestic rolling dishwasher features a completely freestanding design. What this means is that it does not require any permanent installation. You can easily place it under your countertops or in any convenient part of your kitchen. Most importantly, you don’t have to make any permanent plumbings either.

Rolling Wheels
As its category says, this dishwasher comes with rolling wheels that are precisely placed in the 4 corners of the machine. Thanks to this feature the machine will have the needed stability and you will be able to move it around when required.

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Handiy Mini Dishwasher

Simple Performance
This is another small camping dishwasher that provides a very simple, and still a very powerful, performance. Simply load the dishes into the dish rack and cutlery basket, set the desired operating mode, and let the machine do the dirty job for you.

Removable Tank
Another great thing about this dishwasher is that it comes with a completely removable water tank. This means that you don’t have to make any permanent installations or hookups. Most importantly, you can easily refill it when required.

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DFQX Large-Capacity Dishwasher

Compact Size
Like all these models, this portable model also comes in a small compact size. This makes finding the perfect spot for it a much easier task. You can easily place it on your countertops or even under the sink without any permanent hookups.

Rotating Spray Arms
You can be sure that this portable dishwasher will provide you with powerful cleaning performance. It features very powerful rotating spray arms that are specially designed to provide full 360-degree coverage. As a result, the water will reach all corners of the machine.

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Kapas KPS-XWJ01 Dishwasher

Transparent Window
A convenient feature of this camper dishwasher is its fully transparent glass door window. It allows you to keep an eye on the cleaning process as it goes. The control panel of the machine is top-mounted on the machine to ensure that you can easily access it.

Affordable Price
This dishwasher is listed at an affordable price. It is the perfect choice for people who can’t afford to spend too much money on an appliance.

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Are Dishwashers Safe To Use In Motorhomes?

Absolutely safe, yes. They feature classic safety components such as leakage protection, alarm buzzer, light indicators, and safety lock panel. These are standard features every dishwasher model has and they are all you need for a safe cleaning operation.

How To Install A Dishwasher In An RV?

Installation requirements depend on the type of dishwasher you get. Here are all the details you need to know.

What Place To Install Dishwasher In My RV?

In the terms of RV, You should avoid place next to a wall oven that is positioned under the counter. You should allow at least 24 inches of space between those two appliances.

How Do You Hook Up A Dishwasher To An RV?

To install a built-in dishwasher, you need to have available space in the RV’s kitchen or you need to make space by removing some of the cabinetry under or near the sink. Since every dishwasher model has some specific parts and features that are important for installation, you need to follow the official installation guide. However, you can also check out this video for some visual details and a step-by-step guide.

Does A Countertop Model Require An Installation?

Yes. A dishwasher that has a built-in water tank requires a drain hose placed in the sink. If you go with the one that doesn’t feature a tank, you need to do some hookups and faucet adaptors. For a full and detailed guide, check out this article.