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The Best RV Dishwashers for a Hassle-Free RV Camping Trip

Writen by Tom Hank

Fact checked by Joseph Varney

Some RV owners think that having a dishwasher in an RV is an unnecessary luxury, but that is not always the case. Many people out there do not want to waste their time and energy cleaning the dish wares when they could be spending it outside with their family.

If you are like this, then you need to have the best RV dishwasher for a hassle-free RV camping trip. However, getting the best camper dishwasher is easier said than done. Many different brands and models are out there, making your options somewhat abundant. Each one also has a different set of features and benefits.

best rv dishwasher

It can be hard to choose just one. When you make your choice, it is also a bit confusing whether you are getting the best RV with dishwasher, especially if you do not do some research about it. With the help of this article, you will learn what makes some mini-dishwasher models superior to others.

You will also learn how to take your preferences and use them when shopping around for a brand new dishwasher. Furthermore, you will get some of my RV dishwasher reviews, providing you with a couple of good recommendations. By the end of this article, you have a guarantee that you can buy with confidence.

Table of Contents

Best RV Dishwasher Reviews

1. Danby DDW621WDB Dishwasher

The neat thing about this countertop dishwasher from Danby is that it is quite compact and space-saving. Due to its compact design, it will fit perfectly on the counter space beside the kitchen sink. It is a good choice not just for RV use, but also for small apartments and houses that have small kitchens.

Even though this Vesta RV dishwasher is small and compact, there is enough room for six place settings. It is such a neat feature, especially if you are someone with a lot of members in the family. It can provide enough storage space for all the dishes, bowls, silverware, and glasses of all family members.

On a side note, though, you might need to carefully arrange your dishes so that they will still get good spraying of water. This branded RV dishwasher stove combo also comes with six different wash cycles. You can choose from intensive (for tough dirt), normal, economy (which is ideal for RV use), rapid, glass, and soak from the program selector.

It means that this dishwasher can save a lot of water when the dishes do not need to use a lot. Also, if you have extremely dirty dishes, having the intensive cleaning option ensures that every bit of leftover food bits come off. It will only leave you with spotless and dirt-free dishes.

In my opinion, the best thing about this dishwasher is the fact that it runs quietly. Even at full tilt, the noise level that this machine produces is just a little bit above 52 decibels. It is genuinely silent for a dishwasher. I love its quiet operation a lot because I love taking naps after a huge meal.

I can leave the dishwasher running while I catch a couple of hours of sleep, and the noise ratings will not rouse me from my much-needed slumber. However, remember that although this dishwasher for RV can hold six place settings, it cannot hold large dinner plates.

If I need to wash the larger dinner plates, I need to place them at an angle so they will fit. It means I cannot put other dinnerware on the rack. On the other hand, I usually do not use my fancy 12-inch dinner plates too much while I am camping, so this issue does not affect me much at all.

What We Like
  • Small and compact, allowing it to fit most countertops
  • Can fit up to six normal place settings
  • Comes with six wash cycles for economical water consumption
  • Quiet operation
  • Has its water heater
What We Don’t Like
  • Not big enough for large dinner plates to stand on their sides
Although this machine cannot accommodate larger dinnerware, it is still an ideal compact dishwasher that anyone can use in an RV. It does not take up a lot of space and performs a great job at washing your dishes, making them spotlessly clean.

2. Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 Dishwasher

Although this motorhome dishwasher is a console-type machine, it still does not take up too much space in an RV. However, you need to make sure that you have enough space for installation. Also, you will need the help of a plumber to install it correctly.

On the other hand, if you consider yourself a handy with some plumbing tools, then you can try your hand at installing this unit yourself. This machine has enough space for seven place settings that even large dinner plates can fit comfortably. The large load limit helps a lot.

Having to do just two or three loads for the day can lessen water usage. Speaking of water savings, it would also be in your best interest to set a community timer. It will prevent the other people who are with you on your trip from cluttering the kitchen sink with dirty dishes. It is also very energy-efficient.

According to the US Energy Guide, this dishwasher uses $19 worth of electricity to operate for an entire year. It is just a fraction of the amount of electricity consumed by other brands of dishwashers.

This dishwasher is very ergonomically-designed. The controls are clear and easy to use. Also, if properly installed, the door closes flush to the sides of the counter. It also looks sleek. Even without installing decorative trim, this dishwasher will still look like it came with the RV.

The only problem I have with this appliance is that the front RV dishwasher drawer is very fragile. The one I received got a bit of a dent at the bottom due to improper handling during delivery. It would have been nice if the company invested in better packaging for their products so they would not get too damaged during shipment.
What We Like
  • Compact and space-saving
  • Saves a lot of water
  • Very energy-efficient
  • Can hold up to seven place settings
  • Ergonomically-designed and easy to operate
What We Don’t Like
  • The front panel is a bit too fragile, causing it to be easily dented.
Despite the issue with the front panel, which thankfully did not affect the functionality of the appliance, it is one of the best RV dishwashers available for RVs today, albeit a bit too pricey.

3. Farberware FDW05ASBWHA Dishwasher

This appliance from Farberware is quite possibly the most compact portable camping dishwasher I have ever had the pleasure of using. This machine is so small that it is considered portable. If you have a small travel trailer with dishwasher and you usually go on trips alone or with another person, then it should be the right size for your needs.

Probably the feature of this small RV dishwasher that I genuinely liked is the fact that it has its 5-liter water tank. With that, there is no need to hook it up to your RV kitchen faucet using a faucet adaptor. However, if you will be placing this machine in its semi-permanent place, it does come with a direct water hookup hose.

It is also an ideal countertop RV dishwasher for families that have babies. This machine has a baby care function that creates steam capable of sterilizing baby bottles, pacifiers, feeding bowls, and others. It is an excellent investment since you will no longer need to buy a separate sterilizer, and you can still use it even when your baby has gotten older.

Despite its compact size, this model can fit 12-inch dinner plates, if placed at an angle. So even if you and your spouse just had a fancy dinner, this tiny machine can still clean your dirty dishes for you. However, keep in mind that when you put in large plates in the dishwasher, it will effectively take up half of the usable space on the bottom rack.

Fortunately, there is nothing major that I can complain. However, if I have to give even one complaint, it would be that it is hard to fill the tank quickly. You have to be very deliberate when pouring water into the tank, or else it will splash everywhere.
What We Like
  • Small and compact, perfect for RVs and small apartments
  • Has a convenient baby care function that turns this machine into a sterilizer
  • Features its water tank for optimum portability
  • Can also be directly connected to a water faucet
  • Despite its size, it can still fit large dinnerware.
What We Don’t Like
  • Filling the tank will take a bit of time.
Because of its compact size, the Farberware FDW05ASBWHA RV dishwasher is genuinely one of the best choices for RV use. Do not let its diminutive size fool you. It is because this little machine is feature-packed, making it truly functional and useful when used in your vehicle.

4. EdgeStar DWP62BL Dishwasher

The Edgestar DWP62BL is a compact, countertop dishwasher that is a real workhorse. Even though it is small enough to fit underneath most kitchen cabinetry (even in RVs), this little dishwasher can hold up to 6 place settings.

Even if you are cleaning the dishes for a small family, it will be able to help you get the job done quickly and effortlessly. This 12v dishwasher features all of the accessories that you will need, including a cutlery basket, glass holders, plate racks, and others.

What’s more? You can connect it to any kind of standard kitchen faucet, regardless if it is a female or male connection. This dishwasher comes with its water heater. It means that when using the heavy washing cycle, the heater comes on and heats the water to 145 degrees F, leaving your dishware not only clean but also quite sterilized.

The best thing about this dishwasher is that it only consumes around 200-kilowatt-hours of electricity every year, which is less than half of what other brands of countertop dishwashers use. It means you are saving a lot of money just by using this dishwashing machine.

The only thing that I can somewhat complain about is that one needs to be very careful when connecting the inlet hose to the faucet and the machine. The fixtures are made of a rather soft plastic material, which is easy to over-tighten and strip the threading clean off.
What We Like
  • Small and compact, allowing it to fit most countertops
  • Can accommodate up to six full settings
  • Uses less than three gallons per regular wash cycle
  • Has its water heater that can help clean and disinfect the dishes
  • Almost 60% more energy-efficient compared to other countertop dishwashers
What We Don’t Like
  • The fixtures are made of soft plastic
This unit is one of the best countertop dishwashing machines available in the market today. It can clean dishes thoroughly while also promoting a high level of efficiency when it comes to water and power consumption. Overall, it is a good product without any significant downside that will disappoint users.

5. Furrion 18″ RV Dishwasher

At just 18 inches wide, this appliance is one of the most space-saving RV drawer dishwasher that one can get right now. This Furrion dishwasher can be easily installed in a prepared cabinet in the RV. It only requires minimal wiring and plumbing. The installation process will not take more than thirty minutes when there is a provision ready.

Even though this is a relatively small appliance, this can still take on a rather large amount of dirty dishes. This machine has dual washing racks. The bottom is used for dishes and utensils, and the upper rack is for cups and other small dinnerware.

You can even fit in larger plates at the bottom rack. However, you will need to place them at an angle. Also, you will effectively halve the capacity of the bottom rack if you do. This dishwasher is designed specifically for RV use, which is why it has a very high vibration-resistance.

In other words, even if the RV goes on particularly rough terrain, the dishwasher will remain intact and working as intended. It is great excellent for people who take around three or more RV trips every year or when the need suddenly arises.

Another feature that I genuinely liked about this dishwasher is that it only uses three and a half gallons of water per load, and that is with the heavy washing cycle selected. The water consumption can still get lower when other washing cycles are selected.

It is a great wash management system when you do not travel with a huge group of people. You will be surprised at how long your RV’s water tank can last. The only problem I have is the somewhat erroneous description of the product.

It says that this unit makes use of heated drying, but it does not. However, it is not a big deal as it will be just as better to leave the dishwasher door partially open after it completes a cycle.

What We Like
  • Small and compact
  • Easy to install as it only requires minimal plumbing and electrical work
  • Accommodates up to six complete settings
  • Economical, especially in terms of water and electricity consumption
  • Can resist vibrations; if your RV can handle the road condition, this dishwasher will remain intact
What We Don’t Like
  • Comes with a misleading description; there is no heated drying feature.
Although this dishwasher is small, it is the perfect size for RV use. It is a big help regardless if you like to go on trips on your own or with your family.

6. hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher

This unit is an excellent option if you are in search of a compact countertop portable dishwasher. At 21.6 inches wide and less than 20 inches deep, finding enough space for this appliance in the RV is not that hard at all.

Also, because it is just a little over 17 inches tall, you can be sure that it will clear the space between the countertop and the bottom of the cabinet. Another fantastic feature of this dishwasher is that it does not need any tools when it comes to installing it. You can install all of the plumbing fixtures by hand.

It is also highly preferable to do it that way as they are made of plastic and are very prone to over-tightening. In other words, you can connect the dishwasher easily when you need to use it, and you can also disconnect it quickly when you are done.

This dishwasher is very easy to operate. There are only a couple of electronic controls that you need to press. There is also a bright LED display that will guide you through the settings. Even without reading the user’s manual, I was able to figure out how to use this dishwasher.

One of the reasons why I got this dishwasher is because it is very efficient when using water. I once thought that I was saving water by cleaning the dishes by hand, but it turns out I was using up way too much. With the Homelabs compact dishwasher, a single full load will only use 3.1 gallons of water in total.

You will be surprised at how much water will still be left in your freshwater tank after your trip, thanks to this dishwasher. I could not find anything worth complaining about in this dishwasher.

However, if I have to be nitpicky, I would say that it is a bit on the slow side. It does not amount to much since I am almost always never in a hurry when washing dishes.
What We Like
  • Small and compact, perfect for RVs and small apartments or college dorms
  • Comes with its water heater
  • Water-efficient
  • Easy to operate; the buttons in the control panel are clearly labeled.
  • Can accommodate up to six place settings
What We Don’t Like
  • It is a bit on the slow side.
As far as I know, all countertop dishwashers are slower than their full-sized counterparts. However, since I do not find it a huge issue, I would still pick this one all over again. It is just that good.

7. EdgeStar BIDW1802SS Dishwasher

Even though this unit is a bit small and space-saving, it can handle a full load consisting of 8 place settings. It is a good deal because other dishwashers of the same size can only accommodate six place settings.

This Vesta built-in RV dishwasher is also easy to install, primarily because of its tiny size. If you have a vacant cabinet underneath or beside the sink, this dishwasher will fit in there perfectly. Alternatively, if you have a center island counter in your RV, it can fit perfectly along the side.

One of the features of this dishwasher that I love is automatic leak detection. When the Edgestar dishwasher senses that there is a leak, it will automatically cut off the water source and stop operating. I have not used this particular feature yet, but it is comforting that it is here whenever I need it.

Another feature that I truly appreciate is that it is very quiet. Even at full tilt, this machine will only make around 52 decibels of noise, which is further muffled if it is installed in a soundproofed cabinet. I have no problem taking a quick nap after loading and turning on the Edgestar in my RV.

The only complaint I have is that the “heat-drying” feature is a bit misleading as this dishwasher does not have a drying feature at all. Maybe the company is saying that the residual heat from the normal wash cycle will dry the dishes, but it does not.
What We Like
  • Small and compact design, making it appropriate for RVs and small kitchen space
  • Can fit up to eight full plate settings
  • Guarantees users of a quiet operation
  • Easy to install
  • Has an automatic leak detection
What We Don’t Like
  • It does not have any kind of drying feature at all
The problem with this dishwasher not having a drying function is not that big. Just open the door a bit, and the dishes will dry thoroughly. Besides, with all the different benefits that this machine provides, you will do well to get one for your own.

8. Westland Sales DWV335BBS Dishwasher

The Westland built-in dishwasher is the perfect RV companion as it is the ideal size for small living spaces. If you have a chest of drawers that you do not use, that will be enough space for this machine. The built-in trim will even eliminate the need for you to add your own.

Even though it is not as big as the dishwasher that I have at home, it can still hold a considerable amount of dirty dishes. By my estimate, I can fit at least eight full settings in there with a bit more room to spare. The only dishes that I cannot fit into the machine are my baking trays.

The stainless steel exterior does not only look sleek but also works somehow regardless of the décor. The glossy exterior also makes this dishwasher easy to clean and maintain. Even without installing decorative trim, this dishwasher will look as if it came packaged with the RV.

The controls are also quite easy to understand. There are very few buttons that you need to press, with each one being clearly labeled. I did not even need to read the user’s manual to know how to use the essential functions. Even my elderly parents had no problem operating it when I took them out camping with me.

The only issue that I have with this appliance is that it is very heavy at 61 pounds. My spouse and I had a hard time dragging it into place in our RV, and holding it in position during the installation was a struggle.
What We Like
  • Comes at a perfect size for RVs and small apartments
  • Easy to install; minimal plumbing and little to no electrical
  • Boasts of a large capacity for its size
  • Comes with a finish made of stainless steel
  • Easy to use and has clear buttons
What We Don’t Like
  • Very heavy; you would need an extra pair of hands when installing it.
Despite its weight, which is not a serious issue, this dishwasher provides quite a lot of benefits, making it a worthy addition to any RV.

9. Sunpentown SD-2213W Dishwasher

The great thing about Sunpentown dishwashers, in general, is that they are the appliances of choice of many top restaurants and hotels. It is not an exaggeration, though. The dishwasher that I have installed in my RV does clean thoroughly.

Despite the compact size of this machine, it can handle a surprising number of dishes. According to the brochure, it can hold up to 6 standard settings, which means that it is enough for two or three people, with the machine just running two times a day.

Seeing as this is a countertop dishwasher, it will not require a separate plumbing connection. You can just connect the input hose directly onto your kitchen sink faucet. On the other hand, if you are thinking of installing the dishwasher into a permanent position, you will only need to provide a couple of simple fittings.

If you are going in this direction, though, you might want to get the services of a professional plumber. I also like that there is a delay timer. The timer is helpful for saving water and electricity.

The way I use it is that I input the longest timer setting, which is eight hours, so that I have enough time to fill the dishwasher before I start a new wash cycle. It also prevents dirty dishes from piling inside the sink.

I would have loved to give this appliance perfect marks, but there is one problem, and it is that I cannot fit my larger dishes inside, even when positioned in a slanted position. The other dishwashers can accommodate larger plates just by placing them in a slanted position.
What We Like
  • Small and compact, perfect for RVs
  • Industrial standard, which is why you can see it being used in many different restaurants
  • Easy to install
  • Has a delay option using the intended timer
  • Very efficient when using water
What We Don’t Like
  • Cannot fit large dishes
Fortunately, I do not usually use my larger ceramic dishes, so I do not personally have any issues with this machine. In my opinion, it provides the same kind of dinnerware cleanliness as in professional restaurants and hotels, which is more than enough recommendation to get this for your RV.

10. BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Dishwasher

This Black and Decker countertop dishwasher is one compact machine. Even if you have a small counter, which is like the norm in RVs, you will still be able to find space for this dishwasher. It is not so tall that you will find it easy to fit it underneath your kitchen cabinets.

Although most countertop dishwashers connect directly to the kitchen faucet, you only need to provide a couple of plumbing fittings if you are thinking of making it into a makeshift built-in appliance. You can then connect this machine straight to the plumbing system without hassle.

This dishwasher may be small, but do not let its size fool you. It can fit a surprising amount of dirty dinnerware, around six full plate settings, at least. It means that if you are on an RV trip alone, or with another person, odds are, this machine will only be running once a day.

This dishwasher is also very easy to load. The washing tray slides out almost completely, making it easy to arrange the dishes onto the rack properly. There is also a removable silverware basket for more effortless loading of spoons, forks, and knives. The rack is also efficiently designed, further promoting ease in using it.

I do have one complaint with this dishwasher, though, and that it is not strong enough to get all of the dirt and grime out of your dishes. It is not that much of a hassle since I just need to rinse the dishes a bit before I put them in the dishwasher, but it should not be an issue at all.
What We Like
  • Compact, fitting the available space in your RV
  • Easy to load
  • Boasts of a highly efficient design
  • Huge capacity, making it capable of accommodating plenty of plates and other dishes
  • Easy and quick to install
What We Don’t Like
  • Not as strong as other RV dishwashers when it comes to cleaning
Despite that, this appliance is still a fantastic addition to your RV. It will serve as your great companion during your trip as it eliminates the hassle of having to clean your dishes all the time manually.

11. Frigidaire FFCD2418US Dishwasher

The thing that I liked the most about this Frigidaire dishwasher is that it has a self-cleaning filter. It means that the food particles that have been washed off are not cycled back on the dishes. It ensures that all the dishes are clean and spotless.

The Stay-Put door is also a neat innovation. I liked how the door seems to magically lock in place regardless of how much I leave it opened. It is very convenient, especially when I do not want to use the heated dryer, and I leave the door slightly ajar so the dishes will dry completely. This neat feature also makes it easy to load the washing tray.

When it comes to the heated dryer, this dishwasher has a convection dryer for the times when you do not have the time nor the energy to dry the dishes by hand, or just leave the dishwasher door open. The dryer ensures that your dishes will come out perfectly clean and without any streaks.

Another reason why this dishwasher is a good idea for RVs is that it is very silent. Even when washing a full load of dishes, this machine will only create around 55 decibels of noise. I can still hear it humming, but I can take a nap and not get annoyed. You will even hardly hear it at all if it is installed correctly (i.e., with soundproof insulation).

I could not find anything serious to complain about this unit. However, if I must go into the finest details, it would have been nicer if there was more room between the bottom and upper rack. There is still enough space above the rack to make this suggestion possible, so I do not get why Frigidaire came up with this final design.
What We Like
  • Has a self-cleaning filter
  • Comes equipped with a Stay-Put door
  • Easy to load and empty
  • Quiet operation, just 55 decibels on full load
  • Comes with a convection dryer
What We Don’t Like
  • Cannot put plates larger than 10 inches diameter in the bottom rack

I found it hard to find anything to fault in this machine. It is very efficient and effective at cleaning dishes, and it has lots of additional features that make using it simple. There is no reason why you should not at least check it out.

12. DELLA Countertop Dishwasher

This dishwasher comes at an ideal size for RVs and small kitchens. This Della dishwasher is just 19 inches deep and 17 inches high. It will fit even on small countertops and will not hit the bottom edges of hanging cabinets.

Out of all the dishwashers that I have tested, it is one of the easiest to use, by far. If not the easiest of all, it is within the top 3. I like that it is easy to load. The controls are easy to understand, and it is easy to refill the soap dispenser and rinse aid dispenser.

It is also effortless to install. The input hose comes with a quick connect kit so that it will only take you a couple of seconds to attach it to the faucet and disconnect it when it comes time to drain. Furthermore, if you want to install it under the counter, you only need a couple of simple fittings to attach the inlet hose to the main water line.

This dishwasher also has a timer delay, so you do not have to let your dishes pile up in the sink. Just load them up into it, and it will turn on by itself at the scheduled time. I like this feature because it prevents stacks of dirty dishes from filling the kitchen sink. Everyone just puts their dirty dishes inside, and they will get cleaned later.

The only complaint that I have is that there is barely enough room in the cleaning tray for dinner plates. Even plates that are just around 10 inches wide do not seem to fit right. I have to angle the plates just right to squeeze them in, and by doing so, I take up the space meant for other dinnerware.
What We Like
  • Very small and compact, ideal for RVs and small apartments
  • Easy to load, thanks to the organized dish rack
  • Even beginners can efficiently operate this machine.
  • Has a delay timer for scheduled dishwashing
  • Easy to connect to the kitchen faucet
What We Don’t Like
  • The dish rack can barely fit 10-inch plates.
Despite the issue with the dish rack being sort of small, this dishwasher is one of the best appliances that I have used so far. The water jets are strong, the unit is easy to install, and it has an idiot-proof design. If you are looking for a new dishwasher for your RV, then this might just be the one that you need.

Best RV Dishwashers Buying Guide

camper-dishwasher

How Many Types of Dishwashers for RV Are There?

Two types of dishwashers are suitable for RV use. The first type is the countertop dishwasher. As the name suggests, these small and compact appliances can be placed on the countertop next to the kitchen sink.

Countertop models are ideal for RVs because they do not take up too much space on the counter. They are also very efficient when using water. Furthermore, because no installation is necessary, you can use this appliance immediately upon delivery.

The other type is the built-in dishwasher. This kind of dishwasher is always installed under the counter. Because of that, this type is more space-saving than countertop dishwashers. Many RVs have provisions for built-in dishwashers.

However, if yours does not have one, you can remove a couple of kitchen drawers, and they will fit there quite nicely.

Which one is better? The answer is subjective. If you have a provision for installation, then there is no reason why you would not get a built-in washer. However, if you do not have much room, then the countertop version is better.

I also have a list of the RV dishes with dishwasher-safe for your reference. Furthermore, check our list of top-tier RV microwave and toaster oven for your RV if you are looking for an appliance for your RV kitchen.

How Does an RV Dishwasher Work?

When washing dishes by hand, the soapy water stays still in the sink, and the dishes are dunked into it and scrubbed clean. They will then get rinsed. The opposite happens in a dishwashing machine. The dishes, cups, and utensils stay still while the water moves around them.

Inside the machine are several pressurized water jets that blast hot soapy water all around the dishes. It is the reason why dishwashers need to be sealed tightly. If they do not have a tight seal, then hot soapy water will flood your kitchen floor.

A dishwasher’s wash cycle starts by taking cold water from a hose connected to the kitchen tap. Once there is enough water in the reservoir of the dishwasher, a heating element will start heating the water to a specific temperature.

The heated water is then pumped through pipes lining the sides of the machine that are connected to spinning paddles or spray arms – a metal spray arm at the bottom of the dish rack, and a plastic one above it. When the hot water enters the paddles, it causes them to spin and the hot water to go out of small holes on their surfaces.

These jets of water hit the plates and utensils, dislodging any dirt on the surface. The paddle at the bottom is closer to the heating element. With that, the water coming from it is much hotter if you compare it to what is coming from the plastic paddle on top.

It is the reason why some dishes state that you need to place them on the top rack of dishwashers, beside the cup shelf. The first cycle usually uses soapy water to make it better at cleaning the dishes. The following wash programs or cycles use just plain water or water with rinse aid.

The rinse aid makes it easier to wash off the soap suds from the dishes and allow them to dry quicker. A regular wash cycle usually lasts half an hour or so, or until all the dishes get a proper clean.

The used water then drains to the bottom of the machine, where a sieve catches larger bits of food to prevent the drain hose from clogging up. The rest of the dirty water then gets flushed down the drain. You need to empty the sieve regularly to prevent the machine from clogging.

The residual heat from the hot water will cause the dishes to dry faster. However, if you overload the machine and there is not much space between the dishes, it would take a little while longer to dry. If you want the dishes to dry faster, just open up the dishwasher door a bit to let the steam out.

The dishes should dry up thoroughly without wiping them. Those are the essential functions of most dishwashers. Some of the more modern brands might have a couple of additional features, but they still operate the same way.

Who Makes the Best Dishwasher for RV?

You can find many different brands of dishwashers for RV, but not all of them are reliable. Others even consider some of these units as a waste of money. To help guide you in purchasing the right dishwasher, check out some of the trusted brands, like Danby, Fisher Paykel, Farberware, Furrion, hOmeLabs, EdgeStar, WESTLAND, Sunpentown, BLACK+DECKER, Frigidaire, and DELLA.

I have already tested quite a lot of dishwashers throughout the years. The brands I mentioned are some of the best that I have encountered so far. You can be sure that you will be getting more than your money’s worth when you get dishwashers from these brands.

Do Travel Trailers Have Dishwashers?

Some of the higher-end recreational vehicles come with dishwasher’s standard, but the lower-end models do not. However, the RVs on the lower end of the price list usually have provisions for additional appliances, like microwaves and dishwashers.

If your trailer did not come with a dishwasher, do not think that you were cheated. Your RV variant might not include it. If your RV does not have provisions for a dishwasher, you can either get a countertop dishwasher that you can place on the counter beside the kitchen sink.

Also, you can knock out a set of drawers to make space for a built-in dishwasher. The latter option is much better since it will save a lot more space.

How to Install an RV Dishwasher?

The installation of RV dishwasher will depend on the kind of unit that you will be using. It will also be an indication of whether you will need to hire a contractor to do it for you. If you are using a countertop dishwasher, you just need to place the appliance on the counter near the kitchen sink. It will allow the inlet hose to reach the faucet.

Be sure that there is also an electric outlet nearby. If you will be using the dishwasher, attach the inlet hose to the faucet (it should easily screw in place), then plug the dishwasher into the outlet. If you are installing a built-in dishwasher, make sure that the unit fits into the provision in your RV.

With that in mind, you have to measure the available space carefully and make sure that the dishwasher you will be purchasing will fit inside it. It is best to get the help of a professional plumber when you are installing a built-in dishwasher because there might be a bit of plumbing to do.

On the other hand, if you consider yourself to be handy with a wrench and can cut and measure piping, then you can try doing the installation yourself. The first thing you need to do is connecting the inlet hose to the waterline of the RV.

If you are using a provided space, there might be a joint where you can attach the necessary fitting to connect the hose. If you are installing the dishwasher into space where your kitchen drawers used to be, then you have to connect the inlet to the pipe that supplies water to the faucet.

You can attach a T-fitting with a valve that connects to the inlet hose, so you can turn off the water whenever you need to. Next, connect the drain hose to the pipe connected to the grey tank of your RV. You can also use a properly-sized PVC T-fitting for this, but you do not need to place a valve.

Now that the proper piping connections ready, you can plug the machine in, push it into the provisioned space, and you are done. You can also install decorative trim around the dishwasher if there are any gaps along the sides. It will give your installation a cleaner and more polished look.

How to Winterize RV Dishwasher?

Ideally, you should winterize your entire RV. However, if you want to do your appliances separately, here is what you need to do when it is the dishwasher’s turn.

First, you need to ensure that there is no water left in the reservoir. It means that you have to drain the dishwasher, which you should always do after every wash cycle, but just in case, do it again. Once there is no more water in the reservoir, your next target will be the inlet hose and the piping leading to the paddles.

To get any water from inside the system of the dishwasher effectively, unplug the inlet valve, and blow compressed air into the hose gradually. It will push out any leftover water from your last dishwashing cycle into the drain. Continue blowing compressed air until there is no more water coming out of the paddles.

It is a safer and easier method of winterizing the dishwasher. Pouring anti-freeze into the system might cause problems later. Also, you need to rinse out the stuff come springtime as it can make you sick.

How Do I Use My Dishwasher in my RV?

Some people think that they can just throw in their dirty dishes into the dishwasher and turn it on, but that is not the case. You need to know how to use your dishwasher correctly. With that knowledge, you will know how to make it last for as long as it is supposed to.

First of all, before placing the dishes into the cleaning tray, give them a preliminary washing. It means you provide the dishes with a bit of a rinse to get the larger bits of leftover food. It is essential so that your dishwasher will not get easily clogged after just a couple of uses.

Another tip is to take note of the dishwashing guide of your dinnerware. Some plates and bowls dishwasher-friendly, but you should only put them on the top rack of the machine. The reason behind it is that the water jets at the bottom blast hotter water compared to the jets on top.

Putting those plates at the bottom rack might cause them to warp or chip, or both. Also, take note of the type of dishes that you will be washing, so you can choose the appropriate wash cycle. For instance, if you will be washing mostly drinking glasses, then select the right wash cycle (glasses in this example) to prevent severe damage.

Also, never overload the dishwasher. If you can no longer find any space in the racks to place your dinnerware properly, just save those pieces for the next batch. Overloading the machine will leave only the tops or bottoms of the dinnerware clean.

Care and Store

The great thing about most dishwashers is that they are mostly heavy-duty and require very little maintenance. However, that does not mean that you can just leave it as it is. If you want to keep your dishwasher working properly for as long as it can, you need to give it a bit of TLC.

First of all, regularly empty and clean the sieve that catches the bigger bits of food from your dirty plates. Ideally, do this every day to prevent the bits from spoiling and stinking up your dishwasher. Doing this tip will also prevent the drain of the dishwasher from clogging and flooding the RV with gray water.

To prevent mold and mildew from growing inside the dishwasher, you should leave the door open after every wash cycle and allow the inside to dry completely. Mold and mildew will only grow in damp and cold areas, so if your dishwasher is completely dry. It will not be an ideal environment for growth.

Also, clean the stainless steel interior, the edges of the door, and the gaskets. If bits of food get stuck in the doors, they will rot and cause a nasty smell that will waft through the RV. Using a sponge or kitchen towel and some soapy water, thoroughly clean the edges of the doors and the gaskets.

Take out the trays and racks and give them a good cleaning every week or so. Even though the racks also typically get cleaned at the same time as your dishes, some parts are unreachable by the water jets. Use a toothpick or a pair of tweezers to pick any bits of food stuck in the corners and recesses.

Also, let them soak in a solution made with clean water and a bit of white vinegar to get them thoroughly cleaned. Finally, if you will be parking your RV for the winter, remember to include the dishwasher in your winterizing list.

Make sure that all pipes are completely emptied of water. Use compressed air if you have to. You might not want to use anti-freeze as it can be difficult to rinse later.

Buying Guide

Dishwashers will always be huge investments, so make sure the one you choose to buy will be worth your money. If it is the first time for you to do some RV dishwasher shopping, then here are some of the things to look out for.

Size – It will largely depend on how much space you can spare in your RV. If you have enough counter space, you can get a compact, drop-in dishwasher. These dishwashers might seem too small for home use. However, if you will be using one in an RV, then it would be just the right size.

If you cannot spare enough counter space, then there are portable, countertop dishwashers that you can use. These items do not require any installation at all, and they easily connect to the RV’s faucet for water supply.

Performance – The dishwasher you buy should perform as expected based on its price, or better yet, beyond its price point. You would not want to buy an expensive dishwasher only to be disappointed with how bad it works.

There is no other way to find out if a dishwasher cleans well other than checking out some reviews. Read reviews made by current and previous owners of a particular brand and model that you are thinking of getting.

Capacity – The capacity will depend mostly on the number of people who are usually with you when you go on your RV trips. If it is just you and your spouse or significant other, then getting a larger capacity model will not be so important.

However, if you always go on trips with your family, then it is crucial to get the biggest dishwasher you can buy without breaking the bank.

Water efficiency – This factor is especially crucial if you will be using the dishwasher in the RV with a somewhat limited freshwater supply. Try to get the dishwasher that uses the least amount of water per full load of dishes and can still get the job done well.

Drying Function – Most dishwashers claim that they have a drying function, which is not entirely true. The reason why dishes dry a bit faster when using a dishwasher is because of the residual heat left behind by the hot water.

You still need to crack the door open a bit for the dishes to dry completely. However, some dishwashers have heating elements inside that dry the dishes faster. Those models are quite expensive, though.

Using the critical factors in this section and the corresponding tips, you will be able to narrow down the many different choices to a more manageable list.

Other Dishwashers We Reviewed

Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9N Dishwasher

This dishwasher will fit precisely in the same place as your kitchen drawers, so finding the perfect place for it one is not difficult at all.

Key Features:

  • Can fit up to 7 different place settings
  • Allows the user to customize the wash cycles
  • Quiet motor; runs silently even when loaded fully

Frigidaire FFBD1831US 18-inch Dishwasher

This dishwasher slides right into any 18-inch opening in your RV kitchen and requires very little plumbing work.

Key Features:

  • Comes with a stainless steel main tub, and a plastic nylon rack
  • Fits seven full place settings without any problem
  • Comes equipped with a heated drying system

SPT SD-2225DW Countertop Dishwasher

This item is a countertop dishwasher that has nearly all of the same features that you would expect from a full-sized appliance but in a smaller form-factor.

Key Features:

  • Delayed start timer for added convenience
  • Quick Connect adapter for most kitchen faucets
  • Has bright LED displays

Farberware FCD06ABBWHA Portable Countertop Dishwasher

For those who do not have any available installation space in their RV, this compact portable dishwasher might just be the thing that they need.

Key Features:

  • Can fit up to six place settings
  • Has enough space to fit 10-inch plates
  • Entirely programmable with seven presets

Sunpentown SD-2213S Countertop Dishwasher

It is awell-known brand and trusted by many hotel chains. You will also notice that it comes in silver and gray.

Key Features:

  • Full-size power and functions in a compact machine
  • Delay start timer of up to 8 hours
  • Comes equipped with a water supply warning

Ensue Countertop Dishwasher

This sleek silver dishwasher might be small, but it can handle the dirtiest dishes. The actual size of this appliance also makes it perfect for RV living.

Key Features:

  • Guarantees easy access to the detergent and rinse aid dispensers
  • Has simple, and easy to understand controls
  • Fits six standard place settings

Danby DDW631SDB Countertop Dishwasher

This unit is a highly water-efficient portable dishwasher. It is perfect for RVs.

Key Features:

  • Has six standard place setting capacity
  • Uses just a bit over 3 gallons of water per wash cycle
  • Equipped with six wash cycle presets

WESTLAND Vesta Countertop Dishwasher

This dishwasher has a minimalist design aesthetic. It also boasts of its full features and functions.

Key Features:

  • Very water-efficient as it will not use more than 4.2 gallons of water per wash
  • Directly connects to your kitchen faucet
  • Small and compact and can fit underneath most cabinets

SPT SD-2202W Countertop Dishwasher

This dishwasher does not only saves space but is also known for being very efficient when it comes to energy and water consumption.

Key Features:

  • Low annual operating cost
  • Has enough space to hold plates up to 10.5” in diameter
  • Has a six-place setting capacity

Magic Chef MCSCD6W5 Countertop Dishwasher

This unit is a low-maintenance and energy-efficient portable dishwasher, making it quite the popular choice among RV owners.

Key Features:

  • Delay timer that can go up to 24 hours
  • Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior
  • Comes with Quick Connect adapters for most kitchen faucets

SPT SD-9263W Portable Dishwasher

A true portable dishwasher, the SD-9263W has casters so you can push it where needed.

Key Features:

  • Has six wash cycle presets
  • Large capacity as it can hold up to 8 standard place settings
  • Has a low rinse-aid level indicator

Fisher Paykel DD24DAX9 Double DishDrawer

With the help of this dual-drawer dishwasher, you do not have to feel guilty about running half-loads of dishes.

Key Features:

  • Two dish drawers that can contain half loads each
  • The dish drawers can work independently from each other.
  • Very water-efficient

SPT SD-9254SS Built-in Dishwasher

Although this dishwasher is just 18” wide, it has a large capacity. It is ideal for families who like to go on RV trips together.

Key Features:

  • Roll-out dish trays for easy loading unloading
  • Has a built-in water heater
  • Energy Star compliant, proving its impressive energy-efficiency

Conclusion

Having the best RV dishwasher does not only mean that you will always have clean and sparkling dinnerware whenever you need them. It also means that you will be using significantly less water on your dirty dishes.

You will be pleasantly surprised at how much freshwater you save just by using this simple appliance. Now that you have reached the end of this article, you can shop for a new RV dishwasher with confidence, knowing that you will be getting the best that your money can buy.

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