When I first moved into my apartment years ago, I told myself I didn’t need a dishwasher. After all, how hard could handwashing be? Fast-forward to countless evenings of scrubbing plates, dealing with greasy pans, and having my sink constantly full of dirty dishes, and I was ready for a change.
The AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher was not a random purchase. It was the result of a lot of research, comparing full-size built-ins, installation costs, and water usage. In the end, this compact model made the most sense for my small kitchen, limited counter space, and budget. Now, after years of daily use, I can confidently say it is one of the best purchases I have ever made for my home.
Setup and First Impressions
Right out of the box, the AIRMSEN feels lightweight enough to move around yet sturdy enough to handle heavy daily use. It is designed to either connect to a faucet or operate as a standalone unit with a top-fill water tank, which was a game-changer for me since my kitchen layout did not allow for a permanent hose setup.
I keep mine on a small rolling cart so I can tuck it away when not in use. When it is time to wash, I roll it next to the sink, fill the tank with the included pitcher (or directly from my pull-out faucet), load it up, and let it do its job. The pleasant chime when it is full of water is a nice touch. If you overfill it, the excess drains automatically at the start of the cycle.
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Capacity and What Fits Inside
This dishwasher will not replace a full-size model for huge loads, but for everyday dishes, mugs, glasses, and utensils, it is perfect. I have even managed to fit an 8×8 Pyrex dish and a 1.5-quart saucepan on separate occasions.
You will still need to handwash large pots and pans, but that is true for many larger dishwashers as well. I have found that spacing items properly makes a big difference. If you pack it too tightly, you risk small smears of food or soap residue.
For silverware, the included basket works well enough, though I ended up replacing mine with a larger aftermarket one to handle more utensils. Without the cover, it is easier to fit odd-shaped pieces like long spatulas or thick-handled knives.
Performance and Cleaning Power
Even after three years of daily use, sometimes multiple loads a day, this little machine has kept up beautifully. From everyday cups and plates to baby bottles, pet bowls, and food prep utensils, everything comes out sparkling clean.
I usually run the Normal cycle with Cascade Platinum Plus pods, which gives me consistent results. The Speed cycle is surprisingly effective for lighter loads and, when filled with hot water, saves energy and time.
For pet bowls, I pre-sanitize with a quick spray of Clorox Clean-Up before loading them in, which is a personal hygiene choice I recommend to others.
Maintenance and a Handy Fix for the Upper Spray Arm
One small hiccup happened about four months in: the upper spray arm stopped rotating. Rather than panic, I contacted AIRMSEN’s customer service, and they walked me through a simple fix:
- Remove the lower rack for easy access.
- Unscrew the upper spray arm by hand.
- Clear any debris, often food particles or hair, around the mounting area.
- Use a toothpick to unclog the spray nozzles, rinse thoroughly, and reattach with the nozzles facing down.
- Give it a spin with your finger to ensure it moves smoothly.
This solved my problem instantly, and I have not had the issue since. I now check the spray arm every few months as part of regular maintenance.
Durability and Long-Term Impressions
I bought mine in May 2022, and as of today, August 2025, it is still going strong. The only wear I have noticed is some rust starting on the lower rack after three years, which is impressive given the constant use. Replacement racks are available, and parts are easy to find online.
It is also quiet enough to run while watching TV in the next room and has never leaked, which is more than I can say for some full-size dishwashers I have owned.
Water use is minimal compared to handwashing, and because it is portable, you can take it with you when you move, something you cannot do with a built-in.
Pros and Cons After Years of Use
What I Love:
- Compact and portable, fits in small kitchens, apartments, or even RV setups
- Option for faucet hookup or top-fill water tank
- Cleans thoroughly on both Normal and Speed cycles
- Energy and water efficient
- Quiet operation
- Affordable compared to full-size dishwasher installation
What Could Be Better:
- Basket size for silverware is small unless upgraded
- Large pots and pans still need handwashing
- Occasional minor residue if overloaded
- Small amount of water can remain in the drain hose after use
Not sure which model is right for you? Read our complete Dishwasher Buying Guide to find the perfect match for your kitchen.
Final Verdict
If you have been putting off getting a dishwasher because of space, budget, or installation costs, stop waiting. The AIRMSEN Portable Countertop Dishwasher is not just a compromise, it is a truly effective, long-term solution.
It has saved me countless hours over the past three years, handled daily loads without complaint, and paid for itself many times over in convenience. Whether you live in a small apartment, have a temporary kitchen setup, or just want an energy-efficient alternative to a full-size dishwasher, this is an investment you will not regret. Would I buy it again? In a heartbeat.
