The best small washer is the one you can connect, load, drain, and put away without rearranging the apartment every time. A tiny drum is useful when it makes home laundry possible, but it can become frustrating when an ordinary laundry basket turns into several cycles. These two researched picks represent the decision between a smaller automatic machine and a larger portable format.
The quick decision
Our picks, by the space you have
Start with the BPWM09W when floor space is the hard limit and you wash little and often. Consider the COMFEE’ when the larger body fits and reducing the number of sessions matters more.
These are editorial selections from the models compared, based on manufacturer documentation. We have not hands-on tested them or measured performance, reliability, or noise. Confirm the exact model, installation instructions, seller, availability, and returns before purchase. “Best” refers to the use cases within this shortlist, rather than a market-wide ranking. Research checked October 18, 2026.
Compare the models at a glance
Product dimensions exclude operating clearances. Dimensions are in inches; W = width, D = depth, H = height, L = length. Unlabeled brand dimensions are kept in their published order.
| Model | Size | Format | Best fit | Current offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER BPWM09W | 17.69 W × 18.06 D × 31.5 H in | 0.9 cu. ft. | a very small laundry spot | Check Amazon |
| COMFEE’ CLV16N2AMG | 20.3 W × 20.7 D × 36.6 H in | 1.6 cu. ft.; listed 11 lb load | fewer small-load sessions | Check Amazon |
Retailer links open a new tab. Search links are labeled “Search Amazon”; match the full model number. Check current price, availability, seller, and returns on the retailer page.
The shortlist
Why these small products make the list
Best for a very small laundry spot
BLACK+DECKER BPWM09W
17.69 W × 18.06 D × 31.5 H in · 0.9 cu. ft.
A compact automatic option for someone who washes small loads often. Its narrower body is easier to accommodate than the larger washer here, making it a sensible starting point when floor space is the binding constraint.
Small loads mean more cycles. This cold-water model still needs an approved water connection, secure drain, and clearance above the top lid; it is not a water-free or hookup-free appliance.
Best for fewer small-load sessions
COMFEE’ CLV16N2AMG
20.3 W × 20.7 D × 36.6 H in · 1.6 cu. ft.; listed 11 lb load
The larger drum makes more sense when the smallest washer would force repeated sessions. Wheels and a delay-start feature are useful conveniences, although they do not remove the work of connecting, draining, and drying laundry.
It takes more floor space and is substantial to move. Confirm the exact model manual and seller dimensions: the current brand page lists 36.6 inches high, while older listings may differ.
Choose a load routine before a drum size
List what you actually wash at home: underwear and shirts, a week's mixed clothing, or bulky household items. The first routine may work with a very small drum; the others can require repeated loads or an outside laundry service. A capacity number does not tell you whether a particular comforter can move freely. Keep a plan for bulky items even if a small washer handles most everyday clothing.
Give the washer an operating space
Mark the cabinet footprint on the floor, then add room to lift the lid, bend hoses naturally, load a basket, and stand beside the machine. If it must move after use, check the entire route and the storage position too. Wheels are convenient on a clear level route; they do not make thresholds, tight turns, or lifting into a closet disappear.
Treat the water route as part of the purchase
Identify the exact faucet or inlet and the receiving drain. A removable aerator, pull-out spray head, or unusual fitting can change which adapters work. The hose needs a secure position throughout the cycle. Ask building management about any applicable appliance restrictions before ordering, then compare the proposed setup with the exact manual. A compact cabinet alone does not make an installation suitable.
Leave room for the second half of laundry
A wash cycle finishes with wet clothing, not a completed household chore. Plan where a rack will stand, how air will circulate, and where hoses can dry before storage. Include adapters and any permitted accessories when comparing total cost. If the routine requires unpacking three other items every time, a larger shared laundry trip may remain more practical for some loads.
Before you choose
Common questions
Does portable mean no hookup?
No. These automatic models need a water supply and a secure drain route. Temporary connection is different from having no connection.
Can either washer replace a dryer?
No. Spin extraction leaves laundry damp. Plan a suitable drying routine separately.
Sources and how we chose
We compared the exact models below using their brand specifications and setup information. Recommendations reflect our interpretation of those documents for small-space use. They do not represent hands-on testing, customer ratings, or a measured performance ranking.
- BLACK+DECKER BPWM09W: manufacturer specifications and support
- COMFEE’ CLV16N2AMG: manufacturer specifications and support
We omit live prices because offers change. No star ratings or review scores have been assigned. Read our full methodology.
Make the shortlist fit your room.
Measure the usable space, then add doors, drawers, hoses, and ventilation from the exact manual.
Open the fit check →