The 7 Best Portable Dryers of 2023
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Toss your wet clothes into a compact and functional appliance
The Spruce / Zackary Angeline
Fact checked by Erin JohnsonReviewed by Larry Campbell
A portable dryer saves space in your laundry room and offers a faster way to dry your clothes when compared to line drying. “Line drying laundry is time consuming and only works if the weather stays dry or you have a large enough covered outdoor space,” says Tory Jon, the founder of CamperFAQs and a small living expert. “With a portable dryer, this isn’t an issue, and the laundry cycle takes less time to complete.” It's arguably one of the most convenient appliances you can add to your studio, RV, or small apartment.
Whether you’re considering a portable dryer for efficiently drying small loads of wet clothes or to pair with a portable washing machine, some important features to consider are capacity, cycle settings, and venting and installation options. That way, you know the appliance is compatible with both your lifestyle and your living space. We researched the best options and evaluated each model based on features, value, and reliability. Our favorites include versatile installation options, LCD screens that make it easy to pick cycle and temperature settings, and spacious interiors for your tees and towels.
Best Overall: Euhomy 2.6 cu. ft. Compact Electric Dryer
What We Like
LCD display for easy operation
9-pound load capacity
1400-watt heating element
Includes wall-mounting kit
What We Don't Like
Lint filter maintenance
When it comes to an efficient and easy-to-use portable dryer, the Euhomy Compact Electric Dryer is our top recommendation. This 2.6-cubic-foot model has a stainless steel drum that enables you to dry loads up to 9 pounds, which is about the amount of clothes you can fit into a carry-on, weekender bag. Of course, heavier materials or max-capacity loads will require longer drying times, and running the machine a second time for completely dry clothes.
This portable dryer saves on space when compared to full-size dryers. It measures 23.5 by 17 bu 26.6 inches and weighs 49 pounds. You can install the Euhomy Compact Dryer next to or on top of your washing machine, but it’s worth noting that it also includes a wall-mounting kit to save floor space, which may be helpful if you live in a van and want to be mindful of walkways. Despite being smaller and less expensive than a standard dryer, this portable model offers a range of cycle selections to suit your routine: normal, eco, intelligent, and strong. It has a 1400-watt heating element that dries clothes with heating temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. In comparison to other portable dryers on the market, the digital control pad feels more modern and is simple to use once you’ve identified the function of the four icons.
The most frequent complaint about the Euhomy Compact Dryer relates to cleaning the lint filter. It’s a three-piece filter that the manufacturer recommends you occasionally clean with a soft brush. It can become full of lint rather quickly, so it’s best to clean it every few cycles. You also can’t pluck the lint off the filter, as doing so tends to break the fine fibers of the filter mesh. Replacement filters are available and cost-effective, so plan to view it as part of the expected maintenance to keep this portable dryer running well.
Price at time of publish: $300
Capacity: 2.6 cubic feet | Vent Type: Vented | Cycles: 4 | Drying Temperatures: Not listed | Control Type: Digital | Stackable: Yes
Best Budget: Magic Chef Compact Electric Dryer
What We Like
Flexible installation options
Easy to clean lint filter
Durable stainless steel drum
What We Don't Like
Small drum capacity
Low-wattage heater
Keep your laundromat quarters and instead invest in this budget portable dryer for your at-home laundry setup. The Magic Chef Compact Electric Dryer costs less than $250, and can be exhausted externally or internally (with the purchase of a vent kit). It dries up to 5.5 pounds of laundry in a single load, which is less than our Best Overall, but still frees up your drying rack or clothesline, saving you the time it takes to hang each individual item. To appropriately care for your clothes, there are two heat settings and three drying cycles controlled by an electro-mechanical dial and push button.
Open the door to this compact dryer and you’ll find a stainless drum with 1.5 cubic feet of space. While the capacity is more limited when compared to some other popular models, it’s still enough space for two bath towels, two hand towels, and four washcloths, or for two full work uniforms. Keep in mind that when the drum is very full, it will take longer to dry your items. Magic Chef says to plan on 200 minutes to dry a max-capacity load.
Considering the fact that this budget portable dryer is only equipped with an 850-watt heater, it’s not a real surprise that very large loads or thick, heavy fabrics take longer to dry. Even still, the flexible installation and economical price of this electric dryer make it an appealing option for apartment dwellers, RV owners, or anyone that wants to minimize trips to the laundromat or the work of line drying laundry items.
Price at time of publish: $215
Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet | Vent Type: Vented | Cycles: 3 | Drying Temperatures: 2 | Control Type: Manual | Stackable: Yes
Best Splurge: Morus Zero Portable Clothes Dryer
What We Like
Fits on a shelf or tabletop
Eliminates bacteria and dust mites
Fast, 15-minute dry cycle
Includes drying rack
What We Don't Like
Small drum
The Morus Zero is one of the most innovative portable dryers on the market. This compact model is designed for small loads, but it does carry a big price tag. With an MSRP of $600, you’ll spend more for this tiny portable dryer than most other models, but it has plenty of features to make it worth the splurge.
Among the most notable features of this portable, electric dryer are an ultra-fast, 15-minute drying cycle, sterilization that kills bacteria and mites, and sensors to prevent over-drying of fabrics. There are eight cycles in total, including options for items that need special care, such as silk or shoes. A drying rack is included for drying items like tennis shoes or stuffed animals.
The Morus Zero doesn’t require any installation, which is unique when compared to most other portable dryers that need to be connected to an external or internal vent. Since it’s only about 16 inches wide and weighs less than 30 pounds, this 0.78-cubic-foot model easily fits on a counter, table, or shelf.
Fast drying times and portability are to be expected with this dryer. The small load capacity is the biggest drawback, but is normal when you consider the space-saving dimensions of this model. To give you an idea of real-world capacity, the stainless steel drum holds a single queen-sized sheet, one hooded sweatshirt, or a few T-shirts, plus socks and underwear. While you’ll spend more for the Morus Zero, it’s worth it if you have limited space, no option for an external exhaust, or routinely only need to dry a few items at a time.
Price at time of publish: $600
Capacity: 0.78 cubic feet | Vent Type: Ventless | Cycles: 8 | Drying Temperatures: 1 | Control Type: Digital | Stackable: Yes
Best Large-Capacity: Black + Decker BCED37 Compact Dryer
What We Like
High-wattage heater
Holds up to 13.2 pounds of laundry
Sensor dry and eco mode for energy savings
What We Don't Like
No caster wheels
If you think that picking a portable dryer means settling for super-small load capacities, check out the Black+Decker BCED37. It’s the largest-capacity portable dryer on our list, and boasts a bigger-than-usual drum with 3.5 cubic feet of space, so you can do larger loads while still enjoying efficient drying times. Even thick or heavy fabrics can be dried by this electric dryer, which has a 1,500-watt heater that is more powerful than the heating elements of other models on our list.
Features like sensor drying ensure that the dryer functions efficiently, without under-drying or over-drying your clothes. You can also dry laundry using the eco setting on this dryer for better energy efficiency. In total, there are four drying cycles and three temperature settings (cool, warm, and hot—plus a no-heat option).
This electric dryer measures 27.5 by 23.6 by 21.5 and weighs just under 50 pounds. It requires venting and doesn’t have caster wheels, which would help with repositioning the appliance as needed. But, we think that most people will probably install this portable dryer in a single location and it does have adjustable legs. It’s not as light or small as the ultra-tiny Morus Zero, our Best Splurge pick, that can be placed on just about any table or shelf. However, it also offers more than four times the capacity. In total, the Black+Decker BCED37 holds 13.2 pounds of laundry, which is more than our Best Overall and about the equivalent of a small suitcase's worth of clothes. It’s a great pick for couples or small families, since it allows you to dry more items at once, without the need to invest or install a full-sized dryer.
Price at time of publish: $420
Capacity: 3.5 cubic feet | Vent Type: Vented | Cycles: 4 | Drying Temperatures: 3 | Control Type: Manual | Stackable: No
The 11 Best Clothes Dryers of 2023
Best for Apartments: Whirlpool LDR3822PQ 3.4 cu. ft. 120-Volt White Compact Electric Vented Dryer
What We Like
Spacious drum
Sensor drying
Includes caster wheels for easier maneuvering
What We Don't Like
More expensive than most other models
Powder-coated drum may be less durable
“A portable dryer is ideal for renters who both don’t have the space for a full size dryer and who don’t want to invest in something where they know they won’t be staying long-term,” says Jon. Similar in appearance and function to a standard dryer, this portable version from Whirlpool has a compact footprint and easy installation requirements for condos or apartments. It measures 31 by 23.9 bu 20.75 and has adjustable feet, as well as caster wheels for effortless maneuvering when you need to reposition the 90-pound machine. Pick a spot where the external vent hose can reach a window, or set up this portable dryer with an indoor vent exhaust kit.
The Whirlpool Stackable Electric Dryer has a 3.4-cubic-foot drum, giving it more capacity than most of the other models on our list; the only exception being the Black+Decker BCED37, our Best Large-Capacity pick. However, that dryer doesn’t offer caster wheels, which is an important feature if you want to roll the dryer into a closet or out of the way when it’s not in use. Inside the drum, there is plenty of room for drying sheets, shirts, pants, and more. There are three dryer cycles to choose from, including an AutoDry cycle that uses sensors to monitor moisture levels and prevent over-drying. This Whirlpool model makes a great match for portable or small apartment-sized washing machines, and can save you a trip to a shared laundry room or laundromat.
The biggest drawback to keep in mind is the fact that the dryer drum is made of powder-coated steel, rather than stainless steel—which is the preferred choice since it eliminates concerns over chipping and corrosion. You’ll also find that this portable dryer for apartments costs more than most other models. With an MSRP of $849, it’s more similar in price to a standard dryer. But, if you need the flexibility offered by a portable model paired with a roomy drum, then this model is the one to pick.
Price at time of publish: $849
Capacity: 3.4 cubic feet | Vent Type: Vented | Cycles: 3 | Drying Temperatures: 2 | Control Type: Manual | Stackable: Yes
The 9 Best Portable Washing Machines of 2023
Best Compact: Panda 110V Electric Portable Compact Laundry Clothes Dryer
What We Like
Temperature and timing selection ensure proper fabric care
Flexible installation options
Four drying modes
What We Don't Like
Small load size
Takes longer to dry items
When space is at a premium, you may be looking for not just a portable dryer, but the most compact dryer there is. For a compact pick, we recommend this electric model from Panda. It saves space by measuring only 19.5 by 16 by 24 inches and weighs less than 40 pounds. While the drum capacity is less than some other models, you’ll still have 1.5 cubic feet for drying items. Plan to dry a few shirts and other small items, a couple pairs of pants, or a single queen-sized sheet in a load.
One of the perks of using this compact dryer is its flexible installation options. This dryer is stackable or it can be wall-mounted, in addition to sitting on a shelf or the floor in your laundry area. This vented dryer can be exhausted through a window, or you can purchase an indoor venting kit if you plan to use the dryer in a location with limited fresh air access.
The biggest trade-off to choosing the Panda Electric Portable Compact Dryer is its 850-wattage heater. The lower wattage translates into less heating power and may mean longer drying times, especially for heavy items, like sweatshirts. Even still, this small dryer’s performance and value is top-notch, especially considering its affordable price point.
Price at time of publish: $250
Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet | Vent Type: Vented | Cycles: 4 | Drying Temperatures: 4 | Control Type: Mechanical | Stackable: Yes
Best Spin Dryer: The Laundry Alternative Ninja Portable Spin Dryer
What We Like
No installation required
22-pound load capacity
Lightweight and easy to store
What We Don't Like
Doesn’t completely dry items
Learning curve to properly balance loads
A spin dryer is an energy-efficient alternative if you’re in the market for a portable dryer. Instead of using heat to remove moisture, the drum of the machine spins at a high rate of speed to expel moisture from your clothes, towels, and other laundry items. Items will still need to finish drying on a drying rack or clothesline, but you can expect much faster drying times. The Laundry Alternative Ninja Spin Dryer is our top recommendation if you’re in the market for a spin dryer to help shorten drying times for your hand-washed items or to pair with a portable washing machine.
The stainless steel drum of the Laundry Alternative Ninja Spin Dryer has an impressive 22-pound load capacity, although there is a learning curve to properly balance a load so the machine doesn’t vibrate or shake. The large capacity of the drum means there is enough room to fit multiple bed sheets or bulky items, like a down coat. The spin dryer reaches a top speed of 3,200 RPM, extracting water in an effective but gentle way using centrifugal force. The water drains from a spout on the side of the machine, so you’ll need to place a bucket there or use the spin dryer in a tub. It plugs into a standard 110V household outlet, so no special installation is required.
This model of spin dryer weighs just under 20 pounds and is more compact and portable when compared to electric dryers. Although it won’t completely dry your clothes, it’s a great option if you need an appliance that stores in a closet when not in use or doesn't rely on a heftier installation process.
Price at time of publish: $155
Capacity: 0.8 cubic feet | Vent Type: Not applicable | Cycles: 1 | Drying Temperatures: Not applicable | Control Type: Manual | Stackable: No
Final Verdict
The Euhomy 2.6 cu. ft. Compact Laundry Dryer combines features and value into a space-saving appliance, making it our top pick for a portable dryer. It has a stainless steel drum and offers four different drying modes for up to 9 pounds of laundry, which is the equivalent of what you would pack in carry-on bag. The digital controls and included wall-mounting kit set this model apart from most other portable dryers. If you don’t need as much space or have a smaller budget for a portable dryer, the Magic Chef Compact Electric Dryer costs less, but still gives you a shortcut for drying items like T-shirts, pants, and underwear. The drum has more limited capacity than our top pick, but it’s a good choice for small loads and beats making frequent trips to the laundromat.
What to Look for in a Portable Dryer
Capacity
The capacity of portable dryers is typically between 1.5 and 3.5 cubic feet. A more compact model takes up less space during use and storage, but also means you won’t be able to dry as much in a single load. One or two people may find that a small-capacity portable dryer works well and fits into their laundry routine. But, if you’re looking for a dryer that can handle laundry for a few people in an RV or apartment, or you want to dry larger or bulkier items like a set of queen-sized sheets, consider a larger model. With a 3.5-cubic-foot drum, the Black + Decker BCED37, our Best Large-Capacity pick, is one of the largest portable dryers you can buy. At the same time, it weighs less than 50 pounds and is still compact enough to fit in most apartments, RVs, or tiny homes.
Vent Type
Portable dryers typically offer flexibility regarding vent installation. You can exhaust the dryer to the outside using a vent hose, or purchase a compatible indoor vent kit, which eliminates the need for external venting, but captures lint and debris that may exit the dryer. If you plan to put your dryer in a location where it would be challenging to connect an exhaust hose to the window, look for a model with an available indoor vent kit for more installation flexibility. You can also look for a spin dryer that doesn't require venting at all, like our Best Spin Dryer pick, The Laundry Alternative Ninja Spin Dryer. The compact Morus Zero, our Best Splurge pick, also doesn't require venting. The unit uses high-speed air movement to dry small loads of laundry without the need for an exhaust hose.
Cycles
Most of the cycle selections on a portable dryer are related to time and heat settings. You’ll find that most options offer cycle lengths up to 200 minutes and have two or three heat settings. Some models, like the Euhomy 2.6 cu. ft. Compact Laundry Dryer, our Best Overall pick, also offer an eco mode that balances energy usage with drying performance. A feature like this is recommended if you want to keep energy bills low.
Standout Features
Sensor Drying
Instead of sticking with a specified cycle length, portable dryers equipped with sensor drying monitor moisture levels and end the cycle when your laundry is dry. The advantage of picking a model with this option—like the Black+Decker BCED37, our Best Large-Capacity pick—is the safeguard against over-drying your clothes, which can weaken fibers and cause shrinking.
Sensor drying isn’t just better for your clothes—it’s easier on your wallet, too. Instead of wasting energy on heat for clothes that are already dry, the machine will end the cycle automatically.
Stackable Design
You can maximize the space-saving advantage of a portable dryer by picking a stackable model. These dryers can be installed on top of a washing machine, freeing up floor space. “Just make sure to double-check that your chosen model is compatible with stacking and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe installation,” advises Sarah Clemence, cleaning and home organization expert at Busy Blooming Joy.
Keep in mind that most models will require a stacking kit or stand for proper installation. This is true of the Whirlpool Stackable Electric Dryer, our Best for Apartments pick. The stand from the manufacturer is designed to safely install the dryer above Whirlpool’s portable washing machine models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do portable dryers need a vent?
Most portable dryers do require a vent. The vent hose exhausts lint, heat, and moisture from the dryer drum. Typically, the vent hose is connected to a window, but you can also purchase an indoor vent kit for most portable dryers. An indoor vent kit usually consists of a canister that attaches to the end of the vent hose and collects lint.
How long do portable dryers last?
Portable dryers can last 10 years or more, according to Clemence. Just like a full-sized clothes dryer, proper care and maintenance is essential for maximizing the full lifespan of the appliance. To ensure that your machine lasts as long as possible, Clemence suggests that users of portable dryers “clean the lint filter regularly, avoid overloading the dryer, and keep up with any recommended maintenance from the manufacturer."
What are the benefits of a portable dryer?
Convenience is one of the biggest reasons to choose a portable dryer. Tory Jon, the founder of CamperFAQs and a small living expert, says, “All a portable dryer needs is an outlet, so it can truly be used anywhere. This makes it a great solution for studio apartments, tiny homes, and RVs.” Other benefits of a portable dryer include cost and energy savings. These smaller appliances are usually more affordable than a full-sized dryer and use less electricity.
How much does it cost to run a portable dryer?
The cost to operate a portable dryer will depend on your usage habits and the features of the dryer itself. Settings like eco dry or sensor-drying modes will lower energy costs by preventing the dryer from using unnecessary electricity once the load is dry. On the other hand, using the dryer for large items or thick fabrics, like towels or sweatshirts, will require more drying time and lead to higher operating costs.
A few models may have estimated energy usage provided by the manufacturer, but this is generally not the case for portable dryers. Clemence suggests that an energy-efficient portable dryer might cost around $0.30 to $0.50 per load to operate. “To calculate your specific cost, consult your electricity bill and the energy usage of your chosen model,” notes Clemence.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Erica Puisis is a writer and product researcher with years of experience testing and writing about small and large appliances, including washing machines and dryers. To find the best options for portable dryers, she thoroughly researched the latest models available and compared features that matter the most, like capacity, installation and venting requirements, and cycle options—including heat and sensor dry settings.
We also spoke with Tory Jon, the founder of CamperFAQs and a small living expert. During his time living in an RV and camper van, he has used multiple models of portable dryers and spoke about the benefits of these appliances for apartment-dwellers and RV-ers alike. For additional context on using a portable dryer at home, we interviewed home organization and cleaning expert, Sarah Clemence of Busy Blooming Joy. Sarah shared her advice on the most important factors to look for when picking out this type of appliance, including capacity, energy efficiency, and features.
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