10 Compact and Portable Dryers for All Budgets

Having dry clothes is a necessity—but sometimes you don’t have space or the means to get a full-size dryer. Fortunately, damp laundry is a thing of the past with these compact and portable clothes dryers. Read on for what you need to know plus recommendations for the best portable dryers.

Best Portable Dryers  Source: pickadvisor.org

Best Portable Dryers Buying Guide

  • What to consider: Depending on where you plan to use the dryer, voltage and power options may matter. Plus, one size doesn’t fit all, especially in apartments and other compact spaces.
  • Types of portable dryers: Portable dryers are typically electric. Voltage can be a concern and is commonly 120V (or 110) or 220 (or 240V). You’ll also find plug-in clothes dryers such as hanging models and closet-type structures.
  • How to choose a dryer: Note whether you need 120 or 220V, plus how much space you have to dedicate to laundry. Decide whether you want a wall-mount, ground, or collapsible type.
  • Important features: Different program options are helpful in a dryer to address various clothing materials and types. End-of-cycle alerts are ideal, too.
  • Standard portable dryer options: Portable dryers tend to be easy to assemble and disassemble. They often have lint filters and multiple cycle length selections. Some dryers require venting, and may need a kit to vent properly.

Buying Recommendations

Panda Portable Ventless Cloths Dryer Folding Drying Machine with Heater
hOmeLabs 2.6 Cubic Feet Compact Laundry Dryer - Front Load Portable Clothes Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Integrated Viewing Window and Control Panel Downside - 1400W Drying Power for Apartments
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Washer and Spin Dryer 7.7 lbs Capacity Compact Laundry Washer with Built-in Barrel Light Drain Pump and Long Hose for Apartments Camping (White & Blue)
Dimensions
9.5 x 11.2 x 21 inches
23.28 x 17.91 x 27.16 inches
16.5 x 16 x 29.5 inches
Max Capacity
22 pounds
2.6 cubic feet
10 pounds
Power Source
110-120V
120V
120V
Average Cycle Duration
30 minutes
30 minutes
40 minutes including wash
Best Budget
Panda Portable Ventless Cloths Dryer Folding Drying Machine with Heater
Dimensions
9.5 x 11.2 x 21 inches
Max Capacity
22 pounds
Power Source
110-120V
Average Cycle Duration
30 minutes
Best Premium
hOmeLabs 2.6 Cubic Feet Compact Laundry Dryer - Front Load Portable Clothes Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Integrated Viewing Window and Control Panel Downside - 1400W Drying Power for Apartments
Dimensions
23.28 x 17.91 x 27.16 inches
Max Capacity
2.6 cubic feet
Power Source
120V
Average Cycle Duration
30 minutes
for Apartments
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Washer and Spin Dryer 7.7 lbs Capacity Compact Laundry Washer with Built-in Barrel Light Drain Pump and Long Hose for Apartments Camping (White & Blue)
Dimensions
16.5 x 16 x 29.5 inches
Max Capacity
10 pounds
Power Source
120V
Average Cycle Duration
40 minutes including wash

Best Budget Portable Dryers

If you’re on a budget but need a functional dryer, consider one of these budget buys.

1. Panda Portable Ventless Clothes Dryer – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 11.2 x 21 inches
Max Capacity: 22 pounds
Power Source: 110-120V
Average Cycle Duration: 30 minutes
Panda Portable Ventless Cloths Dryer Folding Drying Machine with Heater
Panda Portable Ventless Cloths Dryer Folding Drying Machine with Heater
Panda’s portable ventless dryer stands on an easy to assemble tripod, and it plugs into any 120V outlet. Load clothes—up to 22 pounds’ worth—loosely for best drying results, and then break it down when you’re done.

What we like about it
  • Timer settings up to 180 minutes
  • Easy to set up and break down for storage/transport
  • No vent necessary for operation
Drawbacks
  • Can get quite warm while drying clothes
Panda Portable Ventless Cloths Dryer Folding Drying Machine with Heater
  • Panda is Top Brand in Washing Machine /Dryer Category
  • Provides various choices for your need with excellent quality and customer service
  • Easy to assemble and disassemble. No Vent or special outlet needed

2. Manatee Clothes Dryer Portable Rack

A handy drying rack when drum dryers aren’t an option

Specs
Product Dimensions: 59 x 30 x 20 inches
Max Capacity: 33 pounds
Power Source: 110V
Average Cycle Duration: 240 minutes
No products found.
No products found.
For lighter fabrics and clothing items, Manatee’s hanging rack offers a wrinkle-free way to dry. It operates via a wireless remote and offers times of up to 240 minutes to dry with low heat.

What we like about it
  • Remote control for temperature and cycle adjustment
  • Folds down for transport
  • Includes a negative ion function for sanitizing clothing
Drawbacks
  • Takes up a lot of vertical space when assembled

No products found.

Best Premium Portable Dryers

If you have a bit more to invest, one of these premium portable dryers may fit the bill.

1. hOmeLabs Compact Laundry Dryer – Editor’s Pick

A handy drying rack when drum dryers aren’t an option

Specs
Product Dimensions: 23.28 x 17.91 x 27.16 inches
Max Capacity: 2.6 cubic feet
Power Source: 120V
Average Cycle Duration: 30 minutes
hOmeLabs 2.6 Cubic Feet Compact Laundry Dryer - Front Load Portable Clothes Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Integrated Viewing Window and Control Panel Downside - 1400W Drying Power for Apartments
hOmeLabs 2.6 Cubic Feet Compact Laundry Dryer - Front Load Portable Clothes Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Integrated Viewing Window and Control Panel Downside - 1400W Drying Power for Apartments
If you want a premium drying experience no matter where you go, the hOmeLabs compact dryer is a great option. It has a built-in handle for transporting, and a range of cycles dry, fluff, and tumble your clothes.

What we like about it
  • Lint filter for optimal drying power
  • Built-in handle for easy maneuverability
  • Range of settings for up to 180 minutes of drying time
Drawbacks
  • Need to use an exhaust vent for ideal results
hOmeLabs 2.6 Cubic Feet Compact Laundry Dryer - Front Load Portable Clothes Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Integrated Viewing Window and Control Panel Downside - 1400W Drying Power for Apartments
  • ELECTRIC FRONT LOAD CLOTHES DRYER - This front-loading electric clothes dryer is up for tackling almost anything your family can throw at it, and features a spacious 2.6 cubic feet capacity and dries up to 9lbs of clothing. An integrated viewing window and a high quality stainless steel tub resists nicks and scratches and boasts the smoothest finish
  • LAUNDRY DAY YOUR WAY - Customize the settings for each load with 3 easy to navigate and highly responsive mechanical controls downside for versatile clothing care options. Settings includes Cool Down which cools the items for 0-20 mins, Heat Dry which dries items and continuous heating up to 180 mins under timer mode and Air Dry which runs with cool air for 0-80 mins
  • ENERGY EFFICIENT & QUIET TUMBLING - Equipped with a technologically advanced lint filter that is easy to clean to work efficiently and automatic shutoff to save energy. It also formulated for quiet drying, allowing it to run while you’re sleeping or going about your daily routine without interruption

2. Barton Digital Electric Compact Dryer

Conventional drying in an accessible package

Specs
Product Dimensions: 19.75 x 15.5 x 23.25 inches
Max Capacity: 2.8kg of clothing (about 6 pounds)
Power Source: 120V
Average Cycle Duration: 30 minutes
Barton Tumble Dryer Silver w/Digital Timer Automatic Portable Electric RV Apartment Clothes Laundry Compact
Barton Tumble Dryer Silver w/Digital Timer Automatic Portable Electric RV Apartment Clothes Laundry Compact
A digital interface makes Barton’s dryer intuitive to operate, and its slight size means it can fit almost anywhere. It doesn’t hold as much as other options, but the tradeoff is a slighter profile and portability.

What we like about it
  • Easy to clean lint filter for optimal drying
  • Front-loading with a convenient viewing window
  • Handle and rubber feet for portability
Drawbacks
  • Lower capacity than comparable options
Barton Tumble Dryer Silver w/Digital Timer Automatic Portable Electric RV Apartment Clothes Laundry Compact
  • Compact & Portable Machine -The weight of this clothes dryer is only 44lbs, and the small size makes it portable. It's compact feature is perfect for small space like apartments, dormitories, and more; Multi-Function Laundry Machine - According to the material and weight of the cloth, you can set the time length or different mode for drying and timer
  • Powerful Performance - With 850W power and 2.8KG large capacity this clothes dryer can ensure your clothes to be dry sooner. Even though it lasts rainy, you can still put on your beautiful dresses every day
  • Electric Front Load Clothes Dryer - This front-loading electric clothes dryer is up for tackling almost anything your family can throw at it, & features a spacious cubic feet capacity and dries up to 2.8kg of clothing. An integrated viewing window and a high quality stainless steel tub resists nicks and scratches and boasts the smoothest finish

Best Portable Dryers for Apartments without Hookups

For long-term use in an apartment or home without laundry hookups, these picks are functional and reliable.

1. Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine and Spin Dryer – Editor’s Pick

Ideal for apartments that need washing and drying capabilities

Specs
Product Dimensions: 16.5 x 16 x 29.5 inches
Max Capacity: 10 pounds
Power Source: 120V
Average Cycle Duration: 40 minutes including wash
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Washer and Spin Dryer 7.7 lbs Capacity Compact Laundry Washer with Built-in Barrel Light Drain Pump and Long Hose for Apartments Camping (White & Blue)
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Washer and Spin Dryer 7.7 lbs Capacity Compact Laundry Washer with Built-in Barrel Light Drain Pump and Long Hose for Apartments Camping (White & Blue)
For apartments or houses without full laundry hookups, Giantex’s washer-dryer combination offers a life saving laundry function. Plug in, attach the water hoses, and choose a way to drain (via sink or tub drain), and you can wash and dry laundry in one cycle.

What we like about it
  • Six program selections and indicator lights
  • Stainless steel tub with rubber feet for stability
  • Washes and dries
Drawbacks
  • Not available for shipping to California
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Washer and Spin Dryer 7.7 lbs Capacity Compact Laundry Washer with Built-in Barrel Light Drain Pump and Long Hose for Apartments Camping (White & Blue)
  • 【Easy to Operate】: Designed with a fully automatic programmed, this washing machine provides the best cleaning and rinsing performance. 6 programs, 3 water level selections and indicator light on the control panel. You can select the appropriate programs and water level according to different cloth to meet your needs. Simply set the washing machine program, and then just leave it alone to work and do your own things during the laundry.
  • 【Barrel Light Function】: This fully automatic washing machine equipped with a barrel light on the stainless inner tub which is good for protecting human eyes and skin. The barrel light will be automatically on for 5 mins when upper cover is opened in the initial state or during operation. You can easily operate it even light in your room is turned off.
  • 【Compact Design & Large Capacity】: This washing machine is compact and lightweight for you to move it easily. But the stainless steel honeycomb shaped inner tub can load 7.7 lbs at one time and wash many clothes for you. With a space-saving design, it is perfect for your home, apartment or even taking it for outdoor activities like camping.

2. Panda PAN40SF Portable Dryer

Convenient in-apartment drying with simple setup

Specs
Product Dimensions: 23.6 x 17.1 x 27.6 inches
Max Capacity: 8.8 pounds
Power Source: 110V
Average Cycle Duration: 60 minutes
Panda Compact Portable Laundry Dryer, 2.6 cu.ft, 8.8lbs Capacity, White, PAN40SF
Panda Compact Portable Laundry Dryer, 2.6 cu.ft, 8.8lbs Capacity, White, PAN40SF
Panda’s portable dryer gets the job done—albeit in a bit longer time than a full-size dryer. It comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and a kit to mount it in your apartment.

What we like about it
  • Includes wall mounting kit for permanent installation
  • One-year manufacturer warranty
  • Removable lint filter
Drawbacks
  • Longer drying time than comparable options
Panda Compact Portable Laundry Dryer, 2.6 cu.ft, 8.8lbs Capacity, White, PAN40SF
  • Capacity 8.8lbs, /2.6cu.ft. 120V outlet, plug anywhere you like
  • Lightweight for easy portability to carry around
  • Since it's 110V, it may take longer to dry than a regular dryer which is 220v.

3. Sentern Compact Laundry Dryer

Full-size style in a smaller package

Specs
Product Dimensions: 24 x 18 x 27 inches
Max Capacity: 9 pounds
Power Source: 120V
Average Cycle Duration: 60 minutes
Compact Portable Laundry Dryer - Portable Front Load Clothes Dryer with 5 Drying Modes, Stainless Steel Tub for Apartment
Compact Portable Laundry Dryer - Portable Front Load Clothes Dryer with 5 Drying Modes, Stainless Steel Tub for Apartment
Though not quite as small as other models, Sentern’s compact dryer still fits great in apartments where there’s not much space. A range of heat settings—from Hot to Anti-Wrinkle—let you customize each drying cycle, and the included kit allows you to install the dryer on the wall.

What we like about it
  • Includes wall mounting kit for installation
  • Includes removable lint trap for enhanced performance
  • Adjustable temperature and timer cycles
Drawbacks
  • A little larger than comparable models
Compact Portable Laundry Dryer - Portable Front Load Clothes Dryer with 5 Drying Modes, Stainless Steel Tub for Apartment
  • Efficient tumble dryers for every need: Do you want to dry your laundry quickly and efficiently without compromising on quality? Our tumble dryers are the perfect choice, with a rated capacity of 1.95 cuft. 830W rated power ensures excellent results every time.
  • Versatile drying programs and multi-level performance system: our tumble dryers are equipped with five different drying programs to suit your needs. Whether you want to gently dry delicate fabrics or quickly dry your laundry for next time, our machines have the right settings for you. A multi-level performance system ensures optimal energy efficiency and drying accuracy.
  • Easy to operate: Our tumble dryers are very easy to use. Clear instructions on the knobs allow you to select the right program for your needs. You are in full control of the drying process and can follow the progress of the drying on the clear display.

Best Compact Portable Dryers

Low on space? Try a compact portable dryer that still performs.

1. Costway Electric Compact Laundry Dryer – Editor’s Pick

Standard drying style in a compact size

Specs
Product Dimensions: 16 x 23.5 x 27 inches
Max Capacity: 9 pounds (2.65 cubic feet)
Power Source: 110V
Average Cycle Duration: 30 minutes
No products found.
No products found.
Four modes let you adjust the temperature and timing for every load, with cycle options from 20 to 200 minutes. Just plug in the Costway dryer, and you’ll have dry clothes in no time. You can even install the unit on a wall with a bracket (purchase separately).

What we like about it
  • Cleanable filter to reduce debris in the dryer
  • Standard dryer setup and styling
  • Up to 200-minute cycle length to dry all types of clothing
Drawbacks
  • Requires venting for proper operation
  • Not available for sale in California

No products found.

2. Panda 3200 RPM Portable Spin Dryer

Compact-sized floor-level dryer that goes where you do

Specs
Product Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.5 x 25.5 inches
Max Capacity: 22 pounds
Power Source: 110-120V
Average Cycle Duration: No timing/up to consumer
Panda 3200 rpm Portable Spin Dryer 110V/22lbs Stainless Steel
Panda 3200 rpm Portable Spin Dryer 110V/22lbs Stainless Steel
While Panda doesn’t claim to completely dry clothing with their spin dryer, it can achieve much better drying than hanging clothing up. It plugs in and spins your clothing while the excess water runs out the spout (place a bucket beneath it).

What we like about it
  • Uses spinning instead of heat to dry, so it doesn’t get hot
  • You can see when clothing is dry (based on water output)
  • Straightforward to operate (stop and start option)
  • Locking lid for safety
Drawbacks
  • Won’t get clothes completely dry
Panda 3200 rpm Portable Spin Dryer 110V/22lbs Stainless Steel
  • Stainless steel drum to ensure long life.110V outlet, plug anywhere you like. Household use only. Large capacity, easy mobility and portable to carry around
  • Perfect for Apartments, Dorms, RV, Boat, Travel. Space Saver. Match with various choice of Panda Portable Washing Machine as a set
  • Gets washing almost dry (not 100% dry, slightly damp) and saves line time. Dramatically speeds up drying for hand washing. Bring efficiency, safety and economy to your washing

3. Panda 1.5 Cubic Foot Compact Dryer

A slight size makes the Panda super movable

Specs
Product Dimensions: 19.5 x 16 x 23.8 inches
Max Capacity: 6.6 pounds
Power Source: 110V
Average Cycle Duration: 120 minutes
Panda 110V 850W Electric Compact Portable Clothes Laundry Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Apartment Size 1.5 cu.ft
Panda 110V 850W Electric Compact Portable Clothes Laundry Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Apartment Size 1.5 cu.ft
Panda’s 1.5 cubic foot dryer has a small footprint but plenty of power. It can adequately dry clothing—and warm the room a little, too—in around 60 minutes when filled loosely.

What we like about it
  • Quiet operation for bedrooms and other spaces
  • Simple dial to set timer/temperature
  • Wall mounting kit included
Drawbacks
  • Works best with proper venting
  • Can get a little warm while running
Sale
Panda 110V 850W Electric Compact Portable Clothes Laundry Dryer with Stainless Steel Tub Apartment Size 1.5 cu.ft
  • It's perfect to use as the primary dryer in an apartment, condominium and other small living spaces.
  • Using as secondary one in house laundry room, convenient near the bedroom or a home gym, where frequent clothes washing is inevitable.
  • Perfect for drying baby's clothes, small loads like your underwear, Pajama, yoga suit, T-shirts, towel, handkerchief, socks, etc. For quickly drying clothes, we recommend not putting more than 5.5 pounds of clothes at one time.

Final Thoughts

Drying clothes without an electric dryer is time-consuming and can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are portable clothes dryer solutions to suit every budget and lifestyle. Whether you enjoy RV living, have a small apartment without hookups, or need a supremely transportable option for hotel travel, there’s a clothes dryer that will have you smartly dressed in no time.

Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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