Tiny House Washing Machines: Space-Saving Laundry Solutions

Living in a tiny house requires creative solutions for everyday tasks, and doing laundry is no exception. With limited square footage, traditional washing machines simply don’t fit the bill. Fortunately, the market offers several compact, efficient options designed specifically for small spaces. This article explores the best washing machine solutions for tiny house dwellers, helping you maintain clean clothes without sacrificing precious space.

1. Wonderwash Manual Washing Machine

The Wonderwash by The Laundry Alternative stands out as one of the most popular options among tiny house enthusiasts. This compact, hand-cranked washing machine requires no electricity, making it perfect for off-grid living situations.

Key features include:
– Capacity: Approximately 5 pounds of laundry per load
– Dimensions: Small enough to store in a cabinet
– Power source: Manual hand crank
– Price point: Around $50, making it one of the most affordable options

Many tiny house owners rate this product very highly for its simplicity and effectiveness. The hand-cranking motion takes just 1-2 minutes to clean a small load, and the machine uses significantly less water than conventional washers. While it won’t handle heavy comforters, it’s perfect for day-to-day clothing items.

The lack of electrical requirements makes the Wonderwash particularly attractive for those with limited power capabilities or who want to minimize their environmental footprint.

2. All-In-One Washer/Dryer Combos

For those with electricity and plumbing hookups, washer/dryer combo units offer the ultimate space-saving solution. The Edgestar CWD1510W receives particularly positive reviews from tiny house dwellers.

Key features include:
– Ventless drying technology (no need for external venting)
– Compact dimensions designed for small spaces
– Both washing and drying functions in a single unit
– Front-loading design

One tiny house owner described their Edgestar combo as “a luxury in our home,” highlighting how this single appliance eliminates the need for separate machines or trips to the laundromat. The ventless technology is particularly valuable in tiny houses where installing exterior venting can be challenging.

While these units tend to be more expensive (typically $700-1,200), they provide the convenience of a traditional home laundry setup in a fraction of the space. The main drawback is longer cycle times, particularly for drying, compared to full-sized machines.

3. Splendide Stackable Washing Machine

The Splendide WFL1300XD is specifically designed for small spaces like tiny homes and RVs. This stackable washing machine offers more capacity than portable options while still maintaining a relatively small footprint.

Key features include:
– Compact design optimized for small spaces
– Stackable capability (can be paired with a matching dryer)
– Multiple wash cycles similar to traditional machines
– Built with durability in mind for consistent usage

Tiny house owners appreciate the Splendide for its reliability and functionality that closely mimics a traditional washing machine. The ability to stack with a dryer makes it versatile for different tiny house layouts.

While it requires proper plumbing hookups and electrical connections, it provides a more permanent laundry solution for those who have the space and utilities to accommodate it.

4. Portable Electric Mini Washers

Several manufacturers offer compact electric washing machines that provide a middle ground between manual options and full-sized appliances. Brands like Panda, Giantex, and Black+Decker offer mini washers that can handle larger loads than the Wonderwash while still fitting in tight spaces.

Key features include:
– Capacity: Typically 10-12 pounds of laundry
– Simple hookup to standard faucets (no permanent plumbing needed)
– Compact size that can fit in bathrooms or closets
– Affordable price point ($100-300)

These units typically connect to a standard sink faucet and drain into the sink, making them ideal for tiny houses with running water but without dedicated laundry hookups. Many models include spin cycles that remove most moisture, reducing drying time.

Comparison Table of Tiny House Washing Machine Options

5. Alternative Laundry Solutions for Tiny Houses

Beyond dedicated washing machines, some tiny house dwellers opt for creative alternatives:

Laundromat Visits

Many tiny house owners simply plan regular trips to local laundromats. This eliminates the need for any laundry equipment in the home but requires transportation and scheduling considerations.

Sharing Facilities

Those parked in communities or on family property often arrange to share laundry facilities in the main house, combining independence with practical solutions.

Laundry Washboards and Buckets

The most minimalist approach involves hand-washing clothes in a bucket or sink using a traditional washboard. While labor-intensive, this method requires minimal space and resources.

Considerations When Choosing a Tiny House Washing Machine

When selecting the right laundry solution for your tiny house, consider these factors:

Power Availability

Off-grid homes may be limited to manual options or those that can run on solar power systems. Grid-connected homes have more flexibility.

Water Usage

Water conservation is often important in tiny houses, particularly those with limited water storage. Manual and portable options typically use less water than traditional machines.

Space Constraints

Measure your available space carefully before purchasing. Consider whether the unit needs permanent installation or can be stored away when not in use.

Frequency of Laundry Needs

Daily laundry requirements might justify a more robust solution, while occasional washing might make manual options or laundromat visits more practical.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Tiny House Laundry Solution

Doing laundry in a tiny house doesn’t have to be a challenge with the variety of compact washing machines available today. From the simple, manual Wonderwash at around $50 to the more luxurious all-in-one washer/dryer combos, there’s an option to fit every budget, space constraint, and lifestyle preference.

The best choice depends on your specific situation—whether you’re fully off-grid, have limited utilities, or enjoy full hookups. Many tiny house dwellers find that a combination approach works best: perhaps using a Wonderwash for quick, small loads and planning occasional laundromat trips for larger items like bedding.

Whatever solution you choose, the key is finding a balance between convenience, space efficiency, and resource usage that aligns with your tiny house lifestyle.