The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Washing Machine for RV Use

I have been full time in an RV since 2009.  I bought my first all-in-one combination washer/dryer before I actually lived in an RV.  The Splendide washer-dryer combo comes with an adapter so you can hook it up to your kitchen sink if you live in an apartment or any place without a washer/dryer hook-up.  It’s a little challenging to roll around, but I had it in the kitchen of two different apartments before I moved into an RV full-time.  

When I began my hunt for my first stationary RV to live in full time it absolutely had to have. Washer and dryer hook up.  I don’t know why I hate using public washing machines, but I do, I really do.  Back in 2009 there really weren’t any options it was Splendide or nothing.  Now you can choose from a few different brands that make the all-in-one combo style of machine or other types of machines that are compact and portable and perfect for different RV lifestyles.

My first Splendide was not vented.  It wasn’t really great at drying clothes and that is the biggest complaint about these combo machines – the wrinkles!  Everything does come out wrinkly, it’s true, but a little “hand ironing” when they come out really goes a long way.  I wouldn’t change the convenience of doing laundry in my tiny house on wheels for anything, and if suffering a few wrinkles is the price I pay, it’s worth it!

The vented unit is much better for leaving your clothes less wrinkly than the non-vented unit.  It really helps if you take the clothes out when they are done washing, give them a shake, fold them up, and then put them back in on the dry cycle.  It’s a small inconvenience, but the big-picture convenience, for me, is worth it!

From Splendide to GE: A Guide to Choosing the Right Washer-Dryer Combo for Your RV

Camping World sells the Splendide, Equator, and GE.  Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the three. 

Splendid Combo Washer/Dryer Vented

The Splendide WDV2200XCD allows users to enjoy fresh, clean laundry anytime with the Splendide XC Combo Washer/Dryer – a washer and dryer in one. From heavy jeans to delicate silks and wools, the Splendide XC will leave your fabrics clean and dry while taking up less space in your RV. Select a wash cycle, a dry cycle, or choose to go from wash to dry instantly. To customize a program or check its status, the XC combines a classic cycle knob with a modern digital display. The extra-wide door opening makes loading laundry a breeze. Once added, detergent, bleach and softener are dispensed automatically. When drying, variable spin speeds and the dual-rotating drum work quietly to minimize fabric creasing while maximizing efficiency. Built tough, the XC Combo is the convenient way to get laundry done on the road.

New Features
• First-of-its-kind winterization cycle
• Swing-out dispenser drawer is easier to use
• Enhanced wash results
• Clean cycle keeps washer drum smelling fresh
• Digital display with more wash options
• Key lock option
• End-of-cycle chime with mute option
• EasyGrip door handle with extra-wide door opening
• Advanced spin technology for better drying and quieter operation

• Leaves your fabrics clean and dry while taking up less space in your RV
• Select a wash cycle, a dry cycle, or go from wash to dry instantly
• Utilizes a classic style knob with a modern digital display
• Extra-wide door opening makes loading a breeze
• Variable spin speeds and dual-rotating drum minimize fabric creasing when drying

Equator Combo Washer/Dryer Vented

Equator – The EZ 4400N is the latest evolution of Equator’s compact washer-dryer combos that features a fully digital, easy-to-use control panel and 1200 RPM. This combo washer and dryer includes upgraded features like the new “Quiet” function that keeps noise level below 60 db and dual venting fans for faster drying. 
It also features a redesigned, easy to operate control panel with a simple 2-Step operation. This new model features a one- button, convertible venting/condensing drying system. At just 33.5-inches high x 23.5-inches wide x 22-inches deep, this super combo has a large 13 lb. load capacity and conserves energy with time-saving features that have earned numerous design and industry awards. 
It boasts the features of full size washers and dryers, but merged into a single unit design!
Equator’s groundbreaking eco-friendly 4400 N Combo Washer Dryer has been featured and recognized as the “Best Compact Full-Sized Option” by the editors of Popular Mechanics in their publication of “The Best All-in-one Washer Dryers for 2022”. Equator remains committed to creating ingenious products that solve real problems in its customers’ lives. Awarded the The Popular Mechanic’s “Editor’s Choice” for 2022. The EZ 4400 N comes packed with features such as Winterize for RV Usage, Quiet Feature (Less than 60 db). It also features a redesigned easy to operate control panel with a simple 2-Step operation. At just 33.5-inches high x 23.5-inches wide x 22-inches deep, this Super Combo has a large 13 lb. load capacity and boasts energy- and time-saving features that have earned numerous design and industry awards. Along with a one- button, convertible venting/condensing drying system, it boasts the features of full size washers and dryers—merged into a single unit design.

AND IT COMES IN PURPLE!!

GE Washer / Condenser Dryer Combo

GE appliances provide up-to-date technology and exceptional quality to simplify the way you live. The GE Front Load Washer / Condenser Dryer Combo allows you to wash and dry your clothes in a single step, saving you space without sacrificing capacity.
2.4 cu. ft. Capacity – Wash large items and do laundry less often with 2.4 cu. ft. of capacity.
No Vent Required – This washer / dryer uses a standard 120-volt plug and can be installed conveniently in a closet or placed under a counter without the need to vent externally.
All-in-One Wash and Dry – Wash and dry your clothes in a single step with a combination washer and dryer that saves you space without sacrificing capacity.
Detergent, Bleach, and Fabric Softener Dispensers – Save time doing laundry with dispensers that automatically release at the optimal point during the wash cycle.
Auto Wash and Dry – Experience total convenience with a feature that automatically sets the correct dry cycle based on the chosen wash cycle or select the dry cycle manually.
Steam Wash – Penetrates deep into fabric fibers, loosening stains like tomato and grass, yet protecting your fabrics.
Sanitize Cycles – Allows for a deeper clean with elevated temperatures designed to kill common household bacteria.
Add-a-Garment – Add last-minute items to the washer thanks to a button that pauses the machine and unlocks the door.
5 Soil Level Selections – Take full control of your wash cycle with five soil levels to choose from.
5 Wash Temperature Levels – Pick the water temperature you prefer and wash your way
5 Spin Speed Choices – Speeds are matched to fabric type for great clothes care.

A condensing dryer works by using a heat exchanger to cool the hot, moist air produced during the drying process. This cooled air then condenses the moisture back into water, which is collected in a container or drained out of the machine. The dry, warm air is then expelled through a vent, while the collected water is typically disposed of through a drain. This process results in a more efficient use of energy, as the moisture that would otherwise be expelled into the room is condensed back into water and removed from the machine. I recommend opening a vent when you are using the drying cycle of a condensing dryer.

If I had it all to do over again, I would probably buy the purple Equator… because, well, purple! I might give the other brands a try, they seem to get really good reviews, they will fit in my very tight fit compartment in my Big Beast of an RV.  I don’t have any complaints about my Splendide combo machine.  I have purchased three of them, the 1st two were second-hand.

Double Barrel Portable Washing Machine For RVs

Another option for folks wanting washing machine for RV or campers at a much lower price point is the double barrel style portable machines seen below.  These machines weigh in at a third of the price and are meant to be portable, you could perhaps keep it in your RV shower/tub and only pull it out when you’re using them. If you use it in your tub you wouldn’t have to worry about drainage as you could let it simply drain out through your shower drain.  When shopping, be aware that most of these units don’t have a drain pump, it will not pump up an incline.  I can’t help but notice that all three of these ‘brands’ look exactly the same. They are likely all from the same company. They do list slightly different capabilities, but that could have been a translation error.

Costway Portable Washing Machine

COSTWAY Portable Washing Machine, Twin Tub 17.6Lbs Capacity, Washer(11Lbs) and Spinner(6.6Lbs), Durable Design, Timer Control, Compact Laundry Washer for RV, Apartments and Dorms, Blue – Please forgive the copy and pasted description below

• 💦【Twin Tub Design】Featuring a twin tub washing design, this compact washing machine combines spinning function and washing function as one which offers great convenience so that you can directly move the washed clothes to the spinning tub for saving your precious time. 
• 💦【Timer Control】Different from other common washing machines that set a specific time, this premium washing machine is more flexible which means you can choose the right time (15 minutes for washing, 5 minutes for spinning) according to your different requirements. 
• 💦【Large Capacity & Powerful Performance】Total capacity of this portable washing machine is 17.6 lbs so that you can wash the whole family’s clothes at the same time. Besides, the power of washing is 330W and the power of spinning is 110W which helps you to use it more effectively. 
• 💦【Easy Operation】Designed with the 3 knobs includes washing selector, washing timer and spin timer, this high quality washing machine is easy to use even if the elderly can use it conveniently. You only need to put in clothes and detergent, set the washing machine to wash. 
• 💦【Compact & Lightweight Structure】The compact and lightweight design of the portable washing machine is ideal for small places such as camping, apartments and dorms. In addition, there is a filter on the side of the cleaning bucket which is easy to filter during cleaning.

Dortala Portable Washing Machine

DORTALA Portable Washing Machine, 13lbs Twin Tub Washer, Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine, Semi-Automatic Laundry Washer Spinner, Compact Washer and Dryer Combo for Apartment, Camping, RV (Black&White) – Terrible description taken directly from Amazon

• 【Powerful Machine】: The machine runs off 110v power and will take up to 8lbs capacity for washing and 4.5lbs capacity for spinning. Save so much time that you don’t have to go to a laundry mat or wash things by hand in the tub. 
• 【Twin Tube Design】: Washing Tube :Place clothing in the wash tub section , Rated Washing Capacity: 8lbs. Spin Tube: Run the rinse cycle for the desired minutes, Rated Spinner Dryer Capacity: 4.5lbs (Half Of The Washing Capacity, You May Spin Twice). Then You could Take clothing out of the extractor and hang them up to complete drying. 
• 【Gravity Drain Machine】: Rated Washing Capacity: 8lbs,Rated Spinner Dryer Capacity: 4.5lbs. This is a gravity drain which also requires it to be elevated off the floor /surface & near a drain outlet to work properly. Easy assemble is required with all hardware packed in the package. 
• 【Widely Use】: This is Giantex compact twin tub washing machine, which is prefer for doing laundry in a compact environment. As for a portable washing machine, this washing machine will be ideal for dorms, apartments, condos, motor homes, rv’s, camping and more. 
• 【Easy To Use】: Have a cover plate when you use the spin tube, can easily put above the cloths and avoid the high speed throw away. Not only is it environmentally friendly but it is also energy saving. Separate timer control settings for wash and spin operations.

Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine

Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine 17.6lbs Washer Spain Spinner Portable Washing Machine, Blue+ White – below is the description found on Amazon, I apologize for not making it more reader friendly.

• 【Easy to Operate】: This is our portable mini compact twin tub washing machine which is easy for you to operate. Saving so much time that you don’t have to go to a laundrymat or wash things by hand in the tub. 
• 【17.6LBS Large Capacity】: Washing tube: place clothing in the wash tub section, rated washing capacity: 11 lbs. Run the rinse cycle for the desired minutes, Rated spinner dryer capacity: 6.6 lbs (half of the washing capacity, you may spin twice). 
• 【Semi-Automatic Relieve You from Hand Washing】: This washing machine washer timer for 15 min and the spin timer to 5 minutes per load, you could choice the suitable time when washing. Much more freedom and options as opposed to standard washing machines that have preprogrammed settings. 
• 【300W Wash Power &110W Spin Power】: Ideal for small loads and delicate. Light weight and easily moveable. Also the wash motor is powerful. 300w washing power & 110w spinner power will help you powerful use the item. 
• 【Compact Twin Tub Washing Design 】: Convenient For Home Use. Have a filter net on the side of the washing barrel, which can easily filter when washing, and you could easily pull it off when cleaning the tube. Have a cover plate when you use the spin tube, can easily put above the cloths and avoid the high speed throw away. Easy assemble is required with all hardware packed in the package.

Apartment Size Washing Machine

There are also apartment-sized washing machine for RV options and some claim to be able to air dry your washing.  The price range on these is about midway between the double barrel style and the combo all-in-one compact machines.  They get really good reviews as well and are lightweight.  They plug into a 110 outlet and can drain into the sink unlike most of the double barrel styles that don’t have a drain pump.  The drain pump allows the water to drain uphill while the double barrel type just use gravity to drain.  Check out the three most popular brands.  

Comfee Portable Washing Machine

COMFEE’ Portable Washing Machine, 1.0 Cu.Ft (IEC) Compact Washer With LED Display, Fully Automatic Wash Cycles, 2 Built-in Rollers, Space Saving, Ideal Laundry For RV, Dorm, Apartment, Ivory White. please note description copied from Amazon forgive the poor grammar.

• This fully automatic washing machine is equipped with 5 programs including Heavy, Soft, Normal, Rapid, and Soak and 3 water levels, you are allowed to quickly start the machine the way you like; You are also welcomed to customize your washing program by selecting load size, adding wash time, rinse time, and spin time 
• Only 17 inches in width, 18.5 inches in depth, and 30.9 inches in height; be stored easily in your cabinet, RV, dorm, or even bathtub; with wheels and handles for easy movement; a perfect choice for small households with limited space. 
• With the transparent lid design, this washing machine allows you to see and monitor the water and washing conditions; Featuring a durable rust-resistant steel inner tub, lint filter, water inlet and drain pump which allows you to easily drain out dirty water; In addition, this portable laundry washing machine has an LED display that shows the time left to finish; 
• This compact design washing machine has DOE (Department of Energy) certificate that clearly shows how much energy would be consumed on national average conditions; Saving as much as 87.5% energy consumption comparing to similar models; It comes with a powerful and durable motor, up to 700RPM spin speed but quiet when running 
• Equipped with Auto Unbalance Detection (AUD), it’s able to automatically fix the unbalance issue and prevent leaking; It will also alert the user if the problem can’t be fixed, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience

Panda Portable Washing Machine

Panda Portable Washing Machine, 10 Lbs Capacity, 3 Water Levels, 8 Programs, Compact Top Load Cloth Washer, 1.38 Cu.ft. please note description copied from Amazon forgive the poor grammar.

• It is a space-saving design which makes your laundry easy and simple It is perfect for Apartment RV Vacation Home Dorm and second washer for your house 
• It offers 8 different washing programs, 3 water level settings to make sure your clothes come out as clean as can be. Its sturdy and quiet design has a large capacity of 1.38cu.ft. The option of Delay Start and Child Lock is available. The stainless-steel drum which is durable and resists rust and chipping. 
• Lager size 1 38cu ft capacity allows you to hold up to 10lbs of cloth timeless design regular 3 prongs 110 Voltage which can be plugged anywhere 
• This machine comes with 2 inlet hoses for both COLD and Hot Water Supply to permanently hook up like the regular washing machine does. And, it also comes with a Standard Size Faucet adapter which allows customers to directly hook up to the Standard Size kitchen faucet.

Giantex Portable Washing Machine

Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine Portable Compact 1.34 Cu.ft Laundry Washer Spin with Drain Pump, 10 programs 8 Water Level Selections with LED Display 9.92 Lbs Capacity. please note description copied from Amazon forgive the poor grammar.

• 〖Easy to Operate〗- On the control panel are there ten programs, 8 water level selections and LED display. All functions and operation including water level/spin, program/delay, time set and child lock are listed clearly. Detergent and procedure choice are also included to meet your various needs. 
• 〖Compact Design & Large Load Capacity〗- Giantex washing machine is compact and lightweight for you to easily move it in your home. But the honeycomb shaped inner tub can load 9.92 lbs at one time and wash many clothes for you. In manual, we also listed reference weight of various clothes. 
• 〖Time and Water Level Control〗- Under delay function, previous to washing, the digital timer shows your preset time but when it is washing, the digital timer shows the rest washing time. Pressing water level/spin button, you can select appropriate level. If you need to add water during washing, you can press water level/spin button and un-press will stop adding. 
• 〖Easy and Safe to Operate & Monitor〗- With detailed and specific manual, it is easy and convenient for you to operate it and inlet and drain water. Clear and transparent lid allows you to see and monitor the water and washing condition. Once child lock function is set, all buttons are locked and the machine stops run and error alarms if the top lid is opened. 
• 〖Multifunctional Control Panel〗- Automatic Imbalance Adjustment and Adjustable Foot. While spinning, if the laundries inside the tub are not put equally, it would cause violent vibration. At this time, our washing machine’s imbalance adjustment function will start automatically to adjust the imbalance situation if vibration is beyond certain level. Bottom feet can be adjusted to meet your needs.

Choosing a washing machine for RV use is harder than ever because there are finally so many different options. I know some folks enjoy their trips to the laundromat and that’s also amazing. I personally prefer having my own and I’m glad to have the space in my Aclass to do that. My campervan is another matter and I’m lucky to be spending most weekends at my folks house right now using their washing machine. Thanks MOM!

Now that you have decided on a washing machine for your RV, have you thought about upgrading your dishwashing method? Or my favourite Heated Floor Update.