For years, the unending pile of dirty dishes in my sink was a constant source of dread. Living in a smaller flat with limited kitchen space meant a full-sized dishwasher was out of the question, leaving me with the soul-crushing task of hand-washing everything. It wasn’t just the physical effort; the sheer mental burden of constantly having to tackle a greasy mountain of plates and cutlery truly impacted my evenings and general well-being. Solving this daily chore was essential, as leaving it undone often led to a cluttered kitchen, lingering odours, and an overall sense of disarray that no one wants after a long day. This is where a compact solution would have been invaluable.
A compact or tabletop dishwasher is an absolute lifesaver for anyone struggling with limited kitchen space but yearning for the convenience of automated dishwashing. If you reside in a small flat, a studio apartment, or even a shared living space where a full-sized appliance isn’t feasible, this category of product is designed specifically for you. It appeals to individuals or couples who find hand-washing a tedious, time-consuming chore and want to reclaim their evenings. Those who entertain occasionally but don’t want the post-party clean-up burden will also find immense value.
However, a mini countertop dishwasher might not be the ideal choice for large families with high volumes of daily dishes, or for households that regularly use oversized pots, pans, and serving platters. While cleverly designed, their capacity is inherently limited compared to a standard dishwasher. If you have ample kitchen space and a large household, investing in a full-sized integrated or freestanding model would be a more practical and efficient solution, offering greater capacity and potentially more advanced features for heavy-duty cleaning. Before purchasing, consider your actual daily dish load, available counter space, water supply options (manual fill versus tap connection), and the types of items you typically wash. Noise levels, energy efficiency, and drying capabilities are also crucial aspects to evaluate to ensure the appliance aligns with your lifestyle.
Unveiling the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher
The Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher is a compact, sleek appliance designed to bring the convenience of automated dishwashing to even the smallest of kitchens. It promises sparkling clean dishes without the hassle of plumbing, thanks to its versatile water supply options. Upon purchase, you receive the main unit, a funnel for manual water filling, a user manual, a drain hose, an inlet hose for tap connection, and a cutlery basket. While it doesn’t directly compete with integrated, full-sized models, the Hermitlux countertop dishwasher stands out in its compact category for its dual water input and comprehensive wash programmes, often surpassing simpler, more budget-focused alternatives by offering a genuine, robust cleaning experience usually associated with larger machines. This specific portable dishwasher is ideal for single individuals, couples, or those living in small apartments, caravans, or even offices where space is at a premium and a traditional dishwasher isn’t an option. It’s not suited for large families or anyone needing to wash very large baking trays or oversized pots regularly.
Pros:
* Space-Saving Design: Perfectly sized for countertops in small kitchens.
* Dual Water Supply: Offers flexibility with built-in tank or tap connection.
* Multiple Wash Programmes: Comprehensive cleaning options for various dish types.
* Effective Drying Function: Ensures dishes are ready to put away.
* Quiet Operation: Keeps noise levels manageable in compact living spaces.
Cons:
* Limited Capacity: Not suitable for large families or oversized cookware.
* Manual Fill Tedious: Filling the tank can be a bit of a chore for some.
* Silverware Basket Design: Can be awkward for certain cutlery items.
* Height Restriction: May not fit under all kitchen cabinets.
Key Attributes and Practical Advantages
Having used the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher for an extended period, I can genuinely attest to its transformative impact on my daily routine. It’s no exaggeration to say it’s been a game-changer, tackling the chore I dreaded most with remarkable efficiency. This compact powerhouse truly excels in its specific niche, offering a blend of convenience and performance that belies its small footprint.
Compact Design and Generous Capacity
The first thing that strikes you about the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher is its remarkably compact footprint, measuring 42.5D x 42.8W x 46.3H centimetres. For someone like me, with limited counter space, this was a critical factor. It fits neatly next to my sink without dominating the kitchen. Despite its small size, it boasts a surprising 5-place setting capacity, capable of holding over 30 pieces of tableware, including dishes up to 25cm in diameter. This means it comfortably handles a day’s worth of dishes for one or two people, or even more if you master the art of ‘dish Jenga’. I’ve found that with a bit of strategic loading, I can fit a surprising amount – sometimes even a small saucepan or my Instant Pot bowl. This capacity, combined with its compact form factor, makes it an ideal solution for small flats, studio apartments, or even as an auxiliary dishwasher for specific items in a larger home. The design isn’t just about size; the clear glass window and LED interior light add a touch of modern aesthetics, allowing you to watch the cleaning process, which, surprisingly, can be quite entertaining for kids (and adults!). It ensures that the dishwasher blends into modern kitchen decor rather than sticking out like an eyesore.
Dual Water Supply Modes: Ultimate Flexibility
One of the standout features that truly sets the Hermitlux mini dishwasher apart is its dual water supply capability. You have two convenient options:
1. Water Tank Mode: This mode utilises a built-in 5-litre water tank. You simply pour water into the top opening using the provided funnel until the machine beeps, indicating it’s full. This is perfect for those who cannot or do not wish to plumb the unit in, or for situations like caravans or temporary living where a permanent connection isn’t feasible. I primarily use this mode, and while it requires about three pitchers of water to fill, it grants incredible freedom to place the dishwasher wherever is most convenient, as long as the drain hose can reach a sink or bucket. This manual filling also appeals to users who prefer to use filtered water for their dishes.
2. Tap Mode: For a more permanent setup, you can connect the machine directly to your kitchen tap using the inlet hose. This eliminates the need for manual filling, offering true ‘set-and-forget’ convenience. The flexibility to choose between these two modes caters to a wide range of living situations and preferences, making the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher incredibly versatile.
7+3 Washing Modes for Every Need
The Hermitlux compact dishwasher doesn’t skimp on washing programmes, offering a comprehensive suite of options to tackle various levels of dirt and dish types. It features 7 core washing programmes:
* Standard: For everyday soiled dishes.
* Quick: A shorter cycle for lightly soiled items or when you’re in a hurry.
* Power: For heavily soiled pots and pans.
* Eco: An energy-efficient cycle, great for saving on electricity.
* Fruit: A unique programme for cleaning fruits and vegetables, highlighting its versatility.
* Self-cleaning: To maintain the machine itself.
* Glass: Gentle cleaning for delicate glassware.
In addition to these, there are 3 extra functions:
* Time: Allows for setting specific wash durations.
* Delay & Child Lock: A crucial safety feature and a convenience for off-peak washing.
* Drying: The dedicated drying mode.
I’ve experimented with most cycles, and even the ‘Quick’ wash delivers impressive results for most daily loads. The ‘Eco’ mode is my go-to for energy saving, and it still cleans remarkably well. The range of options ensures that whether you have delicate wine glasses or stubbornly dirty plates, the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher has a setting to get them spotless.
Efficient Drying Function
One of the most appreciated features is the effective drying function. The Hermitlux portable dishwasher provides 60 minutes of hot air drying, followed by 72 hours of automatic ventilation. This combination ensures that dishes come out not just clean, but also dry and odourless, ready to be put straight back into the cupboard. I always run it with the heat dry setting on, and I’m consistently impressed by how hot and dry the dishes are at the end of the cycle. This feature can be set independently or as part of most washing programmes (excluding fruit wash), adding another layer of convenience and hygiene. Leaving the door slightly ajar when not in use also helps with ventilation and prevents any musty smells.
360° Coverage Cleaning
The cleaning power of this small dishwasher is surprisingly robust, largely thanks to its 360° coverage cleaning system. Equipped with two spray arms and 14 strategically placed water spray holes, it ensures that water reaches every nook and cranny of your tableware. I’ve found that even with dried-on food, my dishes come out sparkling clean – as good as new, as the description promises. The key, as with any dishwasher, is proper loading. As long as items aren’t completely blocking the spray arms or tightly packed together, everything receives a thorough wash. This meticulous spray pattern minimises the need for pre-rinsing, saving both water and effort.
Energy Efficiency and Quiet Operation
The Hermitlux mini dishwasher is designed with efficiency in mind, boasting a Class-D energy efficiency rating. This means it’s 10% more energy-efficient than Class-F models, leading to tangible savings on your utility bills over time. Crucially, its operation is remarkably quiet, running at a noise level of just 52 dB. While you can certainly hear it working – it’s not silent – it’s far from disruptive. You can easily have a conversation or watch TV without being bothered. This low noise profile is a huge benefit for small living spaces where the kitchen is often open-plan or close to living areas.
Delay Start Function (1-18 Hours)
The 1-18 hour delay start function is a small but mighty feature. It allows you to preset the washing time, offering incredible flexibility. This is particularly useful for taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates if your tariff offers them, or simply to ensure your dishes are clean and ready by the time you wake up or return home. It helps to stagger energy and water consumption, making it more energy-saving and environmentally friendly. This level of programmability truly enhances the convenience factor of the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher, fitting seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.
User-Friendly Controls and Features
Operating the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher is incredibly straightforward, thanks to its intuitive touch controls. The LED screen displays useful information like water temperature and a countdown timer, so you always know the cycle’s progress. It also has clear indicators for when water needs to be added or if the tap connection isn’t properly secured. Despite the initial slight confusion on how to select cycles (you press “selection” rather than the cycle name itself), it quickly becomes second nature. The filter is easy to remove and clean, and the detergent goes into a simple indent on the door, eliminating fiddly trays. The child lock function adds peace of mind, preventing curious little hands from disrupting cycles.
Minor Drawbacks and Practical Advice
While overwhelmingly positive, my long-term experience has highlighted a few minor points to consider. The silverware basket, while functional, could be better designed. Its inconsistently sized holes and placement can make loading knives and larger utensils a bit of a “magic trick,” requiring careful arrangement. Also, while very compact, its height means it won’t fit under all kitchen cabinets, so measuring your space precisely is essential. The manual water filling, though a massive convenience feature for non-plumbed setups, does require pulling the machine forward if placed under a cabinet, as the pouring hole is positioned somewhat to the back. A more funnel-shaped opening would also help prevent splashes. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise incredibly effective and valuable appliance.
Feedback from Actual Users
Beyond my personal experience, I’ve scoured the internet for other user insights, and the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Many echo my feelings, praising the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher as a life-changer for those without space for a full-sized unit. Users consistently highlight its cleaning power, even on quick cycles, and the surprising capacity if loaded cleverly. The dual water supply is a frequent point of appreciation, particularly for its flexibility. While some note the small size of the silverware basket or the need for careful loading, these minor points are far outweighed by the convenience and effective cleaning this compact wonder provides. It truly delivers on its promise to eliminate dreaded hand-washing.
Concluding Thoughts
The constant chore of hand-washing dishes, especially in a compact living space, is more than just inconvenient; it’s a draining task that can steal precious time and contribute to household stress. The complications of leaving dishes undone – from hygiene concerns to simply creating a chaotic environment – make a practical solution essential. The Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher is an exceptional fit to solve this very problem. Firstly, its compact size and dual water supply options mean it can seamlessly integrate into virtually any kitchen, regardless of plumbing limitations. Secondly, its array of washing programmes and effective 360° cleaning ensure your dishes emerge sparkling clean every time, freeing you from a tedious chore. Finally, the added benefits like the drying function, quiet operation, and delay start make it a truly convenient and energy-efficient appliance. If you’re tired of the dish pile, this is a wise investment. Click here to check the Hermitlux Table Top Dishwasher out!