Best Portable Clothes Dryers Reviewed and Rated for Quality

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
 Panda Compact Portable Dryer
Test Winner: Panda Compact Portable Dryer
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A tumble dryer has become a major convenient household tool. This common household appliance has made it easier than ever before to wash clothes clean, dry, and well-maintained. Unfortunately, the traditional dryer remains an impractical choice for a large portion of individuals all over the world due to its imposing size, impractical set-up, and high electricity usage. This is where the portable dryer comes in. By harnessing modern technology, many manufacturers have created a compact drying device that addresses the concerns caused by traditional dryers. Traditional clothes dryers are large, expensive to repair if something breaks, and are too difficult to move throughout the home or to a new residence. They also require a hook-up system, whereas a portable dryer is one unit. Take a look at our top-rated dryers below, to find the best option for you.

Standout Picks

1. Panda Compact Portable Dryer
This compact device from the trusted appliance manufacturer, Panda, offers incredibly drying power for its tiny size. This appliance boasts a capacity of up to 8.8 lbs, a stainless steel drum, and a transparent window. Weighing in at a mere 44 lbs, this device is easy to move around and can be safely mounted to a wall to save even more space. Its sleek design and efficiency make it the perfect choice for apartment living.
Amazon Link
$338.64
2. Manatee Portable Dryer
This device from Manatee looks deceptively simple, yet offers complex drying technology. This device harnesses a unique technology known as anion technology to completely sanitize your garments. This is the ideal defense against any bad odors or mildew that may arise from manual drying. Moreover, this appliance has a 33 lbs load capacity. After using, simply fold up your rack to safely store away.
Amazon Link
3.Panda 3200
When seeking a portable dryer one of the first things you want to keep in mind is just how much you want it to do and how well it will fit into your lifestyle. This one was created to come with everything you want and need. Designed to cut your drying time in half this Panda portable dryer runs at a high speed of 3200rpm. Having this feature means your clothing will be almost 100% dry when it comes out, helping you avoid wet soggy clothing that never seems to dry.
Amazon Link
$157.43
4. The Laundry Alternative Mini Dryer
This deceptively small dryer will surprise and delight users with its sheer drying power. This mini dryer from The Laundry Alternative weighs a mere 12 pounds and is small enough to comfortably fit on your countertop. This little device is made out of thick durable plastic, has a spin drum and operates using electricity. Simply put it on any even surface and plug in to get your favorite shirt or jean dry in no time.
Amazon Link
5. The Laundry Alternative Nina Portable Dryer
Much like their name suggests, The Laundry Alternative has established themselves as experts on innovating alternative methods of doing laundry. What makes the Nina Soft Spin so remarkable is that it promises that 90% of your laundry load will be dry within 3 minutes of switching on the dryer. Moreover, this device is very lightweight, is easy to use, has a 12 lb load capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1800 RPM. This is ideal for quick and compact drying.
Amazon Link
6. Magic Chef MCSDRY1S Portable Dryer
This sleekly designed drying appliance will be a perfect fit for the stylish and aesthetic conscious. This product from Magic Chef contains a stainless steel drum, a viewing window, and five different drying options that can be adjusted using the controls on the device itself. The device weighs 48 lbs and can comfortably carry a load of up to 8 lbs. The appliance can be mounted on a wall.
Amazon Link
$366.78
7. Concise Home Electric Portable Dryer
This drying rack allows you to hang up your clothes and leave it while it airs out. This device includes a clothing rack, a heating element at the bottom, and a heat-insulated cover. The heating element provides different and adjustable heat intensities while the cover keeps the heat inside. This device is ideal to use for delicate fabrics and can be stored away easily after use.
Amazon Link
8. Avanti Portable Dryer
With the ability to see through the window perfectly paired with a stainless-steel drum and exterior this XtremepowerUS portable dryer brings you the closest thing to a full-size dryer. Furthermore, installation and usage is a breeze making it perfect for those that want to purchase something they can use as soon as they get it. Instructions are incorporated but they are also extremely easy to follow.
Amazon Link
$249.95
9. MeyKey Portable Dryer
This product is likely to appeal to you both for its efficient and downright adorable design. The MeyKey dryer features a hanging rack design that has an added heating element and heat-insulated cover to speed up the drying process. The heating tool contains anion technology to sanitize garments and provides a gentle enough heat to use on all fabrics. This device can easily be taken apart for easy storage in cramped spaces.
Amazon Link
10. Panda Ventless Portable Dryer
One of the leading authorities in garment drying technology, Panda, has created a drying rack with added heating technology that will thrill dorm room dwellers and frequent travelers alike. The Ventless features a no-nonsense approach to drying and features a hanging rack, heating element, and heat-insulated cover to get the job done. This rack can manage a load of up to 22 lbs and is easy to fold up and put in storage.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Use

Your first step in choosing your ideal option is to consider exactly why you need one in the first place as this will guarantee you more effective results. The vast majority of people turn to a compact device either because their homes are too small to accommodate a traditionally sized dryer. However, a mobile garment dryer is also an ideal option for those who travel regularly, especially those that take frequent camping or RV trips.

Your ideal device will depend on its intended use. For example, the apartment dweller, might not need a highly mobile option but would prefer something that is compact, yet efficient. In comparison, the outdoors enthusiast might require a device that does not need electricity and is easy to pack up and store away until its next use.

The best way to determine your future dryer’s intended use is to think about when and where this device will be used most frequently and under what kind of conditions. You should also consider what kind of garments and household linen you’ll be drying, as this will determine how powerful it should be. Once you have determined this, you can start searching for one that addresses all your specific needs.

Another important factor should be how much time are you willing to spend on drying fabrics? If you need garments dry in record time, you should consider a device that promises just that. Also, take into consideration if you need the device to accompany you on travels, and in which circumstances it will be used when traveling.

Size

A huge factor to consider when choosing your device is the space you have available to place it in. As we mentioned previously, a compact, mobile drying appliance is ideal for those who live in a small apartment, dorm rooms, or who travel frequently.

However, there is still a relatively large discrepancy in the size of popular mobile options available on the market. For example, the apartment dweller could perhaps afford a slightly bigger and more powerful option, while the college student, might prefer something even more compact and that is easy to put in storage.

When determining the size of your future device, you should consider the space in which you will operate your it in. Another key consideration is whether you’d like to store your device after use or keep it in place. Once you have measured the size of the determined space, you can easily look for the mobile product whose dimensions are best suited to your living space.

When determining the size, also keep in mind the weight as heavier options might be more difficult to move.

Features

When it comes to mobile garment drying technology, you have three options in terms of drying technology, and each comes with its own benefits:

The first option is known as hand-crank technology. This device is ideal for the outdoors enthusiast since it is not reliant on electricity to work. The device is usually made out of durable plastic and contains a spin drum, a hand crank for operation, and a pipe that lets out excess water. This device is entirely dependent on manual labor to work. While it may be too strenuous for the sick or elderly, it is perfect for use in the outdoor or for the environmentally conscious.

The second kind of device comes in the form of a clothing rack on which you can hang your laundry load. Some clothing racks come equipped with heating technology and heat-insulated covering. The heating element generally emits a gentle heat to slightly speed up the drying process without damaging your clothes. The heat-insulated covering works to ensure that the heat does not escape. This option is ideal for those who require a highly mobile drying device without compromising on drying efficiency.

The last option is where they essentially work similarly to traditional tumble options but on a much smaller scale. These devices also come equipped with a spin drum and internal heating to dry garments, but are generally half the size and use half the electricity of traditional ones. This option is ideal for apartment owners who still want the look of a traditional dryer but do not have the necessary space to accommodate one.

Several drying models offer unique added features that are likely to appeal to you. For example, some offer anion sterilizing technology that sanitizes your clothes while drying. The best way to find out about any unique features is to read the device’s product description to find any unique added features that might be useful to you.

Effectiveness

Your lifestyle will certainly determine which drain option is most suitable for you in more ways than one. Lifestyle considerations should include factors such as what kind of fabrics do you dry the most? Dense fabrics such as linen, towels, and jeans require more drying power than delicate fabrics such as t-shirts, underwear, and silks.

Another important factor should be how much time are you willing to spend on drying fabrics? If you need garments dry in record time, you should consider a device that promises just that. Also, take into consideration if you need the device to accompany you on travels, and in which circumstances it will be used when traveling.

Value

The cost of a portable clothes dryer can vary widely from model to model depending on the type of features they offer, size, power, and brand. So before you purchase one, you may want to ask yourself some questions. How long will I be using it? For example; will I just need something for a year away at school, or do I need something more long-term in a small apartment? What features do I really need? Yeah, some of the features offered are pretty cool, but will you use them and are they worth the extra costs? You should also look for warranties and good reviews to help you make the best decisions.

10 Best Portable Clothes Dryers

1. Panda Compact Portable Dryer

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$338.64
1. Panda Compact Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

This compact device from the trusted appliance manufacturer, Panda, offers incredibly drying power for its tiny size. This appliance boasts a capacity of up to 8.8 lbs, a stainless steel drum, and a transparent window. Weighing in at a mere 44 lbs, this device is easy to move around and can be safely mounted to a wall to save even more space. Its sleek design and efficiency make it the perfect choice for apartment living.

Lightweight
The Panda Compact has been made out of materials selected for their lightness and durability. This appliance weighs in at 44 lbs which makes it easy to move the device around, mount it to a wall, and even take it with you on camping or RV trips.

Drying Versatility
Despite its small size, the Panda Compact still packs a punch when it comes to drying. This device can safely and efficiently dry garments, bedding, and any other household linen albeit in somewhat smaller loads.

Cost and Value
The Panda Compact is somewhat more expensive than other similar appliances available on the market. However, this lightweight device is well worth the investment and includes a removable lint filter, wall mounting kit, and one year guarantee.

Amazon Link
$338.64

2. Manatee Portable Dryer

Where to buy
Amazon Link
2. Manatee Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

This device from Manatee looks deceptively simple, yet offers complex drying technology. This device harnesses a unique technology known as anion technology to completely sanitize your garments. This is the ideal defense against any bad odors or mildew that may arise from manual drying. Moreover, this appliance has a 33 lbs load capacity. After using, simply fold up your rack to safely store away.

Anion Sterilising Technology
While the Manatee uses gentle heat to dry your garments, it also utilizes its unique sterilizing technology in the process. This will protect your garments against any mildew, dust or harmful bacteria build-up and can be a lifesaver for those who suffer from allergies.

Large Load Capacity
One of the most competitive aspects of this device is its large load capacity. The Manatee dryer can easily handle a laundry load of up to 33 lbs. This is significantly more than the majority of available drying appliances available on the market.

Cost and Value
The Manatee dryer is much cheaper than many of its competitors. Despite its low price, it has a higher load capacity than other devices, can be operated using wifi or remote control, and has unique clothes sanitizing feature.

Amazon Link

3. Panda 3200

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$157.43
3.Panda 3200
Amazon Link

When seeking a portable dryer one of the first things you want to keep in mind is just how much you want it to do and how well it will fit into your lifestyle. This one was created to come with everything you want and need. Designed to cut your drying time in half this Panda portable dryer runs at a high speed of 3200rpm. Having this feature means your clothing will be almost 100% dry when it comes out, helping you avoid wet soggy clothing that never seems to dry.

110V Outlet
Offering a 110V outlet this portable dryer allows you to use it anywhere in the home, there is no need to set it anywhere where there is drainage available. Making it perfect for apartments, dorms, RV or even boats. The idea is to give you as much portability and freedom that you would want from a dryer by only weighing 22 pounds. Furthermore, this type of outlet is pretty general, meaning anywhere you go you will have access too.

Large Capacity
While most would think a portable dryer will be small and short incapacity, this one is quite the contrary. Featuring a stainless-steel exterior this dryer was created to fill up large loads and get them 90% dry. It’s all about giving you comfort and a reliable product knowing you can get most things dry in your home. Additionally, though the dryer is large it is not heavy or hard to carry around, it’s pretty light and easy on the eye.

Cost and Value
As for the cost and value of this product, you are looking at an exceptional price for a quality product. Showcasing an abundance of features while still being lightweight, this dryer gets the job done without breaking the bank. Nevertheless, due to the quality, and its longevity you will be saving a boatload of money along the way.

Amazon Link
$157.43

4. The Laundry Alternative Mini

Where to buy
Amazon Link
4. The Laundry Alternative Mini Dryer
Amazon Link

This deceptively small dryer will surprise and delight users with its sheer drying power. This mini dryer from The Laundry Alternative weighs a mere 12 pounds and is small enough to comfortably fit on your countertop. This little device is made out of thick durable plastic, has a spin drum and operates using electricity. Simply put it on any even surface and plug in to get your favorite shirt or jean dry in no time.

Compact
This device is the perfect solution for drying garments on camping and RV trips since it weighs only 12 pounds and is easy to pack up and go. Simply ensure that there is a 120V electric outlet available and dry your garments with ease.

Quick Drying
This little device promises to dry most of your garments within 2-3 minutes which makes it great for both camping trips and household use when you need something dry quickly. The device also allows you to choose how many minutes you want to dry your garments for by using the knob located at the bottom of the device.

Cost and Value
Despite its immense drying power and sheer speed, this tiny device is remarkably cost-efficient. This device will be the perfect investment for future camping trips and its durable exterior will be able to withstand the test of time.

Amazon Link

5. The Laundry Alternative Nina

Where to buy
Amazon Link
5. The Laundry Alternative Nina Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

Much like their name suggests, The Laundry Alternative has established themselves as experts on innovating alternative methods of doing laundry. What makes the Nina Soft Spin so remarkable is that it promises that 90% of your laundry load will be dry within 3 minutes of switching on the dryer. Moreover, this device is very lightweight, is easy to use, has a 12 lb load capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1800 RPM. This is ideal for quick and compact drying.

Quick Drying
The Nina Soft Spin uses a combination of ventless design combined with an incredibly high spinning speed of up to 1800 RPM to ensure that your garments are dry in record time. The manufacturer promises that 90% of your load will be dry within 3 minutes, which is impressive even for large dryers.

User-Friendly
This device requires absolutely no complicated assembly or set up. Simply remove the motor locking bar before you use it, plug in the device and start drying. The device automatically switches on once the lid is closed and does not require any additional input.

Cost and Value
Despite its powerful drying technology, the Nina Soft Spin is very competitively priced. The device has been made using lightweight and durable materials, offers an extremely high spinning speed and has a three-year warranty.

Amazon Link

6. Magic Chef MCSDRY1S

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$366.78
6. Magic Chef MCSDRY1S Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

This sleekly designed drying appliance will be a perfect fit for the stylish and aesthetic conscious. This product from Magic Chef contains a stainless steel drum, a viewing window, and five different drying options that can be adjusted using the controls on the device itself. The device weighs 48 lbs and can comfortably carry a load of up to 8 lbs. The appliance can be mounted on a wall.

Five Dryer Settings
The Magic Chef MCSDRY1S gives you the full drying experience as it offers you five different speeds as well as a timer control. Simply adjust the speed by turning the knob located n the bottom of the device

Durable
While this device may not be as lightweight or mobile as some other mobile dryers, it makes up for that with its durable, sturdy design. This device is well-suited for the apartment dweller who is simply looking for a smaller alternative to the traditional dryer.

Cost and Value
This device works similarly to a traditional dryer, and yet is very moderately priced. For this price, you'll receive a beautifully designed product that gives you the power of choice in drying your garments.

Amazon Link
$366.78

7. Concise Home Electric

Where to buy
Amazon Link
7. Concise Home Electric Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

This drying rack allows you to hang up your clothes and leave it while it airs out. This device includes a clothing rack, a heating element at the bottom, and a heat-insulated cover. The heating element provides different and adjustable heat intensities while the cover keeps the heat inside. This device is ideal to use for delicate fabrics and can be stored away easily after use.

Keep Fabrics Hygienic
The added heating kills any potential bacteria or odors that could still be trapped in your garments after washing. This method of drying will keep your garments much more sanitary compared to simply hanging them up to dry on a regular rack.

Different Heat Settings
This device allows you to choose between two separate heat settings. The heat can easily be adjusted using a touchscreen display located at the bottom of the device. Simply choose the heat suited to your preferences and let this device do the rest.

Cost and Value
This drying rack is very competitively priced compared to other similar products. For a modest price, you'll receive an effective drying device that is an important tool in keeping your clothes dry and hygienic.

Amazon Link

8. XtremepowerUS

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$249.95
8. Avanti Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

With the ability to see through the window perfectly paired with a stainless-steel drum and exterior this XtremepowerUS portable dryer brings you the closest thing to a full-size dryer. Furthermore, installation and usage is a breeze making it perfect for those that want to purchase something they can use as soon as they get it. Instructions are incorporated but they are also extremely easy to follow.

Compact and Lightweight
Measuring at 28 x 17 x 24 inches and weighing 50 pounds this dryer is extremely compact. But not only is it compact but its lightweight making it excellent for traveling, small apartments, RV’s and boats. It’s one of those products that works well anywhere it is placed due to its simple yet effective features. A solid item that gets the job done every time.

Timed Dry Setting
One of the most loved features on a traditional dryer is being able to set your drying time and know it will be dry. Though it is a beloved feature, not all portable dryers have them, thankfully this one does. Having this feature means you will be able to time your items and have them dry. Thanks to this it won’t feel much different than having a traditional dryer at home.

Cost and Value
When it comes to the price and value of this product you want to keep in mind that you’re getting exceptional features, and the feel of a traditional dryer, thus why this is one of the priciest items on our guide. Though this item is pricey you are getting exceptional quality as well as a durable and stable product

Amazon Link
$249.95

9. MeyKey

Where to buy
Amazon Link
9. MeyKey Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

This product is likely to appeal to you both for its efficient and downright adorable design. The MeyKey dryer features a hanging rack design that has an added heating element and heat-insulated cover to speed up the drying process. The heating tool contains anion technology to sanitize garments and provides a gentle enough heat to use on all fabrics. This device can easily be taken apart for easy storage in cramped spaces.

Anion Technology
This device's gentle heat provides your garments with anion sterilizing technology. This will keep them sterile and fresh by preventing the growth of germs and can help you avoid mildew or dust.

Gentle and Efficient Heat
The heating element provides heat of up to 60 degrees. This is gentle enough to use safely on delicate fabrics. Despite the heat efficiency, the motor is completely silent during operation.

Cost and Value
This product is very cost-efficient and modestly priced when considering the dryer's immense heating power. This product has been made using durable materials and offers its user versatility and is very safe to use.

Amazon Link

10. Panda Ventless

Where to buy
Amazon Link
10. Panda Ventless Portable Dryer
Amazon Link

One of the leading authorities in garment drying technology, Panda, has created a drying rack with added heating technology that will thrill dorm room dwellers and frequent travelers alike. The Ventless features a no-nonsense approach to drying and features a hanging rack, heating element, and heat-insulated cover to get the job done. This rack can manage a load of up to 22 lbs and is easy to fold up and put in storage.

Different Heat Settings
The Ventless allows you to choose the heat better suited to your needs. You can adjust the heat using the controls located at the bottom of the device. Opt for a lower heat for delicate fabrics such as wool and silk and higher heat for dense fabrics such as jeans or towels.

Mobile
Laundry never stops, which is why the Ventless is the perfect companion to all your trips. This device is incredibly easy to take apart and pack up so you can have perfectly clean and wrinkle-free clothes wherever you go.

Cost and Value
Ventless is one of the most cost-effective devices available on the market. Despite the low price, the product is from a well-respected manufacturer, has been created with durable materials, and comes with a one year warranty.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Editing Team, Clothes dryer,
  2. Don Vandervort, How Clothes Dryers Work,
  3. Mary Marlowe Leverette, How to Select & care For a Ventless Clothes Dryer,