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Best Delay Start Dishwashers of 2026

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Denise Buck

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Delay start dishwashers are a convenient addition to any home. With the ability to schedule wash cycles up to 24 hours in advance, these dishwashers allow users to run their machines during off-peak hours or when they are away from home. This feature not only saves energy and money, but also ensures dishes are clean and ready when needed. Delay start dishwashers come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any kitchen, and many models also offer additional features such as adjustable racks and wash settings. Overall, a delay start dishwasher is a practical and efficient choice for any household.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Delay Start Dishwashers

#TOP 1

AIRMSEN A01 Countertop Dishwasher

  • AIRMSEN
  • ZMW-DUHA01
  • White
  • 5 Place Settings
AIRMSEN A01 Countertop Dishwasher Cover

AIRMSEN Large Slim Countertop Dishwasher with Complete 2-Level Rack, Portable Dishwashers with 5L Built-in Water Tank, 3-Spray Arms & 12H Delay Start, No Hookup Needed, A01

The AIRMSEN Countertop Dishwasher offers a compact design that measures just 14.17" D x 21.57" W x 19.53" H, making it perfect for small spaces. With its two-level rack system, you can fit up to 5 place settings, accommodating various dish types for families of 5-6. Enjoy enhanced cleaning with upgraded three spray arms that provide thorough coverage, ensuring every dish is spotless. Additionally, the efficient heating system reaches up to 167°F, effectively cleaning heavily soiled items and baby bottles while saving energy through heat recycling.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Compact design
  • Two-level rack system
  • Enhanced cleaning performance
  • Energy-efficient heating
#TOP 2

SPT SD-2224DS Countertop Dishwasher

  • SPT
  • SD-2224DS
  • Silver
SPT SD-2224DS Countertop Dishwasher Cover

SPT SD-2224DS ENERGY STAR Compact Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start - Portable Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and 6 Place Settings Rack Silverware Basket, Silver

The SPT SD-2224DS Countertop Dishwasher offers 7 wash cycles including heavy, normal, light, mini party, rinse, speed, and soak. Its delay start feature allows you to choose between two, four, six or eight hours for added convenience. The dishwasher comes with a universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect for easy and quick connection to most kitchen faucets. Its LED display shows remaining time or current running state, and the dishwasher also features water supply and rinse aid warning indicators. With an energy guide capacity of 203, it is an ideal choice for those looking for a countertop dishwasher.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Offers 7 wash cycles for different cleaning needs
  • Delay start feature provides added convenience
  • Comes with a universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect for easy connection to most kitchen faucets
#TOP 3

SPT Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start and 7 Wash Cycles

  • SPT
  • SD-2224DW
  • White
SPT Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start and 7 Wash Cycles Cover

SPT SD-2224DW ENERGY STAR Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start - Portable Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and 6 Place Settings for Apartment Office And Home Kitchen, White

The SPT SD-2224DW countertop dishwasher brings convenience to small kitchens with its 7 wash cycles, delay start, and easy faucet connection. Its electronic controls with LED display show the remaining time or current running state. The dishwasher also features a water supply warning indicator and rinse aid warning indicator to ensure efficient cleaning. Its stainless steel interior and 6 place settings rack silverware basket make it a great addition to apartments, offices, and homes.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Offers 7 wash cycles, including mini party, speed, and soak, for versatile cleaning options
  • Allows for delay start of 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours, adding convenience to busy schedules
  • Comes with a universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect for easy and quick connection to most kitchen faucets
#TOP 4

FOHERE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start

FOHERE Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start Cover

Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start, No Hookup Needed, 5+1 Wash Programs, 360° Dual Spray, 167° High-Temp Wash, 5L Built-in Tank, Portable Dishwasher for Apartments, RVs, Small Homes

The FOHERE Portable Dishwasher offers smart convenience with its delay start feature, allowing you to schedule wash cycles anytime between 1 to 24 hours ahead. This helps you save energy by running the dishwasher during off-peak hours. Using only 5 liters of water per load, it greatly reduces water usage compared to handwashing. With five specialized wash programs, you can choose the perfect cycle for your dishes, from quick washes to deep cleaning for baby bottles or gentle rinsing for fruits. Its compact design fits small spaces like apartments or RVs but still holds a surprising amount of dishes. Plus, you have the flexibility to use the built-in water tank or connect it directly to your faucet, making it perfect for various living situations.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Energy-efficient delay start
  • Low water consumption
  • Multiple wash programs
  • Compact but spacious
  • Flexible water supply
#TOP 5

SPT SD-2225DS Compact Countertop Dishwasher

  • SPT
  • SD-2225DS
  • Silver
SPT SD-2225DS Compact Countertop Dishwasher Cover

SPT SD-2225DS Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED, Silver, Silver

The SPT SD-2225DS Compact Countertop Dishwasher has 6 wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Speed, and Rinse, providing flexibility for your cleaning needs. With its Delay Start feature, you can set the dishwasher to start in 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours, making it more convenient for you to use. The Universal faucet adapter and Quick Connect make it easy for the dishwasher to connect to most kitchen faucets. The dishwasher also has electronic controls with an LED display that shows the remaining time or current running state. The Water supply warning indicator and rinse aid warning indicator provide added convenience and peace of mind.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Flexible wash cycles
  • Convenient Delay Start feature
  • Easy to connect with most kitchen faucets

HAVA Countertop Dishwasher, 2024 NEW Upgraded Model

  • HAVA
  • TDQR07
  • snow white
HAVA Countertop Dishwasher, 2024 NEW Upgraded Model Cover

HAVA Countertop Dishwasher, 8 Wash Programs NEW Upgraded Model Portable Dishwasher with Child Lock & Delayed Start Function, 5L Water Tank for Apartments, Dorms, and RVs - No Hookup Needed

HAVA Countertop Dishwasher, the 2024 NEW Upgraded Model, offers 8 wash cycle options to meet your dishwashing needs. With features like an 18-hour delayed start, self-clean program, and child lock function, this dishwasher provides convenience for your busy lifestyle. You can schedule wash cycles, ensure thorough cleaning, and prevent misoperation easily. The no-installation design allows you to place it anywhere with a 5L water tank. Save time and energy with its large capacity and energy-efficient operation, making it ideal for small spaces like apartments, dorms, and RVs.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Efficient dish cleaning
  • Compact, space-saving design
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Versatile water supply options
  • Suitable for small households
#TOP 7

SPT Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – Silver

  • SPT
  • SD-2225DSA
  • SILVER
SPT Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – Silver Cover

SPT SD-2225DSA Energy Star Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – Silver

The SPT Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – Silver is a compact and energy-efficient dishwasher that is perfect for small kitchens. With its delay start feature, you can set the dishwasher to start at a later time, allowing you to take advantage of cheaper off-peak electricity rates. The LED display makes it easy to monitor the progress of your wash cycle. This dishwasher is made in China and weighs 58.0lbs.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Energy-efficient and compact
  • Delay start feature for off-peak electricity rates
  • LED display for easy monitoring of wash cycle
#TOP 8

AIRMSEN Countertop Dishwasher TDQR09

AIRMSEN Countertop Dishwasher TDQR09 Cover

AIRMSEN Countertop Dishwasher - 8 Wash Programs and 3 Useful Function, Integrated Water Softener, Delayed Start, Child Lock, No Hookup Needed, Portable Mini Size for Home, Apartments & RVs

The AIRMSEN Mini Dishwasher offers several useful features to make your dishwashing easier and more efficient. Its built-in water softener helps prevent spots on your dishes and keeps the machine clean by using dishwasher salt. You can schedule wash cycles with the 1 to 18-hour delay start, allowing you to run the dishwasher during off-peak hours and save on energy costs. The child lock feature adds safety by preventing accidental button presses, ideal for homes with kids or pets. Plus, its portable design requires no plumbing—you simply fill the built-in water tank and start washing anywhere you like, perfect for small spaces like apartments or RVs.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Built-in water softener
  • Delay start timer
  • Child safety lock
  • Portable, no plumbing needed
  • Energy and water efficient
#TOP 9

SPT SD-2224DWA Countertop Dishwasher

  • SPT
  • SD-2224DWA
  • WHITE
SPT SD-2224DWA Countertop Dishwasher Cover

SD-2224DWA: ENERGY STAR Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – White

The SPT Countertop Dishwasher is a convenient kitchen appliance from China, weighing 58.0 lbs. This ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher offers a Delay Start feature, allowing you to set it to start at a later time, saving you time and hassle. The LED display makes it easy to monitor the wash cycle progress. Its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces, ideal for apartments or RVs. With SPT, you can enjoy efficient dishwashing without taking up much space.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • ENERGY STAR Certified
  • Delay Start Feature
  • Compact Size
#TOP 10

SPT Countertop Dishwasher with LED

  • SPT
  • SD-2225DWA
  • WHITE
SPT Countertop Dishwasher with LED Cover

SPT SD-2225DWA Energy Star Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – White

The SPT SD-2225DWA Energy Star Countertop Dishwasher with Delay Start & LED – White accommodates up to 6 standard place settings and dishware up to 10.25 inches in diameter. With a height of only 17.24", this compact design is perfect for apartments, office kitchens, or any small-sized kitchens while still offering full-size power. It weighs 58.0 pounds.

8.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Accommodates up to 6 standard place settings and dishware up to 10.25 inches in diameter
  • Compact design perfect for small-sized kitchens
  • Full-size power

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is delayed start on a dishwasher?

Available on many dishwasher models, the Delay Start option delays the start of the wash cycle. The amount of time the wash cycle can be delayed varies by model. The benefit of the Delay Start option is that it allows you to run your dishwasher when its hot water demands will not conflict with those of the family.

2. How do I turn off the delay start on my dishwasher?

To cancel the Delay Start or Delay Hours option: Press the Delay Start pad until the hours of delay indicator goes off. On most models, pressing and holding the Start or Start/Reset pad for 3 seconds will cancel any set cycle, including the Delay Start cycle.

3. How do I set the delay start on my Whirlpool dishwasher?

To set a delayed start: Select the appropriate cycle and options for the load. Close the door. Press the Delay pad until the desired amount of delay time is indicated. The delay indicator and the countdown display (on select models) will flash until the Start/Resume pad is pressed.

4. What is a 4 hour delay dishwasher?

When you choose the 4 Hr delay wash on model DU1010XTXB it means that the wash will begin in 4 Hrs. Here is the information directly from the Owners Manual- 4-hr Delay – Offers the choice to start the dishwasher automatically at a later time. Select a wash cycle and options. Press 4-hr Delay.

Editor's Notes

During our delay start dishwasher research, we found 24 delay start dishwasher products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 13,421 customer reviews through our big data system to write the delay start dishwashers list. We found that most customers choose delay start dishwashers with an average price of $291.71.

The delay start dishwashers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of delay start dishwashers, including AIRMSEN, SPT, FOHERE, HAVA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 118 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by

Denise Buck Avatar

Denise Buck

Denise Buck is an excellent content writer. She has the ability to look for great deals on Home & Kitchen appliances and office products on the Internet for various customers, then she can write a complete buying guide to help you find products that fit your budget and the best bargains.