No More Bending Over: Costco's Top Loading Dishwasher Is A Gamechanger

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Mystery sludge, endless scrubbing, painful dry skin – washing dishes is a chore many of us are happy to let a machine handle. Unfortunately, in some small or older kitchens, installing a classic dishwasher isn't an option because of layout, water hookup availability, or floor space. Or the issue may not be the kitchen, but the dishwasher itself, and bending over to load and unload dishes at floor level isn't an option. If installing a traditional dishwasher isn't possible, a top-load dishwasher like the FOTILE VersaWash may offer a solution. Costco currently offers two models: the FOTILE 2-in-1 VersaWash Top-Load Kitchen Washer and the FOTILE 3-in-1 VersaWash Top-Load Kitchen Washer with Integrated Sink and Dishwasher.

Both models can wash up to 4 place settings per load at temperatures up to 167 degrees. Heat-drying functions and automatic air circulation help ensure dishes dry thoroughly and stay fresh after the cycle completes. With the lid closed, the dishwasher's top is nearly seamlessly integrated into the countertop, so you can keep using the space for food prep. And since it's only about 20 inches deep, you don't have to bend far to load your dishes. Plus, the stainless steel dishwasher doubles as a produce and seafood washer, with three different cycles intended to clean your food more thoroughly than hand washing. 

Since these products are new to Costco's online catalog, there aren't many reviews yet, but a few satisfied users are reporting back after installing a FOTILE dishwasher in their camper or small kitchen. "Easy to operate, looks great, runs very quietly, and dishes come out squeaky clean," said one. Along with upgrading RV kitchens or making old kitchens more functional, a top-loading dishwasher can help make downsizing into a small or tiny house less of an adjustment. Both models can hold plates measuring up to 10" across, and all dishes fit in one compact level. Shoppers should be prepared for the potential costs of installing a top-loading dishwasher, especially the 3-in-1 model that includes a sink, since installation involves cutting into countertops and working with plumbing. 

Even if you already have a standard dishwasher, you may want to explore why two dishwashers can be better than one by adding a top-loading backup. It has a smaller capacity than a standard dishwasher, but it won't take away precious workspace the way a countertop dishwasher could. Having a second dishwasher can save hours if you entertain regularly or have a large family. A load of dishes in a FOTILE dishwasher takes as little as 15 minutes, depending on the cycle. Plus, the produce cleaning cycle can save you from hand-washing ingredients for a crowd, speeding up food prep.