Dishwasher in a Caravan: Genius or Gimmick?

Should a dishwasher be found in a Caravan?

(Spoiler: It Might Actually Save You Water)

When you think of off-grid caravanning, a dishwasher probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Sounds like a luxury, right? But what if we told you that a quality caravan dishwasher can actually save you water, time, and make life on the road feel just that little bit more like home?

Let’s break it down.

Why Caravan Dishwashers Are Catching On

• Water efficient

• More hygienic than hand washing

• Less daily chore stress

• Great for full-time travellers or families

• Perfect companion to a proper 12V/24V setup
  

Water Use: Dishwasher vs. Hand Washing

It’s a common myth that dishwashers waste water — but the numbers tell a different story.

• Hand washing: 15–20L per load (more if you rinse)

• Kleenmaid DW4510: 8–9L per cycle

That’s about half the water, with cleaner results. Caravan sinks are small, water tanks are limited, and scrubbing bacon grease off campfire pans with lukewarm water isn’t fun.

Power Consumption: Worth the Draw?

Referncing the Kleenmaid DW4531 (Which we have fitted in Offroad Grit RVs) uses around 1380W per cycle. In an Offroad Grit van running a proper inverter and solar array, this is well within the system’s capacity, especially if you run it during the day on solar.

Pro Tip: Use the eco mode mid-morning when your panels are pumping and you’re not drawing much else, it won’t even touch your batteries.

The One Downside: Weight

Here’s the catch and it’s one that matters: The Kleenmaid DW4531 weighs around 22kg dry, not including water when in use.

While that doesn’t sound like much, in the caravan world every kilo counts — especially when it comes to payload.

So, if you’re already loaded up with lithium, extra water tanks, an outdoor kitchen, and a Weber, you’ll want to consider how a dishwasher fits into your overall weight plan. For some travellers, it’s a non-issue. For others running tight payload margins, it might be the tipping point.

That’s why we always provide accurate, as-built TARE weights at Offroad Grit, no surprises after handover.

Grey Water Impact?

The dishwasher sends waste to your grey tank just like your sink, but uses less water per wash, meaning less grey water generated overall — not more.

Is It Better Than Hand Washing?

In a word: yes.

• Cleaner dishes

• No soggy tea towels

• More water-efficient

• Less clutter in the sink

• No post-brekkie standoffs over “whose turn it is”

For couples, families, or long-term travellers — it can be a genuine quality-of-life upgrade.

Offroad Grit-Ready

Our caravans are built to comfortably handle optional appliances like a DIshwasher. Structurally, electrically, and in layout. If you want one, we’ll tell you straight up how it affects your payload, and help you decide if it’s right for your touring lifestyle.

Final Verdict

Dishwasher in your van? ✅ Surprisingly water-efficient ✅ Works great with solar & lithium systems ✅ Adds comfort and hygiene off-grid 🛑 Adds around 22kg — so check your payload

It’s not for everyone. But for those who want the comforts of home without sacrificing off-road capability, it’s a smart, practical luxury — not a gimmick