Heatworks has created a countertop, app-controlled dishwasher for small homes, which can also be used to steam seafood and sanitise baby products.

Made in collaboration with design firm Frog, the compact Tetra dishwasher doesn't require plumbing to work – meaning it can be used anywhere that has a standard electrical outlet.

To use the dishwasher, users simply load it with water and a small amount of detergent. Then, Heatworks' patented Ohmic Array Technology employs graphite electrodes and electronic controls to agitate the natural minerals found in water – causing it to heat up.

The temperature can be controlled and monitored through an accompanying app, which also allows users to start washing cycles remotely.

The use of water as the main cleaning element means that Tetra can also be used to sanitise baby products, wash plastic storage containers without melting, cook seafood, and even clean fruit and vegetables.

As its casing is completely transparent, users are able to see what point the dishwasher cycle is at.

As well as being compact enough to fit into ever-shrinking living spaces, CEO Jerry Callahan said he hopes Tetra will change people's attitudes towards water wastage when it comes to cleaning dishes.

Although small, it can hold up to two full place settings – including plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery – or, alternatively, it can hold up to 12 pint glasses.

The wash cycle lasts just 10 minutes and requires around half a gallon per load (approximately 2.3 litres).

"Although the average household is comprised of 2.58 people, the modern dishwasher holds place settings for 13 or more," said Callahan. "This makes people believe that they either need to hand-wash their few dirty dishes — which wastes 10 times more water than using a dishwasher — or wait for a full load to run a cycle."

"With Tetra, we hope to change people's mindset," he added. "Just think, if a two-person household were to switch from hand-washing to a dishwasher for one meal a day, they could save 1500 gallons of water a year."

Tetra will be available to purchase in late 2018 and will cost under $300 (approximately £210).

The gadget was showcased at this year's Consumer Electronics Show, alongside other technology-focused homeware products including Yves Behar's cube-shaped indoor security camera, and Nokia's sleep tracker that can dim the lights and switch on the heating.