Traveling is fun, adventurous and exhilarating. But one of the main problems that travelers face is washing their clothes. While it may seem like a daunting task, it’s actually quite easy if you know what to do. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to wash clothes while traveling.
1. Pack the Right Clothes
The first step in washing clothes while traveling is to pack the right clothes. Choose clothes that are easy to wash and dry quickly. Avoid packing clothes that require dry cleaning or ironing. Pack clothes made of synthetic fabrics that are lightweight and wrinkle-free.
2. Use a Laundry Service
If you’re staying in a hotel or hostel, many of them offer laundry services. You can drop off your clothes and pick them up later. This is a convenient option, but it can be expensive.
3. Wash Clothes in the Sink
One of the easiest ways to wash clothes while traveling is to wash them in the sink. Fill the sink with water and add some laundry detergent. Soak your clothes for 30 minutes and then rinse them thoroughly.
4. Use a Travel Laundry Kit
You can buy a travel laundry kit that includes a sink stopper, clothesline, and detergent. This kit is lightweight and easy to pack. It allows you to wash your clothes in the sink without any hassle.
5. Use a Laundromat
If you’re traveling for a long time, you may need to use a laundromat. Look for a laundromat in the area you’re staying in. You can wash your clothes there and use the dryers to dry them.
6. Use a Portable Washing Machine
If you’re traveling in a group or for a long time, a portable washing machine may be a good option. These machines are lightweight and easy to pack. They allow you to wash your clothes without any hassle.
7. Dry Your Clothes
After washing your clothes, you need to dry them. If you’re washing clothes in the sink, wring them out and hang them to dry. If you’re using a laundromat or portable washing machine, use the dryers to dry your clothes.
8. Pack a Clothesline
Pack a clothesline in your luggage. This will allow you to hang your clothes to dry wherever you are. Clotheslines are lightweight and easy to pack.
9. Use a Hair Dryer
If you’re in a hurry and need to dry your clothes quickly, you can use a hair dryer. Hang your clothes and use the hair dryer on the cool setting to dry them.
10. Pack a Dryer Sheet
Pack a dryer sheet in your luggage. This will keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean. Dryer sheets are lightweight and easy to pack.
11. Use a Stain Remover
If you get a stain on your clothes, use a stain remover. Apply the stain remover to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then wash the clothes as usual.
12. Pack Extra Clothes
Pack extra clothes in your luggage. This will allow you to wear clean clothes while your other clothes are being washed and dried.
13. Use Cold Water
When washing your clothes, use cold water. This will save energy and prevent your clothes from shrinking.
14. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
Pack a mesh laundry bag in your luggage. This will allow you to wash your clothes without losing any of them. The mesh bag will keep your clothes together and prevent them from getting lost.
15. Use a Fabric Softener
Add a fabric softener to your laundry. This will make your clothes feel soft and smell fresh.
16. Use a Laundry Detergent Pod
Laundry detergent pods are easy to pack and use. You can simply toss one in the sink or washing machine and wash your clothes.
17. Use a Washing Machine
If you’re staying in an Airbnb or apartment, you may have access to a washing machine. This is a convenient option, but make sure you read the instructions before using it.
18. Use a Drying Rack
If you don’t have access to a dryer, use a drying rack. Hang your clothes on the rack and let them dry naturally.
19. Wash Clothes in the Shower
If you don’t have a sink, you can wash your clothes in the shower. Simply add some laundry detergent to your clothes and let the water run over them.
20. Pack a Scrub Board
Pack a scrub board in your luggage. This will allow you to scrub your clothes clean while washing them in the sink.
21. Use a Hand Crank Washing Machine
A hand crank washing machine is a small, portable device that allows you to wash your clothes without electricity. Simply add water and laundry detergent and turn the crank to wash your clothes.
22. Use a Bucket
If you don’t have a sink, you can use a bucket to wash your clothes. Fill the bucket with water and laundry detergent and soak your clothes for 30 minutes.
23. Use a Plunger
A plunger can be used as a makeshift washing machine. Add water and laundry detergent to a bucket, then use the plunger to agitate the water and wash your clothes.
24. Use a Sponge
If you don’t have a scrub board, you can use a sponge to scrub your clothes clean while washing them in the sink.
25. Use a Garment Steamer
If you don’t have access to a washing machine, you can use a garment steamer to freshen up your clothes. Simply hang your clothes and steam them.
26. Use a Vacuum Bag
Vacuum bags are a great way to save space in your luggage. You can pack your dirty clothes in a vacuum bag and compress it to save space.
27. Use Baking Soda
Add baking soda to your laundry to help remove odors and stains. Simply add a tablespoon of baking soda to your laundry detergent.
28. Use Vinegar
Add vinegar to your laundry to help remove stains and odors. Simply add a half cup of vinegar to your laundry detergent.
29. Pack a Portable Iron
If you need to iron your clothes, pack a portable iron in your luggage. These irons are lightweight and easy to pack.
30. Use a Towel
If you don’t have a clothesline, you can use a towel to dry your clothes. Lay the clothes on the towel and roll it up. Squeeze the towel to remove excess water and hang the clothes to dry.