Washing Your Clothes Without a Machine

We often give up a lot of conveniences when we travel overseas and some explorers often find the washing machine is one of the first to go. Many smaller countries don’t have laundry mats, so a little creativity in getting those soiled tees clean might be in order.

Alternatives to Detergent

Detergent is often just as difficult to find as a washing machine in some countries, so you’ll have to make due with what’s on hand. Luckily, shampoo and dish soap often work well for dirty duds too. Just pour a little bit in the water and get some suds going and they’ll help make your clothes smell nice.

Use a Sink or Tub

Since there’s no machine available, you’ll need to learn how to utilize a sink or tub. Never fill them up with much water; use just enough to submerge your clothes, or else you’ll end up with a mess. Lightly rotate your clothes in the water repeatedly to replicate the cycle on a machine until you feel like the clothes are clean.

Be Careful With Bleach

Bleach is a great tool for getting out stains, but it can discolor your garments and do damage to your skin. Wear gloves when adding it to the water in the sink or pretreat your clothes before washing. Don’t use much and also make sure you’re not working out of a sink or tub that will stain.

Dry Outside

Find a place to hang your clothes outside, if possible. They’ll dry faster in most cases and won’t leave the room smelling like damp clothes. Remember to wring your clothes out before you hang them as well, or it could take more than a day. Lighter, breathable fabrics designed to dry quickly are the best option to take on a trip if you’re unsure of the availability of washing machines at your destination.