Camping is all about disconnecting from the hustle, reconnecting with nature and making memories under the stars - but that doesn't mean you have to live in smelly, stained clothes all week. Whether you're off the grid or glamping, doing laundry while camping is totally doable - with the right tips and travel-friendly products.
From sweaty shirts to muddy socks and s'mores stains, here's how to keep your clothes clean while adventuring - all without access to your usual washer and dryer.
1. Pack Light - but Plan Smart
Stick to quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing that's easy to wash and re-wear. Bonus points for dark colours or patterns that hide dirt in between washes. Bring enough to rotate, but don't overpack - especially if you have access to washing while away.
2. Use Travel-Friendly Detergent: Nellie's Laundry Cubes
Forget the messy liquids or bulky jugs - Nellie's Laundry Cubes are the ultimate laundry solution for campers.
Why Cubes Are Perfect for Camping:
- Pre-measured and mess-free
- Easy to pack - no spills or leaks
- PVA-free
- Dissolve easily in hot or cold water
How to Use:
Fill a bucket or sink with water, toss in a cube, dissolve fully, and hand wash your clothes. Rinse well and hang to dry.
3. Pre-Treat Stains with the WOW Stick
Campfire stains, ketchup splatters, and mystery smudges? No problem. The WOW Stick stain remover is a solid stain-fighting stick that's powerful, portable, and plant-based, scented with sweet orange and lemongrass essential oils.
4. Use a Camp Washing Method That Works for You
Depending on your setup, here are some easy ways to wash clothes while camping:
Bucket Wash:
Fill a bucket with water, add a Laundry Cube, mix, soak, and agitate clothes by hand. Rinse and wring dry.
Ziploc Bag Method:
Add clothes, water and a dissolved Laundry Cube to a large zip-top bag. Shake and squish like a mini washing machine. Rinse with clean water and repeat if needed.
Portable Washer or Scrubba Bag:
If you're a serious camper, a manual washer bag makes it easy to agitate and rinse with minimal water.
5. Dry Smart
Use a clothesline, tree branches, or a drying rack to air-dry your clothes in the sun. The UV rays help disinfect naturally. Be sure to wring out items well to speed up drying time.
Bonus Tips for Camp Laundry Success
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- Bring clothespins or rope for a quick DIY clothesline.
- Wash in the morning so clothes dry by night.
- Only wash essentials mid-trip - underwear, socks, and base layers.
- Store dirty laundry in a breathable bag (not plastic!) to avoid mildew.
Stay Fresh - Even Off the Grid
With a little planning and the right Nellie's essentials, doing laundry while camping doesn't have to be a chore. Nellie's Laundry Cubes and the WOW Stick make it simple, sustainable, and totally mess-free - so you can spend more time hiking, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying the great outdoors (in clean clothes!).