Living life on the road in a van can be exhilarating, but it also comes with its unique challenges, one of which is handling laundry. When every inch of space matters, and the nearest laundromat might be miles away, knowing how to keep your clothes clean and fresh becomes a crucial part of van life. In this guide, we'll explore various strategies and tips to help you conquer laundry day while living your adventurous van life.
Cooking dinner outside after laundry day in Lake Tahoe. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Laundry Options for Van Life
Portable Washing Machines: Invest in a compact, portable washing machine that doesn't require a fixed water connection. These machines are designed to be lightweight and energy-efficient, making them perfect for van life. Simply load your clothes, add water and detergent, and let the machine do the work.
Hand Washing: For smaller loads or delicate garments, hand washing is a viable option. Use a collapsible basin or bucket, fill it with water and detergent, and agitate the clothes manually. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry.
Laundromats: When you're near urban areas or towns, laundromats are a convenient choice. Plan your route to include stops near laundromats, especially if you have a lot of laundry to do.
Campground Facilities: Many campgrounds offer laundry facilities for campers. Take advantage of these amenities during your stays at campgrounds.
How to Wash Your Clothes During Van Life
Gather Your Supplies: Before starting your laundry routine, gather your supplies including detergent, a portable washing machine if you have one, a collapsible basin for hand washing, and a clothesline for drying.
Water Source: Ensure you have access to a water source for washing. This could be a campground tap, a portable water container, or even a nearby river or lake if you're practicing eco-friendly washing methods.
Separate Your Clothes: Sort your laundry into categories such as whites, colors, and delicates to avoid color bleeding and damage during washing.
Washing Process: Follow the instructions for your chosen washing method. If using a portable machine, fill it with water, add detergent, and select the appropriate cycle. For hand washing, agitate the clothes in the soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and wring out excess water.
Drying: Hang your clothes to dry either outdoors on a clothesline or inside your van using hooks or a drying rack. Ensure good ventilation to prevent mildew or musty odors.
Van Life Clothing Wash Tips
Use Quick-Drying Fabrics: Opt for clothing made from quick-drying fabrics such as merino wool or synthetic blends. These materials dry faster, reducing the time and effort needed for laundry.
Pack Light: Minimize the amount of clothing you carry to reduce the frequency of laundry. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for different outfits.
Plan Ahead: Schedule your laundry days strategically. Take advantage of campground facilities or plan stops near laundromats when needed.
Stain Treatment: Deal with stains promptly to prevent them from setting. Carry a stain remover pen or spray for quick spot treatments.
Dry Shampoo and Fresheners: Extend the time between clothing washes by using dry shampoo for hair and fabric fresheners for clothes.
Dealing with Dirty Clothes During Van Life
Storage Solutions: Use collapsible laundry bags or baskets to separate dirty clothes from clean ones. This helps maintain organization and prevents odors from spreading.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your laundry storage containers regularly to prevent odors and mold growth.
Air Out Clothes: If clothes aren't extremely dirty, hang them outside or near an open window to air out and refresh.
Use Scented Sachets: Place scented sachets or dryer sheets in your storage containers to keep clothes smelling fresh.
Visiting Laundromats During Van Life
Choose Off-Peak Hours: Visit laundromats during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long wait times.
Bring Entertainment: Laundry time can be a great opportunity to catch up on reading, work, or entertainment. Bring a book, laptop, or tablet to pass the time.
Stay Organized: Sort your laundry before arriving at the laundromat to streamline the washing process.
Pack Essentials: Carry essentials such as detergent pods, fabric softener, and quarters for the machines.
Enjoying clean sheets and a view after a day of chores during a van road tripping in Alaska. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Living in a van offers unparalleled freedom and adventure, but it also requires practical solutions for everyday tasks like laundry. By incorporating portable washing methods, strategic planning, and efficient storage techniques, you can master laundry day in the van life. Embrace the simplicity and resourcefulness that van life encourages, and enjoy the journey without worrying about dirty clothes.
