Washing clothes at the campsite

Washing clothes at the campsite is a little different than at home. No fixed washer or dryer, limited space, and sometimes only cold water. Yet, you can still wear fresh clothes in the middle of nature. With a few simple tools, a consistent routine, and durable wash strips, you can keep your clothes clean without any hassle. For a complete overview of all travel tips, you can also check out our complete guide to laundry while traveling .

Washing facilities at the campsite

Many campsites – especially the larger ones – now offer washing machines and dryers for guests. You often pay with coins or at reception. Be sure to bring your own detergent , as it's not always available. Laundry detergent strips are ideal for this: lightweight, compact, and precisely dosed. Simply place one strip in the drum and you're done. For those who prefer not to rely on facilities, hand washing remains the best option.

Hand washing at the campsite

You can do your laundry at any campsite with a small basin or bucket. Fill the bucket with lukewarm water—or add a little boiled water if only cold water is available. Add half to a full laundry strip and let it dissolve. Place your clothes in the bucket and let them soak for ten minutes. Then gently rub the fabrics together or use a small brush for stubborn stains. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until no more suds are visible. Then wring out the excess water without pulling too hard on the fabric.

Dry in the open air

The sun and wind are your best friends at the campsite. Stretch a clothesline between two trees or poles, or use a drying rack. Hang clothes in a spot with plenty of air circulation and preferably some shade to prevent discoloration. Use clothespins to prevent clothes from blowing away. Roll heavy items like towels or jeans in a towel first to squeeze out excess moisture. In most cases, laundry will dry within a few hours – especially in warm weather.

What if rain is forecast?

If it's raining or damp, dry under an awning or in your front tent. A clothesline under the canopy works well as long as there's airflow. In an emergency, you can also hang clothes indoors near an open window or heater. If necessary, place a towel under the clothesline to catch any drips. Alternatively, dry clothes in the car with the windows slightly open; it takes a bit longer, but works surprisingly well.

Handy tools for camping laundry

• Collapsible bucket or tub: takes up little space and is indispensable for hand washing.
• Elastic travel clothesline with built-in hooks or clips.
• Microfiber towel to roll up wet clothes and dry them faster.
• Small brush or old toothbrush for stains.
• Plastic bag or laundry net to keep dirty clothes separate.

Sustainable washing in nature

Preferably use biodegradable detergent. Simplewas laundry strips are plastic-free, free of microplastics, and dissolve completely in water. Don't pour your used detergent directly into rivers or lakes, but into the ground at a safe distance from open water. This minimizes environmental impact and helps keep nature clean.

Practical tips for less laundry

• Choose quick-drying fabrics like polyester, bamboo, or merino wool.
• Air out worn clothing in the evening to reduce odors.
• Wash small amounts regularly; this saves time and dries faster.
• Wear multifunctional clothing (for example, a shirt that can also serve as a sleeping shirt).
• You can also use your microfiber towel as a drying cloth for hand washing.

More laundry tips for travelers

Traveling with only carry-on luggage? Then read our blog "Carrying Laundry Detergent in Carry-on Luggage" for all the liquid rules and smart alternatives. If you're more of a traveler, check out "Backpacking & Keeping Clothes Fresh" with tips for minimalist travelers. All these articles complement our complete travel laundry guide .

Checklist for your laundry package

• 5–10 wax strips in a waterproof bag
• Clothesline + 8 pegs
• Collapsible bucket or tub
• Microfiber towel
• Small brush
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes

Conclusion

Camping laundry doesn't have to be a hassle. With a little preparation, the right tools, and a few washcloths , you'll quickly have a fresh pile of clothes. Use natural resources, plan your laundry wisely, and be mindful of the environment. This way, you can enjoy the freedom of camping worry-free – with clean laundry.