Are you planning to go on an RV adventure? Whether you’re going on a cross-country trip like we did or just heading out for a weekend getaway, it’s essential to be prepared for the task of life on the road – doing laundry!
We know. We know. Laundry may not be the most exciting part of the journey, but it’s a necessary chore that cannot be avoided. And let’s face it, finding a laundromat or relying on campground facilities can be a hassle, not to mention expensive. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you effectively do your laundry while saving money for other adventures along the way.
Here, we’ll share valuable tips and tricks, including innovative hacks and must-have products, to ensure your laundry routine is a breeze while on the road. So, buckle up and let’s dive into the wonderful world of doing laundry in an RV!
For many adventure-seekers, hitting the road in an RV is the ultimate way to explore nature and enjoy the great outdoors. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is how to tackle laundry during camping trips. Doing laundry while in an RV can be a challenge, but with the right supplies and a little planning, you can keep your clothes clean and fresh without breaking the bank.
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First and foremost, we do not have a washer/dryer in our Rv. Some do, but most don’t. We rely on laundry facilities at the campgrounds we choose in advance. Planning this part is essential. Not all campgrounds have laundry facilities. We like to choose KOA (Kampgrounds of America) because of the size of our rig, the amenities and facilities they have, and also for the events they have for children. By taking advantage of these facilities, you can avoid the hassle and expense of finding a laundromat in a nearby town.
Next, plan your laundry routine strategically. Instead of waiting until you’re out of clean clothes and need to do a massive load, try to do smaller loads more frequently. This will not only save you time since smaller loads are quicker to wash and dry, but it will also save you money since you won’t have to pay for multiple cycles.
Sort your laundry into different piles based on color and fabric type. This will ensure that your clothes are washed properly and prevent any damage. Before tossing them in the wash, make sure to read and follow the care instructions provided. Ensuring that you separate your lights from darks and wash delicate items on a gentle cycle will help prevent damage and keep your clothes looking their best.
Many campgrounds offer laundry facilities equipped with coin-operated washers and dryers, allowing campers to refresh their clothes during longer stays. We save up all of our quarters throughout the year and keep them in empty pill bottles. It’s a great way to store them in your RV and makes it easier to just grab them and go! Some campgrounds offer washing and drying machines that you can pay with on an app on your phone. We find this super convenient if you didn’t save enough quarters or have cash available.
Saving money with laundry detergent is easy with a few smart strategies. Consider purchasing detergent in bulk or opting for concentrated formulas to get more loads for your money. Using the recommended amount per load, or even slightly less for smaller loads, can extend the life of your detergent and reduce waste. Additionally, look for coupons, discounts, or store promotions to score deals on your favorite brands. Finally, consider using eco-friendly detergent options, which often require smaller amounts per load and may be gentler on both your clothes and your wallet in the long run. We buy the pod detergent and store them in ammo boxes under our sink in the bathroom. They are water resistant, plastic and compact which saves us space in the bathroom.
Lastly, consider investing in a clothesline or drying rack for air-drying your clothes. This natural method not only saves money but also helps preserve the fabric and reduce shrinking. Plus, the fresh scent of air-dried clothes is an added bonus. If air drying isn’t an option, try to minimize your time using the dryer by removing clothes while they are still slightly damp and allowing them to finish drying on a clothesline or rack.
By following these quick tips, you can make your RV laundry days more efficient and save money in the process. Saving extra quarters throughout the year, extending the life of your clothes, bringing your own laundry detergent and softeners, and utilizing air-drying methods are all simple yet effective ways to cut down on laundry expenses. With a little planning and organization, you can make the most out of your RV laundry day and have more money to explore new destinations on your travels.
Packing Light: Tips for Minimizing Laundry
When you embark on an RV trip, packing light becomes a crucial aspect of the journey. Limited storage space often poses a challenge, and no one wants to spend their travel time doing laundry. By following a few tips for minimizing laundry on your RV trips, you can maximize your time exploring the great outdoors.
Firstly, consider bringing clothes that are easy to clean and dry quickly. Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that are resistant to wrinkles. These types of clothes can be easily washed by hand and hung to dry, eliminating the need for constant visits to the laundromat. Additionally, packing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched will extend your wardrobe options while minimizing the number of items you need to bring.
To further reduce the need for laundry, pack travel-sized bottles of stain remover and laundry detergent. Treating stains immediately will prevent them from setting and make them easier to remove later. By washing clothes as soon as they become dirty, you can stay ahead of the laundry game and minimize the overall amount of laundry you need to tackle. Additionally, wearing clothes multiple times before washing can also help conserve resources and reduce the frequency of laundry sessions.
We wanted to share with you our laundry hamper that we love so much and use all the time. This collapsable laundry hamper is perfect for our family of 5 on the go. It holds all of our dirty laundry, has handle for easy carrying, and collapses and stores away easily when not in use. This is a must have in our camper!
Lastly, don’t forget to freshen up your clothes in between washes. Use fabric sprays or dryer sheets to eliminate odors and keep your clothes smelling great. We love to use lavender sachets and put them in our drawers. You can view our blog about lavender here. You can also consider using baking soda or vinegar as natural odor absorbers. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda or add a dash of vinegar to a small pouch and place it in your drawers or closet to keep your clothes smelling fresh without using harsh chemicals.
With these simple post-laundry care tips, you can keep your clothes looking and smelling fresh while on the road in your RV. By reducing the amount of clothing you bring, air-drying, proper storage, and using odor eliminators, you’ll not only save money on laundry but also extend the life of your clothes, making your journey more enjoyable and comfortable. So go out…….enjoy your adventure………..save money…….and worry less about laundry as you travel this camping season!
Love the mesh hamper! No weight!