Spending time outdoors is one of life’s purest pleasures, but what do you do when the reality of laundry while camping kicks in? Planning for your dirty clothes improves your comfort, hygiene, and overall experience, whether you’re relaxing at a caravan park or hiking through the bushveld. Let’s look at some practical methods to do laundry while camping without compromising your outdoor experience.

DIY Portable Camping Washing Machine

Creating a portable camping washing machine is a game-changer when you’re miles away from laundry facilities. You only need a large sealable bucket, a new and clean plunger, and elbow grease.

Here’s how it works:

Fill the bucket with warm water.
Add a small amount of laundry detergent or biodegradable laundry soap for camping.
Place your clothes inside, seal the lid, and use the plunger to agitate the water.
After 5–10 minutes, pour out the water, rinse, and hang your clothes to dry.

It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t take up much space in your camping gear. A DIY setup like this is ideal for those staying at our Mbizi Game Lodge & Spa caravan park, where convenience meets tranquillity.

Is There Detergent and Laundry Soap for Camping?

Is there detergent and laundry soap for camping? Absolutely, and it’s important to choose the right product. Look out for laundry soap for camping that is eco-friendly and biodegradable. It ensures that you’re not polluting rivers, lakes, or groundwater while trying to stay clean.

Some great options include:

Concentrated liquid soaps in travel-size containers.
Powder detergents formulated for outdoor use.
Soap sheets or pods that dissolve in water. These are perfect for cutting down on weight and mess.

When booking your accommodation, it’s worth checking if on-site laundry amenities are available. If not, having your soap and a backup wash method ensures you’re never caught off guard.

Tips for Washing Clothes Outside While Camping

Here are some simple and effective tips for washing clothes while camping:

Choose a washing spot wisely. Always wash at least 60 metres away from water sources to avoid contamination.
Use collapsable basins. Lightweight and space-saving, these are perfect for rinsing and soaking.
Dry clothes effectively by stringing up a makeshift line with paracord or using drying racks available at some lodge facilities.
Pre-soak when possible. Especially for socks or heavily soiled garments.
Pack a mesh bag. It doubles as a clothes washer and a dryer. Fill it with garments and swish in water, then hang it up and let air flow do the work.

Avoid overpacking by doing smaller loads more frequently, which also helps you stay fresher for longer.

Maintaining Overall Hygiene While Camping

Camping with clean clothes is just one aspect of hygiene. Being in nature makes it easy to neglect personal hygiene, yet maintaining cleanliness is crucial to feeling well and avoiding illness.

Here are a few must-dos:

Wash hands with sanitiser or biodegradable soap before meals and after using the toilet.
Carry a small microfibre towel. It dries quickly and doesn’t take up space.
Pack extra underwear and socks.

So, what’s the best way to handle laundry while camping? With preparation, the right gear, and a respect for nature, you’ll stay fresh no matter how rugged your adventure. Planning a trip soon? Contact us for more info on our facilities at Mbizi Game Lodge & Spa.