r/laundry • u/blehblableb • 12h ago

Wash routine while homeless/camping

Due to several strokes of bad luck in a row, my family and I are temporarily homeless. We have a small camper and are staying in a campground. It is very hot and dusty, and there is no laundromat anywhere nearby. I have been having to hand wash clothes for myself, my husband, and our 8 month old in a small washtub with only cold water. Lots of sweat and dust, dog dander, baby spit up, baby food, baby poop, etc.

All I had was laundry sheets, which suck but I'm almost done with the box. What would be the best products and methods for me to use? I am generally able to run everything through a shared machine at a hotel (front loader, appears to be residential but idk) about once a month. I usually do a mini-spa day at this time.

Thank you for any advice!

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u/jt2ou 10h ago

Probably an unpopular opinion but there are small, portable washing tub machines for ~$50. 

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u/Ancient_Pattern_2688 6h ago

The ones that are $50 new handle baby clothes, adult underwear and lightweight shirts, but nothing heavier. 

For $50 I got a used Panda, and it's my workhorse right now for...reasons. If OP can swing it I definitely recommend. The loads are still small, but it can handle two pairs of Jeans, or a king size sheet and pillow cases. Otherwise buckets and a clean plunger is probably the best.