A checklist for a week of travel without a washing machine
Short answer: A week without a washing machine calls for clothes that dry quickly and a simple routine for hand washing. Pack light layers, bring a little detergent, and wash underwear and socks every evening.
Pack fewer things, but choose them with care
When you cannot wash in a machine, it is best to pack for about three to four days and wash in between. Choose clothes that combine and that are neither too thin nor too thick. Thin fabrics dry faster than thick ones, and that matters a lot in a hotel room without a dryer. See Urban Quest for inspiration for what you need on city trips. Avoid heavy cotton, which can take many hours to dry.
Underwear and socks: wash them every day
Underwear and socks make up most of the laundry, and they also dry most easily. Take five to seven sets and wash one pair each evening in the sink. Use a small amount of mild soap or detergent and rinse thoroughly in lukewarm water. A bra usually tolerates hand washing too. See bamboo bra without underwire if you are looking for a soft model that is easy to handle. Press the water out without wringing hard.
How to hand wash quickly
Fill the sink with lukewarm water, add a little detergent and let the clothes sit for a few minutes. Rub gently at stains and rinse until the water is clear. Press the water out against the edge and avoid wringing. Roll the clothes in a dry towel and press so most of the moisture disappears. It should take ten minutes at most, and then everything can hang overnight.
Drying in a hotel room
Hang the clothes on a hanger or rack and place it away from direct heat. An open window or a fan helps. Keep small items such as socks apart so the air can reach them. If the room is damp it can take longer, so wash early in the evening rather than at eleven. Never pack clothes that are not completely dry into the suitcase, as that can give a musty smell.
Odour control between washes
Air clothes after wearing them instead of putting them straight into the suitcase. Hang tops and trousers over a chair or on a hanger overnight. Many garments can be worn two or three times between washes if they have not been exposed to sweat or stains. Fabrics with a smooth surface, such as viscose from bamboo, often feel fresh for longer, but that depends on use. Use sober judgement and wash when in doubt.
Footwear and small repairs
Take an extra pair of socks and look for footwear that can air out. Damp shoes can be stuffed with newspaper so they dry faster. Pack a small sewing kit and a few safety pins in case something tears. If you have thinner socks, also see bamboo footies for women for shoes where you want a short model with no visible edge. When you get home, everything can be machine washed as the label says.
Frequently asked questions
How many sets of underwear should I pack for a week
Five to seven is often enough if you can hand wash a pair each evening. Pack more if you know you will not have time.
What do I do if the clothes do not dry
Roll them in a dry towel and hang them near an open window or a fan. Do not pack anything damp in the suitcase.
Can I use ordinary soap for hand washing
Mild soap or a small travel detergent often works well. Avoid strong products and check the care label for special requirements.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
