How to wash clothes in a sink while travelling

Short answer: Lukewarm water, a little soap, ten minutes soaking and a thorough rinse. Then roll the piece in a towel and press the water out, and it dries in half the time.

Lukewarm, not hot

Hot water shrinks and sets stains. Lukewarm is enough to loosen sweat and skin cells. See washing and care.

A little soap goes a long way

A teaspoon of liquid detergent or ordinary hand soap is enough for a couple of pieces. Too much soap is hard to rinse out and makes the fabric stiff.

Rinse until the water runs clear

Soap residue makes the fabric stiff and can irritate the skin. Rinse until no more bubbles appear.

The towel trick

Roll the piece tightly in a dry towel and press. That draws out far more water than wringing, and it does not stretch the fabric. See bamboo underwear for men.

Hang with air around it

Hang the piece so the air can reach both sides. See bamboo underwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

How do clothes dry fastest after hand washing?

Roll them in a dry towel and press the water out before you hang them up.

Can you use hand soap?

Yes, in small amounts. Rinse thoroughly, otherwise the fabric goes stiff.

Can you wring the clothes?

No. Wringing stretches the fibres, especially while they are wet.