How to wash clothes in the sink while travelling

Short answer: Thin clothes in bamboo viscose can be rinsed in a sink in the evening and be dry by morning, if you press the water out in a towel first.

Rinse in the evening

Fill the sink with lukewarm water and a little detergent or soap. Let the clothes sit for ten minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

The towel trick

Lay the wet clothes flat in a dry towel, roll it up tightly and press. That removes most of the water without wringing.

Hang them free

Hang the clothes so air can reach both sides. A hanger over the shower cubicle works better than a radiator with no air around it.

What dries fastest

Underwear, socks and thin t-shirts dry overnight. Thick sweat pieces do not. See bamboo underwear for men.

Pack fewer pieces

If you can wash on the way, two or three sets of underwear last the whole trip. See the packing list.

Avoid fabric softener

There is rarely fabric softener in a hotel, and that is just as well. It would reduce the ability of the fabric to take up moisture anyway.

See also

More travel advice in bamboo clothing for the summer holiday.

Frequently asked questions

Do the clothes dry overnight?

Thin clothes usually yes, if you press the water out in a towel and hang them free.

Can I use hand soap?

Yes. For a single rinse ordinary soap is fine.

What dries too slowly?

Thick sweat pieces and towels. For those you should allow a day.