How to Handle Laundry in Your Hotel Room While Traveling
When you’re traveling for an extended time, washing clothes becomes essential. Whether you’re attempting to eliminate a stain from your beloved shirt or simply aiming to avoid the steep prices of hotel laundry services, mastering the art of laundering in your hotel room is an invaluable travel skill. Luckily, with the appropriate supplies and some know-how, you can keep your wardrobe clean and fresh without stepping outside your room—or overspending.
Here’s a straightforward guide to doing laundry in your hotel room, complete with some crucial tools and tips to streamline the process effectively.
Reasons to Wash Laundry While Traveling
– Save cash: Hotel laundry services can rack up costs, often charging for each item.
– Travel lighter: Cleaning your clothes on the go means you can pack fewer outfits.
– Maintain freshness: Clean clothes help you feel more at ease and self-assured during your travels.
Necessary Tools for Hotel Room Laundry
1. The Scrubba Wash Bag
The Scrubba is a compact, portable laundry option specifically made for travelers. It resembles a small daypack in use and folds down into a triangle when stored. Inside, it has a flexible washboard-like surface that assists with scrubbing your clothes clean.
The Scrubba is perfect for washing smaller garments like socks, underwear, t-shirts, and lightweight blouses. Bulkier items such as jeans may not fit well, so plan accordingly.
2. Laundry Detergent Sheets
Rather than lugging around liquid detergent, which can leak or be stopped at airport security, choose laundry detergent sheets. These are lightweight, mess-free, and user-friendly. Just place one in the Scrubba with your clothes and water.
3. Dryer Sheets (Optional)
Bringing along a few dryer sheets in your luggage can help keep your clothing smelling pleasant. You can also tuck them in your suitcase or laundry bag to disguise any odors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Washing Clothes in Your Hotel Room
Step 1: Load the Scrubba
Begin by placing a few clothing items into the Scrubba. Add a detergent sheet, then layer in a few more items. Avoid overstuffing the bag—ensure there’s enough space for the clothes to shift around.
Step 2: Add Water
Fill the Scrubba with water up to the indicated line. This guarantees there’s sufficient water to clean the clothes without overflowing the bag.
Step 3: Seal and Deflate
Fold the top of the Scrubba over several times and clip it shut. Next, use the blue valve to release any extra air. This creates a compact, water-tight environment for efficient scrubbing.
Step 4: Scrub
Gently massage the clothes inside the Scrubba for 30 seconds to 3 minutes. The internal washboard helps agitate the fabric and lift dirt. For items with heavy stains, scrub longer.
Pro Tip: Soak for Enhanced Results
Although the Scrubba advises rinsing right after scrubbing, allowing your clothes to soak for an hour or two can yield better outcomes. This is particularly beneficial for eliminating odors and deep stains. Use this time to enjoy a meal or check out nearby sights.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
After soaking and scrubbing, rinse your clothes thoroughly with clean water. Gently wring them out and hang them to dry. Most hotel rooms come equipped with a shower rod, towel rack, or balcony railing that works great for air drying.
If you’re in a humid area or need your clothes to dry quickly, consider using a travel clothesline or a small portable fan to accelerate the drying process.
Bonus Tips
– Utilize a microfiber towel to roll and press clothes before hanging them. This will eliminate excess water and hasten drying.
– For water-resistant or special technical gear, adhere to specific care instructions to prevent damage to the fabric. (See: How to Properly Wash Your Water-Resistant Gear)
– Bring along a small, foldable drying rack or travel clothesline for additional drying space in your room.
Final Reflections
Doing laundry in your hotel room doesn’t need to feel like a hassle. With the right tools such as the Scrubba wash bag and detergent sheets, you can maintain your clothes clean and fresh no matter where your travels lead you. Doing so will not only save you money but also enable you to pack lighter and travel more efficiently.
So next time you’re organizing a lengthy trip, remember to include a mini laundry kit in your packing essentials. Your suitcase—and your budget—will appreciate it.