Camping washing machines: which one to choose?

We all know that going camping involves making small sacrifices in relation to the habits of everyday life. Obviously, we are willing to do without them in order to have the experience of life in the open air in return, or we adapt to doing things in a different way to what we normally do almost automatically.
Today we want to take a closer look at the subject of washing laundry when camping: this is certainly an experience that every camper has to deal with sooner or later and which, especially in recent times with the need for hygiene, has become more important.

How to wash?

A simple question with a (seemingly) simple answer: all you need is a tub, detergent and water, and then you can get down to good old-fashioned hand washing. However, we know that this type of procedure does not wash laundry uniformly, does not sanitise it properly and must be wrung out vigorously. So let's take a look at some more 'professional' solutions.

Portable washing machines

There are many models on the market, varying in the type of technology used. The simplest and most manageable is made from a sort of plastic and rubber basket that can be folded away; when the washing is done, the basket is extended and a small electrically powered turbine starts up. Logically, the amount of washable laundry is small (about 1 kg), but the result is a wash similar to that of a small household appliance. Consumption is low and the price is very reasonable: online it is around 40€.
On the market you can also find items that have little to envy to the washing machines we have in our homes: the weight of the laundry that can be washed varies between 2 and 6 kg and they are more solid and efficient.
Of course, they are also bigger, which makes them more suitable for those who own a motorhome or caravan and can transport larger items without any problems. Depending on the model chosen, the online price for this type of washing machine ranges from €80 to €230.

By hand, but with an extra 'touch'.

The last model we would like to describe combines the experience of manual washing with the typical movement of a washing machine: it consists of a basket (of variable size) to be filled with water and detergent/purifier. The movement is then left to the strength of your arms, which turn the basket by means of a crank. Again, the price is between 70€ and 200€, but you save totally on electricity.

An important recommendation: whenever possible try to use environmentally friendly detergents and always dispose of the washing water only where it is allowed. It is all very well to indulge in the luxury of a portable washing machine, but always with respect for the environment!

Do you have experience with these portable appliances? Write to us and tell us about it!


Photo: @Nathan Dumlao

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