When it comes to planning trips, we tick off the usual stuff like spare undies, snacks and medicines, but what about our laundry? We get it, routines go out the window when we’re living our best life in a faraway land or perhaps somewhere a bit closer, but it is possible to maintain an eco-friendly laundry habit while on the road.
Whether you’re travelling across the country in an RV, staying in an AirBnb or heading overseas, add our best sustainable hacks to your laundry routine for fresher, cleaner and greener clothes.
1. Pack eco-friendly detergent
When it comes to practicality and convenience, no-one, we repeat, no-one wants to carry around a huge jug of detergent or risk a powder spillage. If you’re heading overseas, there is an option to buy what’s available and save on suitcase space but it gets a bit tricky when you don’t really know what’s inside.
Your best bet? Our brand new Pocket Pals, made specifically for life on the go. Each Pocket Pal holds five (large) loads of detergent and is made to last (particularly handy when it’s a bumpy journey – hello turbulence!). Filled with our OG Dirt Laundry Detergent, it’s made with 100% pure and powerful plant-based and biodegradable ingredients. It’s also available in our Advanced Wash Detergent if you’re after an extra boost and stronger floral scent.
Our Pocket Pals can also be refilled and reused as part of our Refill Return Program for a second, third or fourth life. They are fun size so they’re easy to stack and take with you throughout your trip, without being annoying to carry. Win-win!
2. Spot clean your stains
Just like you would at home, spot clean your stains instead of adding them to the washing machine.
Not only does it save water and detergent, it also saves you time, so you can do more important stuff, like exploring a new city or resting after a long drive. Just like our Pocket Pals, our Stain Remover Carry On is small enough to pop in your bag and is packed with biodegradable and plant-based ingredients.
To use, target the stain directly with our spray nozzle, agitate it with your fingers and let it sit between five minutes and half an hour before blotting to remove or adding it to a full load of washing.
3. No machine, no worries
If you’re travelling to a more secluded spot with no laundromat in sight, don’t stress. If our ancestors could get the laundry done sans machine, you can too. With the help of a Scrubba Wash Bag AKA ‘the world’s smallest washing machine’ you can do your washing wherever and whenever you like in just a few simple steps. Think of it as the modern version of an old school washboard.
To wash, just add water and detergent to your clothes in the Scrubba, rub it against the washboard, then rinse and dry – easy peasy!
It’s a less strenuous alternative to handwashing and it beats cleaning your clothes in a dirty sink or bathtub. At around 150g, it’s super light to carry and can be easily packed in your suitcase or carry-on.
4. Ditch the dryer, use the sun
We know, we know… dryers come in handy when you’re on-the-go and need your favourite outfits dried pronto, but, if possible, ditch the dryer and air dry your clothes instead.
Not only is it better for the environment, it’s safer for your clothes too. Dryers use a lot of energy, contributing to a higher carbon footprint, and can also cause your clothes to shrink due to the heavy agitation and high-heat settings. To make sure your clothes don’t go flying, pack our Stainless Steel Pegs for a strong, durable and plastic-free hang.
Find out more about the power of the sun stain removal here.
5. Spray your way to freshness
Got a jam-packed travel schedule and no time to properly launder your clothes? If you need to freshen up your favourite in-between washes, a fabric spray is a great option.
Perfect for those who don’t have the time (or energy) to do any type of washing, a fabric spray removes odours and ensures that your clothes smell fresh so you can travel with confidence. Plus, you can spray it on any fabrics that need a refresh, like beds, blankets or even smelly shoes!
Next time you’re planning a trip, don’t forget about your laundry routine. It might seem like ‘another thing’ to add to your checklist, but with our sustainable travel hacks, you can keep your clothes clean and smelling fresh while still being kind to the environment.