RV Laundry Ideas: Smart Tricks for Clean Clothes

Living or traveling in an RV makes laundry quite different from the regular scenario. You will have limited space, water supply, and machine reliance. With the proper habits, tools, and mindset, RV laundry can turn into a manageable, efficient, and enjoyable task. 

We provided several tips in this blog that will help you remain organized and have fresh clothes wherever you go on the road. 

How Often Should You Do Laundry in an RV?

It largely depends on the number of people traveling and the duration of stay at each place. Laundry is usually done by RV campers once or twice a week. If you are a long-distance traveler, then you will be doing small loads more often to keep the clothes from stacking up.

Here are a few simple rules:

• If you are running out of storage space, that means it is time to wash clothes.
• Wash before the clothes start smelling or getting dirty.
• Heat temperature is a factor for more washing.

In case you are doing a lot of hiking or any other outdoor activities, you might need more clothes in a very short period. In case you are inside during the winter trips, then laundry might be needed less often. This keeps the laundry manageable without taking over your space.

Some RV families use rotation systems. For example:

Tips for Using Laundromats Efficiently

Campgrounds or public laundromats are the most common RV laundry solution. They are fast and require no space in your RV. To make the process easier, go prepared.

Do this before arriving:

• Sort clothes into bags by color.
• Pre-treat stains in the RV.
• Bring enough detergent for only the trip.
• Carry a lightweight laundry basket.

While using the machines, stay focused. If you have multiple machines, you can wash and let them dry simultaneously. Wash very early in the morning or late at night if you have the opportunity. This is when they are usually empty. You can finish faster without waiting for machines. Once finished, use scent beads or spray fabric freshener to keep clothes smelling good while stored in the RV.

Can You Air-Dry Clothes Inside Your RV?

Sure, you can, but proper insulation of the RV and air circulation are really important. If you get too much moisture, then you’ll have either humidity or bad smells. That is why it is recommended to always dry your clothes in time so that air can flow properly. Utilize open windows, ceiling fans, or roof vents.

Some helpful indoor drying solutions:

• Collapsible drying rack
• Tension rods in the shower
• Hooks on cabinet doors
• Over-the-table clotheslines

Dry smaller loads at a time for small RV spaces. If you have limited floor space, you can hang items on the shower rail and leave a vent open above it. A few ways to quicken up drying:

• Run a fan directly at the clothes.
• Increase the heat slightly.
• Lay clothing apart, do not overlap.

How to Save Water While Doing RV Laundry

Water in an RV is very valuable, particularly when not connected to an outside water supply. Laundry water saving makes the supply last longer. Regular washing of smaller loads is one easy way to do this. Because less water is needed to soak and rinse less fabric.

Other strategies which can be helpful are:

• High-efficiency detergent should be used.
• Stains should be treated earlier so that extra washing is unnecessary.
• Use your hands to wash the clothes in a small basin.
• Soap-filled rinse water can be reused for the next small load.
• If your machine has a fast-rinse cycle, use it.

Another trick is using dual-purpose cleaning. For example, wash socks and workout shirts during your shower. This old travel hack works surprisingly well. RV travelers often stick to quick-drying, easy-to-clean fabrics such as:

• Polyester
• Merino wool
• Quick-dry sports material

Ways to Keep Clothes Smelling Fresh on Long Trips

Maintaining your clothes properly during long RV trips is not an easy task. Especially in the case where washing clothes is not possible as frequently as at home. In this situation, a few minor routines can be helpful.

To keep odor from developing, fully dry the clothes before storage. Do not keep wet clothes in tight closets or drawers. Charcoal odor absorbers should be used in cabinets and storage bins. Besides, dryer sheets can be used in between the folded clothing layers. 

A fabric refresher can be sprayed lightly on the clothes every few days. Sunlight acts as a natural odor remover. Just a short exposure to the sun can refresh the fabrics. Hang clothes near vents or fans during the rainy season. You can pack a cloth hygiene kit for longer trips:

• Fabric spray
• Baking soda
• Scent beads
• Cedar wood blocks
• Moisture-absorbing packets

How to Sort Through Laundry in a Small RV

Handling laundry in a tiny space requires good organization. Sorting clothes before they are stacked is the best method. Use multiple small laundry bags instead of one giant bucket. Each bag belongs to a specific category, like:

• Whites
• Darks
• Towels
• Comforters
• Delicates

When it is time to wash, grab the bag and take it to the machine. No sorting is needed later. Small, foldable baskets are useful. They open when needed and flatten when not in use. A folded bucket is great for hand-washing and also works as a sorting bin. Some RV owners install labeled drawers or storage cubes under the bed. Others use seat storage or wall-hanging laundry bags.

What Are the Best Detergents for RV Use?

The choice of the right detergent makes RV laundry easy and saves you space, water, and time. As RVs have limited storage and also have a sensitive plumbing system, the products should be compact, effective, and not harmful for the tanks. These points are key to smart RV living:

Compact Detergents Save Space in RV

The laundry in RVs needs products that fit into the small living space. Large detergent bottles take up too much space, spill out easily, and storing them becomes difficult. Compact pods and small concentrate bottles work better because they not only occupy less space but also can be packed conveniently and are easy to pick when needed.

Eco-Sheets Are Best for RV Travel

Detergent sheets are very light, easy to use, and excellent for small wash loads. They mix up with water very fast and can be washed with either a machine or by hand. RV users who often travel prefer them because they produce almost no packaging waste. They also occupy almost no space in cabinets or drawers.

Use Septic and Gray Tank-Safe Formulas

Not every RV plumbing system can handle the strong chemicals that are found in regular detergents. Biodegradable soaps are eco-friendly and also less hazardous for gray tanks. They do a good cleaning without messing up the tanks. That is why they become a choice for constant travelers and even those who live in an RV full-time. As no one has to worry about getting their tanks cleaned often.

Multipurpose Cleaners for Compactness and Less Waste

A few concentrated soaps can serve the purpose of cleaning not only the clothes but also the dishes. It lets travelers take one bottle instead of several types of cleaners. This process reduces clutter and weight in the RV. It is perfectly suited for those who want to be efficient and yet simple on the road.

Can You Do Laundry While Boondocking?

Absolutely, boondocking does not mean you can’t do laundry, but it still requires a bit more planning. The off-grid laundry takes your own water and power, either from a battery or from a generator. Small loads work best. Washing of large blankets and sheets should be postponed until you get to a campground.

Useful boondocking laundry methods:

• Small manual washers: Compact hand-powered devices that clean clothes without electricity.
• Washboards: Simple scrub boards that remove dirt using arm force and minimal water.
• Bucket wash system: A basic setup using a bucket, soap, and brush to wash clothes anywhere.
• Foot-pump washing bags: Waterproof bags that wash clothing by pressing or stepping to create motion.
• Quick-setting portable machines: Lightweight electric or manual mini machines that wash small loads fast.

In case of hand washing, immerse garments in a little water, rub with hands lightly, and then have a second bucket for rinsing. The reuse of rinse water is a resource-saving practice. With a wringer or manual press, drying of the clothes becomes faster. 

Campground Laundry Tips and Tricks

Campground laundry rooms vary widely. Some have many machines while others have only a couple. Before using them, check machine prices, cleanliness, and operating hours. Some campgrounds close laundry rooms early.

Useful tips:

• Bring your own antiseptic wipes to clean the machine handles.
• Use multiple washers to finish faster when available.
• Fold clothes immediately to save RV space later.
• Check machines before starting. Sometimes, previous loads leave lint or residue.
• Do laundry during idle hours to avoid crowds.
• Stay nearby or check loads often.
• Bring a foldable basket for sorting and folding.

A campground laundry travel kit helps you stay ready:

• Detergent
• Fabric softener
• Payment card
• Stain remover
• Collapsible basket

Laundry Tips for Hot and Cold Weather Trips

Laundry chores also change with each season. RV travelers need different strategies for warm and cold climates. Implement these simple strategies:

Tips for Laundry in Summer

In summer, the temperature is really high. So, it is a good idea to dry the clothes outside. But if you hang them under the trees, the sun won’t fade the colors. Sometimes, just a quick wash with lemon juice or vinegar will do to get rid of the sweat smell in a natural way. More frequent washing is also possible because of the good airflow. Even if it is a busy travel day, laundry won’t be an issue as lightweight fabrics are used in summer.

Laundry Tips for Wintertime

Cold season means that drying times will take longer. So cleaning smaller loads is more convenient and easier to complete in winter. A heater, roof vents, or fans would be a great help in moisture control. Additionally, a little dehumidifier can be used to prevent water droplets from forming in the RV. Winter thermal garments are very advantageous since they do not get dirty quickly. Therefore, it consequently reduces laundry burden during winter trips.

Essential RV Laundry Equipment You Need

Having clean clothes while traveling does not require a big laundry room. Even in a limited space, a couple of functional and minimalist tools can turn RV laundry into a simple task. The majority of RV campers talk about three areas mainly: storage, washing, and drying. There are some optional appliances that make laundering quicker, but they are necessary only if they match your way of traveling. 

Here is a collection of laundry accessories that are essential in RV trips:

Select accessories depending on the size of your RV and your way of traveling. Storage organizers become more important than washing machines if you frequently use laundromats. If you often enjoy boondocking, it is worth taking small manual systems and eco-friendly detergents.

Conclusion

Laundry in an RV is a lesson in efficiency. The first thing that happens is that you get to know the most important equipment. You learn how to use less water, and then you master the art of cleaning clothes in a limited space. The cool thing is that these practices become habits that benefit you in the future. A little coordination and proper gear are all it takes for clean laundry to be an integral part of your travel lifestyle!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a full-size washing machine in an RV?

No, the majority of RV travelers don’t use full-size appliances. Laundromats, camping washers, and small portable units are all effective ways to save space.

How do I fold and store clothes in tight RV spaces?

Use packing cubes, compression sacks, shelf dividers, or roll garments tightly. This keeps closets tidy and saves space.

Can I do laundry at campgrounds for free or on a budget?

Some campgrounds include laundry in their pricing, while the majority charge minor machine costs. Using several washers at once saves time and money.

What’s the best way to dry clothes inside a small RV?

Use heat, fans, and open vents to let in fresh air. Hang clothes on drying racks, shower rods, or hooks to reduce moisture buildup.