How to Do Laundry While Traveling (Hotel Tips)

Traveling is an adventure, but dirty clothes can pile up fast! Whether you’re venturing on a leisurely getaway or an action-packed expedition, knowing how to do laundry while traveling can save luggage space and keep you feeling fresh. The good news? With a bit of planning and smart tools from Travel Fanatics, tackling laundry on the go can be effortless. Here’s your ultimate guide to washing clothes while traveling, featuring practical tips and must-have products.

Why Laundry While Traveling Matters

When you’re hopping from destination to destination, lugging around an overpacked suitcase is anything but fun. Learning how to wash a few items on the road lets you pack lighter and still have clean clothes at hand. Plus, it’s a great way to extend the life of your favorite travel clothing, like merino wool shirts or lightweight t-shirts built for multiple wears.

With gear like the Travel Laundry Bag or the "Wash Me & Wear Me" Canvas Laundry Bag, you can stay organized and separate clean clothes from dirty ones. This simple step can save you from chaos in your suitcase and keep your essentials fresh throughout your trip.

Tips for Doing Laundry While Traveling

1. Use the Hotel Sink for Small Loads

Most hotel bathrooms are equipped with a spacious sink that's perfect for sink washing. Bring along a sink stopper to keep water from draining out and use some travel-friendly laundry supplies, like detergent pods or detergent sheets. For quick tasks, even hand soap can do the trick in a pinch!

Here’s how:

• Fill the sink with clean water (cold water for delicate fabrics and warm or hot water for tougher stains).
• Add a small scoop of laundry detergent, detergent sheets, or detergent pods.
• Hand wash items such as underwear, socks, or t-shirts. Focus on dirtier areas like underarms and collars.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.

Once finished washing, gently squeeze out excess water using a microfiber towel. These towels soak up moisture like magic and dry super quickly.

2. Hang Clothes Strategically

After washing, drying your clothes can be easier than you think. Many hotels feature a shower curtain rod or foldable laundry rack where you can hang your freshly washed clothes. The Reusable Swim Bag doubles as a dry bag, perfect for safely carrying wet clothes to a better drying spot, like a balcony.

For longer trips, consider packing a travel clothesline. Attach it to door handles or curtain rods in your room to maximize drying time. Additionally, using lightweight fabrics like merino wool or quick-dry materials speeds up the drying process, letting you re-wear items sooner!

3. Take Advantage of Hotel Laundry Services

Sometimes, a hotel laundry service can feel like the ultimate luxury during long trips. Most hotels offer laundry options, ranging from self-use washing machines to full-service laundry where staff handle everything for you. While this is typically a pricier route, it’s an excellent way to clean large loads or delicate clothing.

Alternatively, many local laundry services near tourist hubs offer affordable wash-and-fold options. It’s worth researching these services before your trip to avoid roaming the streets with a bag of dirty clothes.

4. Pack Smart Laundry Essentials

Having the right laundry supplies ensures you’re prepared for any situation. Here are a few travel-friendly essentials from the Travel Fanatics Accessories Collection:

• "Wash Me & Wear Me" Canvas Laundry Bag – Keep your clean and dirty clothes separate in style.
• Travel Laundry Bag – Ultra-lightweight and perfect for tucking into your luggage without taking up too much space.
• Travel Fanatics Shoe Washing Bags – Protect your footwear from dirt and damage during washing or storage.

Small bottles of fabric softener, dryer sheets for static control, and reusable swim bags for wet items are also helpful additions to your packing list.

5. Plan Ahead for Laundry Stops

If you’re planning an extended trip, schedule time to visit a local laundromat. Washing machines at laundromats typically handle large loads, helping you power through heaps of dirty clothes at once. While you wait, use the opportunity to explore a new city or relax with a book.

Look for options near accommodations and check reviews online to find clean, reputable locations. Remember to pack enough coins or small bills if required, and don’t forget your detergent pods, laundry sheets, or other supplies.

6. Avoid Overpacking

One of the simplest laundry tips for travelers? Pack lighter! Opt for versatile, wrinkle-resistant fabrics that can survive the wear-and-tear of travel. Stick to a few items you can layer, mix, and match, and rely on doing laundry to expand your wardrobe possibilities.

By using the Travel Laundry Bag, you’ll keep your luggage organized without having to cram in unnecessary outfits. This leaves more space for souvenirs, snacks, or other travel gear!

Laundry Hacks for Sensitive Skin or Delicate Fabrics

If you’ve got sensitive skin, skipping harsh cleaning products is key. Use gentle laundry soap or detergent sheets specifically designed for sensitive skin. Always check the recommended water temperature (cold water is typically best for delicate fabrics like silk or merino wool). Hand wash them with care, avoiding scrubbing too aggressively. When drying, skip wringing wet things and instead roll them up in a microfiber towel to remove excess liquid.

For delicate shoes or undergarments, use Travel Fanatics’ Shoe Washing Bags to safely protect your items in a machine or during hand washing.

Wrapping It Up

Learning how to do laundry while traveling transforms travel from chaotic to carefree! Whether you prefer sink washing, hotel laundry services, or local laundromats, having a plan ensures you stay organized and fresh, no matter where your adventures take you. Equip yourself with Travel Fanatics’ practical products like the Canvas Laundry Bag, Reusable Swim Bag, and Shoe Washing Bags, and you’re all set for your next trip.

Remember, laundry doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these tips, washing clothes on the road becomes a manageable task that keeps your travel wardrobe in top shape.

Happy travels and clean clothes ahead!