11 Laundry Tips for Long Term RV Living That Maximize Space & Freedom

Living in an RV full-time brings unique challenges when it comes to keeping your clothes clean and fresh. Whether you’re a seasoned nomad or just starting your RV adventure you’ll need smart laundry strategies to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on the road.

Managing laundry in limited space while conserving water and power isn’t just about convenience – it’s essential for successful long-term RV living. From choosing the right portable washing solutions to finding reliable laundromats along your route you’ll discover there’s more to RV laundry than meets the eye.

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Understanding Your RV Laundry Options and Setup

When living full-time in an RV, choosing the right laundry solution impacts your daily comfort and travel flexibility. Let’s explore your main options for keeping clothes clean on the road.

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Onboard Laundry vs. Laundromats

Your RV laundry strategy typically comes down to choosing between built-in appliances or external facilities. Onboard washer/dryer combos offer convenience but require 30-50 gallons of water per load and significant power draw. They also take up valuable storage space and typically handle smaller loads. Laundromats provide full-size machines and quick turnaround but require travel planning and additional costs. Your choice should align with your camping style – boondockers often prefer laundromats while resort campers benefit from onboard units.

• Light loads between laundromat visits
• Delicate items requiring special care
• Quick washes during boondocking
• Supplementing other laundry methods

Maximizing Limited Space for Laundry Storage

Living in an RV demands clever storage solutions to make the most of every square inch while keeping laundry supplies organized and accessible.

Smart Storage Solutions for Detergents

• Store detergent pods in airtight containers to protect them from moisture and save space
• Use magnetic strips to attach small containers of stain removers to metal surfaces
• Install tension rods under the sink to hang spray bottles
• Transfer powdered detergent to stackable containers with measuring cups built in
• Mount a slim organizer on the back of cabinet doors for dryer sheets and clothespins
• Keep a collapsible drying rack that folds flat when not in use

• Use mesh bags with suction cups that attach to shower walls for dirty clothes
• Install retractable clothing lines in the bathroom or outdoor awning area
• Invest in compression bags to reduce the volume of clean linens by 50%
• Label storage bins with “lights” “darks” and “delicates” for easy sorting
• Choose collapsible laundry baskets that fold flat for storage
• Store clean linens in vacuum-sealed bags under mattresses or cushions

Developing an Efficient Laundry Schedule

A well-planned laundry routine helps maximize your RV living experience while minimizing stress and resource consumption.

Weekly Planning Strategies

Create a fixed laundry schedule based on your tank capacity and travel plans. Sort clothes into three categories: weekly essentials (underwear workout gear) biweekly items (casual wear sheets) and monthly loads (blankets jackets). Use a mesh hamper system to pre-sort dirty laundry and track when each category needs washing. Schedule laundromat visits during other planned stops like grocery shopping or fuel fill-ups to save time. Keep a backup set of essentials for unexpected delays between laundry days.

Managing Water Usage and Tank Capacity

Monitor your gray water tank levels closely when doing onboard laundry. Plan washing sessions when tank levels are low preferably after dumping. Calculate water usage per load: compact RV washers use 5-10 gallons while combo units need 12-15 gallons. Reserve 20% tank capacity for daily needs like dishes and showers. Consider using laundromats for larger loads during boondocking periods. Install a water flow meter to track usage and prevent tank overflow. Use quick-wash cycles for lightly soiled items to conserve water.

Choosing the Right Laundry Products

When living in an RV selecting the right laundry products is crucial for maximizing limited space while maintaining clean clothes efficiently.

Space-Saving Detergent Options

• Detergent pods offer pre-measured portions perfect for RV life eliminating messy spills. Store them in airtight containers to prevent moisture damage.
• Concentrated liquid detergents provide more loads in smaller bottles saving precious cabinet space.
• Laundry sheets are ultralight dissolving strips that take minimal space yet clean effectively.
• Travel-size detergents work well for quick loads between laundromat visits.
• Multi-purpose cleaners that work for both clothes and dishes help reduce the number of products you need to store.

• Compact stain removers in pen or stick form replace bulky spray bottles.
• Dryer balls reduce drying time saving energy while softening clothes without fabric softener sheets.
• Collapsible drying rack folds flat for storage yet provides hanging space when needed.
• Travel-size wrinkle releaser helps maintain clothes without an iron.
• Multi-surface cleaning wipes work for both laundry stains and general cleaning reducing product overlap.

Mastering Water Conservation Techniques

Managing water usage effectively is crucial for sustainable RV living especially when it comes to laundry routines.

Grey Water Management Tips

Monitor your grey water tank levels closely with a tank monitoring system to prevent overflow during laundry sessions. Install a high-quality water filter to extend the time between tank dumps. Use biodegradable soaps that won’t harm your tanks or the environment. Consider a portable grey water tank for additional capacity during extended stays. Place a mesh strainer in your sink drain to catch lint and debris before they enter your grey water system. Empty tanks at 75% capacity to avoid emergency dumps.

Water-Saving Washing Methods

Opt for quick wash cycles when cleaning lightly soiled clothes to reduce water consumption. Pre-treat stains to avoid multiple wash cycles. Use a front-loading washer which typically uses 40-60% less water than top-loaders. Collect rainwater in portable containers for hand-washing small items. Wait until you have full loads before washing to maximize water efficiency. Consider using dry cleaning alternatives for delicate items that require special care. Utilize campground or laundromat facilities for heavy-duty washing needs during boondocking periods.

Preventing Common RV Laundry Problems

Managing laundry in an RV requires awareness of potential issues that can affect your washing routine and equipment.

Dealing with Limited Power Supply

Install a surge protector to safeguard your washer/dryer from campground power fluctuations. Use low-power settings and avoid running multiple appliances simultaneously during laundry cycles. Plan your washing around peak solar hours if using solar power or schedule loads during generator runtime. Consider using cold water cycles to reduce power consumption and investing in energy-efficient portable washers rated for RV use.

Avoiding Moisture and Mildew Issues

Implement proper ventilation by running your roof vent fan during washing and drying cycles. Place DampRid moisture absorbers near laundry areas and wipe down washer seals after each use. Remove wet clothes promptly and avoid storing damp items in closed spaces. Use mesh bags for wet swimsuits or towels and install a small dehumidifier in humid climates. Consider an externally vented dryer to prevent excess moisture buildup inside your RV.

Essential Laundromat Strategies for RVers

Successfully managing laundry during long-term RV living requires mastering the art of using laundromats efficiently.

Finding the Best Local Facilities

Research local laundromats through apps like Laundry Finder or RV LIFE to identify clean well-maintained facilities. Look for locations that offer:

• Multiple large-capacity machines
• Credit card payment options
• Free WiFi and waiting areas
• Well-lit parking lots that accommodate RVs
• Extended operating hours
• Recent customer reviews above 4 stars

Check nearby campgrounds too as they often maintain quality laundry facilities with competitive pricing and convenient access.

Making the Most of Each Visit

Maximize your laundromat time by implementing these strategic approaches:

• Sort clothes before arriving using mesh bags
• Bring enough quarters or load payment cards in advance
• Use multiple machines simultaneously to reduce total time
• Pack a folding table or basket for quick organization
• Choose off-peak hours (weekday mornings) for machine availability
• Download entertainment or bring work to stay productive

Consider bringing your own supplies to save money and ensure quality results with familiar products.

Alternative Washing Methods for Remote Living

When boondocking or camping off-grid, you’ll need reliable alternatives to traditional washing machines. Here are practical methods to keep your clothes clean without relying on conventional laundry facilities.

Hand Washing Techniques

Master the art of hand washing with these space-efficient methods. Fill a 5-gallon bucket with water and biodegradable soap then use plunging motions with a dedicated plunger to agitate clothes effectively. For delicate items use the “sink method” by filling your RV sink with lukewarm water and gentle detergent then squeeze items repeatedly without wringing. Consider a washboard for stubborn stains and heavy-duty items like jeans. Always pre-treat stains and sort clothes by color to prevent bleeding.

Solar-Powered Cleaning Solutions

Harness the sun’s power for eco-friendly laundry solutions. Use a portable washer like the Scrubba wash bag which requires minimal water and works through solar-heated water. Set up a solar shower bag to create warm wash water without using your RV’s resources. Install small solar panels to power compact portable washing machines that use 12V DC power. Position a clothesline in direct sunlight to naturally disinfect and freshen clothes while drying them without electricity.

Making Your Clothes Last Longer on the Road

Living in an RV requires special attention to clothing care since frequent washing and limited storage can accelerate wear and tear.

Quick Repair and Maintenance Tips

• Pack a compact sewing kit with needles thread scissors and spare buttons for quick repairs on the go
• Trim loose threads immediately to prevent unraveling and patch small holes before they expand
• Rotate your clothing regularly to distribute wear evenly especially for frequently used items
• Use mesh bags to protect delicate items during washing and prevent snags
• Apply fabric protector spray to outdoor gear and shoes to guard against water damage
• Keep a stain removal pen handy to treat spots quickly before they set
• Turn clothes inside out before washing to reduce friction on the outer surface

• Install tension rods in closets to maximize vertical space and prevent clothes from sliding during transit
• Use slim velvet hangers to save space and prevent clothing from slipping
• Store seasonal items in vacuum-sealed bags under beds or in exterior compartments
• Organize clothes by category in breathable storage cubes that stack efficiently
• Place cedar blocks or lavender sachets in storage areas to prevent moisture and odors
• Roll t-shirts and casual wear instead of folding to prevent wrinkles and save space
• Use drawer dividers to keep small items organized and prevent shifting while driving

Maximizing Your RV Lifestyle Through Smart Laundry Management

Living in an RV doesn’t mean compromising on clean fresh-smelling clothes. With the right combination of planning organization and resourcefulness you’ll find that managing laundry on the road can be surprisingly straightforward.

Whether you choose to use laundromats portable washers or alternative cleaning methods you now have the tools to create an efficient laundry system that works for your lifestyle. By implementing these space-saving strategies and water conservation techniques you’ll maintain a comfortable and organized living space while enjoying the freedom of RV life.

Remember that successful RV laundry management is all about finding the right balance between convenience and resource management. With these tips in hand you’re well-equipped to handle any laundry challenge that comes your way during your adventures on the road.