🏕️ Laundry Tips for Campers, Hikers & Outdoor Lovers
Summer is prime time for outdoor adventures — from weekend hikes to week-long camping trips under the stars. But after the s’mores are gone and the backpacks are emptied, one thing’s guaranteed: a big pile of dirty, sweaty, sometimes muddy laundry.
Don’t worry — Wash Works Laundromat has you covered. Here’s how to clean your outdoor gear the right way, so it’s fresh, functional and ready for your next adventure.
🎒 1. Pre-Sort for the Win
As you unpack, separate your items:
√ Lightweight clothing (synthetics, performance fabrics)
√ Heavy gear (sleeping bags, jackets, backpacks)
√ Extras (towels, blankets, socks, etc.)
Sorting by fabric and weight makes washing more effective and helps protect your gear.
🧼 2. Shake, Brush and Spot Clean First
Before tossing gear in the washer:
√ Shake out sand, dirt or debris
√ Brush off dried mud with a soft brush
√ Spot clean sticky spots (sap, food stains, sunscreen)
This helps prevent clogs in your machine and gives you a better clean overall.
🧺 3. Use the Right Settings for Outdoor Fabrics
Many outdoor clothes are made from moisture-wicking or quick-dry fabrics that need gentle care. Wash in cold water with a mild detergent — and skip the fabric softener (it can reduce the water-repellent properties of technical gear).
At Wash Works, our machines have custom settings for delicate and synthetic fabrics — just ask our staff if you’re not sure!
😅 4. Fight the Funk: Sweat & Smoke Odors
Campfires and long hikes leave clothes smelling, well... outdoorsy.
To fight odors:
√ Add a cup of white vinegar in the rinse cycle
√ Wash immediately after your trip, not days later
√ Use our extra-large washers for bulky or extra-smelly loads
🛏️ 5. Sleeping Bags & Blankets Need Extra Love
Sleeping bags are tricky — too small a washer can ruin them. Use our jumbo machines to:
√ Preserve insulation and loft
√ Avoid tangling or damage with Reverse Dry!
√ Ensure a deep clean from head to toe
Dry them low and slow or air-dry with dryer balls to keep fluff intact.
🧽 6. Don’t Forget the Little Things
Clean these too:
√ Hats & bandanas
√ Reusable wipes and towels
√ Washable daypacks and mesh gear bags
These often get skipped — but they carry just as much sweat and dirt.
🌞 7. Bonus: Prep Before Your Next Trip
Before your next outing, do a quick load to:
√ Freshen up gear stored in bins or garages
√ Re-waterproof jackets or tents (ask us about products)
√ Make sure everything is ready to go
🏕 Make Wash Works Your Basecamp
After your outdoor fun, don’t waste time wrestling laundry at home. Our machines are built for big, dirty jobs — and our team is happy to help you clean up fast.
📍 Find us at 169 Hancock St., Springfield, MA
🌐 washworksma.com
Whether you’re a trailblazer or a backyard camper, Wash Works is here to help you keep it clean — and keep exploring. 🧺🌲
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