HOW TO DO LAUNDRY WITHOUT A WASHING MACHINE
You rely on your washing machine to help make laundry less of a chore, and not having access to a washer can really throw a wrench in your cleaning routine. If your washing machine is broken or you’re waiting for your new model to be delivered, you can still tackle soiled clothes with the right techniques.
Use this article to learn how to do laundry without a washing machine to help get laundry day back on track.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO WASH CLOTHES WITHOUT A WASHING MACHINE?
The best way to get your clothes clean without a washer is handwashing. Though it may require more elbow grease, handwashing is a practical way to keep your laundry routine in check when you don’t have access to a washer.
HOW TO WASH CLOTHES WITHOUT A WASHER
With the right tools and technique, you can get your laundry clean without a machine. Use the following steps and the instructions on your clothing care labels to wash your clothes the old-fashioned way.
SUPPLIES
Laundry detergent, like Swash® Laundry Detergent1
Water
Stain remover (optional)
Fabric softener (optional)
TOOLS
Large bucket, sink or tub
Scrub brush (optional)
Drying rack
Large spoon (optional)
STEP 1: SEPARATE CLOTHES
Separate your clothing by fabric type, color and wash temperature indicated on the item’s laundry care label to help protect the appearance of each item.
STEP 2: TREAT STAINS
Inspect each garment for stains. If found, apply stain remover directly on the spot following the instructions on the product’s packaging.
STEP 3: ADD LAUNDRY DETERGENT AND WATER
Add your favorite detergent to the bucket, tub or sink. When handwashing items, only one to two teaspoons of detergent is usually needed. However, the amount of detergent required may vary depending on the size of the container or tub you’re using. Try not to add too much detergent as it can lead to a longer rinsing process.
Fill your container with cool, warm or hot water, depending on the temperature indicated on your laundry care labels. Stir the water with your hand or a large spoon to disperse the detergent.
STEP 4: SUBMERGE AND AGITATE CLOTHES
Gently place your laundry in the water until it is fully submerged. Then, gently rotate or agitate your items for at least five minutes. For more heavily soiled items, allow the clothes to soak before agitation.
If your clothes have stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the agitation process.
STEP 5: RINSE
Drain the water from your tub or bucket and rinse your laundry with fresh water until the detergent residue is completely removed.
STEP 6: HANG OR LAY FLAT TO DRY
After you’ve rinsed away any remaining detergent, gently press your clothes to release excess water. Avoid twisting clothing when squeezing out excess water. You can either lay your clothes flat to dry or hang them on a drying rack away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Knit fabrics like sweaters should be laid flat to avoid stretching the fibers.
CAN YOU WASH CLOTHES WITH ONLY WATER?
Though you may be able to remove surface-level dirt and debris by washing laundry with water only, it may not be enough to wash away odors and stains. Laundry detergent is formulated to give your clothes a thorough clean and break down soils, so it is typically recommended when washing clothes.
CAN YOU WASH CLOTHES IN A BATHTUB?
Using a bathtub when handwashing your clothes can be a convenient substitution for using a washing machine as the tub offers plenty of space to soak and agitate larger loads.
HOW DO YOU SPIN CLOTHES WITHOUT A WASHING MACHINE?
You can replicate the spinning/agitating motion of a washing machine with your hands. Once your laundry is submerged, make swirling or pumping motions in the water with your hands.
WHEN TO REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR WASHING MACHINE
Whether you need to repair or replace your washing machine depends on the type of repairs needed, the cost of repairs and the age of the appliance.
If you have a Maytag® washing machine, you can schedule a service appointment with a licensed technician to help you determine if you need a few repairs or should start looking for a new washer.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® WASHING MACHINES
Maytag® washing machines are designed to help you fight everyday stains and soils. Browse select top and front load models with features like the Power™ agitator that knocks the stubborn out of stains or the Optimal Dose dispenser that adds the right amount of detergent when it’s needed.
EXPLORE ADDITIONAL LAUNDRY GUIDES FROM MAYTAG BRAND
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1. Swash® products and the recommending brands’ products are all owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation
