We all love camping for several reasons. We can also agree that it connects us back to nature which gives long-lasting effects of relaxation. However, the thoughts of clothes and other necessities you have to pack can be unsettling. Therefore, it is always a good idea to pack only portable items, including a camping washing machine.
A portable washer for camping is one of the indispensable machines you should go camping with. It is always a crucial component, especially for long term camping. Apart from the obvious reason of keeping your clothes clean, it also makes it possible to pack very few clothes and lessens the overall load burden you have to deal with.
While there are many camping washing machines on the market, they come with a wide range of functionality. Which portable washing machine is right for you will depend on exactly what type of camping you are doing.
In this article, we provide a detailed review of the 5 best camping washing machines based on objective criteria. So let’s get right to it!
Table of Contents
In a Rush? Here are Our Top Picks
Our Criteria
You will come across a wide range of features when choosing a camping washing machine. While some are crucial for top performance, others are just there to make your washing more convenient. Below, we have listed the most important factors for picking the best portable washer for camping.
Load Capacity
Each washing machine has its maximum load capacity, which signifies how much clothing it can hold at a go. Most portable camping washing machines cannot hold more than 10 pounds since their interiors are usually not more than 3.5 cubic feet. It is still important to consider options that have slightly larger capacities as this will be key in getting your laundry done in time for other activities.
Size
Size is of utmost importance when getting a camping washing machine. The smallest ones are easiest to transport while the bigger sizes may be able to do more. Hence, selecting a reasonable washer may have to come down to the camper or RV space you can spare and how much clothing you need to get laundered. While large machines are cumbersome, they can also prove useful when you get back home.
Power Source
While washing machines are mainly electrically powered, it is also common to find others that use batteries or manual power. Portable electric washers require lesser voltage around 120-volt, but depending on your travel plan, exploring a battery-powered option is not a bad idea. Manually powered washers are non-electric and give more freedom, but the operation may be tiring.
Ease
Depending on the functionality of the washing machine, it can either offer ease or wear you out quickly. Consider checking the controls, functionality, water management, etc. to make sure you’re buying an enjoyable washer.
Budget
Since camping washing machines are smaller than standard washers, they will generally be cheaper, costing between $50 and $350. You should bear in mind that price is generally a result of value even when that is not always the case. Therefore, you should factor in your budget without neglecting other factors.
Other Features
These may not be part of the primary features to consider. However, they remain important for getting better usage, mobility, or general experience. For instance, you’d find caster wheels on some portable washers, which make moving the machine easier. Some washing machines also have a viewing window that allows you to check water level or movement.
Other secondary features include the delay start function, anti-wrinkle function, hot or cold-water options, temperature control, wash cycle alerts, etc. There are also portable washers that incorporate a dryer. This function generally means you have to pay more, but it is also worth it since it saves you from waiting long hours for your clothes to dry up naturally.
Best Camping Washing Machines
Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine
- 〖Easy to Operate〗- On the control panel are there ten programs, 8 water...
- 〖Compact Design & Large Load Capacity〗- Giantex washing machine is compact...
- 〖Time and Water Level Control〗- Under delay function, previous to washing,...
- 〖Easy and Safe to Operate & Monitor〗- With detailed and specific manual, it...
- 〖Automatic Balance Adjustment〗- Automatic Imbalance Adjustment and...
What we like
- Perfect size for any RV size
- Fairly large load capacity
- Easy to use and control
- Ten programs and eight water levels
- Several extra features
What we don’t like
- Relatively heavy at 51 pounds
- Water passage parts mismatch
Giantex is a name that has earned a reputation for itself in the washing machine market. Their products are quite popular and this particular washer is loved by a large section of buyers. The Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine will have no problem fitting into the smallest spaces, whether on a camper or boat.
Despite being a portable and compact washing machine, it has a decent 1.34 cu. ft. load capacity and can hold up to 9.92 pounds. When it comes to freedom and versatility, this washer ranks above most of its peers with up to 10 programs. This means you can give each cloth the exact treatment it demands to make it long-lasting. Its eight water levels give a similar advantage with the benefits of allowing you to add more water even when it is in operation.
The Giantex Full-Automatic Washing Machine is also famous for its ease of operation. This fully automatic washer has a straightforward control. With the Automatic Imbalance Adjustment feature, this machine can sense when clothes are at the same level through vibrations produced, after which it adjusts itself automatically.
This sleek washing machine comes with numerous interesting features that guarantee a fun washing experience. The LED screen allows you to adjust controls, such as programs, levels, time, spin, delay, etc. while the transparent lid makes monitoring the operations easy. The timer function is another feature that helps you follow the operations, while also giving you a delay function.
Another feature we love is the child lock function that locks all buttons when in operation and alerts you when anyone opens the lid. At 51 pounds, this model is not lightweight, and moving it around can be truly challenging, considering it also has no caster wheels. You may also have to buy extra parts if the water drain does not match what you have.
Magic Chef White Compact Washer
- 5 wash cycles; 3 Water levels; Electronic controls with digital display
- See-thru Glass Lid; Detergent Dispenser; Adjustable Legs
- Auto unbalance detection; Auto shutoff
What we like
- Eco-friendly
- 0.9 cubic feet capacity
- Compact size
- Quiet operation
- Easy to set up and use
- LED screen
- Five programs and three water levels
- Transparent glass lid
What we don’t like
- Expensive
- Mobility challenges
- Relatively heavy
It is always a good idea to invest in a high-quality portable washing machine with great performance and interesting features. The Magic Chef White Compact Washer is the most expensive on the list but gives you great value for money. It combines the essential features but is even more amazing when you consider the performance.
This top-load model qualifies as the high-end pick on our list. From the touchpad controls to the digital display and LED indicator lights, this product has top features just like any other modern technology. Built within this portable washer is a tub made from stainless steel to prevent interaction with the clothes.
The Magic Chef White MCSTCW09W1 0.9 cu. ft. Compact Washer is energy-conserving and eco-friendly. With its five programs, you can wash different cloth types without any worries. It also has three water levels for added functionality.
When you look through the transparent top glass, you will notice a unique movement of water in different flow levels to ensure balance. One of our favorite features of this model is the quiet operation. This means you do not have to worry about disturbing the neighbors unless you put in more clothes than it can take at once.
Although it comes with adjustable legs, it is still quite challenging to move this model around. This washing machine is also relatively heavy but still manages to be lighter than our top pick. It also cannot function as a dryer.
Black+Decker Portable Washer
- Multiple Wash Cycles: Wash your laundry at home with this Black and Decker...
- Cold Water Wash Only: This portable washing machine offers 3 water level choices...
- Stainless Steel Tub: Our 0.9 cu. ft. portable laundry machine features a...
- Safety Features: Our small washing machine features auto unbalance detection to...
- Portable Convenience: Connect and disconnect this apartment washing machine with...
What we like
- Eco-friendly
- 0.9 cubic feet capacity
- Compact size
- LED screen
- Five programs and three water levels
- Automatic balancing
- Time delay function
- Child protection feature
- Transparent glass lid
What we don’t like
- Mobility challenges
- Relatively heavy
This is another eco-friendly option that uses lesser energy and water than other standard washing machines. That is because the Black+Decker Portable Washer does a wonderful cleaning job on your clothes and other materials despite running on only cold water. Made of metal, this product offers durability and a solid build that keeps it in place despite vibrations.
With five programs and three water levels, this model can do different cloth types conveniently. It has a tub that is 0.9 cu. ft. wide and a load capacity of 6.6 pounds, which can wash up to 5 shirts or its equivalent at once. While the compact size limits its capacity, it also means you require only a small space for its storage.
Its transparent lid allows you to monitor the operation and water level, while the LED screen makes controls easy. Your safety is guaranteed with this washer because it turns off automatically when you lift the lid. It also has minor accessories, such as the sink adapter and drain hose for a more enjoyable experience.
Other great features include automatic balancing and the time delay functions. The Black + Decker BPWM09W Portable Washer is quite heavy at 44.1 pounds and moving it around might be a challenge. However, it still tries to balance things up with adjustable legs.
Lavario Portable Clothes Washer
- PATENTED! Best portable clothes washer in the world. See our 2-minute video....
- ECO-FRIENDLY: Hand-powered, non-electric, easy up & down motion, incredible...
- SAVES MONEY! Pays for itself in 4-5 trips you won't take to the Laundromat. No...
- CONVENIENT: Portable, lightweight and easy to use anywhere. Cleans clothes in...
- MADE IN THE USA! Lavario was meticulously engineered for durability &...
What we like
- Super lightweight
- It does not need electricity
- Easy to use
- Saves time
- Eco-friendly
- Super affordable
What we don’t like
- Fragile parts
- No drying capacity
If you’re going camping in a location where electricity is not guaranteed, this washing machine is the perfect companion for having clean clothes all the time. Lavario is a United States company known for quality and has been the recipient of many international awards for quality.
Despite being one of the most portable washing machines out there, the Lavario Portable Clothes Washer is solid and can withstand long-lasting use. This model is also loved for its eco-friendly nature; you can get your clothes clean with very little water or even use the same water for multiple washes if the clothes aren’t very dirty.
Moving this product around is as easy as it can get since it is lightweight. The inner capacity is a massive 1.38 cu. ft. which can fit in many clothes at once and get them cleaned in just under 20 minutes. From large towels to jeans, beddings, and sweatshirts, this model can handle everything you put it up against.
Since this model has plastic parts, it can affect the overall durability. Another downside is the inability to get water out of clothes and the 5 minutes delay time you need to wait before rinsing the clothes. However, the effect of this is lessened with the washing that lasts only 15 minutes.
COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine with Spin Dryer
- ▲【Compact & Portable Washing Machine】This washing machine is portable and...
- ▲【Easy Operation】This laundry washer allows you to simply put in your load...
- ▲【Timer Control】Single tub washing machine with spin basket up to 10...
- ▲【User Friendly】Clear lid makes you easy to see and monitor the water...
- ▲【Tips】When you turn on the water you have to stay by the washer to watch...
What we like
- Lightweight
- Super affordable
- Compact design
- It comes with a spin dryer
- Time-saving
What we don’t like
- Limited space
- Weak drying capacity
The COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine with Spin Dryer is a compact washing machine that proves handy for any kind of outdoor trip. This is the most affordable model on the list, coming at just around $100. The compact design takes very little space in your RV, while the 10 minutes of washing time is a convenience you won’t find from many of its competitors.
With only a 5.5 pounds weight capacity, this model has limited space that may not be suitable for a large family. However, this is also an advantage since it occupies little space and offers convenient mobility. The spin dryer it incorporates means you don’t have to wait too long to put your clothes back to use.
Conclusion
Shopping for the best camping washing machine is perhaps not your idea of fun when planning a camping trip. But when you actually find the right camping washing machine, you realize how much easier it makes your life.
No matter the kind of camping you’re doing, the chances are that you can find a perfect product from our picks. We’ve selected them based on performance, features, and user reviews. We’ve also listed each of their strong points as well as a buying guide you can use.
Alex Mwangi is the creator of Outdoor Right and an outdoor enthusiast. During his free time he enjoys riding his road bike or traveling the world looking for his next adventure.