For travelers heading overseas, clean clothes can become an unexpected logistical challenge. Whether it’s a multi-country backpacking trip or an extended business assignment, finding practical solutions for how and where to do laundry can save time, money, and stress. With the rise of mobile-first solutions and on-demand services, travelers no longer have to rely solely on hotel sinks or navigate coin laundry with foreign money. Understanding laundry options abroad, especially with the help of laundry apps, is key to staying comfortable and polished on the road.
Below, we outline five essential strategies for handling laundry while abroad, from low-tech workarounds to advanced digital tools that streamline the entire process.
-
The Sink Wash Strategy Still Works
In many parts of the world, especially when traveling through rural or budget-friendly areas, the hotel sink may be your best friend. While not ideal for every garment or fabric type, sink washing is practical for items like undergarments, socks, lightweight shirts, and other delicate items. Using compact travel detergent sheets or eco-friendly soaps ensures that you’re not relying on generic hotel bar soap, which can leave residue or fail to rinse out properly.
When relying on sink washing, drying becomes just as important as washing. Rolling wet clothes in a clean towel and squeezing firmly will remove excess water. Hanging them on portable laundry lines or even across hotel furniture ensures faster drying, though travelers should always check hotel policies to avoid unintended issues. Sink washes are a tried-and-true method, but they’re best used as a temporary fix, not a long-term plan.
-
Local Laundry Services: Know When to Outsource
In cities across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, travelers can find full-service laundromats that wash, dry, and fold your laundry for you, often for less than what you’d spend on a hotel’s laundry service. In places like Thailand or Portugal, these drop-off laundry spots are extremely affordable and return your clothes the same day or the next. However, language barriers, unpredictable hours, and varying quality standards can complicate things.
That’s where research and preparation help. Scanning reviews on Google Maps or local travel blogs can point you to reliable laundromats. Be sure to note whether detergent is included or if you need to supply your own. For business travelers, outsourcing laundry saves precious time while maintaining a professional appearance, which is an important detail if you’re presenting or networking abroad. According to Homeguide, wash-and-fold services often cost between $1.50 and $2.50 per pound, whereas comparable services abroad can be found for cheaper, making outsourcing laundry overseas not only more convenient but significantly more affordable.
-
Leveraging Laundry Apps to Simplify the Process
Technology has transformed how travelers handle laundry. Laundry apps like LaundryConnect™ Pay and other international equivalents let users find machines, load funds, and track cycles from their smartphones. These apps are especially helpful in apartment rentals or extended-stay hotels that use smart laundry systems, giving travelers the ability to do laundry on their own schedule without dealing with foreign machines or coin-operated hassles.
In global cities like London, Tokyo, or New York, laundry apps also connect users with pickup-and-delivery services, often with same-day turnaround. For digital nomads and remote workers who move frequently, apps provide consistency and control over laundry routines. In Automatic Laundry’s blog about laundry tricks for busy professionals, app-based solutions are highlighted as critical tools for saving time while on the move.
-
Plan Ahead: What to Pack and What to Skip
How you pack can drastically impact how often you’ll need to do laundry. Bringing lightweight, fast-drying fabrics is a smart move, especially when relying on sink washes or limited drying space. Technical clothing made for travel often includes moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties that help extend the time between washes. Additionally, consider packing a small laundry kit with detergent strips, a portable line, and clothespins.
However, bulky items like heavy jeans or multiple sweatshirts can become burdensome if you’re forced to wash them often without easy access to dryers. In warmer climates, packing more underwear and socks rather than outfits allows you to manage laundry cycles more efficiently without relying on frequent full washes. Planning for laundry can be just as important as packing your passport.
-
Protecting Garments Abroad: Use the Right Methods
Different countries have different washing machines, detergents, and water qualities. Misusing these or not knowing how to operate a machine can damage clothing or leave it less than clean. For example, top-loaders are more common in the U.S., while front-loaders dominate Europe and Asia. Knowing how to operate both is essential. You can find detailed washing guides on our site, such as Laundry in 13 Easy Steps, which walks users through optimal washing techniques.
When you’re unsure about a local machine or detergent, defaulting to hand washing smaller items or finding an app-based service can preserve your clothing and minimize risk. Many laundry apps offer built-in instructions or multilingual support, making it easier to understand unfamiliar machines or washing symbols, which is something that is especially useful when navigating services abroad.
Conclusion
Whether you’re traveling for business, education, or leisure, managing laundry doesn’t have to be a burden. With a smart combination of traditional techniques and digital tools like laundry apps, travelers can stay clean and confident no matter where they land. By planning ahead, using local resources, and embracing smart solutions, it’s easier than ever to avoid common travel laundry headaches.
For property managers of extended-stay accommodations or serviced apartments, offering access to modern smart laundry systems and apps can significantly enhance the traveler experience. Contact us today to learn how our laundry solutions can support international travelers and simplify laundry services for your building or organization.
