DIY Laundry Kit

After a storm hits, besides dealing with no power, we also are unable to do laundry.  Having clean clothes is something everyone loves, but when there is no power, washing clothes can become a problem.  Going to a laundry-mat is also an option, but what if you are unable to get there?  This DIY laundry kit will come in handy if you loose power or are unable to get to a laundry-mat.  This kit may appear to be time consuming, but is a great alternative to washing your clothes.

These are the items that will be needed to wash your clothes if power is lost or maybe if your washer and dryer broke.

Supplies Needed:

• 5-gallon bucket with lid (cut hole in middle of lid for plunger handle to fit through)
• Toilet plunger (obviously a new one
• Store in bucket:
• Liquid laundry detergent
• Stain remover/stain stick
• Vinegar (add 1/2 cup to rinse water) helps remove soap
• Rope (for clothes line)
• Clothes pins

To Use:

1. Empty contents of bucket.
2. Place water, small amount of detergent, and clothes in bucket.
3. Move plunger up and down for a few minutes or until clothes are clean.
4. Remove soapy clothes and ring them out.
5. Dump out soapy water (on your garden or lawn.)
6. Place soapy clothes in bucket and fill with clear, clean water.
7. Add 1/2 cup vinegar to rinse water.
8. Move plunger up and down to rinse clothing.
9. Wring out clothes and hang to dry.

Conserving water is important.  To conserve water in this case, use the same rinse water for the next load of laundry.  You can also store two 5-gallon buckets, (stack one inside the other to save space).  Depending on how dirty the clothes are, you may able to wash and rinse a few loads of laundry without changing the soapy water.  Clean clothes is something that is important to everyone, especially when we are unable to wash our clothes in our own home, or unable to get to a laundry-mat.  By preparing ahead of time with this DIY laundry kit, the loss of power and not being able to use the washer and dryer this kit will come in handy for anyone and is simple enough to use.

By~ Kristin Chykirda