How to Wash Clothes in a Portable Washing Machine

A portable washing machine is ideal for the person that does not have the room for a traditional washing machine. These models are usually lightweight and can be moved easily from place to place. The following steps can assist you in washing your clothes in a portable washing machine.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Put in the load amount that is acceptable for the machine. Typically a portable washing machine will hold five to eight pounds of clothes. Most models have a line that you use to ensure that you do not go over its capacity.

2. Use a small amount of liquid detergent. Use the cap to measure out enough detergent for a small laundry load. Powdered detergents are not effective in a portable washing machine.

3. Lock on the lid. Plug the machine into an outlet and choose the setting that you wish to use to wash the clothes. There are typically two choices: standard or delicate wash.

4. Wait for the cycle to complete. Your clothes should be completely washed in less than 15 minutes.

5. Drain the water. Before you remove the clothes from the washer, completely drain the tank.

6. Place the damp clothes in a dryer or out on the line to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• A portable washing machine is ideal for smaller loads of laundry. You may choose to use one to wash delicates, undergarments or cloth diapers.
• There are hand crank versions of portable washing machines as well. Instead of using electricity to wash the clothes, you crank the machine for several minutes until the clothes are thoroughly washed.