Directions for Wonder Wash

Do small loads of laundry manually with the Wonder Wash.

The Wonder Wash portable manual washing machine saves energy and water compared to an electric washer, and can be used anywhere with an available water source. The loads take about ten minutes from start to finish. Use the Wonder Wash for loads up to five pounds while on vacation, in dorm rooms and small apartments or just to clean your clothes in a more environmentally-friendly way.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Detergent

Instructions

1. Sort laundry into lights, darks and delicates. If washing cloth diapers, wash separately from other items. Each load should be less than five pounds, or up to about four shirts and one pair of jeans.

2. Add water and laundry detergent to the container. You will need 1.5 liters of water and 1 tbsp of detergent for each pound of clothing. Use cold, warm or hot tap water, based on the washing instructions on the garments. Never use boiling hot water.

3. Place clothing in the tank. Cover with the lid and screw on until tight.

4. Turn the handle at a rate of approximately one rotation per second for one to two minutes.

5. Release the lid by turning slowly in a counterclockwise motion. Remove the lid.

6. Drain the tank into a sink by pouring it out from the top, or attach the drain tube to the valve on the bottom of the tank by pushing the tube into the valve and rotating it one quarter turn clockwise. The tube will snap in place and begin to drain.

7. Refill the tank with clean, cold water to rinse. Put the top on and turn for about 30 seconds. Drain and repeat if necessary. Alternately, clothing can be rinsed in the sink.

8. Wring excess water out of the clothes over the sink with your hands. Hang to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• More than 1.5 liters of water per pound may be needed for very absorbent fabrics, but do not use more than six liters.

References

• Random Chaos: Wonder Wash
• My Fox Philly: Deal or Dud
• Laundry Alternative, Inc.: Compact, Mini Washing Machine