Van Life LAUNDRY Hack: BEST Portable WASHING Machine for TINY Living!

[@Agurugonewild]

I always spin after wash to get all the dirty soap water out before rinsing and spin after rinse too. I love mine!

[@lindaknapp7041]

My mom had a similar washer back in the early '70's and she saved a lot of water and soap by washing several loads in succession. Just wash your least dirty load first then lift items out of the water and place in the spinner. Spin the excess water into a bucket and pour it back into the wash compartment. Add the next dirtiest clothes into the wash water and begin washing. Remove the spun out clothes and set aside until all the loads are washed and spun. After all the loads are washed and spun, empty and dispose of the dirty wash water. Fill with clean water for rinsing and take turns rinsing and spinning each load. Mom loved that "spin-dry" washer!

[@50X262]

I grew up with one of those washing machines in 60's and 70's in Japan. It was far better built than the plastic models that are available today and can be bought through Amazon. I saw this plastic model on Amazon 6 years ago and bought it brand new for $100 then since I live alone then & now. I have a house and it sits in my bathroom on a wooden platform that has 4 wheels. So, I can take it anywhere to use as long as there is a water source. A drainage is not mandatory as you can let the water fill up a bucket. I use it to flush my toilet most of the time since the machine is in the same room. Rince water can be recycled to wash the next load if its not too dirty. Thus, I save so much water. A trick is to not overload this machine. The spin cycle is out of this world, and you can use this for just the spin only too, The bottom line is, it is such a money saver and ecologically sound way to wash your cloths. Of course I take bulky comforter and rugs to a laundromat so that I won't break this little washer. The benefit of the plastic machine is that it's light weight and yes, you can take it to off grid camping! By the way those 60's models in Japan never broke down.

[@artcflowers]

Those older models were built before the greed mongers whipped up "planned obsolescence" in the late 80s. Its the manufacturers who are not environmentally friendly. Consumers are going to consume and these companies know it. Give me a Maytag any day. Its the kind of machine you put in your will.

[@Serenity_Craft]

I have had a small laundry machine in this same style for a few years. I recommend running a spin cycle between the wash and rinse, it really helps to pull the soap and dirty water out.

[@E_LithaBeth]

That's what I was thinking as I watched this.

[@angelalake200]

i've also stopped mid spin and srayed the clothes with water

[@wendygizmorazzmatazz8899]

I do this also and it really helps

[@ginasewsandgardens]

I have a studio in my backyard and I put that little machine in there. I absolutely love it I let it drain into my garden but I have electricity in the studio what I don't have is plumbing. So I just use my garden hose to fill it

[@dagnolia6004]

so smart!

[@tagr7269]

Rinse water for next soapy load

[@daizydayze9440]

​@@tagr7269Exactly!!!

[@susanharber6488]

@@tagr7269my thought EXACTLY!!!! Why the heck not?

[@minniegibson8722]

You are no dummy

[@mark_osborne]

I live off-grid (solar) and have used this exact washer for years for my work shirts and even started washing my sheets and pillow cases in it. Here's a few hints to help save electricity and save on water. I have a 5 gallon bucket sitting beside the washer with holes drilled in the bottom. After loading 6 work shirts in, I set the timer for 3 minutes and walk away. It agitates for 3 minutes, then soaks for say 10. I flip the agitator back on for 1 minute, then haul out the shirts, wringing them out as I go, and drop them into the bucket. Put in another 6 shirts, repeat. Put in another 6 shirts (or pants), repeat. Sometimes you must add a little water and soap. After completing typically 25 work shirts and several pair of jeans, I dump the wash water and refill for the rinse. Once again, 6 shirts into the rinse water, let it run for 30 seconds at most. Haul the shirts out, putting 3 at a time in the spinner. Run the spinner no more than about 45 seconds for 3 shirts. They are just as dry at 45 seconds as they are if you let them run for 2 or 3 minutes. I can literally do 3 weeks worth of shirts and pants (I'm a mechanic) using about 15 gallons of water total and very little power because I don't let the agitator run for very long.- the soak does most of the work of removing stains. BTW, my work shirts became cleaner and cleaner the longer I've used this method as compared to running them in a $1200 Speed Queen 5000 model washer that's in the house. Yes, I know, it's nuts. But it's true. It has to do with the soak time between agitation. Great video Bob !

[@LeeWaters-m5f]

What soap & how much do you do to start? Great tips

[@LeeWaters-m5f]

Suggest you write an article or video for CheapRVLiving on how you do this.

[@Valeriegoatwoman]

I have used this exact same washer. I set it in my bathtub, inside a boot tray to keep draining water out of it, put the drain hose down by the bathtub drain when ready to drain. Fill it from my shower hand-held hose - however I have an adapter for the shower head line, so I have quick-connect attachments on my hand-held shower, so... I disconnect that. Then, I have a food-grade "garden hose" with quick-connect that I attach in place of the hand-held, to do my wash - fills the wash-tub faster! But in between wash and rinse, I also spin, to help get more soapy water out of it. I also re-use the wash water for other clothing. Hmmm...hope this doesn't look too confusing. 🤔

[@mark_osborne]

@@LeeWaters-m5f I just use the inexpensive Dollar store laundry detergent, I use a "cap full" . I try to find some that has almost zero smell

[@kristenvincent3622]

Love that your “dirty” laundry was actually dirty when you did this demo. Honest reviews are hard to come by and I appreciate Bob and cheap rv living’s real examples

[@danettewelborn5577]

Yeah it was black, eww

[@StephanieTaylor-y9g]

My mother had a recycle switch on her standard washing machine so that the rinse water would drain into a garbage can and we would wash the next load of clothes with the rinse water. We lived in a desert saved a lot of water and the clothes came out great !

[@artcflowers]

Back in the 70s, my sister bought a Sears model portable washer that she hooked to her sink and drained in the shower. It had a "suds saver" tub for reusing the water for subsequent loads of wash. The design made a lot of sense, and yet, few models are made this way. If you have a well, you understand how long it takes to fill a washer and you are more conscientious about water and electric usage.

[@amydecker6207]

I just bought his for home use and started using it last night. This washer is fantastic! It is more hands on than a traditional washer, but it is well worth it. It spins so much water out that the clothes take minimal hanging time to dry. I hung up socks on my drying rack in the house last night around 8pm, and by 11pm they were bone dry. This machine holds a LOT of clothes/towels/whatever. I am washing a twin size quilt, and it fits fine (I got the jumbo 40-pounds-total washer, so mine is larger than the one in the video). Some things I have learned already: Spin the dirty wash water out on the spinner side, as this will require fewer rinses (just like a traditional washer does). Don't fill the spinner side more than 2/3 full at a time in order for it to work efficiently. You can leave clothes soaking on the washer side and then turn the dial and wash them again if they are particularly dirty (I did this with towels and washcloths). This little unit really is the best washer I have ever owned.

[@LS-yk5zd]

I also bought this for home use, have it in my garage where the old washing use to be. I did find that the items bunched up when washing, what I have found useful is putting items in mesh laundry bags that people use for washing delicates, works great. I have also found that the washed/spinned items don't take so long to dry because the spinner works really really well.

[@mark_osborne]

Yes yes yes amydecker, I do the same thing, I run the washer for like 3 minutes, walk away, let the clothes soak, turn it back on for a minute --- the dirtiest clothes come out clean !

[@kathryncrutchfield5215]

L

[@Loruca]

Ha! I'm showing my age. When you say "traditional washer", I envision a wringer machine, which is way more hands-on as you have to feed each piece of laundry through the wringer. The last time I used such a machine was in the early 70s.

[@grlnexdoorable]

If you point a garage fan on the clothes they dry in no time.

[@SuzanneWho]

Alternative: NO electric required - a LARGE salad spinner from a restaurant supply store. Ck them out, a friend has one. The handle to spin has gears which make it easy to swish clothes to wash and then you can really spin them almost dry.

[@AnnWright-jb2dw]

Sounds good. I just searched them, are they like a 10 litre plastic bucket with a handle on lid?

[@BaBaYaga1999-p7u]

What dressing goes best with it?

[@SewingBoxDesigns]

Not for blue jeans, though. But yes, I've used the old salad spinner for lingerie for ages. 🤣

[@pjaypender1009]

That's way too much soap. A half teaspoon would be more than enough.

[@zackdemundo]

@@BaBaYaga1999-p7uIf you’re dispersing out west, probably ranch.

[@maryvalent961]

I use this in my sticks and bricks. First one lasted 3 years, I bought another. I use it at least 3 times a year/week. Few more tips: it’s small, don’t overload it. Laundry soap: I always do two or three rinse cycles to get the bubbles out. Towels hold soap unbelievably. I’m going to try Dr bonners to see if it rinses better. I spin after the wash cycle to eliminate the dirty soapy water. 1 minute spin, 5 wash is plenty . My clothes are much cleaner than the laundromat. The first time I used it I couldn’t believe the filthy muck that came out of my clothes. Low water use washers don’t rinse well.

[@FatGuyinaLittleWoods]

I’ve been thinking of getting one of these for a while. It’s a 50 mile round-trip to town to do laundry now. At $150, it’ll pay for itself in no time

[@PhonePhone-sf8te]

These used to be less than $100 a few years ago.

[@michellelaclair]

Wash out by hand. I wash daily so not a hastle.and talk about CHEAP!!

[@miapdx503]

It does! I've had mine for a few years and it's saved me a small fortune.

[@GreatBunny]

Wow what is my excuse I can see the laundry mat from my balcony 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@voidisyinyangvoidisyinyang885]

the generator is $400.

[@plainwhitekebaya]

Growing up in Asia in the 90s, that washing machine was a luxury to have in our household. The body used to be metal, I think I was electrified several times😂😂. I can’t believe it’s making a comeback.

[@carolb3327]

Got one just like this. I only fill the washer half full. I wash some clothes, then take them out and put them aside, then I put in more clothes until there are no more. I empty the dirty water and do the same thing with the rinse cycle. Then I do the spin dry. Many times I just was a few clothes in a separate bucket, rinse them, then just use the spinner to dry the clothes. I always use about 1 Tablespoon of white vinegar and some water to clean the washer inside after doing laundry in it. Just let it run a few minutes and drain. Spray some vinegar in the hose that empties the water and try to set it with the top panels open to try and prevent mold/odors. Have fun.

[@emmahardesty4330]

Big thank you. Game changer. Never even thought of this. My big washing machine just broke.... Will buy this washer--perfect capacity for me, use it on my patio, drain onto plants, and as usual hang up clothes to dry in Tucson's dependable heat. You've saved me hundreds.

[@SingleFiling]

Yes! I did same during 4 month stay in Florida at my sons house. Unit was in screened in porch. Drained out the back door. Hung clothes in Florida sunshine and they dried in about 3 hrs or less!!

[@susiejohnson1583]

Thank you so much for the review!! I have a smaller version of the machine & think it's a dream. I'm weird about my wash.. I spin after my wash before the rinse cycle.. I feel it gets more of the dirty water out and my rinse is cleaner .. I know you use more power but not that much .. just a thought for others to consider 🙂

[@grlnexdoorable]

That's how I do it.

[@lisaahrendts8051]

I had one in my early years with a baby. I was in an apartment and used it in my kitchen. It was a work horse and I loved it. It saved me trips up and down three flights of stairs and more than paid for itself. ❤

[@beeonthyme5760]

I did the same. 19 and hanging diapers all over the apartment

[@brihaver1951]

Laundromats are so narly these days. I HATE using them! This is great.

[@DesertMoon]

Agreed! Laundromat dryers are smell stained with Gain and other toxic, permanent scents that trigger headaches and allergies.

[@MiaCarina-m8u]

I have been a full-time van lifer for 10 years. I have the same machine. It just fits perfectly in the back of my Promaster. I love, love, love it. Used it all through Covid shutdown! I ditched the hard plastic 5 gallon water jugs and purchased a pack of four collapsible 5 gallon water containers on Amazon. After the water is used I fold the containers and put them away. If this rascal ever breaks down, I'm buying another one.

[@wendygizmorazzmatazz8899]

I have had this same machine for almost 3 years in my travel trailer which I live in fulltime. I put it in the bathtub to use it and I store it under my desk counter which was custom built by the last owner. It's great! He took out the dinette set and built counters and cabinets there instead. Since I live alone, it's great for me! The only time I have to use a laundromat is to wash my heavy towels and bedding but I have plenty to last a month and I'm lucky to have a daughter who lets me use her washer and dryer to do those types of loads when I come to visits her and the grandkids. I usually hang dry my shirts, pants, and dresses on the shower rod in my bathroom and I have a little drying rack for my smaller items that don't hang on a hanger. The spinner works so great that my clothes dry pretty quickly. It has saved me so much money and time. Very glad I decided to buy one after I watched a review on KZbin.

[@colettemcwilliams1325]

When i was deplyed in Iraq in 2003 we used one of these for our uniforms. It was a God send.

[@rosevalerio5863]

I had the same portable machine by Zeny/SuperDeal for 7 years & it was still going strong. It was the best $100 investment I've ever made. I just moved back East where I have no use for it... so I gave it to the mover & he was super ecstatic.

[@PatriciaMartinez-wl3fj]

Use this like an old ringer washers. Fill up the tub and wash your whites or colors , transfer them to the spin side and let the water from the spin go back into the wash side. Next wash more clothes. Even if the water is super dirty it will get the clothes clean. After you have washed everything , empty and do the same thing with the rinse. Now you have washed several loads with minimal water.

[@pamplant3610]

I live full time in a 5th wheel. 8 years ago, I purchased a mini washer (Haier) for my trailer. It looks like and works like a regular washer, only much smaller. It isn't the hassel like this one having to move from one side to the other. I hook it up to my bathroom sink and it drains into my shower/tub. Just another option for you.

[@adelavan]

I've used one of those for years and is perfect for small apartments. Now that I'm back in my house, I keep it around for very dirty things or brand-new clothes that I don't want to stain the rest of the load. A few tisp: 1. Sometimes smaller socks fall down near the spinning apparatus, so keep an eye on that. 2. I've done numerous loads without changing out the water before. 3. It's a small load, so make sure you're not using the same amount of detergent as with a standard washing machine.

[@pandachickenmama]

I have had this for probably 5 years in my sticks and bricks. I love it! You can be sure it will be going with me to my off grid property.

[@marilynrenaud1892]

I have that same one and I love it! I ran it with my Bluetti EB70S without a problem. Great review Bob. 👍😁

[@maryannestage1899]

I have that machine right now in my off grid granny's pod. Have been using similar machines for the past decade. It's a total game changer.

[@villiehaizlip7626]

I've had that machine for 5 years now and it's still good. Perfect for my daily wear. The spinner is better than the new heavy duty machine my sin has. Love it!😊

[@DannyNomad]

What crazy timing, I was just researching this and about to buy it! I've been going to laundromats for years now.

[@miapdx503]

These machines pay for themselves, many times over.

[@brendabott2863]

I own a dog grooming salon. I have used this machine every single night to wash and spin my towels. I used to spend almost 100.00 a week at the laundromat. So this paid for itself in under a month and I have had my machine for 5 years. It’s a beast because it’s simple.

[@grlnexdoorable]

​@@brendabott2863I am a mobile pet groomer and have used this machine for 10 years now.

[@micheleparadis2808]

Decades ago, my first washing machine was very similar to this one. I just loved it.

[@markkunath8440]

I had a similar one too. A Hoover :)

[@VanLifeKen]

Thanks for this brother! Alot of us really needed to see this. And major props for using soap thats not harmful to the environment. Too many folks seem to skip that step. Peace man

[@tracym2164]

I was fortunate to have recently found and purchased a similar one of these units from my local Value Village for $36.00 CAD in preparation for use once I am full-time on the road. I had seen videos where people were using these and thought it was a brilliant way to go!

[@silaslongshot941]

If you average spending $5 in quarters for a single load wash & dry ($2.50 each) at the laundromat, you can pay for this in about 32 uses, after that you just have your water & power costs for a load.

[@kallasusort2986]

I have one also. The spinner is FABULOUS on these machines. Makes shorter drying time. I have gone to the laundry mat to wash towels and sheets or bigger items. I would recommend them for Tiny homes, Rv's with bathtubs to store them in ... or apartments. And you know a 5 gallon bucket with a plunger works well too for Vans. Dual use for a bucket! The hand wringing is tough as you get older.

[@auntlynnonline6206]

I still use the Steinbeck method. It just works for me and costs nothing besides the original purchase of the 5-gallon pail and bungee cords. This is a cool little machine, though. Thanks, Bob!

[@gardenlevel7385]

I lived in a tiny apartment without hookups and used this exact machine in the shower for about 12 years - still working when I moved to a place with a laundry. It cleans really well and doesn't take long. I'd lift it in and out to use the shower - not very heavy. The only complaint I can make is that the spin drier, while quite effective in drying, does not de-lint items the way an electric dryer does. But this is super & very reliable. Also, when Bob says the washer starts and stops, I think the spinner was changing directions.

[@grlnexdoorable]

You are correct.

[@bmalcomb]

I have had mine for over 8 years ...well worth finding a space for it ...best $100 I paid back when.... It pays for it's self, when compared to the laundry mat

[@jimmyrants4342]

I have this very same machine and spinner. It works like a charm every time. Yes, do not be afraid to buy this wonderful product. Great video Bob.

[@sylviahunt3419]

The first time you showed this washer on your channel I purchased one. I live in a regular sticks and brick house alone. I don’t dirty a lot of clothes in a week (like someone who works in construction, etc). I use this small washer when I don’t have enough laundry for a regular size load for a regular washer. I put it in the tub and use a 5 gallon bucket to fill it with water. It works great and doesn’t take over an hour to wash a few items of laundry like the regular washer does. I do have to use the regular dryer because the clothes lines here are about 4 feet above my head. Not exaggerating!! Because of the design of the porch you can’t lower them. I love the washer for those small loads! It saves water and time.

[@bque9444]

You could get some sort of a pole, maybe about 4 ft long, and make a hook on top end of pole. Then u put a wet and spun-dried clothing item on pole hook. Then hang clothing item up on tall clothesline. That's what people in S America did when I stayed in a basic apartment there.

[@kld70]

I hang my items from plastic hangers on my shower rod. Just clip the items to the bottom of the hanger with clothespins to avoid stretching. You could also purchased a retractable clothesline and connect from one side of your kitchen to the other. Use it like an outside line and hang your clothes to dry overnight. When you awaken in the morning, take down your ‘load’ and fold while your morning coffee brews. There’s nothing like getting dressed in clothes straight off the line. 😊 (my ‘country’ side is showing) They have quite a selection on Amazon for under $20, even electric ones. I prefer the $8 old-fashioned one.

[@firsttimecaller]

I have a similar unit and am able to use less water than Bob. It takes about 5 gallons of water (I usually heat it up a bit) to wash 8-10 heavy t-shirts and the same quantity of underwear and socks. I wash the shirts first and remove them by gently squeezing out the water back into the wash tub. Then I add the underwear and socks to the wash tub, sometimes add a bit more soap, wash them. I don't get my clothes very dirty, so the water is usually pretty clean after washing my shirts. Using the same water saves a ton. To rinse, I put in 5-6 t-shirts that I've previously squeezed out a bit into the spinner. Balance them evenly so there's no wobbling. I slowly pour over a gallon or so of water and let it drip for a minute. Then I spin until the water stops flowing out of the drain - usually about a minute or so. I pour over another gallon or so of water and let that spin for a full 4-5 minute cycle. This method saves water and it seems to get more of the soap out of my clothing than in-tub rinsing with this kind of unit. There's an intake pipe you can use to spray water into the spinning chamber as it's going that will allow you to rinse your clothes like that. But you'll have to funnel it in or have running water to use that method. I notice no difference either way. About drying: You don't have to live in an arid climate in order for your clothes to dry. I have a standard foldable laundry rack that I hang everything on and my clothes will be completely dry within a day even in the humid southeastern US. The spinner does a great job at getting out most of the water. As long as you're careful to hang shirts up on the rack, you don't get wrinkles. If you're in the desert, your clothes will probably be dry in less than an hour. I regularly wash towels, sheet sets, light/medium blankets, dog bedding, light-weight pillows. As long as you're careful, these machines can handle a lot. For me, using 10-12 gallons of water every couple weeks to do laundry is a big win. Uses a lot less than I would at a laundromat and is a heck of a lot cheaper. The washer paid for itself in about 3 months. It doesn't beat the convenience and effectiveness of a big Speed Queen washer and dryer, no. But it's great for a single person who needs to conserve and can't easily get to facilities.

[@SingleFiling]

I stayed with my son in Florida for four months last year. He had this exact washer on his screen in back porch. We used a garden hose to fill it and the drain pipe. We ran it out the back door. I also used the intake on the spinner to spray water into the spinner when it was spinning with the clothes in it as I thought this most mimicked, the actions of a regular washing machine you could see the suds pouring out as I did it so I think it is an effective way to rinse and get the soap out of your clothes. This machine can handle some heavy items but I found overtime his partner was really overloading it and the motor started to show the stress so be careful how much you load into this thing yes it can take a lot but if you overdo it, you will burn out the motor.

[@grlnexdoorable]

Point a fan at your hanging clothes.

[@Karen-00004]

This looks similar to the small Hoover washers of the 70s. I've been looking for one, so Thank You! It was a very good washer. Also, have you seen the 8 inch memory foam mattress that amazingly has been put in a small box. Its had all the air sucked out of it and looks like a fruit rollup before removing the plastic. Hundred and some dollars at Walmart.

[@bellasvanlife]

I used to live in a hotel. And right before the pandemic I bought that same machine for my room. I loved it! When we went on lock down, I loved it even more because I didn't need to use the public laundry facilities in the hotel, except for my comforters and blankets. Unfortunately, it didn't last a whole year. I got it September 2019 and it died in July 2020. I bought another one that was all in one - no need to take out and stick in the spin area. But I have to say, this one washed and spun out the water really well.

[@racebanning6390]

$159.99 .... Screaming DEAL! ! 👍👍Thanks Bob, yur a Legend!!!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸😁

[@tripletgirl2484]

Really like this simple machine. 30 years ago I lived in Scotland and used what we called a twin tub very much like this. It worked wonderfully

[@greeneyedggirl]

Had this machine in my sticks and bricks and used it constantly. It never let me down! Lost it when my apartment burned down. Since living in a van I haven't had one, but later this year I'm getting a camper and plan to have one of these again because they really do a great job, and save me money. Plus I run run smaller more frequent loads instead of waiting until everything is dirty. I love the convenience of just throwing some clothes in for a quick wash , it's wonderful and I'm looking forward to getting another one later this year!

[@dawnamorgan7364]

I have this same washer/spinner set. I love it! I have a big front loader washing machine and do not like it, it the front loader, it leave my clothes really really damp and does not get all the laundry soap out. My little unit like the one you have will get all the soap out of the clothes and the spinner leaves the clothes almost completely dry. I have also learned that by using "Soap Nuts" to wash my laundry, I do not have to do a rinse cycle, nor do I need to use fabric softener. Everything comes out cleaner and softer than in the front loader with laundry detergent, fabric softener and and the spin cycle. I am 100% happy with my small unit. When it breaks down, I will get a larger unit.

[@cotter9751]

Wow! That seems more efficient than many standard washers for home use!

[@MARKCANEER]

Handy appliance to have around. Thank You for the review Bob 🙏👍

[@NiloFlorido]

I love this kind of practical videos. Greetings from Brazil.

[@pam5006]

Hi Bob, I do believe there are smaller versions of it. Or even split versions. I have a small “centrifuge” that I used in my apartment. I washed things by hand, then used the device to spin out all the water. It saved so much money and it didn’t pick up all the fragrances from other people’s washes.

[@LeeWaters-m5f]

Got a picture or link to find the spinner? Great for many

[@kathleen3756]

Thanks for this video. I live in a tiny house and have been going to a laundromat. The more I go there, the less comfortable I am with putting my clothes in those machines based on what I see other people cram into them and some of the debris that ends up on my clothes. I ordered the smaller machine based on your video. It came yesterday, and I just did two loads. The tips from other commenters about reusing rinse water and doing a spin cycle between wash and rinse are also appreciated.

[@lizb7777]

I had one of those and it worked great!!! The spinner extracted the water great!

[@weekendlovinggypsy1737]

I've used the bucket system to wash my clothes. The only hard thing is the spin cycle. I rinse the clothes really really well and then I twist the water, I do a light rinse a couple of times between the twisting. Then I have them up

[@bonniecooke7186]

I actually bought one of those.The first part of this year after my apartment washer broke . So when I do my laundry I put a double pad in the bottom of the bathtub I shut down on top of it. I love that machine.

[@ShadowMoonFarms]

Instead of dumping your rinse water, you could ise that water for the next wash cycle.

[@patzumach3425]

I was going to suggest that too!

[@tlc8925]

Technically the rinse water isn’t clean.. it’s removing the residue.. so I wouldn’t recommend

[@Zak_How]

Heck I'm thinking of buying one for the apartment cause I'm sick of dealing with broken washers and dryers in the laundry room

[@a.mstree]

After wash, spin … then rinse... then spin dry 👍🏼 I’ve had this machine for years. It’s awesome!

[@SuzanneWho]

I have a small Japanese washer (American co bought them and rebranded) that is wash and spin combined. Works great. Can be used by filling by hand if necessary. The spin works great - no moving wet clothes from one side to the other.

[@Hummingbirdranch]

My daughter in law bought me one if these when I moved off grid. I kove it

[@kbc1883]

I live in a yurt off grid and I have a machine like that and I love it! The only things that I can't do with it is my duvet and bigger blankets. Mine has been out in my canvus wall tent where I have my kitchen and shower for 4 years and has been working great. It works with my Goal Zero Yeti 1000.

[@micheleobrien64]

I love that you showed how many gallons it uses! So important!❤

[@aidaflores6024]

Thank you. I have a studio apartment now, and this type of washing machine worked perfectly for me. Thanks for sharing.

[@guylamullins3602]

Dr Bronners with peppermint is my favorite to clean everything.

[@Deebo277]

I've been using that for years, from when I lived in a trailer to living in an apartment. One of my best investments.

[@TrishBenedict]

I've long been a fan of these in principle, although I've never actually seen one in practice. So, good to see that the positive reviews of them are justified. I'd certainly consider one - if I ever had a large RV, which I won't. But we have a small class B - 17.5! So we have a Scrubba and it serves us well for socks and undies, and T-shirts on the road. But we aren't full-time. We're just weekend warriors. 2 to 4 week trips at most. Thanks for the review and for the assessment of the power drain.

[@vanessamansfield4252]

On the market they do make small portable washers for small spaces, less clothes washing of course , but that's OK, you'll wash every other day , ... that's it . Even in a bigger RV, this would still take up quite a bit of space, . Thanks Bob.

[@FiatVoluntasTua888]

That's the exact on I got! Well thanks to you Bob! There was a guy ya had interviewed a while back that had it. Ty Bob and you are def a smart man so don't let anybody tell ya any different. God Bless Yall💕✝️💕

[@sassyknitter5418]

I have this very machine and love it especially in the winter, no need to go to the laundromat. I'm liking that you're using a solar battery, fun and cool.

[@BTNomad]

I bought one very similar to this in 2018 before hitting the road full-time. I'm still using it. I can use my little 500 power box to wash multiple loads.

[@lourdesdoty7765]

If you spin the washed clothes prior to rinsing them, it will spin most of tye soap and dirt out. Thus saving cleaan water when you rinse them.

[@tracymeskel2839]

I have one for our 5th wheel. I do laundry out I the desert, all the time. I use the sudstainable, plant base laundry soap. So it’s safe to drain on ground. I try to get it close to a wash, so I can drain into the desert wash. No mud around camp. I love ours. Even when we are in Rv parks, with a laundromat,I use ours. Cheaper, and I do t have to wait around. I can keep cleaning, as I’m doing laundry. I suggest this for full timers. You just need lots of water, and power. I use a 50ah battery, and a 600w inverter.

[@staceycarroll7973]

I own one of those because I refuse to spend tons of money on a full size washer. You skipped a step. It's wash, spin to remove excess soap and water, rinse, spin to dry or mostly dry. Those little spinners are really good. Socks, underwear and other small things are pretty much dry. I'm impressed with how clean and how dry it gets the clothes. They're really pretty powerful washers.

[@kbc1883]

Yes! That is exactly how I do it. Spin out the soapy water after washing and before rinsing.

[@Sandra.Sandy.Robinson]

I bought one and really liked it. After a year, the spinner stopped working. It was a decent machine so I bought another that worked good for about a year and then the spinner stopped working. I bought a Black and Decker automatic machine and it's still running. The first machines cost about $100. The Black and Decker cost $220 so it's the bargain.

[@grlnexdoorable]

The screws inside work loose, so they don't touch the magnet. You can monkey with it and fix it yourself.

[@Richie_YT]

Bought the same one during covid 2020 worked great and still works till this day.

[@MDH4444]

Fabulous for home , small loads and apartments and studios but I think for nomads is The space and water , most nomads don’t carry too much water to avoid extra weight equals spending more in fuel

[@hannahnguyen3454]

Ikr. Choosing a nomad life but still want to have all the modern conviences is kind of sad. It's so easy just to wash by hands and sun/air dry on a daily basis.

[@sandyschneider6792]

I had a small RV washing/ringer machine when my son and I lived in a cabin and he was potty training g. I loved it! My sister had one for diapers with twins. Loved it! Still have it!

[@muramasa24]

2018-2023 i used one of those and it went up in value and was able to sell it for a decent price considering the age. Costways greatest import.

[@tamagotchiocean]

I found the same kind of washing machine at the thrift store and i love it! No more expensive laundry mat and i just hang dry my clothes. Use a lint roller if there’s lint after the dry.

[@Skuinchy]

I have this same costway washer unit that I have used in an apartment situation for years. If I could make a recommendation it would be to watch out for leaving water in the unit especially any left over in the "dryer" part. It will build up mold and mildew very quickly. I wish that I sprayed a little bit of white vinegar into the dryer before putting it away everytime.

[@user-xp5qx8wg9x]

Great review Bob! Really helpful because it's budget friendly and for some, it doesn't take up much space. Thanks for letting us know what's out there.

[@michelmoss7559]

Was thinking about getting one, did not know it took so much water. Plenty of room and power, but, will see what transpires. Thanks for the review!

[@USAForever4me]

I have a toy hauler 18ft I keep this n the shower. I fill and empty in the shower stall so I don’t have to hook anything up except power. I love it it’s well worth the $ I rate it 100

[@fromcitytowild]

We just bought one thanks to you! Living in the hi-desert for a month and haven't done laundry yet! 🤣

[@garyholman2947]

Good Idea Bob, those washers are the norm here in Thailand ... May You Stay Well and Happy

[@debbiesdeathpile]

I’ve had this machine for years and I absolutely love it!! You’re right about the dryer/spinner, it works great and your clothes come out almost completely dry

[@daizydayze9440]

Thanx Bob! I actually planned on getting one when I first started vanlife 6 years ago. I just made room for that particular washer as I have a Costway refrigerator. Now the price is probably going to go up.😅

[@GHOSTLYWHISPERSASMR]

Hey there. I just wanted to share some really helpful tips on using these portable washing machine that would really help you and your viewers out. I have a model similar to yours I bought 6 years ago and still going strong. But the most common mistakes people make when using this type machines are the following. (1) These machines do NOT require a lot of detergent. Only 1 cap full will get your whole load clean. To much detergent will cause to much soap suds, then you end of adding more water just to rinse them off. When you use a cap full, there's no soap on your clothes and you won't need more water just to rinse. Simply transfer from washer to spinner and you're done. Less water, less work, less time. Small amount of detergent is key. Powdered detergent is NOT great for these kind of machines I am told so I always use liquid like Tide or Gain. When washing jeans, only wash 2 pair at a time for best results. Anymore then that they won't get clean properly. 5 maybe 6 shirts at a time is good. Sox and underwear shouldn't be a problem by themselves. Most tubs and showers don't have the right connection you need to make the hoses hook up, so to prevent going to Lowes or Home Depot, I just use a bucket to add my water and put the hose down the shower or tub drain. Works just as good. When you're done, always lift the machine or tilt it slightly to run the excess water out of the hose while still in the tub or shower. Being trapped inside will cause it to mildew and smell. After time the hose will collect clothing lint so it wouldn't hurt to run a little cleaner and warm water to clean your hose when you're done . Hope this helps!!

[@victoriamaxwell4899]

I remember my grandmother in England having one of these in the 70s and 80s. I remember the pain of having to haul the wet clothes into the spinner in small batches. It was the step up from having a washday that my grandmother spent a whole day doing laundry with my mum when she was a child. I remember really appreciating a washing machine that washed and spun the clothes on its own. But the amount of power and water that modern machines use compared to this is so bad. Good on you for using this little machine and I’m pleased to see that they still make them.

[@patriciaphelps5875]

Memories. My Mum didn't have a washing machine (twin tub) until my Auntie bought a new machine. Prior to that we had a copper heated by gas to heat water and Mum would soak whites in the that hot water, she had a wooden thing she'd 'agitate' them with so they didn't just sit there. We had 'tongues' to get the white load out and they were rinsed in the sink, run through a mangle and hung on the line. The water in the copper was drained out via the tap on the side, was transferred to a big wash tub and agitated by a big long handled ponch (a weird thing that kind of looked like a loo 'unclogger' but made of brass that had holes in so water passed through) and regular clothes were then washed, rinsed in the sink and carted over to the mangle ..... Mum had a short handled ponch that she'd use in a big basin during the week for small stuff and a washboard that had been my Grandma's. She 'let' me use that propped in a smaller basin - mostly to keep me from being underfoot, I think - to wash hankies, flannels (washcloths). The mangle was large, and the washboard now resides as a decoration in my kitchen. What a chore and lugging between big sink to rinse ...... back to the mangle .... I don't know if you've seen the old show 'Last of the Summer Wine' but Nora (I think it was) had the same or very similar mangle in an episode. I've seen it on US TV as well as Brit, very funny.

[@danielkearns3600]

I have a very small washing machine that will collapse and just just do a day of laundry for one person that is very conservative. I have the ac drain that feels my water tanks in the summer and have no problems with getting over 2 gallons of water a day with high humidity and use dehumidifier in winter and catch the water and reuse. I have 2400 watts of solar on 24v 600 amp hour lithium battery bank and completely off grid use. Use composite toliet and use biodegradable soaps that are all natural and have zero issues with environmental impact. I dry clothes on a line either inside or outside depending on if I need humidity in winter due to diesel heater or low humidity in summer which is normally not common. I catch water also and filter it if needed and use chlorine and uv lights to clean water and buy drinking water and cooking water.

[@Zoot_of_Anthrax]

You should drain the tub and then do spin(s) on the soapy clothes to knock out as much soapy water as possible, THEN rinse. And save rinse water for next load. The spin will extract more soapy water so your rinse will do more work, and then you spin a second time to save drying time :)

[@SandraBonney]

I live in a granny flat ( no laundry). I've been contemplating buying one of these for a while. Thanks for the review. In Australia we used to have a bigger version of these in the 80's and they were called "twin tubs" in those days. Really good machines. I liked that you could recycle the rinse water.

[@SpicyGramCracker]

I had this washer in my apt. Cannot recommend it enough!

[@roybrookton7938]

Thanks again for a very informative and useful video, your information is really helping me set up my rig ,it's been a 2 year build but lm almost there thanks to the great information and handy hints l get from you and the people you interviewed, kind regards Roy

[@vanchick3262]

I ❤ the Costway brand! I have a low watt chest refrigerator/freezer and a low watt floor model air conditioner that both work great! I would consider the Costway washer too, but compared to the cost of doing one load of laundry at a laundrymat to the labor, cost & space to transport, Harland store ten gallons of water along with the space the machine takes, it really makes the most sense if you are on a well somewhere remote. That's just my opinion. However, I really do hate going to the laundrymat, too. You don't know what the public is putting in those machines. Often, my clothes don't even get as clean as I expected.

[@kimberlybeck4128]

I used my little washer in my 5th wheel and it worked great. Put it in the shower when I used it. I think it washed as good as any other washer. Key cleaning tip, soak overnight. And line dry or hang dry inside overnight if weather was not good.

[@bobmilleit1976]

We have one. Works great. Had it for almost 5 years. Still works. The arm broke on the centrifuge but we fixed it. It broke because of the break, don’t open it while it’s spinning and you won’t have any issues.

[@thedirtycrockpot]

We raised 8 children, and we went through a washer and dryer yearly. I bought one of these back in 2020 and use it for small loads-things like cleaning rags, bedding that will fit, etc. This has really helped extend the life of my washing machine. Tip: If you buy the one that drains with a pump and do not want to stand there and wait, UNPLUG it! Then it will drain; don't worry that it will burn the pump up!

[@EarlyIronAddict427]

That’s great. I searched and see they also have a dryer as well. I have a closet in my 30’ motor home that really just has junk in it. lol. This is definitely on my list to buy. Thx Bob. 👍🏻✌🏻

[@grlnexdoorable]

No need for a dryer. Hang clothes on a hanger, line of rack and point a fan.

[@darleneprice3492]

I bought mine for apt living and no easy way to get to laundry Matt. Paid less than $200.00 2 years ago. It does an excellent job and so easy to use. Important to know do not over load and go easy on the soap or you'll have to do couple of rinses. I'm a senior female so I don't have heavy clothes. I love it.

[@pandaoverboard]

I used to have one of these back in the day and it def. changes the game! Better than hand washing for sure!