How to Hand Wash Clothes as a Student

All the washing machines in your student accommodation being used? No worries! Here’s a simple guide on how to hand wash your clothes, and keep your wardrobe in top shape without a visit to the launderette.

Whether you’re in a shared flat, studio apartment, or travelling back home for the weekend, knowing how to wash your clothes by hand is a valuable skill that every student should possess. It’s a method that’s been used for centuries, and remains surprisingly effective.

Why Hand Wash Clothes as a Student?

You may be wondering why it’s worth the effort of hand washing rather than just waiting for your mates’ washing machine cycle to finish. Here’s why rolling your sleeves up and getting stuck in can be worthwhile:

• Budget friendly: Skip the machine fees and use what you already have.
• Gentle on clothes: Keeps your favourite jumpers and delicates in better condition for longer.
• Space saving: No need to wash a full load for one item.
• Flexible: Wash anytime, anywhere. Even if you’re travelling or living off campus.

Plus, it’s just one of those life skills you’ll be thankful for knowing later in life.

What You’ll Need (Nothing Fancy)

You can get started with the most basic of washing setups:

• A sink, bucket, or even a clean washing up bowl all work.
• Mild detergent or shampoo if you’re struggling.
• Cold or lukewarm water as hot water can damage delicates.
• A clean towel.
• Somewhere to hang the wet laundry (radiators, coat hangers, or an airer).

Before you get started, check the care label on your clothes. If it says “dry clean only” then it’s best to listen to the advice.

Step by Step: How to Hand Wash Clothes as Uni

1. Separate Your Colours

Always make sure to was lights and darks separately. Colours can bleed easily when hand washing, particularly if you’re washing new clothes.

2. Fill the Sink or Bucket

Use only cold or gently warmed water, never hot or boiling. Add a small amount of detergent (check the bottle for exact measurements).

Bonus tip: If you’re unsure which detergent to use, this guide breaks it down by fabric and purpose.

3. Soak the Clothes

Slowly submerge your garments and move them around in the water. Leave them to soak for around 15 minutes before removing them. For lighter items like t-shirts or skirts, 5 minutes is usually enough.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

Drain the soapy water and refill your basin with clean water to rinse with. Swirl the clothes around as you did earlier and repeat until the water runs clearly off your items.

Avoid twisting or wringing out your clothes as this stretches the fabric.

5. Dry with a Towel (If You’re in a Rush)

The best way to dry your clothes is to leave them be; however, if you’re in a hurry then you can use a dry towel to speed up the process.

6. Air Dry Properly

Hang your clothes where air can flow freely to avoid moisture building up in your room (this can cause damp and mould). If you can. get your clothes outside for the most natural drying experience.

What Can I Hand Wash?

The best kind of clothes to hand wash are lighter, every day items such as:

• T-shirts and gym clothes.
• Underwear or socks.
• Delicate knitwear and jumpers.
• Scarves, gloves and woolly hats.

Avoid washing things like jeans and heavy costs as they need more water to rinse thoroughly. They also take a long time to dry fully.

Quickfire FAQs: Student Edition

Can I use shampoo instead of detergent?

Yes, but only for smaller loads. Choose a gentle shampoo that isn’t 2 in 1 or clarifying. Use sparely so the bubbles don’t overwhelm you.

How long do clothes take to dry?

Well, that depends on what you’ve washed. Most items will take around 6-12 hours indoors. Use a fan, dehumidifier or open window to speed things up.

What if my room has no sink?

Head into the kitchen or bathroom and use the sinks in there. Using the resources at your disposal is key.

Try This Next Time You’re in a Rush

Need to freshen up a shirt before your 9am? Got caught in the rain and need dry socks tonight? Hand washing is your backup plan that doesn’t require a queue at the laundry room.

If you’re living in a shared flat, it’s also a great way to avoid awkward laundry mixups. No one’s touching your stuff, and you get clean clothes on your schedule.

Explore more helpful student lifestyle tips, and discover more in your new city.

Squeaky Clean Clothes, Every Time

Hand washing your clothes might sound old school, but once you try it, you’ll see just how convenient it can be. It’s a cheap way of ensuring you get the best results possible every time you wash your clothes.

Got your own family cheat codes or time saving hacks? Share them with your flatmates, they’ll be sure to thank you for it.

Happy scrubbing!