Introduction: Off-Grid Washing Machine

In just a few short minutes, you can make your very own clothes-washing system that doesn't require electricity or running water. This system will go great in your emergency preparedness supplies!

*PLEASE NOTE: This is not a new idea... it has been around for many years. I'm not sure where I first heard of it, but thought I'd try to make something worth your time with clear pictures and instructions. We all enjoy the shade of trees planted by others we have never met. Whoever came up with this idea originally, we salute you!

Step 1: What You Are Going to Need:

(1) 5 Gallon Bucket with Plastic Lid

(1) Rubber Plunger

(1) Drill

(1) 3/8’’ Drill Bit

(1) 1 1/8’’ Hole Saw Bit OR

(1) 1 1/8’’ Spade Bit OR

(1) Razor knife

(1) Hammer (for getting the lid on tight)

(1) Bucket Opener (for easier opening)

This is not an exhaustive list of tools for this particular project.

You can get creative with what tools you use to get it done.

Step 2: Drill/Cut a Hole in the Bucket Lid

There are a variety of ways to get a hole cut out of the middle of the bucket lid.

The hole just needs to be big enough for the plunger to fit through, with a little wiggle room.

I used a 1 1/8’’ hole saw bit, but you can use a spade bit, or even just a sharp knife.

It is pretty easy to center the hole right in the middle of the lid

Step 3: Drill Holes in the Plunger

Drilling holes will prevent the plunger from sticking to the bottom of the bucket and allows water to flow more freely.

This makes the agitating process more efficient.

Step 4: Get Washing

Very little laundry detergent is needed in such a small load. We prefer using TOUGH-GRID Laundry Liberator to get the job done. ¼ Tablespoon of this stuff will be plenty. If you use other detergents, be sure to follow proper measurements. Please note that anything you put in your clothes will need to be rinsed out.

Step 5: Agitate Well for Several Minutes (wash Cycle)

Sasquatch Arm Not Required ; - )

Step 6: Empty the Grey Water Out of the Bucket, Wring Out Clothes

Since you will probably be dumping this water outside, it is a good Idea to use a detergent that won’t harm the environment. Be sure to use a soap that is biodegradable AND good at cleaning your clothes

Step 7: Rinse Cycle

Place the clothes back in the bucket with fresh, clean water

Agitate well for several minutes to rinse out the suds

Wring out your clothes (if permitted by your clothing care instructions)

Hang clothes out to dry, or put them in a dryer

Voila! Clean Clothes Off-The-Grid!

Visit us at www.TOUGHGRID.com for friendly Prepper tips and advice

There are all kinds of great ideas floating around out there that can make this off-grid washing machine even better! Thanks, EricB10 for sharing this great video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtbkXyWFFm8 (copy and paste this URL) with a few tricks on how to better rinse your clothes with an improvised spin cycle! This simple trick can save you from wringing out your clothes by hand.