Washing Clothes During Your Expedition
You will sweat. A lot. But you can't pack 14 outfits. Doing laundry on the trail is part of the Everest trekking routine. Here is how to stay fresh without freezing.
Namche is the best place for laundry. Lodges have running water, and you stay for two nights. Wash your socks and underwear here so they dry while you hike the acclimatization loop.
Only bring synthetic or merino wool. Cotton takes days to dry in the cold air. Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial, meaning you can wear it for days on your Mount Everest expedition without it smelling too bad.
Use biodegradable soap. Do not wash clothes directly in streams. Use a bucket or sink at the lodge. Protecting the water sources is vital for the Everest region.
Wash the essentials (socks/underwear). Let the outer layers get dirty. It’s a badge of honor.
