One of the biggest decisions for RVers is whether to install a washer and dryer or rely on laundromats and campground facilities. Having an onboard laundry setup sounds convenient, but is it worth the extra space, weight, and cost?

This guide breaks down the pros and cons of having a washer and dryer in your RV, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your travel style.

🛠️ The Pros of Having a Washer & Dryer in Your RV

✅ Convenience: No More Trips to Laundromats

  • You can do laundry anytime, avoiding the hassle of finding a laundromat.
  • No waiting for machines or dealing with other people’s laundry.

✅ Saves Money in the Long Run

  • Laundromats charge $4–$8 per load. If you travel full-time, costs add up quickly.
  • Over time, an RV washer/dryer pays for itself in saved laundry fees.

✅ Perfect for Full-Time RVers

  • If you live in your RV year-round, onboard laundry is a game-changer.
  • It reduces the need to carry huge loads of clothes on long trips.

✅ Great for Families & Frequent Laundry Needs

  • If you travel with kids, laundry piles up fast—an RV washer/dryer helps keep up.
  • No need to store tons of extra clothes when you can wash frequently.

🌟 Pro Tip: Combo units (washer + dryer in one) save space but take longer per load. Stackable units work faster but require more space and power.

⚖️ The Cons of Having an RV Washer & Dryer

❌ Takes Up Valuable Space

  • Most RVs don’t come pre-built for laundry machines—you may lose storage space or need modifications.
  • If you have a smaller RV, the tradeoff may not be worth it.

❌ Consumes a Lot of Water & Power

  • Onboard washers use 10–20 gallons per load—a big drain on your water supply if you’re boondocking.
  • Dryers draw a lot of power and aren’t practical if you rely on solar or generator power.

❌ Takes Longer Than a Traditional Laundry Setup

  • Most RV washers are smaller, so you’ll do more loads than in a home machine.
  • Dryers (especially ventless models) take longer—sometimes up to 2–3 hours per load.

❌ Can Be Heavy & Add to Your RV’s Weight

  • A full washer/dryer combo weighs 150–200 lbs—affecting fuel efficiency and storage limits.
  • Every extra pound counts if you tow a travel trailer or drive a Class C.

🌟 Pro Tip: Portable washers and hanging clothes to dry are alternatives that save space while still allowing you to do laundry on the road.

🛠️ Alternative Laundry Solutions for RVers

If an RV washer/dryer isn’t right for you, here are some great alternatives:

1. Campground Laundry Rooms 🏕️

  • Many RV parks have laundry facilities with full-size machines.
  • Costs $2–$6 per load but allows for faster washing & drying than RV units.

2. Local Laundromats 🏪

  • Good option for fast, bulk washing—handle a week’s worth of clothes in one trip.
  • Some offer WiFi, vending machines, or folding tables for added convenience.

3. Portable RV Washing Machines 🏕️🌀

  • Small hand-crank or electric washers let you do small loads inside your RV.
  • Uses less water & power than a full-size washer.
  • Best for boondockers or those without space for a full-size unit.

4. DIY Hand-Washing & Air-Drying 🏞️👕

  • Wash clothes in a bucket or collapsible sink with minimal water.
  • Use a drying rack, clothesline, or hang clothes outside on a sunny day.
  • Perfect for boondocking or short trips where you don’t need frequent washes.

🌟 Pro Tip: Use quick-dry fabrics when RVing—synthetic materials dry faster and require less water to clean.

🤔 So, Should You Get an RV Washer & Dryer?

You Should Get One If…

✔ You live in your RV full-time and do frequent laundry.
✔ You prefer convenience over space-saving.
✔ You stay at RV parks with hookups (not boondocking).
✔ You travel with kids or pets who create extra laundry.

You Should Skip It If…

❌ You have limited space in your RV.
❌ You prefer boondocking/dry camping (water & power usage is too high).
❌ You don’t mind using campground laundromats or portable washers.
❌ You travel part-time and don’t need to wash clothes constantly.

🚀 Final Verdict: Convenience vs. Practicality

For full-time RVers, families, or those who hate laundromats, an RV washer & dryer is worth it. But if you boondock often, have limited space, or only RV part-time, skip it and use alternative laundry solutions.

🚐 Do you have a washer & dryer in your RV? Would you get one? Share your thoughts in the comments!