Ingenious Backpack Doubles Up As A Portable Laundry Machine

The biggest challenge faced by travelers especially those that like to disappear into the wilderness or on extensive backpacking trips is how to ensure a steady supply of clean clothes. Now thanks to an ingenious invention called Scrubba Wash Pack that worry may be a thing of the past.

That's because the Wash Pack functions both as a backpack and a portable washing machine - one that requires no electricity and very little water. This means that whether you are hiking in the Alps, eating your way through France or burdened with dirty post-gym gear, you are always guaranteed a fresh supply of clothes!

The portable washing machine is the brainchild of Ash Newland. The Australian resident came up with the idea in 2010, while planning an excursion to East Africa to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Struck by the limited packing space, he sought inspiration from traditional washboards to create a bag that could be used to clean clothes.

Newland's prototype was so effective that he abandoned his career as a patent attorney and focused on perfecting the bag's design. By 2012, the Scrubba Washbag was ready for the public. Touted as “the world’s smallest washing machine," it weighed a mere 180 grams and required very little storage space, making it perfect for anyone wishing to travel light.

Not surprisingly, the $55 USD wash bag was an instant hit with globetrotting travelers, gym goers, university students and even cruise passengers. However, Newland was not satisfied. He still saw a significant flaw with his invention - dirty clothes had to be carried around in a separate bag!

The recently introduced Scrubba Wash Pack eliminates that problem. The stylish waterproof pack can be used to transport clean clothes and wash them whenever the need arises. Made with water-resistant polyurethane, it features adjustable straps that can be fashioned into a stylish backpack, messenger or sling bag that gives no indication of its second "job" as a laundry machine.

The inside is fitted with small nodes that mimic the appearance and function of a traditional washboard. In order to activate the "machine", dirty clothes are placed inside the bag along with two to three liters of water and a few splashes of detergent. The bag is then shut tightly to ensure all air is squeezed out and the clothes massaged for a few minutes. A quick rinse and - voilà - they are clean and ready to be dried. According to Newland, the Scrubba Wash Pack can clean anything - from jeans to smelly socks! What's even more amazing is that with a capacity to hold 13-liters (3.4 gallons) of water, it can be used to tackle even large loads of laundry.

The best part is that $99 USD Wash Pack that will be available for sale later this year, weighs a mere 300 grams and is completely foldable, making it easy to store when not in use. With the Scrubba Wash Pack, wandering through foreign cities in pursuit of a Laundromat, or shelling out change for dorm room laundry machines may soon be a thing of the past!

Resources: gizmag.com, thescrubba.com, treehugger.com