Having a washer dryer unit on board can save the inconvenience of interrupting a camping trip to visit the laundry mat every few days, but in exchange, requires cabinet space that might otherwise be used for storage.  If travel is limited to long weekends and an occasional road trip, a washer and dryer in the RV is likely unnecessary.  However, for those who full time or spend multiple weeks out on the road, keeping the laundry from piling up can be easily accomplished with help from the on board washer and dryer.

RV washing machines and dryers are available in either a stackable or combination unit.  Stackable systems allow the user to launder larger loads, while combination components are designed to save space.  All types of washing machine units require winterization prior to putting the RV into cold weather storage. 

If the unit is prepped for a washer/dryer system and you wish to add the appliance at a later date, you can purchase appliances from your RV dealer or Monaco National Parts.  To install a washer/dryer system:

1. Remove the recreational vehicle cabinet doors.
2. Remove shelving and brackets.
3. Remove the rear wall.
4. Locate plumbing lines and water faucets.
5. Remove cap from the 2-inch drainpipe and install the drain hose.
6. Connect the appliance power cord to the wall outlet.
7. Position appliances in cabinet.
8. Reinstall cabinet doors.
9. Follow operating instructions included with the washer dryer.

To prevent negative air pressure while operating the washer/dryer, vented doors should be installed at the appliance cabinet.  If the cabinet is not designed with vented doors, leave the cabinet doors open while the appliance is in use.

Consult the appliance operations manual for specifications on electrical requirements to operate the washer and dryer.  RVs equipped with the energy management system may override the washer/dryer to provide power for the air conditioner when the vehicle is not connected to shore power.  To assure amperage when running the washer/dryer while dry camping, disengage other large appliances, or start the generator.

The washer operations manual will also advise you the amount of water required to run a full cycle.  Before starting a load, check to be sure there is an ample supply of freshwater, as well as room in the wastewater tanks for drainage.   

Follow manufacturer recommendations for detergent types and amounts.  Some campground sewer systems prohibit the drainage of liquid laundry detergents.  If you are using a combination unit, avoid overloading to reduce wrinkles and launder larger items in a regular sized machine.

Keep built in clothes hampers smelling fresh by placing a fabric sheet softener on the bottom of the hamper each week.  Store a pre-treatment stain remover near the hamper to apply on stains before they have time to set.

Sort clothing into light and darks.  Reduce fabric fading by turning clothing inside out and wash in cold water.  Eliminate lint on clothing by laundering towels and washcloths separate.  Sprinkle cornstarch over grease stains, allow it to sit for a few minutes and then brush the stain away.  To erase stained shirt collars, rub a liberal amount of hair shampoo on the stain before washing.  Avoid sour smelling linens and towels by assuring everything is completely dry before stowing away.

Use a folding tabletop ironing board when pressing clothing to protect countertop surfaces.  Increase iron heat by placing a flat piece of aluminum foil under the iron board cover.  Reduce mineral deposit build up inside a steam iron by filling the iron with distilled water. Occasionally clean the iron vents using a cotton swab.