How to Wash Dishes in an RV or Trailer

Learning how to wash dishes in an RV or trailer can present unique challenges due to limited space and resources, but with the right approach, it can be a simple and efficient task. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to RV life, understanding the best techniques for maintaining cleanliness is essential to enhancing your on-the-road experience. This guide from Grand Buffalo RV Resort near Jackson Hole, Wyoming will provide you with practical tips on how to wash dishes in an RV without the luxury of an RV dishwasher, focusing on methods that conserve water, save time, and make the most of compact kitchen space so you can get back to enjoying the great outdoors. 

Best Way to Wash Dishes in an RV

Start by scraping food scraps into the trash to minimize debris in your sink. Fill a small basin or one side of the sink, if available, with hot, soapy water, and use it to wash all your dishes. For water efficiency, consider using a spray bottle with a mix of water and a few drops of dish soap to pre-treat and loosen food residue on the dishes before washing them in the basin. Rinse dishes with a minimal trickle of water or use a separate basin of clean water for rinsing, reusing it as much as possible with cups or other methods. Remember, turning off the tap between washing and rinsing is paramount to minimizing water usage while on the road! 

Tips for RV Dish Washing With One Sink 

The best way to wash dishes with a one sink RV setup begins with organizing your dishes by type, starting with the least dirty, such as glasses, and progressing to the dirtiest, like pots and pans. Fill the sink with a small amount of hot, soapy water and wash each item individually. Since rinsing with running water from the tap can quickly deplete your supply, so we recommend keeping a separate container or basin nearby filled with clean water for rinsing, and reuse this as often as possible. 

Is Dawn Dish Soap Safe for Camping?

Dawn dish soap is generally considered safe for camping, thanks to its grease-cutting ability and versatility. When using Dawn dish soap in a camping setting, it's crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles by ensuring all soapy water, or grey tanks, are disposed of at least 200 feet away from natural water sources, thus minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, opting for the unscented version can help reduce the attraction of wildlife to your campsite.

What is the Best RV Dish Drying Rack? 

When it comes to efficiently managing space in a compact RV kitchen, finding the best RV dish rack is essential for keeping your kitchen organized and your dishes dry. Look for a dish rack that is collapsible or foldable, allowing you to neatly stow it away when not in use, which is a crucial feature given the limited counter space in most RVs. Stainless steel options resist rust and provide durability for long-term use during your travels. Some RV-specific dish racks come with additional features like cutlery holders or drip trays that catch excess water to prevent your countertops from getting wet. Suction cups or non-slip grips are also beneficial to keep the rack stable and stashed while on the move.

Visit Grand Buffalo RV Resort

Discover unparalleled comfort and scenic beauty at Grand Buffalo RV Resort near Jackson Hole, Wyoming. As one of the premier Jackson Hole Wyoming RV resorts, we offer spacious and oversized RV lots—ranging from 0.20 to 0.25 acres—ensuring plenty of room for you and your loved ones to unwind. And the best part? Each site is equipped with full hook-ups, including 30 and 50-amp service, so you won’t have to worry about minimizing fresh water usage while doing your dishes. 

Immerse yourself in nature with unlimited hiking opportunities, and enjoy conveniences like curbside trash pick-up and recycling. Each campsite features a picnic table and firepit for memorable outdoor gatherings. With sports and games rentals coming soon, and a range of other amenities to enhance your visit, Grand Buffalo is the ultimate destination for relaxation and recreation among RV resorts in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Contact us to schedule your next trip and experience everything we have to offer!