In a world where the boundaries between outdoor adventure and everyday life are increasingly blurred, the Scrubba Tactical Wash Bag stands out as a quintessential piece of gear for the modern traveler. Its promise? To offer a compact, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution for keeping clothes clean, no matter where you are. I had the opportunity to use one of the tactical wash bags on multiple occasions during the last few weeks. It was put to the test with some less-than-friendly smelling boot socks and t-shirts that were worn a little too long.

Let’s break down this innovative product to see if it really delivers.

Scrubba on table
The packaging is about the right size to be mostly covered by the average hand. And light? Barely 5 ounces.

Design and Build

The first thing you notice about the Scrubba is its no-nonsense, no-unnecessary-parts design. The earthy brown color and rugged material give it a distinct ‘ready for anything’ feel. It’s made from a durable, waterproof material that feels capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor use. The bag is lightweight yet sturdy. When empty, it folds down to pocket size, making it a dream for any minimalist packer or backpacker. By “pocket size,” I’m talking about one of those larger pockets on a pair of cargo pants. Still, plenty portable. 

Functionality

At its core, the Scrubba is a portable washing machine. You add water, cleaning liquid, and clothes, then seal the bag. The secret to its effectiveness lies in the internal washboard-like texture. After closing, you deflate excess air and rub the clothes against this textured surface. The concept is simple yet innovative – it mimics traditional hand-washing but in a more efficient and ergonomic manner. The first time you use it, you have a “Dang, why didn’t I think of this?” moment…at least I did. It just makes sense. 

The process is straightforward. Fill, roll and clip, deflate, rub, rinse, and dry. The entire washing process can take as little as a few minutes, depending on how thorough you want to be. This is a game-changer for anyone who’s ever faced the dilemma of either packing too many clothes or re-wearing dirty ones on extended trips. This is a sin I’m guilty of on cruise ships. On my next cruise, the Scrubba is coming with me, as I know it will make keeping my clothes clean and fresh a breeze. 

Scrubba
Here, it sits on my pool deck in “soak” mode. The top part of the bag serves as a sturdy handle, and you can see how it could easily be used to transport water in an outdoor environment. I see this as a huge plus.

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Water usage is a critical aspect of any washing method, and the Scrubba Tactical Wash Bag scores high in this area. It requires only a few liters of water per wash, significantly less than traditional washing methods. This efficiency is not just good for the environment but also essential when water is scarce, such as on camping trips or in remote locations.

Moreover, for eco-conscious travelers, the Scrubba offers a way to reduce its environmental footprint. By opting for biodegradable soaps, one can ensure that their washing has a minimal ecological impact, a significant consideration for outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving natural landscapes. Personally, I use paper-thin detergent squares. They are extremely portable, lightweight, and seem to last forever. A Scrubba doesn’t require much detergent to get the job done. 

Practicality in Various Scenarios

The real test of any gear is its versatility across different scenarios. The Scrubba Tactical Wash Bag is not just for campers or hikers. It’s equally useful in a hotel room, a dormitory, or even at home, especially for small, quick washes. It’s a boon for travelers on long trips, reducing the need for frequent laundromat visits, saving both time and money. Let’s be honest: do you really want to spend time at a laundry mat?  I thought not. 

However, it’s important to note that the Scrubba isn’t a replacement for a traditional washing machine when it comes to large loads or very dirty items. It’s ideal for underwear, shirts, and lightweight trousers but might struggle with heavy fabrics or stubborn stains. For example, a pair of jeans might be considered to be a “no-go” for the Scrubba. The juice might not be worth the squeeze on that one. 

The Scubba is not a one-trick pony. It is constructed in such a way that it would be excellent for transporting water in a field environment. Not many of us carry buckets when we are out camping. On the other end of the water spectrum, it can be used quite efficiently as a dry bag in the field to keep your belongings from becoming soaked by the elements.

Durability and Longevity

In terms of durability, the Scrubba Tactical Wash Bag holds up well. Used correctly, I anticipate it lasting for hundreds of wash cycles. The material is resilient, and the seals are robust. However, like any gear, its longevity will depend on how you use and maintain it. Regular cleaning and proper drying after each use are essential to prevent mold and unpleasant smells. As always, if you take care of your gear, it will take care of you. 

Price Point

Regarding cost, if you factor in convenience and how long the Scrubba will last when taken care of properly, it’s a winning proposition. Keeping you away from laundrymats is more than enough to justify the modest price. For frequent travelers, it’s a no-brainer. Go out and get one of these right away if you don’t already have one. You can thank me later. 

Conclusion

The Scrubba Tactical Wash Bag is a testament to how innovation can make life easier for travelers and adventurers. It’s a compact, efficient, and eco-friendly solution to a common problem. While not a complete substitute for traditional washing, it fills a niche for light washing needs on the go. Its design, functionality, and efficiency make it a valuable addition to any travel or outdoor gear collection.

In the end, the Scrubba is more than just a product. It’s a facilitator of a lifestyle, one where adventure and practicality go hand in hand. Whether you are a camper, a backpacker, or just someone who loves to travel light, the Scrubba Tactical Wash Bag is worth considering. It keeps your journey clean in more ways than one.

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Want one? Head on over to the Scrubba tactical site, load up your cart, and when you check out, use code SOFREP20 to save 20% on the Scrubba tactical kit or Scrubba tactical drying combo. This offer ends November 29th, 2023, and is available for goods shipped to US addresses.