Despite being a complete luxury, a caravan washing machine can be a game-changer for travellers who love the freedom of the open road but don’t want to rely on laundromats or campsite facilities. With so many compact, energy-efficient, and travel-friendly options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That’s where this Complete Buyer’s Guide to Caravan Washing Machines comes in. Whether you're after a fully automatic unit, a simple manual washer, or a space-saving twin tub, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—helping you find the perfect solution for fresh, clean clothes on your adventures.
Understanding Caravan Washing Types
Front Load vs Top Load
Front-loaders are ideal for caravans with under-bench space, requiring only 70cm height clearance. They use 30–40% less water than top-loaders,critical for tank-dependent travellers. However, they demand precise levelling to prevent leaks.
Top-loaders prioritise accessibility and faster wash cycles (38 minutes for a full wash-rinse-spin). Their open-drum design simplifies loading but requires vertical clearance, limiting installation to open countertops.
Portable and Wall Mounted
Portable turbine washers weigh under 20kg and fit in glove boxes, ideal for short trips. Wall-mounted models like the Daewoo 2kg save floor space but require reinforced mounting. For off-grid use, manual options (hand-cranked) eliminate power dependency.
Features For Australian Travellers
Australian travelers need a washing machine that can handle diverse conditions, from coastal humidity to outback dust. Durability is key, with stainless steel drums and anti-vibration technology being ideal for rough terrains. Compact design and lightweight construction make for easier installation in caravans with limited space. Additionally, low water consumption and energy efficiency are crucial, especially for off-grid adventurers relying on solar power or water tanks. Features like cold-wash settings, eco-modes, and quick cycles help conserve resources while ensuring clean clothes on the go.
Load Capacity and Demographic Suitability
Choosing the right load capacity depends on the number of travelers and laundry frequency.
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1–2kg Machines: Ideal for solo travelers and weekenders, compact models like the Daewoo 2kg Wall-Mount fit small caravans and use minimal water and power.
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2.5–3.5kg Machines: Suitable for couples or small families, options like the Sphere 3.3kg provide a balance between size and efficiency.
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4–5kg Machines: Best for full-time families, larger units like the Camec 4kg handle bigger loads but require more space and power.
Prevent overloading your machine as this can cause drum imbalance. To prevent this, manufacturers recommend filling the drum to only 70% capacity for better spin efficiency and longevity.
Water and Energy Efficiency
For travellers relying on limited resources, water and energy consumption are major considerations.
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Cold-Wash-Only Models: Machines like the Sphere 2.6kg consume around 43L per cycle, making them suitable for caravan parks with access to water hookups.
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Heated-Wash Models: Units such as the Camec Compact RV feature a 1550W heating element, offering superior cleaning but requiring a robust solar or generator setup.
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Hand-Powered Washers: Using only 10–15L per load, manual washers are the most water-efficient option but require physical effort, making them less convenient for regular use.
Selecting the right caravan washing machine involves balancing load capacity, water usage, and energy demands to match your travel style and setup.
Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation and maintenance of a caravan washing machine ensure optimal performance and longevity. Depending on the type of machine, space, and power requirements vary.
Space and Electrical Requirements
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Front-Loaders: Require at least 70cm (H) × 55cm (W) and a 10A power outlet. These models are energy-efficient and gentle on clothes but need secure leveling to prevent movement during travel.
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Top-Loaders: Need vertical clearance of at least 80cm. Stabilizing brackets are essential to keep the machine secure on uneven terrain.
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Wall-Mounted Machines: Must be installed on reinforced stud walls to handle vibrations. Using anti-vibration pads reduces noise and prevents long-term wall damage.
Caravan Washing Machine Noise Levels Compared
Noise level is an important factor when choosing the best caravan washing machine in Australia, especially for those staying in compact spaces or traveling off-grid. Different models vary in their decibel (dB) ratings, which measure how loud a machine is during operation.
Decibel Levels
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Aussie Traveller 3.2kg – Operates at 65dB, making it one of the quieter portable caravan washing machines. This level is comparable to normal conversation, making it a good option for those who want minimal disturbance.
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Camec 4kg – Runs at 72dB, slightly louder than the Aussie Traveller. This noise level is similar to a vacuum cleaner, which may be noticeable in a compact RV washing machine setup.
Anti-Vibration Features
To minimise noise and movement during spin cycles, many caravan washing machines include:
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Rubber Feet – Absorb vibrations and reduce noise transfer to the floor and surrounding cabinetry.
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Stabilised Spin Cycles – Helps balance the load, preventing excessive shaking and knocking sounds.
If noise is a concern, opting for a machine with anti-vibration technology or placing additional rubber padding under the unit can help create a quieter washing experience while on the road.
Top Brands and Model Comparisons
Finding the best caravan washing machine in Australia depends on your travel style, available space, and power setup. Here’s a comparison of some leading brands and models to help you choose the right machine for your needs.
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Brand |
Model |
Capacity |
Key Features |
|
Sphere |
3.3kg |
5 cycles, stainless drum, cold wash |
|
|
Camec |
4kg |
15 cycles, heated wash, front-load |
|
|
Aussie Traveller |
2.5kg |
8 cycles, steam wash |
|
|
Devanti |
4.6kg |
Space-saving and lightweight |
Camec – Reliable and Feature packed
Camec is a trusted name in the RV industry, offering durable and energy-efficient compact RV washing machines.
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Camec 4kg Front Loader – Ideal for full-time caravanners, this machine has a heated wash option but requires a strong power source.
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Camec Compact RV 3.5kg – A great balance of size and performance, perfect for couples and small families.
Aussie Traveller – Popular for Compact Caravans
Aussie Traveller models are lightweight and space-saving, making them a top choice for small vans.
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Aussie Travller 3.2kg Top Loader – One of the most popular models, with multiple wash cycles and an efficient cold wash option.
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Aussie Traveller 2.5kg Wall Mounted – An excellent space-saving solution. This extremely quiet machine features 8 wash settings, including a 18-minute quick wash.
Devanti - Affordable and compact
If you’re looking for an affordable, lightweight, and space-saving washing machine, Devanti is a great option. It’s perfect for budget-conscious caravanners who don’t need advanced features.
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Devanti 4.6kg Top Load Washer – A portable caravan washing machine with a 2kg spin capacity, ideal for couples and small families.
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Devanti 3kg Mini Top Load – A compact RV washing machine with a lightweight design and manual controls, suitable for solo travelers or weekenders.
Daewoo – Wall-Mounted Convenience
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Daewoo 2.5kg Wall-Mount – The best compact RV washing machine for solo travelers or weekenders, as it saves floor space and is easy to install.
Each of these models offers unique benefits, so choosing the right portable caravan washing machine depends on your water access, power availability, and washing needs.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even the best caravan washing machines in Australia can experience occasional issues. Understanding common problems and their solutions can help you keep your machine running efficiently.
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Leaks: Reported in 58% of cases, often caused by loose hose clamps. Solution: Tighten clamps and replace seals annually to prevent water damage.
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Unbalanced Spins: A frequent issue in top-loaders, caused by overloading or uneven drum distribution. Solution: Fill drums to 70% capacity and redistribute clothes mid-cycle.
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Drainage Failures: 23% of Camec users report drainage issues due to lint filter blockages. Solution: Clean lint filters biweekly to maintain water flow.
Warranty and Support
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Camec: 2-year warranty, backed by nationwide service centres.
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Sphere: 1-year warranty, support is limited to retailers.
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Aussie Traveller: 3-year warranty, with a direct technical helpline.
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Winia (Daewoo): 1-year warranty
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Devanti: 1-year warranty
Future Trends and Innovations
The next generation of caravan washing machines is evolving with smarter, more efficient designs:
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Solar-Compatible Washers: Emerging models like the EcoFlow WASH use DC motors, reducing reliance on inverters.
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AI Sensors: Dometic is prototyping washers with auto-adjusting water levels based on load weight, optimizing water usage.
With ongoing advancements, compact RV washing machines are becoming more energy-efficient, making off-grid travel even more convenient.
Caravan Washing Machine FAQs:
Do I really need a caravan washing machine?
If you travel frequently or for extended periods, a portable caravan washing machine saves time and money compared to laundromats. It’s also useful for off-grid travelers who prefer self-sufficiency.
How much water does a caravan washing machine use?
It varies by model:
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Sphere 2.6kg (Cold-Wash-Only) – Uses 43L per cycle, suitable for caravan parks.
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Hand-Powered Washers – Use 10–15L per load, the most water-efficient option.
Can I run a washing machine off solar power?
Yes, but it depends on the power requirements:
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Cold-wash models (e.g., Sphere 2.6kg) are easier to run on solar.
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Heated-wash models (e.g., Camec Compact RV) use 1550W heating elements and need a robust battery setup.
Can I install a caravan washing machine myself?
Yes, but you need to consider:
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Power requirements – Most models need a 10A power outlet.
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Space – Ensure enough clearance (e.g., 70cm H × 55cm W for front-loaders).
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Stability – Use anti-vibration pads or stabilising brackets for secure installation.
Choosing the best caravan washing machine in Australia comes down to your travel style, space limitations, and resource availability. Whether you need a portable caravan washing machine for weekend getaways or a compact RV washing machine for full-time travel, there’s a model to suit your needs. Prioritising water and energy efficiency, noise levels, and ease of maintenance ensures you get the most reliable and convenient solution for life on the road. With the right washing machine, you can enjoy fresh laundry wherever your adventures take you—saving time, money, and hassle along the way. Safe travels and happy washing!
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
