One everyday question rarely asked: How do astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) handle laundry? Without a washing machine, they simply discard soiled clothes. Now, NASA is pioneering solutions for onboard laundry to make missions more sustainable.
Astronauts on the ISS are modern-day heroes, conducting daring spacewalks and groundbreaking experiments. Yet, they face everyday human needs. A memorable example came in 2020 when a 9-year-old won NASA's Lunar Loo Challenge with a suit-integrated toilet device for convenience during tasks.
The next practical puzzle? Laundry. Currently, there's no washing system on the ISS. Crew members wear clothes until they become unusable, then trash them. Standard uniforms last 3-6 months, while workout gear is retired after just two weeks, as detailed by NASA protocols.
As reported by ABC News on June 23, 2021, NASA has partnered with Procter & Gamble (P&G) to develop ways to wash and reuse astronauts' everyday items, starting with clothing.
Laundry logistics are a significant hurdle: Astronauts require about 68 kg of clothing per year. Storage is at a premium on the tightly optimized ISS. A traditional washer would demand excessive space and vast amounts of water. With plans for lunar and Martian bases, sustainable solutions are essential.
The NASA-P&G collaboration kicks off with specially formulated "Tide" detergents sent to the ISS for six months of testing. Next up: wipes and stain-remover pens. Meanwhile, P&G engineers are designing the first space washing machine—a compact unit using minimal water and detergent, with water recycling for repeated use.
