The grid may go down and the SHTF but that does not mean we should all turn into savages. Washing and drying our bodies and clothes is still a must… Yes, it is. Here are five tips to make it easier:

Prepare a Warm Drink: Before getting started, it is best to have something hot to warm you up. Here are some winter drinks for you choose from or simple hot tea or coffee will do.
Hang Shirts by the Hemline: Use clothespins to hang shirts by the hemline, rather than by the shoulders. This avoids unusual bunching in the shoulders, which can become a pain to get rid of when the shirt has dried up.
Work Fast: One bed sheet or blanket is sufficient to freeze my hands so it’s best to wear mitts or gloves, pull it outside and toss it over the railing. If you’re line drying, make sure to gather supplies, such as clothespins and baskets before getting started and if you can carry all at one time the better. That will save you time from being outside in freezing weather.
Freshen Between Washings: If you have clothes that have been worn but aren’t precisely dirty, just go ahead and hang it out on the line and let it air out. For a more freshening power, make an all natural linen spray, spray and let it dry. Double energy savings! How cool is that?
Bring It Inside: Bring it inside by the end of the day or let it stay outside all night. These all depends on the thickness or size for your laundry and if you have spun it thoroughly or not. Check it and if you think it already feels lighter, you’re done. Allow it to warm up a bit and fold.

You can go to Homesteading for more advice on winter line-drying.

It is not always the stress of finding food, keeping warm, and making certain the homestead stays secure, that happens during a chaos situation. There are still day to day events and chores that go on – that must go on – to remind us that we are human and civilized.

While washing clothes and making certain they are dry and comfortable for your family may not seem a big deal now, when it comes down to it, when life has turned into one crisis after another, when survival is all important, you will feel gratified when presented with a nice pair of clean and dried socks! Seems silly but it is true!