Product Review: Nikwax Basewash Travel Gel


Caroline Morse Teel
Caroline Morse Teel

    What Is it: Nikwax Basewash Travel Gel, a gel cleaner for hand-washing your clothes.

    Price and Where to Buy: $5.25 on Nikwax's website.

    Pros:

    • Comes in a 2 oz. size that complies with the TSA 3-1-1 rule
    • Faster drying than normal detergent
    • Good for twelve washes
    • Softens clothing and removes odor
    • Easy to use
    • Clean scent
    • Not tested on animals

      Cons:
    • Can't be used on waterproof clothing

      How it Rates:
    • Usefulness: 9/10. If you need to wash an item or two in your hotel room sink, the basewash gel is very handy.
    • Portability: 8/10. The 2 oz. size is light and easy to carry, but the tube can leak if you don't have it sealed tightly. Definitely carry this item in a Ziploc bag.
    • Value: 9/10. The 2 oz. tube can wash 12 items, which means it will cost you around 43 cents to wash a piece of clothing with this product.
    • Cool Factor: 8/10. Feeling fresh and smelling clean is always cool.

      Final Verdict: If you go on long trips and like to pack light, hand-washing your clothes with the Nikwax base wash is an easy and cheap way to extend your wardrobe.

      Editor's Note: Reviews are based on usefulness, portability, durability, value, and "cool factor." Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product. If you have any questions or comments concerning our reviews, or would like to suggest a product for review, please email us at [email protected].

      (Photo: Nikwax)