Clothing Maintenance on Forward Operating Bases: Practices and Variations

Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) are critical support facilities for military operations in conflict zones. Ensuring hygiene and maintaining textile integrity is essential for the well-being and operational effectiveness of soldiers. This article discusses the methods used by US and other nation's soldiers to wash their clothes on FOBs, from dedicated facilities to field solutions.

Laundry Facilities: Dedication and Convenience

Many FOBs offer laundry facilities equipped with commercial-grade washing machines and dryers. These facilities are often staffed by military personnel or contractors. Soldiers can schedule regular washing, ensuring a range of freshly laundered clothes for their daily activities.

These facilities cater to the operational needs and equipment availability. For example, during the initial phases of operations, when resources and infrastructure are sparse, soldiers might rely primarily on on-site laundry operations. However, as the theater of operations matures, dedicated laundry detachments supported by commercial laundry services can be established.

Laundry Services: A Convenient Alternative

In some cases, FOBs might offer laundry services where soldiers drop off dirty clothes and regain them clean. This option is particularly beneficial for busy and high-tempo operations. Such services include contracted providers, such as KBR, who can handle large volumes of laundry efficiently.

Hand Washing: The Field Solution

When laundry facilities are unavailable or during field operations, soldiers often resort to hand washing. This method involves using water, soap, or detergent when available, and sometimes a bucket or other containers. Small items like socks and underwear can be washed effectively in these settings.

During my deployments, I found that rotating clothing items, wearing certain uniforms for specific tasks, and minimizing the need for frequent washing were essential strategies. These practices not only reduced the burden on laundry facilities but also ensured that I had the required versatility in my outfit choice.

Wet Wipes and Spot Cleaning

For quick clean-ups, soldiers often use wet wipes or other cleaning products to spot clean their uniforms. This method is particularly useful when time for a full wash is limited. It helps maintain a basic level of cleanliness and hygiene without the need for extensive laundry services.

Personal Experiences

My experiences with laundry on FOBs varied. During the initial six months of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) in 2003, we had to wash clothes by hand due to the immaturity of the theater and limited resources. By the second tour in 2009, the theater had matured, and KBR was contracted to provide laundry services. Third-party nationals were hired to handle the laundry, and laundry machines were installed on some larger permanent FOBs.

While I had laundry facilities available at my home post, in the field, I found the need to bring at least three or four extra uniforms. This allowed me to rotate outfits and wear them until returning to the FOB for a full wash. Unless I was short on time or unable to wash clothes myself, I would often pay another soldier to help. Payment was typically through barter, such as offering a couple of cigars.

These practices highlight the adaptability required in maintaining personal hygiene and clothing integrity in austere and dynamic operational environments.