Tips for staying clean and fresh while on the road

As a truck driver, it’s normal to spend days or even weeks at a time on the road. You might not have control over your schedule, but you do have a say when it comes to comfort and cleanliness. If you want to get the most of your time behind the wheel, it’s important you feel good. When you feel good, you’re more confident and productive.

Setting aside time for breaks, getting plenty of sleep and eating healthy meals provide a foundation for life on the road, but you also need to consider hygiene. If you want to feel fresh and new every day, you’re going to need clean clothing, toiletries and an emergency toilet just in case. Here are three recommendations that can help you stay clean and fresh no matter where you’re driving.

1.) Pack a bag of toiletries. A bag of toiletries might seem like a no-brainer, but many green truckers fail to pack one before embarking on their first trip. Big mistake. You want to be able to freshen up wherever you are. Make sure your toiletry bag includes:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Comb
• Deodorant
• Soap
• Hand sanitizer
• Cloth face coverings
• Roll of toilet paper
• Washcloths and a towel
• Bottle of water

Most truck stops and gas stations have bathroom facilities you can use. If you’re located in the middle of nowhere, the bottle of water can serve as your faucet.

2.) Clean clothes and laundry supplies. If you’re going to be on the road for more than a day, make sure to pack an extra change of clothes. This is particularly true if you’re going to be driving for several weeks at a time. Ideally, you should have a clean shirt, underwear and socks for every day and a clean pair of pants for every other day. If you won’t be home for a while, consider bringing laundry detergent, dryer sheets and quarters. Many truck stops have washers and dryers on-site, so you can catch up on laundry if necessary.

3.) Backup toilet for emergencies. Truck stops are convenient, but they don’t always have the cleanest facilities. If you arrive at a busy location, or you simply have to use the restroom while on the road, it’s important you have an emergency backup. If you’re in a pinch, a bottle or cup works fine, but a Luggable Loo or other similar products allow you to answer nature’s call from the comfort of your own cab.

How do you stay clean and fresh while on the road? Visit our Facebook page and leave a comment to let us know.