Do we have to buy a washboard online?

[holyhelianthus]

Has anyone been able to find a washboard locally? We have no washer here and need an alternative and we're fine with washing by hand but we have no idea if we can find a washboard anywhere but online.

Suggestions?

While we're here any tips for washing by hand?

TIA! :

[~Megan~]

check garage sales, antique stores, and estate sales.

[Abarat]

I found one at our local hardware store, but it was smaller than I wanted.

I bet if you have a local hardware store, something like a mom and pop shop maybe they'd order one for you. Usually local businesses will do that. Can't hurt to ask. :-)

Also, I found a great tip I've found helpful. I don't have a fancy setup like the James Hand Washer or anything like that. I'd considered getting something like the Rapid Washer like Lehman's has (looks like a fancy metal plunger) and did a quick google search and found someone that had bought a cheap rubber toilet plunger and cut diamond shapes into it and used that instead. I've been using that method and like it, but still have to get a washboard.

[APmomSoCal]

If you have an ethnic market near you, check that.

[psyche]

Check out a hardware store like Ace. I saw one at our local store, which was the only place I could find a retractable clothes line.

[quietserena]

Also, orschelin's might have it, if you've got one nearby.

Another idea is flea markets and antique malls.

You can wash by hand without a washboad too, that's what I did until we got a washer and I didn't want to drive to a laundromat. Just crasp two handfuls of the farbic and rub together. I only did that on the particularly dirty areas like shirt underarms and such but it worked out. Wringing was hard, I always wished for a wringer.