Thinking How Astronauts Wash Their Clothes in Space? Tide Detergent Comes Up With Cleaning Solutions in Space

People who contemplate what it will be like to live outside of Earth must have thought about a number of things, including how they will manage to leave behind all of their comfort and convenience here on Earth. 

Consider the red planet Mars, Earth's neighbour and, according to experts, the planet most likely to support human life among the planets in our solar system. We will need to figure out shelter, air, water and food. But have you ever considered how you would cleanse your soiled clothes that are certain to be coated in Mars' red dirt as a result of your wanderlust-fueled exploration of your new home? 

Apparently, NASA and Procter & Gamble, owner of the Tide washing brand, appear to be collaborating to find it out. 

"Tide has signed a Space Act Agreement with NASA to help in the development of laundry detergent solutions and technology development in space," P&G said in a statement on Tuesday. "Under the agreement, NASA may test and study Tide cleaning solutions in space." 

NASA and Tide will do some tests on the International Space Station. There are no washing machines aboard the International Space Station. Traditionally, astronauts wear a piece of clothing until it becomes soiled, then discard it. Regular resupply flights keep astronauts supplied with clean clothing, but this isn't a sustainable option for a place like Mars, which is thousands of light-years further from our now home- Earth.  

P&G is attempting to solve concerns such as restricted water supply, ingredient safety, and compatibility with life support equipment. On the ISS, for example, liquids (including urine) are recycled into useable water. 

"Tide has developed a fully degradable detergent, specifically designed for use in space to solve malodor, cleanliness and stain removal problems for washable items used during deep space missions, while being suitable for use in a closed-loop water system," said P&G. 

P&G is preparing for tests on the International Space Station in 2022 that will entail assessing the stability of cleaning and stain removal chemicals in ISS settings. The firm is also investigating the development of a washer-dryer combo that may be utilised for NASA Artemis lunar missions and future Mars trips where low gravity would be a concern. 

NASA and P&G aren't the only organisations attempting to solve the clean-clothing issue. Antimicrobial fabrics are being researched by the European Space Agency for use in spacesuit underwear. 

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