Touring - Sponge baths

One long distance bike tourist I met r e c o m m e n d e d using synthetic chamois (the same type used for washing cars) for sponge bathing. I checked a couple of auto supply stores, and they carry a variety of them. Some are leather-like in texture, some are very soft, and some have a waffle pattern that looks as if it would be good for scrubbing. (--which may or may not be a good thing, depending on the area of the body, etc.) (you probably wouldn't want to abrade the skin too much in saddle-sore-prone areas, for example) (in other areas, though -- if not overdone -- it might be desirable to scrub a little) (or maybe the soft chamois material is simply a better way to go, overall?)

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What exactly is a sponge bath? What are the specifics of the technique(s)?

Are there other materials that are used?

What are the variations? Is lathering and soap involved?

It seems like something of a half-measure.... Can you get really clean? If so, how?

Dude you just rub yourself with a wet sponge

it's not rocket science

Dude you just rub yourself with a wet sponge

it's not rocket science

LOL, yeah thats about it. However I usually take my water bottle out in the woods. Soap up with some biodegradable camp soap. And pour water from the bottle over me. I come away feeling like I had a real shower.

back in the late 60's I was in hospital with a mashed up knee for 6 months.
for me, sponge baths were my daily pleasure. Two nurses, soap, warm water and a sponge, bliss,,,, pure bliss.

Now its a piece of chamois and a cold stream ,but the effect is almost the same........ no its not !&^&**$

send in the nurses

george

I've found wet-wipes (like for babies) to work really well for cleaning up a bit while stealth camping. One still needs to wash one's head in a sink, but it helps with the rest.