I want to take a moment to talk about a piece of gear that I find essential for any outdoor trip… or really, any trip in general. This small but mighty item has completely changed the way I handle hygiene on the trail, and I can’t imagine hiking or camping without it. It’s called the Kula Cloth, and it’s the most beautifully designed and thoughtfully made pee cloth out there. Not only is it a total game-changer for staying clean and fresh outdoors, but it’s also a sustainable alternative to toilet paper and those old bandanas we all used to carry. Honestly, it knocks both of those options right out of the woods… literally.
What makes it stand out even more is its commitment to eco-friendly outdoor hygiene, its artist-designed patterns, and its smart functionality. If you’re someone who hikes, backpacks, camps, or just loves nature, this is one piece of gear worth adding to your pack. Let’s dive into what makes the Kula Cloth so special and why it belongs in every adventurer’s hygiene kit.
Originally published in February 2019. Updated on August 2025.
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HOW THE KULA CLOTH CAME TO BE
The Kula Cloth was created by Anastasia Allison who is a creative musical mountaineer who plays the violin from the top of the mountains. You can find her playing music over at @themusicalmountaineers or trecking up mountains at @anastasia.allison. Wherever you find her, online or in person, you will see a smile on her face and a soul full of love and joy. I’ve never met her but when we talk online or I see her photos that is the vibe I always get.
During one of her trips to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington she found a pile of toilet paper that had been left behind. After doing some research on Leave No Trace she found out about the pee cloth. She wasn’t to fond of the idea of a bandana so she got creative. Her first pee cloth was a blue microfiber piece of fabric versus a bandana.
After showing off her blue pee rag (as funny as that sounds) she decided that it didn’t look too cool so she started working on her own magical design of a pee cloth. Her goal was to create an actual piece of gear. After 3 years of research, trial and error, experimentation, and picking out fabrics, the Kula Cloth was born. Her first samples that she sold were a huge hit and she has now moved up her game to creating the best pee cloth ever. Check it out!
ABOUT THE KULA CLOTH
The Kula Cloth was first two pieces of fabric sewn together. That’s the one I have tried and love. Soon after her sample pieces were selling out she decided to make her design even better. She decided to add a few things such as:
- Kula Cloth labels to them.
- Retro-reflective thread on one corner for easy finding at night.
- One single fabric with two different sides. One side is waterproof with a neat design while the other side is antimicrobial, silver-infused and absorbent.
- It also has the same double snap so you can attach it to your pack and have privacy and cleanliness while on the trail.
You can use the Kula Cloth anywhere, not just outdoors. You can use it on a road trip, biking, kayaking, boating and the list goes on and on. The possibilities are endless.
The Kula Cloth can even be used while you are on your time of month. It is highly advised to use it in conjunction of a menstrual cup so it can last you longer on the trail. Also it is recommended to wash it by hand with some biodegradable soap when you can. They sell one that is biodegradable and eco-friendly as well that is perfect for your Kula Cloth.
Related Article: Ultimate Guide To Eco-friendly Femal Hygiene Outdoors
Why a Pee Cloth Matters for Outdoor Adventures
Heading into the backcountry? Staying clean, comfortable, and eco‑friendly is essential. A high‑quality reusable pee cloth designed for squatting provides:
- Cleanliness and hygiene with antimicrobial fabric
- Reduced waste compared to traditional toilet paper
- Lightweight convenience clipped to your pack
- Peace of mind that you’re following Leave No Trace principles
By focusing on outdoor hygiene, sustainable gear, antimicrobial pee cloth, and female-friendly backpacking accessories, this post helps guide women and outdoor enthusiasts to make smart, eco‑conscious choices.
What Makes a Reusable Pee Cloth the Right Choice?
When it comes to maintaining personal hygiene on the trail, not all gear is created equal. A high-quality reusable pee cloth is more than just a convenience but it’s also a purposeful piece of equipment designed with comfort, cleanliness, and sustainability in mind. Unlike makeshift solutions or disposable products, these cloths are specifically crafted for outdoor use, helping reduce waste while offering reliable performance in rugged conditions. Ideal for backpackers, hikers, and anyone who loves spending time in nature, a reusable pee cloth is a small but essential tool that supports a cleaner, more confident experience outdoors.
Antimicrobial and Quick‑Dry Fabric
A well‑designed pee cloth features a hygienic absorbent side and a waterproof backing. Silver‑infused or treated fabrics keep bacteria at bay and won’t show stains, all while drying quickly after use.
Pack‑Friendly Design
These pee cloths fold compactly and snap shut to attach securely to your backpack. Reflective stitching helps you find them at night, and the waterproof side ensures your hands stay dry.
Artful Patterns by Local Artists
Instead of generic designs, look for pee cloths with fun, locally created patterns that support artists. These unique prints let you wear your gear with pride and spark conversations on the trail.
How to Use Your Pee Cloth Responsibly
Using a pee cloth properly is key to maintaining hygiene and preserving the environment during your outdoor adventures. While it may feel unfamiliar at first, incorporating a pee cloth into your routine is simple and highly effective. Designed for use after urination only, these cloths offer a hygienic, reusable alternative to toilet paper, reducing the need to pack out waste or leave paper behind. With a little practice and the right care, a pee cloth becomes a reliable part of your backcountry hygiene system and one that aligns with Leave No Trace principles and supports sustainable travel.
Step‑by‑Step Use Guide
- Squat to pee outdoors (only for urination)
- Pat dry using the antimicrobial cloth side, never wipe front‑to‑back
- Snap it shut to keep it clean and accessible
- Let it air dry daily; rinse gently if needed
- Re‑wash after backpacking trips to maintain freshness
This reduces reliance on toilet paper and supports minimal impact outdoor practices.
Leave No Trace Compliance
Always conduct all bathroom activities at least 200 feet away from water sources and trails. Cloths should be rinsed and packed out if used… best reserved for #1 only. For any #2, dig a proper cathole or carry out waste as required by area rules.
Benefits of Choosing a Quality Pee Cloth
- Eco‑friendly and sustainable: reusable gear that reduces waste
- Hygienic & odor‑controlled: antimicrobial properties and easy‑care fabric
- Ultralight for backpacking: under an ounce, easy to clip
- Support for artists and community: many designs are locally made and artist‑designed, so each piece has a unique story
Choose the Right Pee Cloth for You
With so many options available, it’s important to choose a pee cloth that meets your specific needs and outdoor lifestyle. While all pee cloths serve the same basic purpose, the quality of materials, design features, and ease of use can vary significantly. Look for a cloth that’s both functional and thoughtfully made, one that offers comfort, durability, and hygienic protection in a compact, lightweight design. Whether you’re planning multi-day backpacking trips, weekend hikes, or van life adventures, selecting the right pee cloth can make a big difference in your comfort, cleanliness, and confidence on the trail.
What to Look For
- Trusted antimicrobial material (e.g. silver‑ion treatments)
- Dual‑layer design: absorbent and waterproof
- Compact size with snap closures for easy carry
- Reflective details for nighttime visibility
- Unique, locally designed artwork
Maintenance Tips
- Air dry daily, hand‑wash or machine‑wash on delicate
- Avoid harsh detergents to preserve antimicrobial properties
- Store fully open when possible to dry thoroughly
KULA FOR THE MILITARY
Another amazing, and by far one of my favorite goals of Anastasia is her upcoming line of Kula Cloth‘s for our military. How amazing is that. She wants to make it easier for our military women and men to go when out in the field. Whether in training events, deployments, or anything in between, she highly believes that a Kula Cloth will greatly help.
I remember her asking on Instagram on insight for this line and I immediately reached out to her. She wanted the point of view from someone who has been in the military and as a former soldier I decided to message her along with a few other ladies. She is currently working on a military style Kula Cloth which will be in neutral tactical colors for our ladies out in the field. How amazing is that?
Final Thoughts About Kula Cloth
Investing in a quality pee cloth with locally designed, artistic patterns isn’t just about gear—it’s about practicing responsible outdoor hygiene, reducing waste, and supporting creative communities. When used properly and cared for mindfully, a pee cloth enhances your comfort and helps keep nature clean.
10 Responses
Any idea when these new patterns are coming out? Thanks!
Hi Chelsea, thank you for reading. I don’t have an exact date for the launch of the new patterns but it will be some time this Spring from what I’ve been told.
I totally need a dozen
Haha Yes! They are all so beautiful. I love all of their designs.
I hope this doesn’t sound ignorant, but you had these just for cleaning up after urinating, right? Or do you also use it for #2? You mentioned not packing toilet paper, so…..??? Thanks
Not ignorant at all. You’re good. Yes I wouldn’t use it for number 2 for sure. I personally use biodegradable wipes for that but most times I go before heading out on my hikes or afterwards depending on the type of trip. For backpacking trips where you kind of have no choice then yes, biodegradable wipes is the best way to go. If you are camping at a campground I try to use their latrines for this case.
So is this for repeat use through the day and then wash out at night?
Hi Kelly, Yes. You can reuse it throughout the day and wash it at night with the biodegradable soap. The fabric is silver infused which helps with avoiding bacteria from building up on the Kula Cloth. If you leave it hanging on your pack the sun also helps kill any bacteria on it. Because of the type of fabric you won’t have any issues. I’ve used it with multiple uses before washing and never had any issues on the trail.
Community: you would be surprised at how many people have these and the community that it has generated! I love seeing kulas in the wild and knowing that we are generating less waste and staying clean! Tip: I usually let my kula stay exposed to the sun and rinse it out every day or two, letting it dry overnight. Only use it for #1, never #2 and you ll be good to go .
I couldn’t agree more. That’s the best way to make the most of your Kula in the outdoors. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts with the community. <3