Individuals familiar with popular thru-hike routes or remote campsites are well aware of the prevalence of improperly disposed toilet paper, often considered the unofficial symbol of these areas. Introducing the reusable pee cloth.
A reusable pee cloth?! This was my initial reaction upon learning about the Kula Cloth from a biking companion some years back. Like many outdoor enthusiasts, I would carry a bag of toilet paper to use and pack out in a separate bag afterward. The Kula Cloth eliminates the need for some of that paper. The mantra of “leave no trace” is further emphasized.
Kula Cloth aims to minimize the reliance on toilet paper during outdoor excursions by providing a reusable, highly absorbent, and antimicrobial cloth for individuals who squat to urinate. While it sounds great in theory, how does it hold up in real-life settings?
One might question the necessity of a specific, colorful cloth marketed for personal hygiene in the wilderness, wondering if a regular washcloth would suffice. Does a designated pee cloth serve a purpose, and if so, why?
In a nutshell: The Kula Cloth not only performs well but excels. Its antimicrobial properties make it a hygienic option to carry with you, while also being environmentally friendly. It has become a staple in my kit, provided you have access to water at some point and manage not to misplace it amidst the trees.
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Weight
0.5 oz. -
Size
6”x6” -
Fabric
Bamboo viscose, cotton, organic cotton, polyester - Silver ion antimicrobial treatment
- Double snap closure
- Reflective stitching
- Made in the USA
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Replaces the need for toilet paper during urination -
Absorbs 10 times its weight in liquid -
Eco-friendly silver ion antimicrobial treatment without releasing silver particles into the environment -
Reflective stitching for easy visibility at night -
Available in various colors, with some designs supporting different causes and artists -
Optional waterproof side customizable for an extra $10 (as seen in the orange version in the images)
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Easy to misplace in the woods, especially with dark or earth tone colors -
Not entirely odor-proof (details below) -
Additional water needed for cleaning on the trail, particularly in dry desert conditions where water supply is limited
Evaluation of the Kula Cloth
The concept behind Kula stemmed from the founder’s quest for a reusable pee cloth for wilderness hiking. Initially utilizing a piece of microfiber fabric, the idea sparked to design a purpose-built gear for the cleaner, less odorous, and aesthetically appealing absorption of urine. After three years of development and rigorous testing, the first Kula Cloths entered production.
Assessment
I acquired my first Kula cloth three years ago. Subsequently, after losing it in the wilderness, I bought two more to ensure I had backups. I carry one with me on every trip away from conventional bathrooms, washing it after each daily use whenever feasible.
Design
The Kula Cloth consists of multiple layers arranged in a square shape. One side features a printed waterproof fabric, while the wiping side comprises a black, textured material embedded with antimicrobial silver. The company states that this silver ion treatment is environmentally safe, ensuring no release of silver particles into the environment.
