3 Unique Minivan Sink and Grey Water Ideas to Make Van Life and Camping More Enjoyable!
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- Опубликовано: 23 мар 2023
- If you want to see everything I use in my van, click here: www.minivancampergal.com
Learn from my mistakes and trials as I show you 3 of my successful sink attempts. Having a minivan sink for van life and minivan camping can make ALL the difference. All three sinks have small grey water tanks attached. I consider all 3 ideas to be cheap van sinks as well! I also have a USB faucet that pumps water.
USB Water Pump: amzn.to/3mzTZ0P
Water tubing: amzn.to/3Jgb211
Tubing braided cover 1/4":amzn.to/3L3iVbw
Welcome to Minivan Camper Gal! I'm Kelly and I camp and travel in a Chrysler Pacifica Minivan, doing part-time van life, and minivan life. Here you will find van build videos, tips on the digital nomad lifestyle, general travel vlog videos, and more. I'm into minimalism, and I eat a mostly plant-based vegan diet. I'm still learning how to do vegan vanlife well! I have some great vegan camping recipes to share with you, but would love some suggestions, too! Sometimes I stealth camp in the city, but mostly I like to boondock. Join me and my camper van as we embark on all the car camping adventures!
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To see everything I use in my van, go to www.minivancampergal.com!
Thanks for your video, it helped me work through some design modifications to make a camp sink for my large camp group
I love the simplicity and function! Thanks for sharing ❤
People who don't do car camping or living can't really understand that amazing feeling of finding your perspective solution of a small detail requirement after several trials and errors.
Haha, yes it’s so satisfying! I’m glad I have a community that can appreciate it!
I don't do car camping but I relate very well I understand I think you don't understand😅
I actually just use bottles of water to wash my hair anymore..i just do it out in the open wherever i am in nature/sumtimes public parks, at camping sites they sumtimes have water pumps/hose hookups that u can bend over to wash ur hair underneath i like this since i dnt have to do so much ...and for the rest of ur body... wash cloth baths are necessary 💯 and essential 💯, 💯.
And car living u just gotta find a private place to do all this or do it behind closed doors [literally] gotta love tinted backseats ...along with 'ho baths' which is washing ur private parts while u use the bathroom in a toilet... which I also use a water bottle to do so....its really the same thing as washing ur private parts in the shower, also I adopted this method from my college roommate who was Muslim, and would always have a pitcher of water drawn over by the toilet.
...and after using the bathroom, especially this way, wash ur hands very, very well with soap as to not be a nasty/ indecent fn person
Lol
This is what has worked for me.
I do appreciate your new sink! I may have to make sumthing similar, but I want to have a pump instead of having to rely on electricity
Looks great! I use a 3 gallon bucket with holes in it. It fits inside the five gallon bucket. It’s deeper so you can wash bigger items even clothes. Not as classy or drainy as the stainless bowl but pretty functional.
WOAH, that’s a great idea John! I love it.
Great idea 😮
Great idea
In theory, you could use a heat gun to warm up the plastic on the bottom and then shove a mixing bowl or basket ball to bend it into more of a bowl/sink shape. Haven't tested it, but seems like it would work.
Thank you !
I love that you smile when you talk.
Thank you!
I hope this isn’t redundant, but I didn’t go through all 258 comments to be sure. Here goes. Perhaps instead of the wooden platform for the pump, you can hang a cup holder? Can cut a slot to allow for the hose. Any way, I’m doing a camper van build and I definitely appreciate all your wonderful ideas and trials.
Ooh, thanks! That’s a unique idea! I’ll look into it!
That's a great idea. Thank you. You just solved my problem. I want a USB tap for my pull out sink this will work perfectly. ❤
Could do it super cheap with just a round plastic container that would fit the tap. Cut a line and hole for the water tube and just glue it on to the side of the bucket. You could even just hot glue some magnets on the side and the you could mount it anywhere you have metal.
That would be easy enought to heat up and mold as needed, too!
Your videos provide very practical, simple, cute, clean and logical approach!👍😊 Excellent job!🫶 God bless and stay safe, dear! 🌷
I’ve gone through a series of sink myself and most didn’t work out well. Mainly because of the amount of water that spills or that smells. In a small space, I found it better to dispose of gray water as soon as possible. and And to help minimize spills, gray water needs to be kept in an enclosed container.
Just my experience! Good Luck 🍀
Yeah, I agree! My bucket sink works the best because the water I use doesn't come close to 5 gallons, so the level stays pretty low. And the sink with the rubber bungee seals it up pretty well. What's the saying - Don't ask me how I know? Haha.
You could just pull the bowl out and add a Menards bucket lid to the top. I think I'd dump it right away and store everything in the bucket with the lid when not in use. Still clever all the same though!
Clever Ideas! And let me add my solution for a sink. Auto supply stores carry several types of inexpensive PORTABLE OIL DRAIN PANS that hold 5 to 12 quarts. The top has a shallow depression with a twist plug that drains into an enclosed cavity below that is emptied by a side twist plug. The shallow depression works for light needs. Add a bowl when you need a deeper catchment, and pour the waste water into the shallow depression. Disposal is super easy with no splashing by twisting the plugs closed to carry the pan outside.
Yes,my thought also. Easy to carry with the built in handle. And cheap if you get one of the black ones. Gray water contained so little odor.
Hmm. Yes. But might that not be a bit harder to sanitize though, after a while?
@@mfb6310 The oil change receptacle I use holds about 2 gallons. I empty and clean it after every use, usually with vinegar or OxiClean.
I like it! That USB powered faucet is a game changer - IMO.
I am in awe of your mechanical skills. Well done!
I love the realistic feeling of the process of making something from what you got to what you need. I identify a lot with this process of thinking (simple and efficient) and inspires me to go back to building stuff for our car. Thanks for sharing and keep it coming!
This is awesome. I camped with a small trailer that was a box on wheels for 10 years. I never really figured out the sink part. I would use CleanWaste bags that took water and congealed it so I could throw it away at the next trash can. Now I know how to do the sink for my next camper. Although I think I will use the larger CleanWaste bags for the bucket to keep the bucket clean.
I bought that same USB faucet -- it just seemed like the simplest/best solution. I haven't built out my sink area yet but I like the idea of magnets holding it in place. Great job on your many versions!
Thank you! Glad you like your faucet too. Thanks for watching, and good luck on your sink!
How about getting a 2nd ikea bowl to hold water , then pour it into the one with holes when you are done with that water. Like a stopper-only another bowl. I really love your idea 😊
WOAH! That’s a really cool idea! I’ll definitely think about this. Thank you!
I like how the bucket style lowers the center of gravity which has to be more stable than your previous attempts. Thank you for sharing this concept as I'm currently working through my plans
Thank you! Yes, it continues to work quite well. Good luck on your build!
Thank you for sharing your field tests! I am in the process of researching and acquiring the items I will need for the no-build conversion of my Sienna, and this really helps. I like your super speedy wood working montages, too! :). Fun to watch.
Hey Kelly! Ah yes, I researched so much when I was first building mine out! I tried and failed at quite a few builds too. It's so fun creating something that is absolutely perfect for you. (Well, once you get it right!) I hope you enjoy you van once you get into it, and thanks for watching!
I have yet to come up with a running water or sink idea that works for my situation in my minivan.
Brilliant. Thank you so much! Was about to say for aesthetics, with the right cleaning, scuff sanding, priming, paint, and clear top coat could make bucket look any color/finish you want...but then saw you got it covered. Stainless steel is an excellent material for sinks. I once did a deep-dive on researching sinks abd stainless steel was the affordable but sanitizable one I liked best even if I find other metals prettier. Excess water may splash so im wondering about some sorta basin
Now Im curious to hear your toilet ideas and more...
Cont....was saying so I wonder about some basin or bin to stand the sink in. And washcloth hanger nearby or right on sink.
Maybe a larger version of the sink too if ever needed like for larger dish load or soaking feet or washing hair or washing small pet etc. Stowed away when not needed. Uses same faucet.
Ooh thanks, yeah those are interesting ideas!
I haven't even thought about this..
I actually have 2 of those taps (because I ordered the wrong colour, so I decided to get another one too)😅
I had a trip this summer, and after that, I ripped everything out, and are starting new.
I had the sofa -bed, but I need the space, so are going to have a fold down hammock like bed instead.. 😊
Ooh a hammock bed, that sounds awesome!
I need to hear more about the fold down hammock ...😊
@@CitizenCWQ I wasn't able to figure it out, so I had to just make a Murphy bed solution.
But now, coming back from my 2 month trip, I'm thinking of redoing the whole interior, so I don't have to deal with the seat every time I use the bed, and can have some more headspace.
I think it will be great, you can see updates on my channel in a couple of months. 😊
@@minivancampergal1554 Yes, I just wasn't able to figure it out, so I ended up with a Murphy bed solution instead. 😅
Thanks for this nicely-edited, well-explained, and clear exploration and how-to video.
Subscribed.
Awesome, thank you!
Sheesh, I got bumped out and had to search for you so I could subscribe. I have the parts, so I am going to make a sink. I pick up ANY stainless bowl at the thrift store. About $3. I use them for everything, after I fell off a roof, I drop things, and stainless survives that and sooo lightweight.
Thanks for the pump links.
Hey Janet, thanks for finding me again! Yeah, I’m really loving it so far. Good luck on your construction!
Great sink ideas. The bucket is great!
stumbled across your video, i'm so impressed with your out of the box thinking & creativity....nice work & now I'm going to binge watch the rest of your videos. Cheers from Texas :)
Hey Mister! Aw thank you. Thanks for watching!
Nicely done. I think I would strap the pump directly to the bucket with an adjustable metal strap instead of the shelf. For me, the fewer parts, the better.
Thanks. Will try this first.
Good luck!
Thank you for this!!!! A lot of great ideas!
This is greatl. Glad I came across your video today. I am planning to build one this week for my truck bed camper. Thanks!
Awesome! I'm doing this! Thank you! 👌
That helped me thanks. Have a fun Summer 😊
Good stuff gal.
Thanks for showing us this pump. Thanks for sharing your inventions. I believe you have helped many avoid issues with your “smart sink”.
Thank you!
I look for different ways to make life easier in my van. I love your easy ways!
Thank you for showing us how life is not that difficult, just adapt! 😊😊
it's always the little things that bring satisfaction
Great video...well done
Okay this is genius!
Thank you!
Your ingenuity and resourcefulness is very inspiring! So glad to have found your channel! Thanks for the great content
Clever sink solution! I struggled a bit with mine as I didn’t want to cut a hole in the cabinet for the sink, had to come up with a solution to raise it to allow for drain. I love how you just drilled holes in the bowl and made that the drain directly into a bucket! The use of the rubber bungie for a snug fit, all of it. It reminds me of me and my “ridiculous contraptions” that I seem to always be forced to come up with. Good job! Love it when something works perfectly for the situation.
I love your creativity & willingness to design and redesign until you got what worked best for you. I also put a pump similar to yours in my Pacifica so I have running water in my van. I think it's fun to create and work out the little bugs that make minivan life more comfortable. Thank you for sharing.
Hey Jacqueline! Thank you! Yes, there’s nothing quite like the thrill. We’re Pacifica sisters! Thanks for watching.
Outstanding. I think I'm going to try this
Rite on, glad ya got it figured out, thanks
Excellent video!
I do have exactly that USB-pump. I love it.
Really Awesome love the bucket idea great job Im converting a bus wanting to keep it simple this give me ideas
Hey Gypsy! Ooh, a converted bus, sounds awesome. I think simple is best! Good luck with it!
Brilliant. I like the small hole drain design for exactly the reasons you indicated. I have a flexible drain cover that would work to temporarily hold water in the sink when needed for soaking items and to help contain the dirty water smells.
Enjoyed watching. Solutions that work.
*Great sink idea! Thx for sharing.*
Great,innovative,cheap & practical!
Amazing! Thank you for sharing!
Very ingenious, thanks
I like watching you troubleshoot problems. You are very creative.
AMAZING! SUPERB content! Thanks a lot!
All the sinks I thought were fabulous!!! You are a genius. Good job!!!!!!
That may well be the best design I've seen. Thanks for sharing. Blessings!
Wow, thank you!
Glad she’s so resourceful. Great ideas. Would a simple home water hose and adjustable sprayer handle attachment like the ones used to water a garden or hose down a driveway work - that way she can pull it out the door as well for washing her hair and hang it on a hook near a 5 gallon container for indoor use. The water pressure on a sprayer is adjustable. The bowl doesn’t seem deep enough for hair washing or washing dishes and the faucet isn’t tall enough. But if the hose is removable from a sprayer by simply screwing it off and also the the rear water supply she can also screw the hose to a campground water supply to refill and for other water needs such as rinsing off shoes outdoors - that way she doesn’t use up her 15 gallon water supply.
I’d also recommend a small solar panel for the rear water supply to keep the water warm - if even just a window pane above the storage tank. .
Hey Bonnie! Thanks for the suggestions! I have a video coming out soon about a new way to shower in the van! I do have a hose that I use to refill my water jugs. Most of the time I camp in the wilderness without water hookups.
excellent!!
I have been looking at many ideas for a sink and so far this one wins! I've been binge watching your videos and liked and subscribed! This was a pretty awesome idra. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you that was the best idea I’ve seen for my van I appreciate that😊
Nice idea, using the bucket. They are very useful for many different things. Thanks for sharing your ideas and results.
Hey Lynne! Thanks for watching and commenting, it’s nice to get feedback! 🌸
Very resourceful. Good job.
Hey Melinda! Thank you!
Success! Well done!
The Annette Benning of van life 😊
You are very smart....
Thank you for sharing.
Excellent ideas. Just what I was looking for.
Great idea,Cheap and easy way.
Glad you like it!
Awesome idea thanks for sharing ❤
Love your creativity and ingenuity.😊
you are really ingenious! Much respect! Thanks for this. I'm looking into van life full-time for a while and you really opened my mind to thinking about it differently.
Brilliant! Thank you so much.
Hey Nessa! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the ideas
Thank you. Good to know for future
Hey Michelle! Glad it’s helpful!
All great ideas.
Thanks!
Ingenious! Thanks for sharing all your experiments that are very useful!
Thank you!
Great job!
Thanks!
Try a hole saw the size of the pump to make a groove for it to set in. That might firm it up more
Love the sink idea!
Thank you! 😊
Soooooo creative !!!!!!!
This is a freaking brilliant and simplistic space saving idea! I just bought a whole vanity with a sink and was going to modify it to be smaller however the bucket in between the seats is just so great
Brilliant!!!
Thank you!
Brilliant
Perfect for outside
Yes, you could totally take it right outside.
Great idea!
Really very smart!
Love all 3 ideas
Thank you!
excellent! Thanks for sharing.
Creative! Subscribed thumbs up notification! Thanks for this.
Thanks for sharing,great idea!!!
Thanks Gary!
I like this kind of innovation- so creative and thrifty! Never saw that faucet before ! I could use it with a black bucket which would warm the water for a shower as it looks light enough to suspend in my shower cabana
Hi Susan! Thanks! Ooh yeah, it would work for shower!
What a beautifully simple idea.
Thank you! 😊
Great final sink!
Creative and practical 😊
Thanks!
Brilliant❤
Thanks, very helpful advice and tips!! Nicely done :) Subbed
Hey Tina! Thank you!
Thank you
Great work love the sink
Love seeing the process!
Very cool, I love your ideas!
Thank you!
Great ideas, thank you.
Hey Stacy! Thanks for watching!
Thank you!
Glad I found your channel. I am a solo female part-time car camper. Thanks for tips and ideas 🇬🇧 when your trying to perfect and make your set up better, loss of money is involved. What works for others and your own ideas doesn't always pan out. I have been lucky, passed on things to others. Not to many failings but a few money wise. Stay blessed and safe on your travels. I have a basic sink set up. New item coming to hopefully use with it but if not can be for another two functions as a alternative.
Hey Happy! Thanks for stopping by. Good luck on your travels too!
Great ideas!!! I have a GMC high top conversion van and I intend to use the last bucket idea. Thanks for sharing!
Hey Phil! Oh great, I'm glad it was helpful!
Bucket sink is great!
🙋🏼
Thank you!