MPN11 and Geriaviator,
Dunno how my bearers did it - but I always got my right kit back ! Hot water ? and Soap ?
Soap costs money, so that's out for a start. River water as it comes is fine - you just have to wallop the dhobi on the stone longer and harder.
Geri, not sure about a dhoti. If it was just a tube of cloth tucked round the waist as you'd tuck a towel, it was a lunghi (most people wore them in preference to pyjamas).
Little starch, as I recall.
Great stuff - standing by for more !
Danny.