Washer Toss, also known as washer pitching, washers, huachas, or washoes is a fun and engaging lawn game that is on the rise right now. Washer toss is very similar to the game of horseshoes or cornhole in many senses when it comes to scoring and the way the game is played.
It is very easy to set this game up and the rules are pretty simple for the most part. Whether you are familiar with washer toss or not, the game is experiencing an undeniable rise in popularity. It’s a very accessible activity that is easy to take anywhere with you.
In this article we will be talking about the how to set up a game of washer toss, the rules for gameplay, and some of the best places to play washer toss. It's important to note that there are different versions of washer toss. In this particular article we will be referring to a game of single hole washer toss.
How To Set Up A Game Of Washer Toss
The game of washer toss comes all together in a cube shaped box that is closed with a latch. When you unlatch the box you will notice that the top and bottom come apart and both have part of a PVC pipe in the center of them. When you open your washer toss box you should also find a set of 8 washers (4 of each color.)
The top and bottom pieces should look the exact same on the inside. There should be a “carpet” type material covering the bottom surface of each piece surrounding the PVC pipe. This PVC pipe will be the “hole” that you aim for when playing a game of washers. As you might have guessed, the 2 sets of 4 washers will be what you “toss” while playing.
Set the top and bottom pieces of the box at a distance of 21 feet away from each other. The pieces should be aligned with each other accordingly, much like cornhole boards in a game of cornhole. Some sets of washer toss come with a string which allows you to easily set up your game with the exact distance.
The Game Rules and Scoring of Washer Toss
When playing a game of washer toss players stand directly next to the box. Your foot should be in line with the cup inside the box. To determine who will “pitch” first, both players will line up and pitch a washer at the opposite box. Whoever gets closer to the box will be the first to toss, this is called the diddle.
To start the match player 1 will throw all four of their washers back to back. Any washers that land inside the hole are worth 3 points and washers that land in the bottom of the box are worth 1 point. If any of the thrown washers happen to land on the top of any edge inside the washer box, that player automatically wins the game.
After player 1 has thrown all of their washers, player 2 will go ahead and throw their 4 washers. Only 1 player can score per round, due to the cancellation effect. For instance, if player 1 scores 5 points on their turn and player 2 scores 4 points, player 1 will score 1 point. Whomever scores the most during a round will gain the difference in score.
To win a game of washer toss a player or team must be the first to score 21 points. However, if the first player or team tossing is able to score 21, the second player or team is still able to take their tosses and try and nullify the opposing player’s points.
A “skunk” may be called if the score gets to 11-0 where the player with 11 will automatically win. A “whitewash” may be called at a score of 17-2. These two options are not mandatory gameplay rules and are not required.
It's important to note that there are many different variations when it comes to how this game is played. Some locations have their own set of gameplay and rules.
Best Places to Play Washer Toss
The nice thing about the game of washer toss is it is very easy to transport the game. The box itself tends to be quite small. Most washer toss boxes come with a handle attached to make transporting that much simpler. All of the washers can fit inside the box and because both boxes latch together you can move it all at once, unlike most games with a more advanced setup.
Take a look at this great "American Lifestyle" Designed Washer Toss Set!
The Park
The park can be a great place to play a game of washers. Whether you’re having a picnic or just strolling through the park with your family, this is one of the best games to take with you. Majority of parks have a large open grass area, and since you only need 21 feet of distance you should be able to set a game of washer toss up quite nicely.
A Party or Gathering
One of the things that makes attending a party or gathering so great is the fun and games you get to experience. Washer toss is a very simple game that anyone can play. Whether it’s your mother, your little cousin, your uncle, or your grandma, anyone who can toss a tiny washer can play this game. Take it out into the backyard and get to tossing.
Tailgate Party
Having fun and interactive games to play during a tailgate party is a must. Many people like to eat, drink, use a phone, etc in their one hand during a game of cornhole. Washer toss is a great simple activity for this because of the fact it only takes one hand to toss your washers!
All in all, washer toss is an entertaining game that everyone can enjoy. The game doesn’t take much to set up and is easily transportable and can be played at any venue. All you need is a small amount of space, a reasonably flat surface, and someone to play with.
Hopefully this article provides the insight you need to get out there and toss a few washers. We’ve covered the rules, how to set up your game, and a few of the best places to play. Take your washer toss game to your next get together or tailgate and ensure everyone will be entertained!
