As you consider the different facets of your laundry business, seeking out ways to increase your revenue and improve your customers’ experience, it’s common to focus on large and exciting changes. For example, you might think about buying new equipment, changing your prices, revamping your brand, or introducing new advertisements. However, don’t forget about the crucial basics of a good laundry business. For example, is your laundromat safe? Laundromat safety is crucial, especially if your business is open at night. Use the tips below to make your business safer and more welcoming.
Laundromat Safety Tips
Be sure that your laundromat is well lit. Early in the morning and late at night, lighting is essential in creating an inviting and friendly atmosphere. Be sure to replace bulbs as soon as they go out, and light every corner of your laundromat. In addition, check that the parking lot has adequate lighting to ward away ne’er-do-wells and help your customers feel safe.
Hire more attendants. Sometimes laundromats are targeted by criminals because customers are left alone. Especially if your business is open late into the night (or even 24 hours a day), consider hiring attendants to manage the store. Not only will these employees make customers feel safer, but they will also help customers when issues arise, keep the facility clean, assist with wash-and-fold services, and more.
Train your attendants well. An untrained attendant is a waste of your hard-earned money. To ensure that your attendants are prepared for accidents and emergencies, prepare a written procedure that they can consult, and be sure that they learn the basic procedures. In addition, keep a list of important information and emergency numbers near the phone. Attendants should know how to use the washers and dryers, how to contact emergency services, how to handle a fire, how to respond to a hold-up, and more.
Conduct regular maintenance. Maintaining your equipment regularly offers numerous benefits. You’ll save money, extend the lives of your washers and dryers, and (perhaps most importantly) prevent dangerous and devastating accidents. A dryer fire, for example, could destroy your entire store, so be sure to clean out the lint screens and ductwork regularly. In addition, schedule regular check-ups for your machines with trained technicians.
Protect your coin changers. Many thieves target coin changers during break-ins, so be sure that yours is properly protected and secured. Purchase heavy-duty equipment and security devices for help. This will protect the changer, the cash inside, and even the building (which can be damaged in the pursuit of a coin changer). Be sure that at least one security camera is always focused on the coin changer as well.
Install security features. Video surveillance is an effective way to deter potential robbers and burglars as well as thieving employees. Inform customers and employees of your cameras using signs. The simple presence of the cameras will help customers and employees feel safer while also scaring off prospective criminals. In addition, invest in quality locks, bars, and alarms.
Finally, with a bit of research, initiative, and effort, you can enhance your laundromat’s security and ensure that your customers feels safe.
If you’re looking to improve your laundry business, be sure to check out Laundry Solutions Company, a full-service provider of premium vended, on-premises, and multi-housing commercial laundry equipment. Since 1976, we have been providing exceptional sales support, laundry design services, commercial laundry equipment (and leasing options), and laundry equipment service and parts. To learn more about our products and services, please give us a call at 800-383-9274 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!