If you haven’t visited a new (or newly refurbished) laundromat of late, you might be surprised at the advances, resources, and management attitudes that are beginning to drive an industry that has changed little over the last forty years. With more efficient machines, Internet access, and a new focus on customer satisfaction, laundromats are becoming …
Average Life of a Washing Machine
Washing and wetting, scrubbing and spinning – washing clothes is hard work! If you don’t believe me, just try to hand wash and hang dry your entire load of laundry this week. Although machines make the job much simpler and faster, they also bear the brunt of the chore. A washer can only complete so …
Coin or Card Laundry Systems
One of the first critical decisions you will make as the owner of a laundromat is whether to use a coin or card-based payment system. Some laundromats require customers to bring in rolls of quarters (the old-fashioned way) and may install a coin-changing machine for convenience. Some businesses allow customers to pay for loads of …
Evaluating Your Competition in the Laundry Business
Whether you thrive on competition or you would prefer to run uncontested, most laundromats are forced to compete with other businesses in the area. This is a fact of life (and business). Evaluating your competition can help you understand your own shortcomings and win over more customers. If you aren’t sure how to scout out …
How to Reinvest in Your Laundromat
Building a successful laundromat takes time, money, and a whole lot of effort. When you reach the green and your revenue is steady and stable, consider reinvesting your profits to further improve the business. If you use your money wisely, you can create a cycle in which your revenue reaps further revenue, allowing you to …
History of Laundromats
As long as humans have been wearing clothes, they have been washing them as well. Although our early ancestors lacked the stringent laundry technologies we enjoy today, they surely appreciated the scent, feel, and look of freshly laundered clothing and linens. Launderers have been around for centuries and electric washers were invented in the early …
Reasons to Buy a Laundromat
Before undertaking any great financial responsibility, it is important to evaluate your reasons for doing so. What has compelled you to take action? What is your ultimate goal? Have you been pressured or unduly persuaded to take on the task? Have you truly thought this through? As you contemplate opening your own laundromat, consider the …
Expenses in the Laundry Business
Two dozen washing machines. Illuminating signage. An accountant to get your affairs in order. A repairman when a dryer breaks down . . . Running a laundry business can be expensive. So before starting your own laundromat, consider the various costs involved and how they will influence your revenue. Once you know what to expect, …
Where to Open a Laundromat
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: location is critical when you’re opening a new laundromat. Although you can’t run a laundry business without washers and dryers, and a commitment to maintenance is undoubtedly essential, your choice of location could make or break your laundry business. If you underestimate its importance, you may …
Repair or Replace a Washing Machine
When one of your washing machines breaks down, you might feel the urge to break down as well. After all, as the owner of a laundromat, your equipment is your bread and butter. When just one machine suffers a mechanical failure, your bottom line will suffer. The conundrum you must immediately confront is this: should …
