Cost Comparison and Preparation
Doing laundry at a laundromat costs over $3 per load, while doing it at home costs less than a dollar. When you go to the laundromat, it’s best to bring a large plastic laundry basket rather than a soft-sided hamper, as the latter makes it challenging to fit folded clean clothes back in. Make use of what’s available and stack clothes carefully to prevent them from getting wrinkled. Many laundromats offer folding tables for this purpose as well.
What to Expect and Process
Understanding the laundromat process is an important life skill. This video outlines what to expect and how to navigate the differences from doing laundry at home. Know that laundromats are typically coin-operated and may provide detergent, sometimes free of charge. Choose an empty machine, insert coins, add soap, and select the appropriate wash or dry cycle.
- Put dirty laundry in a bag or hamper with handles for easy transport.
- Bring coins and supplies, though many laundromats sell washing powder.
Best Practices
- Check the clothing care labels for optimal wash and dry settings to ensure your items come out clean and undamaged.
- Stay with your clothes while they are washing or drying to prevent any interference.
- Timely return the laundry carts and clean up after yourself to maintain a respectful laundromat environment.
- Sort clothes before laundry, separating lights from darks.
- Schedule your laundry day during less busy times, and carry change for the washers if needed.
The typical wash cycle duration ranges from 32 to 38 minutes, though the exact time can depend on the load size. Start by transporting your dirty laundry in a bag or hamper designed for carrying, and be sure to sort your clothes while checking their labels for safety in washers and dryers.