How to Use a Laundromat: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
First time at a laundromat? This complete beginner's guide walks you through everything from what to bring, how to use commercial washers and dryers, to insider tips that will make your visit smooth and efficient.
What You'll Need: Dirty laundry (sorted), detergent, $10-20 in quarters (or payment app), 1-2 hours. Optional: dryer sheets, stain remover, mesh bags for delicates.
Quick Overview
Step-by-Step: How to Do Laundry at a Laundromat
Prepare Your Laundry at Home
10 min beforeSort clothes by color (lights, darks, colors) and fabric type. Check pockets for items. Pre-treat stains if needed.
Tips:
- ✓Zip zippers and button buttons to prevent snagging
- ✓Turn dark clothes inside out to prevent fading
- ✓Put small items (socks, underwear) in a mesh bag
- ✓Remove items from pockets
Pack Your Supplies
Before leavingGather everything you need so you don't have to pay laundromat prices for supplies.
Tips:
- ✓Laundry detergent (pods are most convenient)
- ✓$15-20 in quarters (or payment app ready)
- ✓Dryer sheets or wool dryer balls
- ✓A book, phone charger, or work to do while waiting
Choose Your Machines
At the laundromatFind available washers that match your load size. Check that machines are clean and empty.
Tips:
- ✓Inspect the drum for leftover items or residue
- ✓Don't overpay for machines bigger than needed
- ✓Front-loaders clean better and spin drier than top-loaders
- ✓Pick dryers near washers to minimize carrying
Load the Washer
2-3 min per machineAdd clothes loosely - don't pack them tight. Add detergent to the dispenser (not directly on clothes).
Tips:
- ✓Fill 2/3 to 3/4 full for best results
- ✓Use cold water for darks and colors
- ✓Don't overload - clothes need room to move
- ✓Add detergent before starting the cycle
Pay and Start
1-2 minInsert coins, swipe card, or use the payment app. Select your cycle (usually Normal/Regular is fine) and press Start.
Tips:
- ✓Normal/Regular cycle works for most laundry
- ✓Delicate cycle for fragile items
- ✓Hot water for whites and towels only
- ✓Set a timer on your phone for when it ends
Wait (or Leave Briefly)
25-40 minMost wash cycles are 25-40 minutes. You can stay and work, read, or briefly leave - just return before it ends.
Tips:
- ✓Use the time productively - bring work or a book
- ✓Many laundromats have WiFi
- ✓If leaving, stay within 5 minutes distance
- ✓Return 5 minutes before cycle ends to get your dryers
Transfer to Dryer
3-5 minMove wet clothes to a dryer. ALWAYS clean the lint trap first - this is crucial for safety and efficiency.
Tips:
- ✓Clean lint trap BEFORE using (reduces fire risk and drying time)
- ✓Don't overload dryers - clothes need air circulation
- ✓Shake out twisted items before loading
- ✓Start with 30-40 minutes; add more if needed
Fold and Pack
10-15 minRemove clothes promptly when dry. Fold immediately to prevent wrinkles. Pack neatly in your bag or basket.
Tips:
- ✓Fold on clean folding tables (most laundromats have them)
- ✓Hang shirts if possible to prevent wrinkles
- ✓Check dryer one more time for small items
- ✓Don't leave clothes sitting - others need the machines
Common Laundromat Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don't Do This
- ✗Overload the washer (clothes won't get clean)
- ✗Use too much detergent (leaves residue)
- ✗Skip cleaning the lint trap (fire hazard)
- ✗Leave clothes in finished machines
- ✗Use hot water for colored clothes
✓ Do This Instead
- ✓Fill washers 3/4 full maximum
- ✓Use recommended detergent amount
- ✓Always clean lint trap before drying
- ✓Set timers and return promptly
- ✓Use cold water for most loads
Money-Saving Tips for the Laundromat
Save on Washing
- • Use the right size machine - don't pay for space you don't need
- • Combine light loads into one (if colors are compatible)
- • Bring your own detergent - vending costs 2-3x more
- • Go during off-peak hours for potential discounts
Save on Drying
- • Use high-spin wash cycles to extract more water
- • Clean lint traps for faster, more efficient drying
- • Don't over-dry - check clothes early
- • Air dry items that don't need machine drying
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need for the laundromat?
Plan to bring $8-15 for a typical laundry session. This covers: washing ($2.50-$5.00 per load), drying ($1.50-$3.00 per load), and detergent if needed ($1-2). Bring extra quarters for change machines that may charge fees.
Can I leave while my laundry is washing?
Yes, you can leave, but stay close and return before your cycle ends. Most wash cycles are 25-35 minutes. Set a timer on your phone. Don't leave clothes unattended for long as they may be removed by staff or other customers.
Do laundromats provide detergent?
Most laundromats have detergent vending machines, but they charge $1-2 per use (much more than bringing your own). Always bring your own detergent to save money. Single-use pods are convenient for laundromats.
How long does laundry take at a laundromat?
A typical laundromat visit takes 1-2 hours. Washing takes 25-40 minutes per load, and drying takes 30-50 minutes. You can reduce time by using multiple machines simultaneously.
Do I need to separate laundry at the laundromat?
Yes, you should still separate lights and darks to prevent color bleeding. However, if you're short on time and using cold water, mixing is less risky. Always wash new dark items separately.
How do I know which washer to use?
Match your load size to the machine. Small machines (2.5 cu ft) handle 6-8 items. Medium (3.5 cu ft) handles a week's worth of clothes. Large machines (4.5+ cu ft) are for bedding or family loads.
What if someone takes my clothes?
Stay nearby and return promptly when cycles end. Use laundromats with attendants during staffed hours for added security. Some people remove clothes from finished machines to use them - don't leave clothes sitting.
Can I wash a comforter at the laundromat?
Yes! Use the largest available machine (usually 5.5-6.5 cu ft or 'triple load'). Add an extra rinse cycle if available. Comforters need extra drying time - check periodically and add more time if needed.
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