Cost FAQDecember 15, 20257 min read

Laundromat Cost Questions Answered

Everything you need to know about laundromat pricing in 2025. From cost per load to wash-and-fold services, we answer the most common pricing questions.

Quick Answer: Average laundromat cost is $5.00-$7.50 per load total (wash + dry) in 2025. Washing costs $2.00-$6.00 depending on machine size, and drying costs $1.00-$3.00 per load.

2025 Laundromat Price Quick Reference

$3-$4
Small/Medium Wash
2.5-3.5 cu ft machines
$5-$7
Large Wash
4.5-6+ cu ft machines
$1-$3
Drying
Per load (30-45 min)

All Your Cost Questions Answered

How much does it cost to wash clothes at a laundromat?

In 2025, laundromat wash prices range from $2.00-$8.00 depending on machine size. Small machines (2.5 cu ft) cost $2.00-$3.00, medium (3.5 cu ft) cost $3.00-$4.50, large (4.5 cu ft) cost $4.50-$6.00, and extra-large/triple-load machines (6+ cu ft) cost $6.00-$10.00. The national average is about $3.50-$4.50 for a standard wash.

How much does a laundromat dryer cost?

Laundromat dryers typically cost $0.25-$0.50 per cycle (6-10 minutes). A full drying cycle for one load usually requires 3-6 cycles, costing $1.00-$3.00 total. Large or heavy items like comforters may need $3.00-$5.00 worth of drying time. Most dryers are the same price regardless of size.

What is the average total cost per load at a laundromat?

The average total cost per load (wash + dry) in 2025 is $5.00-$7.50. This includes washing ($3.00-$4.50) plus drying ($1.50-$3.00). Budget laundromats may cost as low as $3.50 total, while premium urban locations can cost $8.00-$10.00+ per load.

Is it cheaper to use a large machine or multiple small machines?

Using one large machine is usually 20-30% cheaper than multiple small machines for the same amount of laundry. For example: 2 small loads at $2.50 each = $5.00, vs 1 large load at $4.00. Plus, you save on dryer costs by consolidating. Always use the largest machine that fits your load without overloading.

How much does wash-and-fold service cost at a laundromat?

Wash-and-fold (drop-off) service costs $1.25-$2.50 per pound, with most laundromats charging around $1.50-$1.75/lb. A typical load weighs 8-12 lbs, so expect to pay $12-$21 per load for wash-and-fold. Some locations have minimum charges of $15-$20. This includes washing, drying, and folding.

Do laundromats charge extra for hot water?

Most laundromats charge the same price regardless of water temperature (cold, warm, or hot). However, some newer eco-friendly laundromats offer cold wash discounts of $0.25-$0.50 per load. Hot water doesn't typically cost extra at traditional coin-operated laundromats.

How much does it cost to wash a comforter at a laundromat?

Washing a comforter at a laundromat costs $8-$15 total. You'll need a large or extra-large machine ($5-$8 wash) plus extended drying time ($3-$7). King-size comforters may require the largest triple-load machines. This is significantly cheaper than dry cleaning a comforter ($25-$50).

Are laundromat prices higher on weekends?

Most laundromats charge the same price every day. However, some locations offer off-peak discounts (10-25% off) during slow periods like weekday mornings. Dynamic pricing is rare at laundromats. The main difference is availability - weekends are busier, so you may wait longer for machines.

How much should I budget monthly for laundromat use?

For a single person doing laundry weekly: budget $25-$40/month. For a couple: $40-$60/month. For a family of 4: $60-$100/month. This assumes 1-2 loads per week per person at $5-$7 per load. Using larger machines and bringing your own supplies can reduce costs by 20-30%.

Is using a laundromat cheaper than owning a washer and dryer?

Short-term, laundromats are cheaper (no $800-$2,000 equipment cost). Long-term, home machines save money if you do 3+ loads weekly. Break-even is typically 2-4 years. For renters, apartment dwellers, or those doing 1-2 loads weekly, laundromats are often more cost-effective. Consider: equipment cost, water/electric bills, maintenance, and your time.

Cost by Machine Size

Machine SizeCapacityWash Cost+ DryTotal
Small10-12 lbs$2.00-$3.00$1.00-$1.50$3.00-$4.50
Medium14-18 lbs$3.00-$4.50$1.50-$2.00$4.50-$6.50
Large20-25 lbs$4.50-$6.00$2.00-$2.50$6.50-$8.50
XL/Triple30+ lbs$6.00-$10.00$2.50-$3.50$8.50-$13.50

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