Quick Answer:
Bring detergent, coins or a laundry card, baskets or bags, fabric softener (if you use it), a timer, and something to do while you wait. Optional extras include stain remover, dryer sheets, pegs, or disinfectant wipes for shared surfaces.

There’s something weirdly peaceful about watching your clothes spin in someone else’s machine. But that calm disappears fast if you realise—too late—you’ve forgotten your detergent, or worse, cash for the machines. Whether it’s your first visit or you just haven’t been in a while, a solid packing list saves you from stress and second trips.

So if you’ve just typed “laundromat near me” into your phone and you’re prepping for wash day, here’s exactly what to bring—and why it matters.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Detergent?

Yes.
Unless your laundromat has a vending machine (and even then, it may be empty or overpriced), bringing your own detergent is the smart play. You get control over quality, fragrance, and how your clothes feel post-wash.

Your options:

• Liquid detergent – Good for cold washes and easy to pre-treat

• Powder – Great for hot cycles and whites

• Pods or sheets – Handy and no-mess (but pricier)

Tip: Pop your detergent in a small bottle or container to avoid lugging the whole 2-litre jug around.

What Kind of Money Do I Need?

Most Aussie laundromats still use coins—$1 or $2 pieces, often $4–$6 per load. Some have switched to laundry cards or contactless pay systems, but don’t assume.

Best move?

• Bring a mix of coins (at least $10 worth)

• Pack your bank card in case there’s a top-up machine

• Have a $5 or $10 note just in case a change machine is available

Nothing’s more awkward than realising you’ve queued for a machine you can’t actually start.

Should I Bring My Own Basket or Bag?

Absolutely.

Bring a washable laundry bag or basket to transport your clothes. You’ll need something sturdy that won’t collapse in the car or tear under wet weight.

Avoid:

• Open cardboard boxes (they’ll get soggy)

• Plastic bags (they trap moisture)

• Borrowing public baskets—if they’re even there, they’re not always clean

Bring two bags if you’re separating colours or want to keep clean clothes away from dirty ones.

What About Fabric Softener, Dryer Sheets or Add-ons?

Optional, but many swear by them.

If you love soft towels or fresh-smelling shirts, toss a fabric softener into the mix or add a dryer sheet before tumbling. Just be respectful—some people have sensitivities to heavy scents, especially in shared spaces.

For tougher jobs (kids’ sport kits, workwear, nappies), bring:

• Stain remover stick or spray

• Pre-soak packet

• White vinegar (eco-friendly softener and odour remover)

Should I Bring My Own Cleaning Wipes or Spray?

It’s a smart idea.

Shared surfaces like folding tables, machine handles, and door latches see a lot of action. A quick wipe before you set up can give peace of mind—especially during cold or flu season.

It’s not about paranoia. It’s about leaving things how you’d like to find them. A clean surface shows courtesy to the next person, which builds consistency and trust (a quiet form of social proof).

What Should I Do While My Clothes Wash?

Laundromats aren’t always glamorous, but they’re a chance to zone out or get stuff done.

Bring:

• A book or magazine

• Your phone and charger

• Headphones for music or a podcast

• A notebook if you’re a list-maker

Some laundromats even have free Wi-Fi, a coffee machine, or a small TV. But best not to rely on it—bring your own entertainment just in case.

How Long Should I Expect to Wait?

Washing usually takes 25–40 minutes, drying adds another 30–45 minutes. Timing depends on machine size, heat level, and fabric type.

Bring a timer or set an alarm on your phone. Don’t be that person whose clothes sit abandoned in the dryer, holding up the next load.

Pro tip from a seasoned washer: Don’t start a wash cycle and leave the building unless you know the area and trust the venue. Laundry left unattended for too long can be moved—or worse, stolen.

FAQ: Laundromat Packing Questions, Answered

Q: Can I bring food or coffee to the laundromat?
Yes—many do. Just keep it tidy and don’t leave rubbish behind.

Q: Do laundromats have ironing boards?
Rarely. You’re better off folding on-site and ironing at home.

Q: Should I bring pegs or hangers?
Only if you’re planning to air-dry some pieces at home. They’re not essential on-site.

Personal Story: What I Forgot on My First Visit

I remember showing up to a laundromat in St Kilda with a full load of clothes—no detergent, no coins, and no patience. A kind lady next to me handed over two pods and a gold coin, no questions asked. I paid it forward a week later when a uni student forgot her softener.

That’s the thing about laundromats. They’re public, yes, but they run on quiet reciprocity. If you come prepared, you’re not just saving yourself hassle—you’re making the whole place flow better.

Final Thought
Laundromats are simple in function, but smooth visits rely on small preparations. Bring what you’d bring to a mate’s house if you were using their washer—your own gear, your own detergent, and a bit of courtesy. With those, your clothes will come out cleaner, and your wash day won’t feel like a chore.

If you’re still wondering whether you should hang around while your clothes are tumbling or duck out for a coffee break, this short, sharp read has your answer: laundromat near me