Some laundromat owners are still juggling coins while their customers are already living cashless. Switching to digital payments isn’t just about convenience—it’s about survival. In a country where tap-and-go is second nature and ATM visits keep dropping, laundromats that hold onto coin-only machines risk losing relevance fast. The good news? Transitioning is less complicated than it looks.

Why should laundromats consider cashless payments?

Cashless systems reduce the hassle of coin jams, theft, and manual collection. They also meet customer expectations—especially younger Aussies who rarely carry cash. Research shows over 75% of transactions in Australia are now contactless, with the RBA noting steady declines in cash use. That shift makes cash-only machines feel outdated, like a payphone on a street corner.

From a business point of view, cashless payments also improve reporting accuracy. Owners can see machine usage in real time, identify peak hours, and reduce shrinkage. For customers, it’s the ease of swiping a card, tapping a phone, or paying via app—no hunting for loose change at 10pm.

What cashless options are available for laundromats?

The switch isn’t one-size-fits-all. Owners can choose systems based on budget and customer needs:

• Card readers – Simple EFTPOS or NFC readers added to each machine.

• QR code payments – Customers scan and pay through a mobile wallet or app.

• Loyalty apps – Customers top up credits, track washes, and earn rewards.

• Hybrid systems – Cash and cashless together, easing the transition.

Each option has trade-offs. Card readers are fast but may have higher merchant fees. QR codes are cheap to roll out but require strong signage and customer education. Loyalty apps build stickiness but need upfront investment.

How do laundromat owners make the switch?

Shifting to cashless is more behavioural than technical. The process usually follows three steps:

1. Assess customer readiness – Talk to regulars, check if nearby shops are already cashless, and run a short trial.

2. Retrofit or replace machines – Many modern washers and dryers can be upgraded with a simple payment box. For older models, owners weigh whether to retrofit or replace.

3. Educate and ease customers in – Clear signage, staff guidance, and a short overlap period with coins help avoid pushback.

This plays into Cialdini’s principle of Commitment & Consistency. Once customers try a tap-to-pay wash, they rarely go back to fiddling with coins.

What are the common barriers?

• Cost concerns – Merchant fees and installation can feel like a hit, but most owners report higher turnover and fewer headaches offsetting the expense.

• Customer resistance – Some older users still prefer cash, which is why hybrid periods work well.

• Trust in technology – Owners worry about downtime. Choosing a provider with strong support is critical.

Case study: From coins to taps in Melbourne’s inner north

A small laundromat in Brunswick trialled QR payments on half its machines. Within three months, usage hit 80%. Theft dropped to zero, staff spent less time emptying machines, and customers embraced the simplicity. A local uni student summed it up: “I don’t even know where the nearest ATM is anymore. Tap-and-go just makes sense.” That’s social proof in action—people see others tapping, and they follow.

FAQ

Do laundromats need to go fully cashless?
Not straight away. Many start with a hybrid model before phasing out coins.

Are merchant fees worth it?
Yes. Most owners find the higher revenue and reduced maintenance outweigh the cost.

What if my machines are too old?
Retrofit kits exist, but sometimes upgrading machines with built-in cashless readers is more cost-effective long term.

Final thought

Switching to a cashless laundromat payment system isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a cultural one. In a country where even the sausage sizzle now takes card, laundromats can’t afford to stay stuck in the coin era. For a deeper dive into the broader cashless trend in Australia, the Reserve Bank of Australia’s payment reports are a great reference.