Why some laundromats thrive for decades while others break down in five

Anyone running a coin laundry knows the pain: a machine goes down mid-cycle, a customer leaves unhappy, and you’re suddenly up for thousands in repair or replacement. But what if I told you most coin laundry machines aren’t wearing out—they’re being worn down by neglect?

Here’s the quick truth: With smart, consistent care, commercial laundry machines can last well over 10–15 years. The trick isn’t in fancy tech or luck. It’s in behaviour—both yours and your customers’.

How long should coin laundry equipment last?

Let’s front-load the answer for those scanning: well-maintained commercial washers and dryers can last between 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer. But the catch? That number plummets without regular servicing, cleaning, and usage protocols.

According to commercial equipment manufacturers like Speed Queen and Dexter, machines are engineered for a decade-plus lifespan—if operated under ideal conditions. Unfortunately, laundromats rarely deal in ideal.

What shortens a laundry machine’s lifespan?

Here’s where most business owners unintentionally sabotage their equipment:

• Overloading: It strains motors, belts, and bearings.

• Excess detergent: Residue builds up in drain valves and hoses.

• Neglecting lint traps: Dryer fires and airflow issues start here.

• Skipping maintenance: Ignoring minor issues snowballs into costly breakdowns.

• Improper coin slide or card reader use: Causes misreads, jams, and unrecorded cycles.

Let’s be honest—some of this is customer behaviour. But most of it is preventable with clear systems and a bit of upfront investment.

What maintenance actually extends machine life?

You don’t need to be a tradie or technician to keep your machines humming. A solid preventative maintenance routine can add years to your asset life.

Here’s what works:

• Daily checks: Clean lint filters, check for visible leaks, and wipe down seals.

• Weekly rituals:

  • Inspect belts and hoses for wear.

  • Run cleaning cycles with vinegar or washer cleaner.

• Monthly:

  • Vacuum around and inside machines to reduce dust accumulation.

  • Inspect coin mechanisms or card readers.

  • Check washer door gaskets for mould and tearing.

Some operators swear by laminated checklists on the wall. Others use apps like UpKeep or Limble to manage routines.

A Melbourne laundromat owner I interviewed recently said it bluntly: “We schedule our maintenance like a dentist visit. Not sexy, but it saves us thousands a year.”

How do your customers play a role?

Here’s where behavioural science steps in. The way customers treat your machines impacts how long they last. But instead of rules plastered on the wall (which everyone ignores), nudge them.

Try this:

• Default detergent amounts: Offer pre-portioned detergent packets or visual guides.

• Choice framing: Use signage like “Using less saves your clothes and our machines.”

• Social proof: Display messages like “9 out of 10 customers use medium loads for best results.”

People generally want to do the right thing. But they need clarity and a little behavioural nudge.

Should you repair or replace ageing equipment?

A good rule of thumb: if repairs cost more than 50% of the machine’s value, and it’s over 8 years old, replacement may be smarter.

But don’t forget opportunity cost. Downtime equals lost revenue, customer churn, and possibly a bad Google review. If a machine’s become unreliable, the ripple effects might outweigh the repair quote.

And remember, newer models often offer better energy efficiency—which means lower water and power bills. That alone can help you recoup the upgrade over time.

What are smart operators doing to maximise ROI?

The savvy laundromats I’ve consulted with all follow similar strategies:

• Track machine usage: Know which machines get overused or underused.

• Rotate use: If possible, spread the load so one washer doesn’t cop it all.

• Reward customer care: Loyalty points for gentle usage or time-of-day specials.

• Schedule regular deep cleans: Not just cosmetic—this extends internal part life.

Some have even turned their laundromat into a “local hero” story. One Sydney owner runs free maintenance workshops for nearby small businesses. Another in Hobart built a whole brand around sustainability and care for equipment.

This isn’t just good ethics—it’s good economics.

FAQ

How often should I service my coin laundry machines?
Ideally, basic maintenance is daily to weekly. A professional service check every 6–12 months catches deeper issues before they become disasters.

What’s the biggest factor in premature equipment failure?
Neglect—plain and simple. Most failures trace back to skipped maintenance or misuse.

Are newer machines really worth the upgrade?
If your current machines are energy hogs or cause downtime, yes. The long-term utility savings and customer satisfaction often justify the upfront cost.

Final thoughts: Longevity is built, not bought

Coin laundry machines aren’t fragile. But they’re not invincible either. How long they last depends less on how much you paid—and more on how you treat them.

So next time you’re about to skip that weekly check, remember: a few minutes now might save you five figures later.

For a deeper dive into machine care strategies and operational efficiency, this guide on coin laundry equipment unpacks the essential practices smart laundromat owners swear by.