If you’ve ever found yourself staring down a mountain of dirty clothes wondering, “Should I just go to a laundromat?” — you’re not alone. The short answer? Yes, going to a laundromat can be an excellent idea, especially when you know how to use one effectively. Whether you’re short on time, space, or just fed up with your cranky front-loader, laundromats offer convenience, speed, and a surprising number of hidden benefits.

Let’s dig into what makes laundromats more than just a last resort — and how Aussies are rediscovering their value.

Why would someone choose a laundromat over doing laundry at home?

Here’s the thing: convenience isn’t just about location — it’s about time, scale, and quality. While home washing machines are great for day-to-day loads, laundromats cater to life’s bigger messes.

The key reasons people turn to laundromats:

• Speed: Commercial machines wash and dry faster than domestic ones. That means multiple baskets sorted in under two hours — not an all-day saga.

• Capacity: Have a doona or a full sports kit? Oversized commercial machines swallow them whole.

• Breakdowns at home: When your machine breaks mid-spin cycle, a laundromat is a solid Plan B.

• Temporary housing: Living in short-term rentals, student housing, or a sharehouse? Many don’t include a washer.

• Eco-motivated: Modern laundromats often use less water and energy per kg of washing than older home machines.

“Anyone who’s ever tried to wash a king-size quilt in a 6kg washer knows the pain. It’s like shoving an elephant into a suitcase.”

Are laundromats clean and safe in Australia?

Absolutely — in fact, the rise of modern, self-service laundromats has raised the bar across the industry.

Most reputable Aussie laundromats invest in:

• Regular cleaning schedules

• CCTV security

• Cashless payment options

• Staff supervision during peak hours

Plus, hygiene standards soared during and after COVID, so you’ll find more sanitiser, wipes, and signage than ever before.

And let’s be honest — in some cases, laundromats are cleaner than the average family laundry, because they’re held to a commercial standard.

How much does it actually cost to use a laundromat?

Here’s a ballpark based on capital cities:

Pro tip: Laundromats are most cost-efficient for large, infrequent loads. Doing a full family wash weekly might add up, but fortnightly bulk loads or “crisis cleans” are surprisingly good value.

What kind of people use laundromats?

There’s this idea that laundromats are for students or people without washers. But walk into any well-run Aussie laundromat and you’ll see:

• Tradies scrubbing high-vis and workwear

• Busy parents knocking out weekend laundry in one go

• Urban professionals in apartments with no space for machines

• Elderly customers needing easier-to-load machines

• Small business owners — think Airbnb hosts, cleaners, cafes

Social proof? Absolutely. As behavioural scientist Robert Cialdini reminds us, “we’re more likely to do something if others like us are doing it.” If everyone from nurses to neighbours is using laundromats, that’s a powerful cue.

Is it awkward or time-wasting to hang around while it washes?

Actually, it’s one of the most underappreciated benefits.

You can:

• Work remotely — most laundromats have Wi-Fi

• Read or listen to podcasts

• Grab a coffee (many are located near cafés or have vending)

• Chat with locals (genuinely, laundromats can be mini community hubs)

One mum described her local as “the only hour I get to myself with no chores, no kids, and no dishes staring at me”.

What should you bring to a laundromat?

Here’s your fuss-free checklist:

• Pre-sorted laundry

• Detergent (unless it’s included)

• Gold coins or your card (most have both now)

• A laundry basket or bag

• Something to do while you wait

Optional:

• Dryer sheets

• Stain remover

• Headphones

Want to hack the experience? Arrive early on weekends, and avoid the 5–8pm weekday rush.

What are the downsides of using a laundromat?

Let’s not sugarcoat it — there are a few quirks.

• Timing: If you’re a night owl, some may close early (though 24/7 options are growing).

• Peak times: Saturday mornings can be like the Boxing Day sales.

• Forgetting stuff: Walk out without your socks once, and you’ll never do it again.

But none of these are dealbreakers — and with some planning, they’re easily sidestepped.

Are there any social or cultural benefits?

Here’s a curveball: laundromats may be one of the last public spaces where you don’t need to spend a fortune to be welcome. In many multicultural suburbs, they become low-key social hubs.

You’ll overhear everything from footy chats to parenting tips to Tinder horror stories — all while your delicates spin. There’s something oddly democratic about it.

Adam Ferrier might call this a behavioural nudge — a space where community behaviour gently encourages participation. It’s everyday psychology, in action.

FAQ

Can I leave the laundromat while my washing runs?
Technically, yes — but it’s risky. Unattended loads can be moved by staff or customers if you’re taking too long.

Are laundromats open on public holidays?
Many are. Check local signage or Google listings. Some operate 365 days a year.

Is it cheaper to do laundry at home?
Per load, yes — but only if you own the machine and don’t factor in repairs, energy costs, or time.

So — is it a good idea to go to a laundromat?

If you value speed, space, community, or just a break from home chaos — absolutely. Laundromats aren’t just functional; they’re quietly brilliant.

And if you’re googling laundromat near me, you’ll find options like this guide to expert tips and laundry etiquette particularly handy.

For more on how public laundries are modernising, the Australian Bureau of Statistics offers a great snapshot of changing household energy and appliance habits.