For most Aussies, it might seem like paying $5–$8 per load at a laundromat is cheaper than splashing out on a $1,200 washing machine upfront. And sure, at first glance, the math looks friendly. But factor in the real costs—frequency, time, travel, detergent, and even your Sunday sanity—and it starts tilting in another direction.

Quick comparison: laundromat vs home laundry

Bottom line: If you’re a solo renter doing one load every fortnight, laundromats might work out okay. But for families or anyone doing laundry more than once a week, the savings (and sanity) in having a machine nearby are significant.

What hidden costs do laundromats carry?

Anyone who’s tried juggling a doona, detergent bottle, and $10 worth of coins knows—laundromats aren’t just about money.

Here’s what tends to sneak up on you:

• Time drain: It’s not just the wash cycle. It’s waiting for a dryer, folding on a dodgy bench, or the trip back when you forget the laundry bag.

• Transport: Factor in petrol, parking, or rideshare if you’re not close by.

• Peak hour chaos: Saturday mornings can feel like a turf war for machines.

• Hygiene worries: You’re sharing machines with strangers. Some are spotless. Others… not so much.

The real kicker? These costs don’t show up on a receipt—but you feel them every week.

How much does it cost to run a washer at home?

Let’s crunch rough numbers using average Aussie figures:

• Electricity: ~$0.25 per load

• Water: ~$0.10 per load

• Detergent: ~$0.20–$0.40 per load

• Total per load: Around $0.60–$1

Now, if you’re renting your washer (rather than buying it outright), weekly machine rental can sit between $25–$40/month depending on model and features. Spread that across 20+ washes a month, and your cost per load remains under $2. Not bad, considering the convenience of chucking in a load while watching MAFS reruns.

Some providers also offer laundry machine rental with no installation fees, maintenance included, and short-term contracts—which is perfect for renters or students who want flexibility.

Is laundry machine rental worth considering?

Absolutely—especially if upfront costs are a hurdle. Rental services give you:

• Access to modern, energy-efficient machines

• No commitment to long-term ownership

• Repairs and maintenance covered

• Easy upgrades or swaps if your needs change

It’s a strong option if you’re in a sharehouse, don’t want the hassle of appliance shopping, or live in a short-term lease.

Plus, if you’re doing multiple loads a week, rental pays for itself within a few months compared to laundromat fees.

Are there eco-benefits to washing at home?

Yes—and they’re worth noting.

Modern washing machines (especially front loaders) use less water and energy per load than the commercial beasts in laundromats. Plus, you control the detergent type, water temperature, and cycle duration—helping reduce your environmental impact over time.

For eco-conscious households, that’s a big tick.

FAQ

Q: How many loads per week justify getting a washer?
A: If you’re doing 2+ loads weekly, buying or renting is almost always cheaper within a few months.

Q: Do laundromats clean better?
A: Not necessarily. Commercial machines are powerful, but with control over detergent and cycles, home machines often do just as well (and are gentler on clothes).

Q: Are laundromats better for big items like doonas?
A: Sometimes, yes. If your home machine isn’t large enough, a laundromat might be your best bet for bulky loads.

Final spin: what’s the best choice?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but here’s the simple truth: if laundry is a regular part of your week (and let’s be real, it is), the costs of laundromats stack up fast. Between the $7 spins, travel, and lost time, what seems like the easy option can end up being the more expensive one.

For many, renting a washer is the sweet spot: low upfront cost, total convenience, and way less faffing about on weekends.

If you’re curious about how this adds up long-term, here’s a practical breakdown comparing options for laundry machine rental over time.