Coin-operated laundry equipment has quietly evolved from being a suburban staple to a clever business move—especially in the rental market. Whether you’re a commercial property owner, an apartment manager, or a small biz operator looking to boost convenience and revenue, the right laundry setup can change the game. But what exactly is coin laundry equipment, and why is rental now the go-to move?

Let’s break it down.

What is coin operated laundry equipment, really?

In plain terms, coin-operated laundry equipment includes commercial washers and dryers designed for public use. Users insert coins (or increasingly, tap cards or mobile payments) to operate the machines. These are the backbone of laundromats, but you’ll also find them in unit blocks, student housing, caravan parks, motels, gyms, and even petrol stations.

They’re built tougher than home units, handle more volume, and are programmed for faster cycles to keep the queues short. And crucially, they’re money-makers. Literally.

Why are businesses switching to coin laundry equipment rentals?

Good question. Buying commercial-grade washers and dryers outright can cost tens of thousands upfront. And once they’re yours, every breakdown or software update is your headache.

That’s where rental comes in—and here’s why it’s booming in 2025:

• No upfront cost – You don’t buy the equipment, you lease it.

• Maintenance included – Most rental companies cover servicing and repairs.

• Upgrade flexibility – You can switch to newer tech as it rolls out.

• Cash flow friendly – Fixed monthly costs, no surprise expenses.

• Passive income – Revenue from users goes to you, while someone else handles the logistics.

It’s not just cheaper—it’s smarter. Think of it as “outsourcing” the pain while keeping the profit.

How does a coin laundry rental model actually work?

Here’s the typical flow:

1. The rental provider installs the machines at your site—usually at no cost.

2. You set the price per wash/dry. Most range between $4 and $7 per cycle in Australia.

3. Users pay per use, often through coins, cards, or QR codes.

4. You get the revenue, minus a small service fee (depending on your rental agreement).

5. If anything breaks? The provider handles it.

Many landlords and site managers report it’s one of the easiest revenue streams they’ve added—no stock, no staff, no mess.

Who benefits most from coin laundry equipment rentals?

Rentals make sense for a wide range of settings. But they really shine in these places:

• Apartment buildings: Offer shared laundry while saving residents buying their own machines.

• Holiday parks & caravan sites: Travellers need easy access to clean clothes.

• Universities: Students live on instant noodles and communal laundry.

• Gyms & fitness centres: Let members wash their gear post-session.

• Backpackers & hostels: Provide low-cost convenience for guests.

• Mining or FIFO accommodation: Clean gear is essential—and onsite laundry saves time.

Basically, if foot traffic is regular and space allows, you’ve got a winning setup.

What features should you look for in modern coin laundry machines?

Not all machines are created equal. These are the must-haves in 2025:

• Cardless payment options – Tap-and-go or app-based systems are now expected.

• Energy efficiency – High-efficiency washers and dryers reduce power and water use.

• Fast cycle times – Users want in-and-out in under 30 minutes.

• Remote monitoring – See usage stats and flag issues in real time.

• Durability – Commercial-grade parts that can handle 5–10 cycles daily, minimum.

Anyone who’s ever used a flimsy old coin-op machine that eats your $2 and floods the laundry knows: tech matters.

Are coin laundry rentals really passive income, or is that a myth?

It’s mostly true—with a caveat.

Yes, it’s passive in the sense that you don’t have to wash, dry, clean, or chase people for payments. But smart site owners do two things:

• Monitor usage – Keeping track of how often machines are used helps tweak pricing and understand demand.

• Keep the space clean – A tidy, functional laundry gets more use (and fewer complaints).

The setup becomes semi-passive with a bit of oversight. Still, it’s miles easier than running a café or retail outlet.

What about repairs, upgrades, or tech issues?

Here’s where rental shines.

Most reputable rental providers offer fully managed services—which means they:

• Respond to service calls

• Upgrade machines regularly

• Handle payment tech glitches

• Provide spare parts

• Offer reporting tools

That takes a huge operational load off your shoulders. In fact, some business owners say they never have to think about it after install.

As Choice Australia notes, machine quality and service backup are critical to user satisfaction.

What’s the catch?

Not many—but here’s what to check:

• Contract length – Are you locked in for 3 years or more?

• Revenue share – Some providers split profits; others let you keep the lot.

• Machine types – Ensure they’re suitable for your space and audience.

• Exit clauses – Can you walk away if it’s not working out?

Transparency up front saves headaches later.

How do coin laundry rentals support sustainability?

This often gets overlooked, but it’s a strong upside:

• Fewer private machines = less manufacturing waste

• Energy- and water-efficient units = lower utility impact

• Shared resources = community-level efficiency

Plus, most rental providers choose machines designed to last a decade or more—reducing landfill from household appliances that conk out after five years.

FAQ

Can I install coin laundry machines in a residential home?
Not usually—these machines require commercial plumbing, space, and 15–20 amp connections.

Do I need council approval to set up coin laundry equipment?
Depends on your location and zoning. Always check with local council if you’re adding laundry as a new commercial service.

How long do commercial washers last?
With regular servicing, many units last 8–15 years—even with daily use.

Final thoughts

Coin-operated laundry equipment isn’t just a throwback to the local laundromat—it’s a surprisingly modern business move, especially when approached through a rental model. It delivers convenience for users, income for site owners, and flexibility for businesses who don’t want the hassle of maintenance or capital outlay.

If you’re weighing options for a shared facility or looking to add a low-effort revenue stream, the coin laundry equipment rental model might be worth a serious look.

Because while the spin cycle hasn’t changed much, the business model certainly has.