At first glance, you might think: Why bother? With modern appliances becoming cheaper and more energy-efficient, surely everyone’s got a washer at home. But walk into any laundromat in suburban Australia on a Saturday morning and you’ll see the truth—rows of folks with earbuds in, catching up on podcasts while their weekly load spins away.
Here’s why laundromats are still very much alive:
- Speed and Capacity: Most laundromats use commercial-grade washers and dryers that can handle massive loads—and do it in half the time.
- Cost-effective for Big Loads: Washing all your bedding, towels, and sports gear at once can cost less at a laundromat than running multiple loads at home.
- No maintenance stress: No leaking pipes. No random breakdowns. No calling a repairman for $180 an hour just to say, “It’s the drum bearing.”
- Time saving: Pop your load in, grab a coffee, and return to a fully washed and dried bundle—no need to hang-dry socks in the hallway.
Is using a laundromat cheaper than doing laundry at home?
Well, it depends. If you’ve already forked out for a high-efficiency washer and dryer, and you live solo or as a couple, you’ll probably save in the long run doing laundry at home. But the story flips for:
- Large families or housemates: The volume of laundry justifies a one-and-done laundromat visit.
- Those in rentals without machines: If your unit doesn’t come with appliances (still common in older buildings), lugging your laundry downstairs or around the block can make more sense than buying new machines you’ll leave behind in a year.
Let’s not forget water and electricity bills—especially if you’re in a state where utilities are climbing faster than rent. A full load at the laundromat might be cheaper than three half-loads at home, particularly when drying’s involved.
Do laundromats feel safe and clean?
This one’s a fair question—and often, the answer depends on the local area. But most modern laundromats have really lifted their game. Many are now:
- Open 24/7 with CCTV
- Card-operated (no fumbling for $1 coins)
- Professionally cleaned daily
- Offering free Wi-Fi, comfy seating, and air con
It’s not your grandma’s grimy coin laundry anymore. In fact, newer laundromats look more like quiet cafes—minus the espresso machine.
That said, some smaller or older shops can still feel a bit sketchy. If you’re unsure, a quick Google search for reviews or just stopping by during the day can ease your mind. And here’s a tip: laundromats near family-friendly neighbourhoods or uni campuses tend to be better run and better lit.
Who actually uses laundromats these days?
Plenty of people. And it’s not just backpackers or renters. Based on a 2023 industry snapshot, the user base is surprisingly diverse:
- Tradies and gym-goers who need to clean gear fast
- Families in small townhouses with tiny washers
- Elderly Aussies who live in units with no machines
- Young professionals with little time and even less patience
- Pet owners washing pet beds and blankets (separately, of course)
This variety actually gives the laundromat a solid dose of social proof. If so many people from different walks of life keep going back, there’s clearly ongoing value.
What about the environmental impact?
Laundromats sometimes get a bad rap for water and energy usage, but the truth is more nuanced. Commercial machines are now built to strict efficiency standards, and many use less water per kilo of laundry than home machines. Plus:
- They use high-speed spin cycles that reduce dryer time.
- Bulk washing reduces the number of cycles needed per household.
- Shared machines mean fewer appliances manufactured overall.
In short, using a laundromat once a week might actually be a more sustainable option—especially if you’re combining loads and doing it all in one go.
Is there a smart way to use the laundromat?
Absolutely. Here’s what regulars swear by:
- Time it right: Mornings (before 10am) or weekday evenings are golden.
- Bring change or a loaded laundry card: Avoid panicked ATM runs.
- Pre-sort your loads: Saves time and keeps things smooth.
- Wipe machines before use: Just good hygiene.
- Stay nearby: Not just for safety—laundry theft is rare, but not unheard of.
Some seasoned pros even treat their laundromat trips as a reset: 90 minutes to read, think, or just sit still without digital distraction.
FAQ: Quick Answers for the Curious
Are laundromats open on public holidays?
Yes—many operate 365 days a year, especially those that are self-service.
Can you wash doonas or oversized items?
Absolutely. That’s one of the biggest reasons people use laundromats in the first place.
Do I need to bring my own detergent?
Usually, yes—but some offer vending machines with soap and softener for a small fee.
There’s something oddly satisfying about walking home with a bag of warm, folded laundry knowing it’s all done in one hit. It’s not glamorous, but it’s practical—and in today’s hustle, practicality wins.
For anyone searching for a laundromat near me that actually works with your schedule and lifestyle, it might just be the small domestic win you didn’t know you needed.
And hey—anyone who’s ever tried to dry king-sized sheets on a tiny Hills Hoist knows what I mean.