This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a laundromat.
Our business plan for a laundromat will help you build a profitable project
Opening a laundromat is an exciting venture, but determining what equipment you need can feel overwhelming.
The challenging part is knowing exactly what to buy without overspending or missing something essential.
Every laundromat has different requirements, and equipment costs can quickly get out of hand if you're not strategic about your planning.
Complete Laundromat Equipment List
Opening a successful laundromat requires careful planning and the right equipment. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to get your laundromat up and running.
Washing Equipment
- Top-load washers (various sizes) - Standard machines for everyday customer use
- Front-load washers - Energy-efficient options with better cleaning performance
- Large capacity washers - Handles bulky items like comforters and sleeping bags
- Commercial washers (20-40 lbs) - High-capacity machines for heavy loads
- Coin-operated mechanisms - Accepts quarters and bills for payment processing
- Card payment systems - Modern payment options for customer convenience
- Water temperature controls - Offers hot, warm, and cold wash options
- Detergent dispensers - Automatic soap distribution systems
Drying Equipment
- Standard dryers (various sizes) - Essential for completing the laundry cycle
- Large capacity dryers - Matches big washer loads effectively
- Stack dryers - Maximizes space efficiency in smaller locations
- Gas dryers - More cost-effective for high-volume operations
- Electric dryers - Suitable for locations without gas connections
- Lint collection systems - Maintains dryer efficiency and fire safety
- Temperature controls - Adjustable heat settings for different fabrics
Utility & Infrastructure
- Water supply connections - Hot and cold water lines for all machines
- Drainage systems - Proper waste water removal and floor drains
- Electrical systems - Adequate power supply for all equipment
- Gas lines - Supply for gas-powered dryers and heating
- Ventilation systems - Removes moisture and maintains air quality
- HVAC system - Climate control for customer comfort
- Water heater - Provides hot water for washing machines
- Plumbing fixtures - Includes utility sinks and maintenance access
Customer Service Equipment
- Folding tables - Provides workspace for customers to fold clothes
- Seating areas - Comfortable chairs for customers waiting
- Laundry carts - Helps customers transport heavy loads
- Vending machines - Sells detergent, fabric softener, and snacks
- Change machines - Converts bills to quarters for machine operation
- Soap dispensers - Wall-mounted units for detergent sales
- Laundry baskets - Available for rent or purchase by customers
Security & Monitoring
- Security cameras - Monitors facility for safety and theft prevention
- Security system - Alarms and monitoring for after-hours protection
- Lighting systems - Bright LED lighting for safety and visibility
- Locks and access controls - Secures facility and sensitive areas
- Safe or cash drop - Secure storage for daily revenue
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Janitorial supplies - Cleaning products for facility maintenance
- Mop and bucket systems - Floor cleaning equipment
- Vacuum cleaner - Maintains carpeted areas and debris removal
- Trash receptacles - Adequate waste disposal throughout facility
- Maintenance tools - Basic tools for equipment repairs
- Floor mats - Prevents slips and protects flooring
Specialty Equipment
- Dry cleaning equipment - Optional service for additional revenue
- Wash-and-fold station - Equipment for full-service laundry
- Alteration station - Sewing machines for clothing repairs
- Shoe repair equipment - Additional service offerings
- Ironing boards - Customer self-service or staff use
- Garment racks - Hanging space for finished items
Technology & Management
- Point-of-sale system - Manages transactions and customer accounts
- Inventory management software - Tracks supplies and maintenance
- Remote monitoring system - Tracks machine usage and revenue
- WiFi system - Provides internet access for customers
- Digital displays - Shows pricing, hours, and promotions
- Card readers - Accepts credit and debit card payments
Storage & Organization
- Supply storage - Secure area for detergents and supplies
- Lost and found area - Organized space for forgotten items
- Office space - Administrative area with desk and filing
- Shelving units - Storage for supplies and equipment
- Utility closet - Houses maintenance supplies and tools
Additional Items
- Signage - Exterior and interior signs for identification
- Insurance - Property and liability coverage
- Permits and licenses - Required legal documentation
- First aid kit - Basic medical supplies for emergencies
- Fire extinguisher - Safety equipment required by code
- Television/entertainment - Customer amenities during wait times
Our financial plan for a laundromat will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most laundromat owners spend between $200,000 and $500,000 on equipment, depending on their size and concept. You really can't go below $150,000 for even the smallest setup because you need basic washers, dryers, and utility connections just to operate legally and efficiently.
- Small Neighborhood Laundromat
A small neighborhood laundromat with 20-30 machines needs around $150,000-$250,000, and most of that budget goes toward quality washers and dryers.
- Medium-Sized Laundromat
A medium-sized laundromat with 40-60 machines typically runs $250,000-$400,000, with additional specialty equipment and enhanced customer amenities.
- Large Laundromat
A large laundromat with 60+ machines and full-service options can easily hit $400,000-$500,000, especially when you add premium equipment and advanced technology systems.
Equipment Budget Examples
Small Neighborhood Laundromat ($150,000 - $250,000)
Small laundromats focus on essential equipment that can handle daily washing and drying needs. The goal is getting quality basics without overspending on features you won't use right away.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Washers | 15-20 commercial washers in various sizes (20-40 lbs capacity), coin-operated with basic controls | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| Dryers | 15-20 commercial dryers matching washer capacity, gas or electric, standard temperature controls | $45,000 - $60,000 |
| Utility Infrastructure | Basic plumbing, electrical connections, gas lines, water heater, drainage system | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Customer Equipment | Folding tables, basic seating, laundry carts, change machine, simple vending machine | $8,000 - $12,000 |
| Technology | Basic coin operation systems, simple POS system, security cameras | $10,000 - $15,000 |
| Installation & Setup | Equipment delivery, basic installation, permits, initial setup and testing | $12,000 - $18,000 |
Medium-Sized Laundromat ($250,000 - $400,000)
Medium laundromats need more capacity and enhanced features to handle higher volume and provide better customer experience. You're investing in efficiency and customer satisfaction.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Washers | 30-40 commercial washers including large capacity units, programmable controls, energy-efficient models | $100,000 - $140,000 |
| Dryers | 30-40 commercial dryers with advanced controls, moisture sensing, stack configurations for space efficiency | $80,000 - $110,000 |
| Utility Systems | Enhanced plumbing with multiple zones, upgraded electrical, HVAC system, commercial water heater | $25,000 - $40,000 |
| Customer Amenities | Multiple folding stations, comfortable seating area, TV entertainment, WiFi system, multiple vending machines | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Technology & Security | Card payment systems, remote monitoring, comprehensive security system, digital displays | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Specialty Equipment | Wash-and-fold station, large capacity machines, soap dispensers, enhanced storage | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Installation & Training | Professional installation, staff training, permits and inspections, system integration | $20,000 - $30,000 |
Large-Scale Laundromat ($400,000 - $500,000)
Large laundromats operate with premium equipment and full-service capabilities. The focus shifts to maximizing efficiency, customer experience, and revenue generation through diverse service offerings.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Washers | 50+ commercial washers including oversized capacity, programmable cycles, energy-efficient technology | $150,000 - $200,000 |
| Advanced Dryers | 50+ commercial dryers with smart controls, moisture sensing, reversible doors, stack configurations | $120,000 - $160,000 |
| Infrastructure | Commercial-grade utilities, multiple HVAC zones, advanced water treatment, backup systems | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| Full-Service Equipment | Complete wash-and-fold operation, dry cleaning equipment, alteration station, pickup/delivery systems | $30,000 - $45,000 |
| Customer Experience | Premium seating areas, children's play area, multiple entertainment options, cafe area, enhanced WiFi | $25,000 - $40,000 |
| Technology Systems | Advanced POS with loyalty programs, mobile app integration, remote monitoring, automated systems | $35,000 - $50,000 |
| Installation & Systems | Complete professional installation, staff training, all permits, system optimization, warranty packages | $30,000 - $45,000 |