Common First-Timer Mistakes at the Laundromat (And How to Avoid Them)

TL;DR

• Sort your clothes at home to prevent colors from bleeding
• Do not overload machines or clothes will not wash properly
• Always bring detergent and dryer sheets with you
• Check dryers after 20 minutes to avoid wasting money
• Stay near your clothes so nothing is lost or mixed up

Table of Contents

1. Why First-Timer Mistakes Happen
2. Mistake 1: Not Sorting Clothes Before Washing
3. Mistake 2: Overloading Machines
4. Mistake 3: Forgetting Detergent
5. Mistake 4: Wasting Money by Over-Drying
6. Mistake 5: Leaving Clothes Unattended
7. Final Thoughts

Why First-Timer Mistakes Happen

Going to a laundromat for the first time can feel confusing. Unlike home laundry, you may face coin machines, unfamiliar settings, or shared equipment. Many beginners make the same mistakes that cost extra money, damage clothes, or waste time.

The good news is that these errors are easy to avoid once you know what to look out for. Below are the five most common first-timer mistakes and simple ways to prevent them.

Mistake 1: Not Sorting Clothes Before Washing

One of the biggest beginner mistakes is tossing all clothes into the washer together. While it may seem faster, this can cause problems:

• Dark colors may bleed onto whites
• Delicates may get damaged in heavy loads
• Towels and sweaters may shed lint on lighter fabrics

How to Avoid It:
Sort laundry at home into lights, darks, and delicates. Bring separate bags or use baskets at the laundromat to keep everything organized. For sensitive items, consider using mesh laundry bags.

Mistake 2: Overloading Machines

It can be tempting to cram as many clothes as possible into one washer to save money. Unfortunately, this usually backfires.

• Clothes will not rinse properly if the drum is stuffed
• Detergent may not distribute evenly
• Overloaded dryers take longer, costing more quarters

How to Avoid It:
Leave enough space in the machine for clothes to move freely. A good rule is to fill washers no more than three-quarters full. In dryers, aim for half to two-thirds capacity for best results.

Mistake 3: Forgetting Detergent

Many first-timers arrive at the laundromat only to realize they forgot detergent, softener, or dryer sheets. While some laundromats sell these items in vending machines, they are often overpriced or limited.

How to Avoid It:
Pack a small laundry kit ahead of time. Include:

• A travel-sized bottle of detergent or pods
• Dryer sheets or fabric softener
• A few extra quarters or a loaded laundry card

Keep this kit in your laundry bag so it is always ready to go.

Mistake 4: Wasting Money by Over-Drying

Dryers are usually set up to take 25 cents for 8–10 minutes. Many beginners just keep adding coins without checking clothes, which wastes money and sometimes damages fabrics.

How to Avoid It:
Set a timer on your phone for 20 minutes. Check your clothes, fluff them, and decide if they need more time. Most clothes dry faster than expected in commercial dryers, especially lighter loads. Heavy items like towels or blankets may need extra time, but not everything does.

Mistake 5: Leaving Clothes Unattended

Another common mistake is walking away from your laundry. Laundromats are public spaces and unattended clothes may be removed by others or even taken by mistake. At busy times, people often move finished loads to free machines.

How to Avoid It:
Stay close by. Bring a book, laptop, or use the time to catch up on work with free Wi-Fi if available. If you need to step out, ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your load.

Final Thoughts

The laundromat can be an efficient and affordable way to do laundry, but first-timers often waste money or damage clothes by making simple mistakes. By sorting clothes in advance, not overloading machines, remembering detergent, checking dryers often, and staying nearby, you can turn laundry day into a smooth and stress-free experience.

Ready to put these tips into practice? Use our Find Near Me tool to locate a laundromat in your area and make your first visit a success.

Written by Scout from the Laundromats Directory Team