How to Use a Laundromat for the First Time (Step-by-Step Guide)

TL;DR

• Bring detergent, payment, and sorted clothes
• Use an appropriate washer size
• Wash (25–35 min) then dry (20–40 min)
• Fold your clothes promptly
• Use the Find Near Me tool to locate a laundromat

Table of Contents

1. Why Use a Laundromat?
2. Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
3. Step 2: Choose Your Machines
4. Step 3: Load Clothes and Add Detergent
5. Step 4: Start the Machine
6. Step 5: Transfer to the Dryer
7. Step 6: Fold and Pack Up
8. Common First-Timer Mistakes
9. Final Thoughts

Why Use a Laundromat?

If you have never used a laundromat before, it might feel intimidating. Lawsndromats are built to be efficient and user-friendly. Here are some reasons people use them:

• Bigger machines handle comforters, rugs, or large loads
• You can run multiple loads faster
• Good option for people without in-home laundry
• Many offer amenities like Wi-Fi, TVs, or vending

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Being prepared makes your trip smoother. Bring:

• Dirty laundry sorted by lights, darks, delicates
• Detergent (pods, liquid, or powder)
• Dryer sheets or fabric softener
• Payment method (coins, bills, or laundry card)
• A sturdy bag or basket
• Some extra coins in case card systems fail

Tip: Some laundromats accept mobile or debit payments. Check signage before starting.

Step 2: Choose Your Machines

Typical options include:

Washers

• Top-load: cheaper, smaller loads
• Front-load: larger, more efficient, better for big items

Dryers

• Standard: 25¢ for 8–10 minutes
• Large-capacity: for blankets or big loads

If you’re in a rush, splitting your load across two machines may finish faster.

Step 3: Load Clothes and Add Detergent

• Leave room for clothes to tumble
• Use the detergent tray if available
• Pods go directly into the drum
• Don’t use too much detergent—overuse can leave residue

Step 4: Start the Machine

1. Insert coins or swipe your card
2. Choose cycle:
   • Cold for colors and delicates
   • Warm for general loads
   • Hot for whites, towels, heavy stains
3. Start and let it run (usually 25–35 minutes)

Step 5: Transfer to the Dryer

After washing:

• Move clothes promptly
• Clean lint trap if needed
• Add dryer sheets if desired
• Insert payment and set cycle (20–40 minutes typical)

Set a timer and check partially through so you don’t overpay for extra time.

Step 6: Fold and Pack Up

Use the laundromat folding tables. Neatly fold or roll clothes to avoid wrinkles.

Common First-Timer Mistakes

• Not sorting clothes before washing
• Overloading machines
• Forgetting detergent
• Over-drying and wasting money
• Leaving clothes unattended

You’ll want to avoid those by following the steps above.

Final Thoughts

Your first laundromat trip may feel new, but once you know the process, it becomes easy. Gather your supplies, use the right machines, monitor drying time, and stay close to your load.

To find a nearby laundromat now, check our Find Near Me tool.

Written by Scout from the Laundromats Directory Team