How to Do Laundry at a Laundromat: A Complete Beginner's Guide

Walking into a laundromat for the first time can feel a little overwhelming. Rows of machines, different sizes, coin slots or card readers—where do you even start?

Don't worry. By the time you finish reading this, you'll know exactly what to bring, how to use the machines, and how to get in and out efficiently. Thousands of people do their laundry at laundromats every week, and once you get the hang of it, you might actually prefer it to doing laundry at home.

What to Bring to the Laundromat

Before you head out, make sure you have everything you need. There's nothing worse than realizing you forgot detergent when you're already there.

The essentials:

• Laundry (sorted if possible—more on that below)
• Laundry detergent (pods, liquid, or powder all work)
• Fabric softener or dryer sheets (optional)
• Quarters or a payment card (call ahead or check the website to see what your location accepts)
• A laundry bag or basket
• Something to do while you wait—a book, phone charger, or laptop

Optional but helpful:

• Stain remover spray for pre-treating
• A mesh bag for delicates
• Snacks or a drink

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Laundromat

Step 1: Choose Your Washer

Laundromats typically have several sizes of washing machines. Smaller top-loaders work for a few items, while large front-load machines can handle multiple loads at once. If you're washing a week's worth of clothes, a medium or large machine will save you time and money compared to running several small loads.

At The Wash House, we stock the biggest washers so you can get everything done in one shot.

Step 2: Load the Machine

Don't overstuff. Clothes need room to move around for proper cleaning. Fill the drum about three-quarters full. If you're washing bulky items like blankets or comforters, use a larger machine even if it seems like overkill—they need space to agitate properly.

Step 3: Add Detergent

For front-load machines, there's usually a detergent dispenser drawer. For top-loaders, add detergent directly to the drum before or after loading clothes (check the machine's instructions). If you're using pods, toss them in first, then add clothes on top.

Use the recommended amount. More soap doesn't mean cleaner clothes—it actually leaves residue that can trap odors.

Step 4: Select Your Cycle and Pay

Most machines have options for water temperature and cycle type. When in doubt:

• Cold water works for most everyday laundry and prevents shrinking
• Warm water is good for towels and sheets
• Hot water is best for whites and heavily soiled items

Insert your coins or tap your card to start the machine. Wash cycles typically run 25-35 minutes.

Step 5: Transfer to the Dryer

When the wash cycle ends, move your clothes promptly to a dryer. Leaving wet clothes sitting can cause mildew smells. Shake items out as you transfer them—this helps them dry faster and reduces wrinkles.

Step 6: Select Dryer Settings

• High heat for towels, jeans, and cotton
• Medium heat for synthetic fabrics and permanent press items
• Low heat for delicates and anything you're worried about shrinking

Most loads dry in 30-45 minutes depending on the size and fabric type.

Step 7: Fold and Go

Fold your clothes while they're still warm to minimize wrinkles. Most laundromats have folding tables for this purpose. Then pack up and head home with fresh, clean laundry.

Laundromat Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules

• Don't leave your laundry unattended for long periods—set a timer
• Remove your clothes promptly when cycles end so others can use the machines
• Clean out the lint trap before using a dryer
• Keep your belongings contained to one area
• Be friendly to the staff—they're there to help

How Much Time Should You Plan?

For a typical laundry session with one or two loads, plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours from start to finish. If you're doing multiple large loads or washing bulky items, give yourself 2 hours.

At The Wash House locations across Akron, Canton, Cleveland, and Garfield Heights, our hot dryers and large-capacity washers are designed to get you in and out fast—often within an hour for a full load.

Frequently Asked Questions