How Much Does Laundry Cost at a Laundromat?
One of the most common questions people have before visiting a laundromat is: how much is this actually going to cost me?
Quick Answer
Laundromat costs typically range from $6 to $12 for one person doing a week's worth of laundry. Washers cost $2-10 depending on size (larger machines offer better value for big loads), and dryers run $1.50-3 per load. Using one large washer is often cheaper than multiple small ones.
The answer depends on a few factors—how much laundry you have, what size machines you use, and how long you run the dryers. But here's a realistic breakdown so you can budget accordingly.
Average Laundromat Prices in 2026
Washing machines:
- Small top-load washers (1-2 loads): $2.00 - $3.50
- Medium front-load washers (2-3 loads): $3.50 - $5.00
- Large front-load washers (4-5 loads): $5.00 - $7.00
- Extra-large/commercial washers (6+ loads): $7.00 - $10.00
Dryers:
- Most dryers charge by time: $0.25 - $0.50 per 6-10 minutes
- A typical full dry cycle (30-45 minutes) costs $1.50 - $3.00
Total cost for an average visit:
For one person doing a week's worth of laundry (about one large washer load), expect to spend $6 to $12 total for washing and drying.
What Affects the Price?
Machine size matters. Here's the thing most people don't realize: using one large washer is often cheaper than using two small ones. If you have three loads of laundry, a single extra-large washer might cost $7 compared to $9 for three small washers at $3 each. Plus, you save time.
Dryer efficiency varies. Some dryers run hotter than others. Hotter dryers mean shorter dry times and lower costs. At The Wash House, we specifically maintain the hottest dryers in the area so your clothes dry faster and you spend less on each cycle.
Fabric type plays a role. Heavy items like jeans, towels, and blankets take longer to dry than lightweight t-shirts and sheets. Budget extra dryer time for bulky loads.
How to Save Money at the Laundromat
- Combine loads strategically. Wash all your darks together in one large machine rather than separating by fabric type.
- Don't over-dry. Check your clothes at the 30-minute mark. If they're almost done, you might not need another full cycle.
- Shake clothes before drying. Untangling items and shaking them out helps air circulate better, reducing dry time.
- Go during off-peak hours. You'll have your pick of the best machines, and you won't feel rushed.
- Use the right amount of detergent. Excess soap creates residue that requires extra rinse cycles.
Laundromat vs. Home Laundry: The Real Cost Comparison
People often assume doing laundry at home is always cheaper. But when you factor in everything, the math isn't always clear-cut.
Home laundry costs:
- Water usage: $0.50 - $1.00 per load
- Electricity/gas: $0.50 - $1.50 per load (washer and dryer)
- Detergent: $0.20 - $0.50 per load
- Machine maintenance and eventual replacement
Total per load at home: Roughly $1.50 - $3.00, not counting the cost of buying and maintaining appliances.
Laundromat advantage: Large-capacity machines let you combine what would be 3-4 home loads into one. If you're doing a large household's laundry—or catching up after vacation—a laundromat can actually be comparable in cost while saving significant time.
What About Wash-and-Fold Services?
Some laundromats offer drop-off wash-and-fold service where staff does the work for you. Prices typically range from $1.25 to $2.00 per pound. A 15-pound load would cost $18-$30.
This is a premium service, but for busy professionals or anyone who values their time, it can be worth every penny.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to do laundry at a laundromat?
For one person doing a week's worth of laundry, expect to spend $6 to $12 total. Washers range from $2-10 depending on size, and dryers cost about $1.50-3 per load.
Why are laundromat prices different at different locations?
Prices vary based on local rent, utility costs, machine quality, and the services offered. Newer machines and well-maintained facilities often charge slightly more but provide better results.
Do laundromats take credit cards?
Many modern laundromats accept credit and debit cards. Some use a card-based system where you load money onto a reusable card. Call ahead or check the website if you want to avoid bringing quarters.
Is it cheaper to wash at home or at a laundromat?
For regular small loads, home washing is typically cheaper per load. For large loads, bulky items, or catching up on laundry, laundromats often provide better value.
How much does wash-and-fold service cost?
Wash-and-fold service typically costs $1.25 to $2.00 per pound. A 15-pound load would cost $18-30.
How can I save money at the laundromat?
Use one large washer instead of multiple small ones, don't over-dry, shake items before drying, go during off-peak hours, and use the right amount of detergent.
How much do laundromat dryers cost?
Most dryers charge $0.25-0.50 per 6-10 minutes. A full dry cycle of 30-45 minutes costs $1.50-3.00.
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