Introduction
You live in a dorm or an apartment without a built-in washing machine and dryer. Maybe your washing machine broke down. But it's laundry day. What do you do?
Simple. Head over to the local laundromat.
However, many people are reluctant to use a self-serve laundry facility because they don't know how it works. Don't worry, we've got you covered!
What Is a Laundromat?
A laundromat is a laundry facility with self-serve washers and dryers you can use for a fee. Some laundromats also offer laundry services, such as wash and fold or dry cleaning.
Another term for a laundromat is coin laundry. The name comes from the payment method. Typically, you put coins into the machine to start it.
Some common features of laundromats include:
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Folding Tables: Once you take your clothes out of the dryer, you can use the folding tables to fold them neatly.
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Detergent Vending Machines: Normally, people bring their soap and detergent. But most laundromats also have vending machines that sell laundry supplies. If you've forgotten your detergent, you can purchase it there.
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Change Machine: We already mentioned that washers in a laundromat are coin-operated. But what if you have $10? You can simply insert your bill into a change machine and get coins in return.
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Chairs: One way to do laundry in a laundromat is to put your clothes in the washing machine and go out for a cup of coffee. But if you want to stay, you can relax on the chairs while waiting for your laundry.
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Entertainment: Some laundromats also have entertainment options to keep you busy while you wait for your laundry. A TV set is a common sight. If you're lucky, you might find free Wi-Fi, too.
Benefits of Using a Laundromat
Now, some of you might be wondering: what good could carrying your dirty laundry two blocks away do? Let us tell you there are several benefits to using your local laundromat.
Large-Capacity Machines
Winter is just around the corner. You need to wash your chunky sweaters and comforters. Your blanket also hasn't been washed in ages.
The washing machine at home might not be spacious enough for these garments. But the ones at the laundromat can take on the load.
Socializing Spot
Do you work from home? Maybe all your friends live out of state. You might feel a little isolated at times.
Why not use this opportunity to go out and meet new people? The laundromat can be the perfect spot to join in conversations with people who live close to you.
Cost-Savings
If you already have a washer and dryer, you're golden. But if not, the upfront cost of getting the duo can take a toll on your bank account. If you're not prepared for this big investment, using a laundromat can be an affordable alternative.
Space-Saving
If your living space is also pretty cramped, there's no reason to crowd it even more with a washing machine and a dryer. Instead, take your laundry to the nearest laundrette. You can use this saved space for something else, like a home office or an extra closet.
How To Use A Laundromat
Now, let's come to the juicy bit: the etiquette and proper way of using a laundromat.
Schedule Your Visit
You can't expect to go to the laundromat in the middle of the day and find all the machines available. Similarly, it's always crowded on weekends and after work hours.
Plan your visit according to machine availability. Try going early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid the rush.
Gather Your Supplies
Invest in a good-quality laundry bag to carry your clothes. Also, get a laundry caddy for the supplies. These would include:
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Laundry detergent
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Fabric softener (optional)
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Change for the machines
Go to the Laundry Facility
Gather your supplies and go to the laundromat. Find an available washing machine and put your load in. Don't forget to separate whites and colors.
Fill the machine with your clothes, add detergent, add fabric softener (if using one), and start the machine.
Once your load is done, transfer it to an available dryer. Pro tip: Add a dryer sheet for a fresh scent.
Wait Patiently
Laundromats can be busy places, so don't expect to finish your laundry in a jiffy. Bring a book or work on your laptop while you wait for the washing machine to stop.
You can also go to the laundromat with a friend to keep you company. If there's a nearby coffee shop or grocery store, you can also run some errands while waiting.
Fold Your Clothes
Take your load out of the dryer and plop it on a folding table. Fold your clothes and put them in your laundry bag. All done!
6 Laundromat Tips and Tricks
Ready for your first trip to the laundromat? Here are a few tips and tricks to make the process a breeze for you:
Sort Your Laundry at Home
You won't be the only one doing your laundry at the laundromat. It will likely be busy and crowded. As a result, you don't want to be that person with a huge pile of clothes, trying to sort them out while others are waiting.
Sort your dirty laundry at home. You can get small mesh laundry bags to keep your delicates or socks separate from the rest of your clothes.
Check Your Pockets
Since a laundromat is a public place, do your best not to cause any issues. Empty your pockets before putting your clothes in the washing machine. If you accidentally leave a sharp object like a pen or a paper clip, it could cause damage to the machine and inconvenience others.
Check the Washer / Dryer Before Use
Remember, the appliances in the laundromat are for public use. You never know what the person before you washed in the machine or dryer. Check for any leftover items like socks or coins. If you find any, remove them.
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Set the washer's settings according to your desired laundry cycle and fabric type.
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Sniff the washer beforehand. If it smells moldy, choose another one.
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Empty the washing machine dispensers. You don't want any bleach residue to accidentally ruin your clothes.
Once you're done, wipe down the washer and dryer with some disinfectant wipes. It's a considerate gesture towards the next person who is going to use them.
Take Your Own Laundry Detergent
Yes, we know we said that you can pick up laundry detergent there, but don't always count on it. Instead, take your own to avoid any inconvenience. We recommend measuring out the amount needed for your laundry at home and putting it in a small container or plastic bag.
Use a Top Load Washer
If you want to go green, we recommend using a top load washing machine since it uses less water compared to a front-loading one. You can also choose a laundry machine with an Energy Star rating if your laundromat has one.
Take a Laundry Basket
Don't forget to take a laundry basket or a hamper to carry your clean clothes back home. Using a plastic bag might rip on the way home and cause an unnecessary mess. Plus, carrying your laundry in a reusable basket is better for the environment.
Experience Effortless Laundry with Rinse
Every once in a while, you want to take a break from laundry. We all do. But there are still clothes to be cleaned and that one stubborn stain to be removed.
Just send your load to us at Rinse. We will do your laundry with the utmost care and attention, using eco-friendly products. No more waiting at the laundromat! Our competitive pricing will make you choose the laundromat over us for the future, too.
You won't even have to leave the comfort of your home. Book us through our app or text us, and we'll take care of the rest. From pickup to delivery, we're here to make laundry day hassle-free.
Contact us at Rinse today to see our skill in action.
