Using Debit and Credit Cards in Laundromats

Why Aussie Laundromats Are Ditching Coins for Cards (And Why It Just Makes Sense)

Tapping your card at a laundromat used to feel a bit odd, didn’t it? Like bringing a smartphone to a sausage sizzle. But now, it’s fast becoming the norm. Across Australia, more laundromats are phasing out coins and embracing debit, credit, and contactless laundry payment systems. Why? Because they work. They're faster, safer, and frankly—less fiddly.

Let’s unpack how this shift is reshaping your weekly wash, and why it might just be the smartest load of laundry you ever do.

Can you really use debit or credit cards at laundromats now?

Yes—and not just in swanky suburbs. From Toowoomba to Tassie, tap-and-go has quietly made its way into laundromats, replacing those clunky coin-changers and “out of order” signs.

Here’s how it works:

• Machines are fitted with smart readers (often cloud-connected).

• You tap your debit or credit card, or even your digital wallet.

• Washing starts. No coins, no fuss.

For regulars, some systems even allow top-up accounts or mobile apps that track your washes and loyalty perks. It’s like having a barista stamp card for your socks.

Why are laundromats making the switch to card payments?

The truth? Coins are a headache.

Ask any laundromat owner and you’ll hear the same gripes:

• Coin machines jam or break.

• Staff waste hours emptying coin boxes.

• Break-ins are more common (thieves still love a coin stash).

• Customers hate scrambling for exact change.

By contrast, card payment systems:

• Reduce maintenance

• Speed up transactions

• Allow remote monitoring (think real-time updates on usage or errors)

• Appeal to modern consumers, especially Gen Z and Millennials

Behavioural science backs this up too. As Adam Ferrier might point out, removing barriers (like needing coins) increases desired behaviours (like choosing your laundromat). It’s choice architecture 101.

Do Aussies actually prefer paying by card at laundromats?

Absolutely. According to recent industry surveys, over 70% of laundromat users said they’d choose a venue with contactless payment over one that was coin-only. That’s not just preference—it’s behaviour in action.

Anecdotally, one operator in inner-west Sydney reported a 20% spike in usage after installing cashless tech. Another in regional Queensland said vandalism dropped to zero once they ditched the coin boxes.

That’s classic social proof in motion—people see others using modern machines and follow suit. The herd instinct isn’t always bad.

Are there downsides to using cards instead of coins?

Look, nothing’s perfect.

Some customers—particularly older Aussies—may be slow to adapt or worry about fees. And if a card terminal goes down, it can cause frustration (though outages are rare with quality providers).

But these issues are shrinking. Most modern systems:

• Accept multiple card types (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)

• Support Apple Pay and Google Pay

• Use encrypted transactions to protect data

• Offer backup options, like app-based credits

For laundromat owners, the upfront investment in card readers might sting—but it pays back fast in reduced labour and increased customer satisfaction.

Is this shift permanent?

Short answer: yes. The coins aren't coming back.

It’s not just a tech trend—it’s part of a broader behavioural shift. We’ve seen it with buses, cafés, even footy clubs. In a post-COVID world, cash feels risky, outdated, and inconvenient.

Australia’s been one of the world’s fastest adopters of tap-and-go tech. Why should laundromats lag behind?

As Bri Williams would say, “If you want a behaviour to happen, make it easy.” Cashless laundromats are simply easier—for everyone.

So what does the future of laundromats look like?

Picture this:

• You book a washer from your phone before you leave the house.

• You arrive, toss your laundry in, tap your card, and grab a coffee next door.

• The machine texts you when it’s done.

• You tap again to dry, maybe even earn a free wash after your 10th load.

It’s not science fiction—it’s already happening in parts of Melbourne and Brisbane. And it’s powered by seamless, contactless laundry payment systems that remove friction and elevate convenience.

FAQ

Do all laundromats accept cards now?No, but adoption is growing rapidly—especially in urban and high-traffic areas.

Can I still use coins?Some venues offer both, but many are going fully cashless for simplicity and security.

Are there fees for using a card?Most systems don’t charge extra, though your bank might for small transactions. Some apps offer bundled pricing or top-up credits.

Final thought? The humble laundromat is quietly going through a tech glow-up. It’s less about flashy screens and more about removing pain points. For anyone who’s juggled wet coins and soap powder in a dodgy car park, it’s a welcome change.

And if you're wondering how this is all made possible, you can see how businesses are simplifying the process with contactless laundry payment options that do the heavy lifting behind the scenes.