5 minute read
How much money should I bring to the laundromat?
If you're heading to the laundromat and wondering, “How much cash do I actually need?”, the short answer is: anywhere from $5 to $25, depending on your load size, machine type, and whether you're drying, folding, or grabbing extras like detergent or coffee.
But the real trick isn’t just bringing enough—it’s not spending too much. And that, mate, is where things get interesting.
What’s the average cost to wash and dry clothes at an Aussie laundromat?
For most people doing a “standard weekly wash” (roughly 1–2 loads), you’re looking at:
Washing machine (7–9kg): $5–$7
Dryer (30 mins): $1–$2 per 6–10 mins (so about $4–$6 to fully dry)
Total spend: ~$10–$13 per visit
Need to wash doona covers, tradie workwear, or a mountain of kids’ clothes? You might need a 14–20kg machine, which costs around $10–$15 per wash. Some laundromats also offer express wash + dry combos for bulk laundry – a dream if you’re in a hurry.
Do I need coins or cards?
Short answer: It depends on the laundromat.
Coin-only machines are still common in smaller or older shops. Bring $1 and $2 coins.
Card-enabled washers or tap-to-pay kiosks are increasingly standard in modern, self-service laundromats.
Some offer loyalty cards or even apps, letting you load money digitally. If you're a regular, this can save you cash and the pain of hunting for coins under the car seat.
Pro tip: If it’s your first visit to a laundromat near a busy town centre or university, it’s smart to bring both coins and a backup card—just in case.
Can I save money by prepping at home?
Absolutely. A bit of planning goes a long way:
Pre-sort your clothes by fabric and colour so you don’t overpay for separate loads.
Bring your own detergent – laundromat vending machines charge up to $2–$3 per sachet.
Use the full machine – Washing half a load costs the same as a full one, so batch it up.
Dry strategically – Shake out clothes before drying and don’t overload the drum. You’ll get better airflow, meaning shorter dry times.
It’s behavioural economics 101: loss aversion kicks in when you're feeding $1 coins into a dryer that’s clearly underperforming. We tend to double down (“Just another $2 should finish it”) rather than pause and rethink.
Is it cheaper to do laundry at home?
If you’ve got a working machine, sure—over time. But not everyone has that luxury, especially in units or student housing.
So, if you're only doing laundry once a week or living light, the laundromat still makes financial sense. Plus, you’re not hogging the tiny clothesline on your balcony.
How much should I budget per month?
If you’re doing weekly washes, the average Aussie could expect:
Solo person: ~$40–$50/month
Couple: ~$60–$80/month
Small family: $100–$150/month
Costs vary based on fabric types, drying needs (winter = longer dry times), and whether you're using premium machines for bedding or pet items.
What if I’m bringing doona covers or heavy loads?
Not all machines are built for the big stuff. Look for laundromats with:
14kg+ washers (ideal for doonas and curtains)
Industrial dryers that can handle bulk drying fast
Specialty cycles for delicates or allergy-sensitive washes
In some suburbs, self-service laundries offer pet-specific washers too—keeps the fur out of your clothes and your dog happier than ever.
What’s the vibe at modern laundromats?
Forget the cold, fluorescent nightmares of the 90s. Today’s laundromats are warm, welcoming, and—believe it or not—sometimes even stylish.
Think: free Wi-Fi, comfy seating, coffee machines, and phone-charging stations. Some even include folding stations, ironing boards, and contactless payment systems.
It’s part of a broader shift toward ‘third place’ convenience—making mundane errands feel like part of your lifestyle. You might even find a laundromat near me offering quiet booths or book swaps while you wait.
What do real Aussies say they spend?
Let’s put some social proof to work here:
“I take about $15 each time and usually spend $11–12. I keep the rest for next week.”—Tash, uni student in Carlton
“I do my family’s laundry once a week at a self-service place. We average $18 for three loads. Worth it for the time saved.”—Dan, plumber from Marrickville
This kind of anecdotal feedback helps us anchor our own expectations—known in behavioural science as the anchoring effect. Knowing what others spend makes us feel more confident in budgeting accordingly.
FAQ
Can I do laundry for less than $10?Yes, if you’re only washing and drying one small load and bring your own detergent.
Are laundromats open late?Many are open until 9–10 pm, and some are 24/7. Always check local listings.
Do laundromats accept $5 or $10 notes?Some have change machines, but not all. Bring coins or a card just in case.
Final thoughts
Most laundromat users in Australia spend between $10 and $15 per visit, depending on what and how much they’re washing. Bring a few extra coins the first time, but with a bit of planning, you can easily stick to a monthly laundry budget.
And if you’re comparing options or just moved house, there’s usually a reliable laundromat near me worth checking out—especially ones that make laundry day feel less like a chore and more like a quick reset.
