Starting a business is rarely as glamorous as it sounds—unless your idea of excitement includes lint traps and coin trays. But for those keeping an eye on steady, practical ventures, the humble laundry shop remains a solid contender. A coin laundry machine, after all, is not just a large metal box—it is a silent workhorse that can clean up your balance sheet and your customers’ bedsheets.
Before you imagine yourself sipping coffee while your machines churn away, consider this: is it as passive and profitable as it looks? From choosing the right coin washing machine to navigating utility bills, we are lifting the lid on what investing in a laundry business truly entails.
The Investment Breakdown
Purchasing a coin laundry machine is not cheap. A single unit—especially one built to handle heavy loads consistently—can cost several thousand dollars. If you plan to outfit an entire laundrette, you are looking at a significant upfront investment before unlocking the door. While machines differ in price depending on features and capacity, some entrepreneurs favour tried-and-tested options like the Speed Queen washing machine for their durability and ease of use.
Beyond machinery, there are renovation costs, plumbing, electrical work, insurance, and rent. Some setups also require payment systems, detergent dispensers, and folding stations. The costs can balloon quickly, and unless you are taking over an existing laundromat, you will need to budget wisely and plan for a slow start.
It is also crucial to factor in utilities. Water and electricity bills fluctuate based on customer volume and machine efficiency. Smart operators choose energy-saving models or invest in solar assistance to soften long-term costs. Still, this is not a set-it-and-forget-it scenario. The machines may run on coins, but the business does not run itself.
What Customers Want (and Expect)
Gone are the days when people were happy to get their clothes clean. Today’s laundrette-goers want a smooth, pleasant experience. That means spotless machines, fast cycles, working payment systems, and ideally, air conditioning. If you are planning to fill your space with ageing coin washers from a warehouse clearance sale, expect trouble.
Customers will judge your business on how reliable and accessible it is. Broken machines or unclear instructions can send potential regulars straight to your competitors. Investing in quality machines, like a Speed Queen washing machine, is more than a nod to brand recognition—it is about trust and consistency. These machines are built to last and tend to hold up under the demands of daily, repetitive use. That consistency can be the deciding factor in building a loyal base of customers who return weekly.
The best laundrette setups also provide convenience extras—Wi-Fi, vending machines, seating areas, and drop-off services. While these involve further expense, they improve the overall experience and boost customer satisfaction.
Maintenance, Repairs, and Everything in Between
Here is a truth many first-time laundrette investors learn too late: machines break. A coin washing machine, no matter how well-built, endures wear and tear from daily use and customer mishandling. Coins jam. Filters clog. Belts snap. And when machines go down, so do your profits.
Regular maintenance is essential. That means cleaning lint traps, inspecting coin slots, replacing parts before they fail, and running routine checks. Some owners learn these tasks themselves to save on service fees, while others hire professionals on retainer. Either way, maintenance is an ongoing commitment, not an afterthought.
Even top-performing models like the Speed Queen washing machine require attention. While their reputation for durability is well-earned, no machine is immune to time and usage. The key is preventative care—staying ahead of problems before they lead to out-of-order signs and frustrated customers.
A coin laundry machine can be a solid investment—provided you walk in with clear expectations and a willingness to work. This is not a magical cash printer that allows you to sit back while coins pour in. But if you focus on quality equipment, regular maintenance, and a decent customer experience, it can become a steady, dependable business. Think of it as a service people will always need, especially in urban settings where personal washers are less practical. With careful planning and the right support, a laundrette can clean up nicely—literally and financially.
Interested in starting your laundry venture or upgrading your machines? Contact Fresh Laundry today to explore top-quality coin-operated solutions that help your business run efficiently.
