Price plays a major role in the success of any laundromat. Set it too high, and you risk driving customers away. Set it too low, and you may struggle to cover costs or turn a profit. The goal is to find a price that keeps customers coming back while supporting a healthy bottom line. This laundromat pricing guide explains how to evaluate your market, account for expenses, and use smart technology to build a sustainable pricing model. Whether you’re opening a new location or updating your current pricing, the right strategy can make all the difference.

Understanding Your Market

Pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all. It varies based on location, competition, and customer expectations.

Know Your Local Competition

Before setting your prices, research what other laundromats in your area charge per load. A laundromat in Minnesota will likely have different pricing than one in Oklahoma or Kansas. Factors like machine age, cleanliness, and safety impact how much customers are willing to pay.

• Newer machines and clean facilities? You can charge premium prices.
• Older machines and high competition? You may need to price lower to stay competitive.

By understanding where your laundromat fits in the market, you can set a price that attracts customers while maintaining healthy profits.

Flexible Pricing and Technology

With modern microprocessors and smart washers, laundromats now have dynamic pricing capabilities. Instead of a flat rate, you can adjust pricing based on demand, time of day, and promotions.

Time-of-Day Pricing

With new technology, you can offer:

• Off-Peak Discounts: Reduce prices during slower hours (e.g., mornings on weekdays).
• Peak Pricing: Charge higher rates during busy times (e.g., weekends and evenings).
• Midweek Specials: Offer discounted wash prices on select days, like Senior Citizen Tuesday from 10 AM – 2 PM.

Loyalty Discounts and Promotions

Loyalty programs encourage repeat customers. With new payment systems, you can set up automated rewards such as:

• “Buy 10 Washes, Get 1 Free” loyalty cards.
• Birthday Freebies for regular customers.
• Seasonal Promotions to drive traffic during slow months.

If your machines are equipped with smart controls, these pricing changes can be automated, making it easier than ever to attract and retain customers.

Factoring in Free Drying

Some laundromats use a “free dry” pricing model, where customers pay more for washing but dry for free. This strategy can:

• Encourage customers to stay longer.
• Reduce frustration over drying costs.
• Increase overall revenue by balancing higher wash prices.

However, free drying only works if priced correctly. Be sure to adjust your wash price to cover drying costs while keeping prices competitive.

Calculating Operational Costs

To price your services properly, you need to cover costs and turn a profit. Here’s what to consider:

Fixed Costs

These are expenses that don’t change:

• Rent/Mortgage
• Insurance
• Machine Lease Payments

Variable Costs

These fluctuate based on usage:

• Utility Bills (water, gas, electricity)
• Detergents & Supplies
• Maintenance & Repairs

A common mistake is not factoring in rising utility rates. If gas or electricity prices increase, your pricing needs to reflect that change.

Creating a Pricing Strategy That Works

Now that you understand market demand, costs, and technology options, here’s how to set the right price per load:

Step 1: Research Competitor Pricing

Check local laundromats within a 5-10 mile radius and compare your offerings.

Step 2: Factor in Expenses

Calculate fixed + variable costs to determine your minimum viable price.

Step 3: Use Smart Pricing

• Increase rates for premium machines (larger capacity, faster cycles).
• Offer promotions to keep customers engaged.
• Use time-based discounts to optimize revenue.

Step 4: Monitor & Adjust

Pricing isn’t set in stone. Monitor revenue, customer feedback, and expenses. If utility costs rise, tweak your pricing accordingly.

In Summary

Pricing your laundromat correctly is key to profitability and customer retention. Our laundromat pricing guide highlights the importance of market research, smart technology, and flexible pricing strategies.

By offering loyalty programs, adjusting rates based on demand, and considering options like free dry promotions, you can stay competitive while maximizing revenue. At RJ Kool, we help laundromat owners implement the best laundromat pricing guide for their business. Contact us today to optimize your pricing strategy!