10 Essential Tips for Laundromat Owners and Buyers: Key Takeaways from the Laundromat Resource Podcast (Show 234)

Thinking about buying a laundromat or owning one and want to maximize your success? We’ve distilled the best insights from Show 234 of the Laundromat Resource Podcast, featuring industry experts Jordan Berry and Matthew Simmons, into actionable tips. Each tip comes with a practical application, so you can implement these proven strategies right now and elevate your laundromat business.

1. Invest in Modern, Integrated Software from the Start

Why it matters:
Old-school paper ticket systems and manual processes are inefficient and limit growth. Today’s technology streamlines operations, increases accountability, and unlocks powerful business analytics.

How to apply:
Switch to a cloud-based POS and laundry management solution like Curbside Laundries. These platforms manage pickup/delivery orders, automate communications, track cash, and even integrate directly with your washers/dryers. You’ll be able to minimize mistakes, optimize employee performance, and maintain a scalable foundation from day one.

2. Prioritize Cash Accountability and Payment Flexibility

Why it matters:
Cash leaks and theft are significant risks, especially as you grow. Flexibility in payments attracts more customers—some prefer cards, apps, or still want cash.

How to apply:
Choose a payment system that lets you track all transactions seamlessly (e.g., CCI Flex). Ensure your attendants use the designated software for starting machines, not cash or tokens. Regularly reconcile payments received with deposits. Offer multiple payment options, but maintain strict cash controls for accountability.

3. Build a Sophisticated Online Presence Early

Why it matters:
A strong web presence isn’t just about visibility—it drives revenue, builds trust, and gives you a competitive edge. Most customers find laundromats through Google, not by driving around.

How to apply:
Invest in professional websites and SEO. Ensure your business appears at the top for local search terms like “laundry pickup [Your City].” Control your Google snippet (the two lines under your website link) to highlight key customer benefits (e.g., “Get in & out in under 1 hour!”). Start this process well before your launch, as it takes time for SEO to ramp up.

4. Track Key Data and Analyze Your Business Regularly

Why it matters:
Understanding customer lifetime value, order sizes, and retention rates allows smart decision-making. Without data, you may waste resources on low-value customers or miss profitable opportunities.

How to apply:
Utilize reporting tools built into your laundry management software. Track metrics like average order size, repeat customer rates, minimum order values, and delivery costs. Use these insights to adjust minimum order sizes, delivery fees, and target high-value customer segments.

5. Automate Customer Communication for Repeat Orders

Why it matters:
Most customers forget to place repeat orders—automated nudges drive revenue and retention.

How to apply:
Implement features like “auto route fill up” to send timely SMS or email reminders to customers (“We’re in your area! Need a pickup?”). Make ordering frictionless (just two taps). Refine timing using data (e.g., after weekends, busy seasons, or events like soccer games).

6. Specialize and Target Specific Niches (e.g., Commercial Accounts, Airbnbs, Mop Heads)

Why it matters:
Commercial clients (Airbnbs, salons, gyms) can bring in larger, more stable revenue—40% of profit can come from commercial accounts, even if they’re only 20% of orders.

How to apply:

• Create dedicated website pages for each niche (e.g., “Laundry Service for Airbnbs,” “We Clean Horse Blankets,” “Mop Head Cleaning for Businesses”).

• Tailor pricing, invoicing, and services to commercial needs (offer per-room pricing for Airbnbs, special bundles for small businesses).

• Reach out directly or network at industry conferences to connect with commercial prospects.

7. Don’t Delegate Wash & Fold Without Oversight—Quality and Reputation Are at Stake

Why it matters:
Outsourcing without control can damage your reputation if quality slips—bad Yelp reviews hurt revenue.

How to apply:
Set up in-house processes and train your own attendants. Use your management software to ensure orders are handled correctly, machines are used efficiently, and every order can be tracked from drop-off to pick-up.

8. Branding Is More Important Than Ever

Why it matters:
Strong brands build trust and customer loyalty, especially with major players entering the industry.

How to apply:
Develop a memorable logo, cohesive color scheme, and a clear mission statement. Ensure branding is consistent at every touch point—from your website and receipts to store signage and employee uniforms. Regularly audit your customer journey to make sure every experience matches your brand’s promise.

9. Network, Learn, and Leverage Mastermind Groups

Why it matters:
You’ll learn more from others than by trial and error—peer masterminds accelerate growth, share knowledge, and boost morale.

How to apply:
Join or form mastermind groups and attend industry conferences (like the Curbside Laundries Pickup & Delivery Conference). Participate in local meet-ups and online forums. Use these connections for practical advice, troubleshooting, and innovation.

10. Be Intentional About Scaling and Delegating

Why it matters:
The business should serve you—not the other way around. Owners often get trapped working in their business rather than growing it.

How to apply:
Document standard operating procedures for every process, delegate roles (hiring managers, drivers, attendants), and use technology to automate wherever possible. Set growth targets, and when you reach sufficient volume, shift your focus to strategic planning, marketing, and team development.

Ready to Launch, Grow, or Reinvent Your Laundromat?

Armed with these tips, you’re ready to take concrete steps toward a thriving laundromat business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a way to break through your current plateau, remember: information and tools are available—real success comes from implementing them.

For further resources:

• curbsidelaundries.com for leading-edge laundry software.

• Laundromat Resource Podcast for ongoing education.

• Upcoming industry conferences and webinars for hands-on learning and networking.

Take action, stay innovative, and build a laundromat business that thrives in today’s market!