Skip to main content

How to Use Commercial Laundry Machines at the Laundromat

Use our three-step guide for help using the commercial laundry machines at your local laundromat.

Thinking about heading to your local laundromat? Commercial laundry machines can be intimidating since they are different than your residential washer and dryer. Commercial laundry machines are bigger, more energy-efficient, and offer more customizable options for your laundry treatment than your residential laundry machine. Below is a three-step guide for help using the commercial laundry machines at your local laundromat.

1. Double-Check for Residual Detergent, Bleach, and Fabric Softener before Using the Commercial Laundry Machines

Before placing your load into the washer or dryer, be sure to take a close look at the insides of the machines to confirm the absence of unwanted liquids that could stain, discolor, or spoil in some other manner. Most laundromats are attended by staff to maintain the cleanliness of the machines throughout the day.

However, these commercial laundry machines get used many times on any given day. This is unlike your residential laundry machine which is used only once or twice per week.

If there is any residual detergent, bleach, or fabric softener, we recommend using a wet towel or rag to wipe the inside of the machine and a disinfecting wipe to rid any dirty substance left behind from previous users.

This step is especially emphasized for colored loads, as extra bleach lingering in the machine can cause permanent discoloration to these loads.

2. Starting the Washing Process with Commercial Laundry Machines at the Laundromat

Next, you’ll want to load the washer, but do not exceed a 50-75% capacity as some parts of your load may not be fully submerged or tumbled in water long enough to be thoroughly clean. Afterward, place detergent, fabric softener, and/or bleach into their appropriate compartments, which is dependent on whether you are using a front-load or top-load machine.

Note – Most modern laundromats will only offer front-loading commercial laundry machines. These ‘front-loaders’ are more robust and get clothes much cleaner – but they do come at a higher vend price.

Choose your wash cycle and extra settings. Most laundromats offer a variety of wash cycles on the commercial laundry machines: hot, warm, cold, and delicate. Some commercial laundry machines now even offer sanitization settings that disinfect your laundry.

To pay, insert your card or coins into the slot as instructed on the machine, select our preferred wash cycle, and let the magic begin!

3. Cleaning the Lint Filter Before Drying in Commercial Laundry Machines

After the load is finished being washed, you’ll want to give the garments a little shake before being placed into the dryer to minimize wrinkling. Then, check the lint filter to ensure it is clean before use to prevent the risk of fires and to quicken the drying process.

Again, most laundromats are attended by staff to maintain the cleanliness of the machines throughout the day. These laundromats will clean the lint filters for you. However, before loading your clothes into the dryer at the laundromat, be sure to check the lint filter to prevent your clothes from drying too slowly! The more lint in the lint filter, the longer it will take the commercial laundry machine (dryer) to dry your clothes.

Repeat the payment process, and once again, watch the magic unfold!

Skip laundry day with The Folde’s full-service laundry options!

However you decide to turn your laundry over to The Folde, our wash and fold laundry and dry cleaning service are sure to make your trips to the laundromat even easier. We’re really good at folding laundry. It’s our specialty. Simply drop off your dirty laundry at our laundromat we’ll handle the rest. Whites and colors are separately washed with professional laundry detergents.

We guarantee the highest quality folding – including our drawer-ready packaging! Your clothes are returned to you fresh, clean, and neatly folded. Socks are matched and bags are packed air-tight to keep everything neat and organized.

How to Use Commercial Laundry Machines at the Laundromat