Beginner’s Guide
Beginner’s Guide to Commercial Laundry & Laundromat Equipment
Learn the essentials of commercial washers and dryers—from coin-operated laundromat machines to large-capacity equipment for hotels, gyms, and multi-housing facilities.
Trusted by laundromat owners and commercial operators since 2005.
Introduction to Commercial Laundry Equipment
Commercial laundry machines are built for heavy-duty performance and are very different from household washers and dryers. Designed to run all day, every day, they deliver durability, efficiency, and consistent results across a variety of industries—from laundromats and hotels to hospitals, gyms, and apartment facilities.
If you’re new to the laundry business or upgrading your current setup, understanding the basics will help you choose the right machine for your budget, space, and daily laundry needs. At 123LaundryShop, we’ve been guiding laundromat owners and commercial operators to make smart, profitable equipment choices since 2005.
Types of Commercial Laundry Machines
Front Load Washers
Efficient and gentle on clothes, perfect for laundromats, hotels, and high-capacity facilities.
Front load washers save water and detergent, cut drying times with higher spin speeds, and handle bulky loads with ease.
Top Load Washers
Traditional and easy to use, ideal for fast laundry cycles.
Top load washers offer quick cycles and simple operation but typically use more water. Cost-effective for moderate-volume facilities.
Stacked Washer/Dryer Units
Save floor space without sacrificing capacity. Perfect for compact laundry rooms.
Stacked units maximize small spaces while delivering both wash and dry in one footprint. Perfect for apartments, student housing, and hotels.
Soft-Mount vs Hard-Mount Machines
Soft-mounted machines reduce vibration, noise, and wear—perfect for quiet environments.
Hard-mount machines anchor directly to the floor, offering durability and lower cost. Soft-mount machines cost more but are versatile and installation-friendly.
Want a deeper breakdown of hard-mount vs. soft-mount, gas vs. electric, and capacities? Explore our Complete Guide to Commercial Washers & Dryers for a full comparison.
Gas vs Electric Dryers
Gas Dryers
- Faster drying time
- Lower long-term utility costs
- Higher upfront installation cost (gas line needed)
Electric Dryers
- Lower upfront cost
- Easier to install (standard outlets)
- Higher monthly utility costs
Pro Tip: Many laundromats prefer gas dryers because they handle heavy loads faster and save money on utilities in the long run.
Washer & Dryer Capacity Guide
| Capacity | Load Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 7–24 lbs | Apartments, Gyms, Small Facilities |
| Medium | 25–60 lbs | Hotels, Standard Laundromats |
| Large | 60–120 lbs | Hospitals, High-Volume Laundromats |
Commercial Laundry Equipment Costs
Top Load Washers
$800 – $1,500
Front Load Washers
$2,000 – $7,000
Stacked Units
$3,500 – $6,000
Dryers (Gas/Electric)
$2,000 – $5,000
Pro Tip: Refurbished machines can reduce startup costs by 30–50% while maintaining performance.
Refurbished vs New Machines: ROI Snapshot
ROI by Washer Size
Small Washer ROI
Medium Washer ROI
Large Washer ROI
Machine Type Comparison
Front Load
Top Load
Stacked Unit
Soft/Hard Mount
Laundromats and multi-housing facilities rely heavily on coin-operated machines. See our Coin-Operated Washer & Dryer Guide to compare models, costs, and revenue potential.
Coin-Operated Washers & Dryers
Coin-operated washers and dryers are the backbone of laundromats, apartments, and multi-housing facilities. They offer durability, ease of use, and a steady revenue stream—making them a smart investment for laundry operators.
Available in both top-load and front-load models, as well as high-capacity options, coin-operated laundry machines are built to withstand heavy daily use. Many models also feature energy-efficient designs to lower utility costs while maintaining reliable performance.
Laundromat Accessories You’ll Need
Beyond washers and dryers, a successful laundromat requires reliable accessories that keep operations smooth and customers satisfied. Here are the essentials and optional upgrades:
Coin & Card Boxes
Secure payment boxes for coin-operated or smart card systems, ensuring smooth and reliable transactions for customers.
Laundry Carts
Durable carts with wheels make transporting laundry easier for customers, reducing strain and improving workflow efficiency.
Folding Tables
Sturdy surfaces for folding clothes help customers organize their laundry and enhance overall satisfaction.
Soap & Detergent Vending
Provide added convenience with detergent, softener, and dryer sheet dispensers, encouraging repeat visits.
Change Machines
Allow customers to easily exchange bills for quarters or tokens, reducing staff workload and improving customer experience.
Seating & Waiting Area
Comfortable benches or chairs provide a relaxing space for customers while their laundry is being processed.
Security Cameras
Protect your business and reassure customers with 24/7 surveillance for safety and theft prevention.
WiFi & Connectivity
Offering free WiFi is a customer-friendly perk that encourages longer visits and repeat customers.
Pro Tip: Start with the essentials (coin boxes, carts, folding tables) and gradually add optional upgrades like vending, WiFi, and seating to boost customer satisfaction and security.
Maintenance 101: Keep Your Machines Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance extends the life of your commercial washers and dryers, reduces downtime, and ensures consistent performance. Simple tasks like cleaning lint traps, checking hoses, and inspecting belts can prevent costly repairs.
Schedule quarterly inspections, lubricate moving parts when necessary, and keep the laundry area clean and well-ventilated. Preventive maintenance saves time and money in the long run.
Pro Tip: Always use OEM replacement parts for optimal performance and to avoid voiding warranties.
Washer & Dryer Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Machine
Identify your business type—laundromat, hotel, or multi-housing. Each has unique load and performance needs.
Load Capacity by Business Type
Laundromats: 40–60 lbs per unit.
Hotels: 80–120 lbs.
Multi-housing: 20–30 lbs.
Efficiency & Water Usage
Front-load machines use less water. Energy-efficient models reduce utilities and improve ROI.
Refurbished vs New
Refurbished machines lower upfront cost and offer fast ROI, while new models deliver warranties and advanced features.
Lifecycle & Maintenance Costs
Plan for a 10–15 year lifespan. Budget for parts like belts, bearings, ignitors vs full replacement costs.