Laundromat basics
Your First Laundromat Visit: What to Bring and What to Do
Your first laundromat trip should not feel like a test you forgot to study for. Pack a few basics and follow the labels and machine instructions. You will soon have a routine that works for your clothes and your schedule.
Pack a small laundry kit
Bring sorted laundry, detergent, any label safe stain treatment, payment and a clean bag for finished clothes. Measure detergent using its label rather than guessing. Bring hangers for items you prefer to hang after drying. Keep detergent containers closed and out of reach of children during the trip.
Sort before leaving home
Separate clothes by color and care requirements. Empty pockets, close zippers where appropriate and pretreat stains using the product instructions. Set aside anything labeled hand wash or dry clean only. Washing everything together saves sorting time but may create color transfer or mismatched settings.
Choose and load your washer
Read the machine instructions and posted capacity. Check the drum for left behind items, then load without forcing the clothes in. Add detergent in the specified place and choose a cycle that meets the garment care labels. Confirm payment and the selected cycle before starting.
Stay nearby and check the dryer rules
Keep track of your cycle and move your load promptly. Check for lingering stains before drying. Follow the dryer instructions and clothing labels, separating items that need different heat levels. Do not put items contaminated with flammable substances into a dryer.
Fold, check and head home
Use a clean folding surface, put finished laundry in your clean bag and check both drums for forgotten socks. If equipment causes a problem, note its number and contact the posted support channel. At Retro Laundry Co., the ATM and cash to coin dispenser can help with payment preparation; you still handle your own laundry.