How to Start a Wash-and-Fold Service at Your Laundromat

Wash-and-fold (also called fluff-and-fold) is one of the highest-margin supplemental revenue streams a laundromat can offer. While self-service generates $3-8 per load, wash-and-fold generates $1.50-$2.50 per pound — meaning a 20 lb load generates $30-$50 in revenue.

What You Need

A dedicated staging area for incoming and completed orders, a scale (accurate to 0.1 lb), bags or bins for customer loads, a folding area, and an attendant trained on the process. If you already have an attendant during slow hours, you have most of what you need; if bulk loads push you toward a larger washer, start with our laundromat equipment buying guide.

Pricing

The standard rate in most markets is $1.50-$2.50 per pound with a minimum order (usually 10-15 lbs). Some operators charge a flat rate per bag instead. Survey competitors in your area to set competitive pricing. Factor in detergent cost, labor, and machine wear; margins still land well above self-service because the equipment is already paid for.

The Process

Customer drops off labeled bag with instructions (hot/cold, separates, special items). Attendant weighs the bag, creates a ticket, and quotes the customer. Wash, dry, and fold within the promised timeframe (typically same-day or next-day). Customer picks up and pays. The simpler you make this process, the fewer errors you'll have.

Marketing the Service

Post wash-and-fold pricing prominently inside the laundromat and at the entrance. Use wall-mounted card holders to display pricing cards customers can take home. Feature the service on your Google Business Profile and social media. Many self-service customers will switch to wash-and-fold once they know it's available.

Scaling Up

Start small — offer wash-and-fold during attended hours only. As demand grows, consider adding pickup and delivery service, which eliminates the need for the customer to visit at all. For some operators, wash-and-fold and pickup/delivery combined grow into a large share of total revenue.

Quality Control

Use the same organized system for your wash-and-fold loads that you use for self-service. Color-coded soap tray kits ensure the right products are used in the right compartments. This consistency protects both customer clothes and your reputation.