If you’re considering opening a laundromat and you’re starting from scratch, there are many start-up costs you’ll need to consider. Those who purchase an already operating facility will likely have access to all the equipment they need as part of the purchase cost. Opening your own laundromat will involve a more substantial equipment investment. You will need more than just some washing machines to operate a successful laundromat, but once you’re set-up, you can make a good profit off your business.
Here are the start-up costs involved with starting a laundry business.
Laundry equipment
First and foremost, you’ll need washers and dryers to operate your laundry business. You can purchase them brand new, or source them second-hand, but you want to make sure they are good quality. It’s no use buying cheap equipment only to have to repair it shortly after.
Where equipment is concerned, you will also need a water heating system and laundry chemical dispensing systems for your laundromat’s daily operations.
Furniture
Customers are coming to your business to wash their clothes, but they will expect a comfortable seating area to wait for their loads to finish. To create a suitable seating space, you will need chairs and small tables where your customers can set their coffees down or house books and magazines. You may also want to invest in a television to mount to the wall for entertainment purposes. Your customers will appreciate having it there.
Utilities
You will need to budget for your utility bills, which will all need to be set up when you take possession of the facility. If you’re renting it, then the owner may already have electricity, water, and gas set up for you. If not, then you will need to contact providers to get it going yourself.
Utilities will also include Wi-Fi if you would like your customers to have access to that, which nowadays is crucial to offer if you want to attract new business. You can choose to charge a small fee for your customers to use to Wi-Fi to discourage non-customers from coming in and taking advantage of it. If you did decide to install a TV in your laundromat, you might want to get cable, which is an additional cost.
Security
Security cameras are essential in laundromats. Although customers should be aware that their possessions are their responsibility, they will likely come directly to you if something gets stolen. It’s best to ensure you protect your business with a reliable security system, including a few cameras that you can check on remotely. Since many laundromats are open 24/7, there may not always be an attendant on hand to monitor the facility. You need cameras so that you can identify criminals if anyone breaks into your machines or steals customer possessions.
Miscellaneous
Lastly, various items fall into the miscellaneous category, which will be part of your start-up costs. These include cleaning products and tools, bathroom supplies, hangers, laundry carts, office supplies, signage, etc.
It’s important to note that different permits and hookup fees will be involved in your start-up costs, but they will vary based on your specific location.
