How to Practice Laundromat Etiquette

Laundromats can be confusing if you've never been to one. However, by following some simple guidelines, you can ensure that you and others have a safe, smooth experience while you're doing laundry.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

While Doing Laundry

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1
Sort your clothes ahead of time. Spending time sorting your clothes when you get to the laundromat wastes your time, as well as the time of people who also want to wash their clothes. So that you and other people can get in and out as quickly as possible, take the time before you go to sort your clothes into lights and darks, or however you'd prefer.^{[1]XResearch source}
- To avoid any loose items like jewelry from getting trapped in the machines, it's also a good idea to check the pockets of your clothes before you go to the laundromat.^{[2]XResearch source}
2
Avoid taking a machine that's already in use. You may arrive at the laundromat to find that all of the machines are being used. If this is the case, wait patiently for a machine to finish its cycle, and for the person to return and move their clothes. If a machine has been stopped for around 5-10 minutes, however, and the owner of the clothes hasn't moved them, feel free to take the person's clothes out of the machine. However, be gentle with the clothes, and place them neatly on a clean surface.
- Certain clothes should not be dried, so you'll also want to avoid placing the person's clothes in the dryer.
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3
Try to be prompt when your machine is done. Arriving late means you hold others up who are also trying to do their laundry. You also risk your clothes being tossed on the floor, or into a dryer if they shouldn't be. If you need to step out while you're washing your clothes, be sure you leave yourself enough time to return promptly and move them when your machine is done.^{[3]XResearch source}
- If you leave and are worried about making it back to the laundromat in time, you may want to set a timer on your phone, factoring in the time it would take you to go back to the laundromat.
It can be tempting to put your laundry supplies on an open dryer to guarantee there will be one available for you to use. However, this means other people who are ready to clean their clothes may not be able to do so. Instead, keep your laundry supplies together, and select your dryer when you're ready.^{[4]XResearch source}
5
Take care of the machines. These machines are typically used by multiple people each day. Do your best to take care of them so that others can continue to use them. This includes not putting too much detergent or bleach in the machine (other people may need a certain type of detergent or may be allergic to the one you use), and not putting too many clothes in. You'll also want to check the lint screen if you're able after you're finished drying your clothes, to prevent a fire and save energy.^{[5]XResearch source}
- The machines may break from time to time. If you notice this has happened, notify an attendant as soon as possible. The procedure for doing this may look different depending on the time of day and the specific laundromat, but it may involve calling a number or filling out a card.
^{[6]XResearch source}Some people may not be familiar with the particular machines the laundromat has. If you see someone struggling with a washing machine or dryer, offer assistance if you're able to do so. The person will likely appreciate that you helped make their laundromat experience a little easier.
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Do a final check of the machines you use after you remove your clothes. As mentioned earlier, it's best to check pockets before you go so you can remove any loose items. However, you may end up leaving a sock behind, or you may have missed something in one of your pockets. After removing your clothes from the machine, double-check to make sure you haven't left anything.
- It's also a good idea to do this before you put your clothes in. Laundromats generally are not responsible for any lost items, but you'll at least be able to put it off to the side so it doesn't get tangled up in your clothing, and so someone will see it when they (hopefully) return for said item.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Other General Advice

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1
Try not to eat or drink. Laundromats can be messy places, with a lot of people trying to clean their clothes. Avoid making it messier and don't eat or drink while you're in the building.^{[7]XResearch source} You also run the risk of exposing someone to something they're allergic to.
- If you need to bring food or beverages with you, keep them in your vehicle and step out whenever you need to eat or drink.
Let's face it—spills are a fact of life. If you spill some detergent or other laundry supplies, most laundromats have paper towels readily available. Take the extra few minutes and immediately clean up the spill or alert an employee, so it doesn't pose a safety risk.^{[8]XResearch source}
As mentioned earlier, laundromats can be dirty. Avoid making things dirtier by throwing away any trash, whether that's a used dryer sheet or a detergent container.^{[9]XResearch source}
4
Avoid taking phone calls inside. Laundromats can get crowded, and most people would not appreciate hearing someone's loud phone conversation. Keep your phone on silent or vibrate if possible, and if it does ring, step outside to take the call. Avoid talking loudly if you need to answer your phone inside.
- Similarly, it's best to avoid listening to loud music while you're in the building. If this would help you stay entertained, use headphones, while also being aware of the machine your clothes are in so you can remove them promptly.
5
Take up as little space as possible. In laundromats, everyone is going to need space of some kind, whether that's part of the folding tables to fold their clothes, or a cart to transfer their clothes from the washer to the dryer. Try and take up only the space you need, so that others can use all of the laundromat facilities.^{[10]XResearch source}
- If you need to move to a different area of the laundromat, take your things with you.^{[11]XResearch source}
Other people in the laundromat are washing their clothes, just like you. Be kind, and avoid staring at their clothes, which could make someone uncomfortable.^{[12]XResearch source}
7
Watch your children. Some might find it distracting to have children running around while they're organizing their clothes. Therefore, if you need to bring your children with you, be sure to keep an eye on them to make sure they're staying safe, and respecting others and their space. You may want to consider bringing quiet activities with you so they'll have something to do.
- You may also wish to have a conversation with your children before your trip to the laundromat about the rules they'll need to follow.
Many laundromats will have rules posted, sometimes beyond the ones stated in this article. Be sure to follow all of these, so that everyone has as safe and smooth of an experience as possible.