How much is a laundry machine for a laundry shop?

 Getting a commercial laundry business off the ground isn’t just about soap, space and spin cycles—it’s about choosing the right machines without blowing your entire startup budget. So how much does a laundry machine actually cost for a laundry shop in Australia? Short answer: it depends on the type, capacity, brand, and whether you rent or buy. But here's the kicker—renting often makes more financial sense than you'd expect.

Let’s unravel the cost threads and dig into your real options.

How much does a commercial laundry machine cost in Australia?

Here’s a ballpark range to get your head around it:

  • Top-loading commercial washers: $2,500 – $5,000

  • Front-loading washers (8kg–10kg): $4,000 – $8,000

  • High-capacity washers (over 10kg): $7,000 – $15,000+

  • Dryers (stacked or single): $3,000 – $10,000+

These numbers vary depending on whether you’re buying new, second-hand, or refurbished units. Brands like Speed Queen, Electrolux, and Maytag dominate the Aussie commercial space, but they come with premium tags.

Buying outright might look clean-cut, but don't forget the messier bits—installation costs, maintenance fees, ongoing repairs, and parts replacement. The machine price is just the beginning.

Should I rent or buy a laundry machine?

This is where things get interesting.

Buying means upfront ownership and no ongoing fees. But it’s capital-heavy and risky if a machine fails early. On the other hand, laundry machine rental provides access to high-grade equipment with predictable monthly costs, servicing included.

Here’s a quick comparison:

FeatureBuyingRenting
Upfront CostHigh ($3K–$15K+)Low or none
Maintenance & RepairsOwner’s responsibilityUsually included
FlexibilityLow (you're locked in)High (upgrade or scale easily)
Tax ImplicationsAsset depreciation over timeOften fully deductible as an expense
Downtime RiskHigh unless you have backupsLower due to included service agreements

Many small laundry operators or new entrants start off renting machines to keep costs low and cash flow predictable—particularly when they’re not 100% sure of demand yet.

What types of laundry machines do shops usually use?

Commercial laundries aren't just chucking in mum's old washer from the garage. These machines are built for speed, volume, and reliability.

Here are the most common types:

  • Front-load washers – Energy-efficient, better for delicates, faster spin speeds.

  • Top-load washers – Simpler design, slightly cheaper, but higher water usage.

  • Washer-dryer combos – Handy in tight spaces, but slower than dedicated machines.

  • Stacked units – Ideal for space optimisation, especially in urban laundromats.

  • Barrier washers – For hospitals or facilities where hygiene control is critical.

Pro tip: Stick with coin or card-operated systems if you’re in self-service mode. For managed services (e.g., laundry pickup), focus on capacity and wash cycle speed.

What’s the real cost beyond the machine?

Ah yes—this is where a lot of hopeful operators miss the forest for the fabric softener.

Consider these hidden (but very real) costs:

  • Installation: Depending on plumbing and electrical setup, this can run $500–$2,000 per unit.

  • Utilities: Commercial washers are power and water guzzlers—check the machine's efficiency rating.

  • Flooring and drainage: Improper drainage = flood risk. A good fit-out costs extra.

  • Insurance: Machine value adds to your business assets, affecting your premiums.

  • Downtime: If your washer’s out for 3 days and you’ve got 5 hotels relying on you... that’s lost income.

These are the reasons many shop owners are quietly moving toward rental contracts. You get predictable expenses and avoid surprise breakdowns at the worst time—usually during Christmas holiday rush, when Murphy’s Law kicks in.

Is there a smarter way to get started?

Anyone who’s ever bootstrapped a laundromat from scratch knows—equipment is the make-or-break piece. A clever workaround? Start small with a rental setup, test your customer flow, then scale once you're stable. It’s a path many small operators walk, especially in regional centres where foot traffic fluctuates.

We've even seen setups in suburban strip malls that began with three rented washers and dryers and scaled to ten-plus units within 18 months. Why? Low risk, service support, and quicker cash turnover.

And if you’re still on the fence about buying versus renting, have a yarn with another laundromat owner nearby. Aussies are usually happy to share what’s worked (or totally backfired) for them.

FAQ

Can I rent commercial laundry machines with no deposit?
Yes, some providers offer no-deposit rental plans, especially if you sign a longer-term contract (12 months or more).

Are rented machines new or used?
Usually a mix. Some companies rotate their fleet and offer near-new machines with full servicing.

What happens if a rented machine breaks down?
Reputable rental providers offer full servicing, meaning you’ll get a repair or replacement—often within 24–48 hours.

Before locking yourself into a $40,000 purchase, it's worth exploring whether flexible options like laundry machine rental might better suit your business stage.

If you're after more in-depth numbers or industry benchmarks, Choice Australia has some solid guidance on machine types and performance comparisons.

Sometimes, it’s not about owning the flashiest machines—it’s about keeping the doors open, the sheets clean, and the bills paid on time.

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