Is self-service laundry cheaper long term?
Some people swear by self-service laundries as a money-saver, while others argue that the long-term costs creep up. The truth? It depends on your lifestyle, how much laundry you do, and whether you value convenience over control. Let’s unpack it with a clear-eyed look at the dollars, the psychology, and the hidden trade-offs.
Is self-service laundry really cheaper?
On the surface, yes. A single wash at a laundrette might cost $4–$6, with dryers often $1–$2 per cycle. Compare that with buying a new washing machine ($700–$1,200) and factoring in electricity, water, detergent, and maintenance. For renters or students moving often, the laundrette often wins on upfront savings.
But long-term economics shift. A washing machine typically lasts 8–10 years. If you average three loads a week at $5 each, you’ll spend over $750 per year at a laundrette. Owning a machine brings that annual cost down closer to $300–$400 once purchase is spread across its lifespan.
What hidden costs should you consider?
Time value: Waiting around at the laundrette can be a hidden tax. Two hours a week adds up to more than 100 hours a year — time you could spend working, exercising, or just relaxing. Behavioural science calls this opportunity cost neglect: we underestimate the value of our own time.
Energy and water bills: At home, you’ll pay directly for utilities, which can sting during peak electricity rates. Laundrettes absorb these fluctuations, so you never face a “bill shock” moment.
Maintenance and breakdowns: Machines fail. Repairs can run into hundreds of dollars. A laundrette removes that headache, shifting risk back onto the business.
Who benefits most from self-service laundry?
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Students and renters: Avoids the hassle of moving bulky appliances.
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Singles or couples with minimal loads: Pay-as-you-go keeps it efficient.
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People in small apartments: No need to sacrifice kitchen or bathroom space for machines.
By contrast, families with kids often find laundrettes expensive over time. With 5–10 loads a week, the numbers lean heavily toward owning machines.
Is there a behavioural advantage?
Absolutely. Many Aussies find laundrettes force a rhythm: you do all your washing in one hit, no clothes languishing in baskets. This “completion bias” — the satisfaction of ticking off a big task — means laundry feels less endless compared to the slow drip of home washing.
Plus, laundrettes often have heavy-duty machines that can handle doonas, curtains, or workwear far better than most domestic units. That’s a form of authority bias — trusting industrial-grade machines for big jobs.
How does cost compare in real terms?
Here’s a simple breakdown for one person doing three loads a week:
| Option | Annual Cost | Extra Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Self-service laundry | ~$780 ($5 x 3 x 52 weeks) | No utilities or repairs, but time cost and travel |
| Owning machine | ~$350 (machine depreciation + detergent + utilities) | Needs upfront purchase, space, maintenance |
The difference widens with household size. For families, owning is usually cheaper. For minimalists, laundrettes remain viable.
Are there long-term financial traps?
Yes — and they’re psychological as much as financial. Laundrettes create a “low-commitment” loop. You never have to outlay big money, which feels good short-term. But over five to ten years, that drip-feed of small payments often exceeds the one-off purchase of a machine. This is a classic present bias: prioritising today’s convenience over tomorrow’s savings.
FAQ
Is self-service laundry cheaper for students?
Yes, because they avoid upfront appliance costs and ongoing bills.
Does owning a washing machine always save money?
Not always. If you move often or rarely do laundry, laundrettes can be cheaper.
What about environmental impact?
Laundrettes often run energy-efficient commercial machines, but transport emissions and shared dryer use can offset gains. At home, efficiency depends on your machine model and usage habits.
In the end, the “cheapest” option depends less on coins in the machine and more on your lifestyle. For light users or short-term renters, self-service makes sense. For families and long-stayers, the maths points towards buying. Either way, the hidden currency is time — and only you can decide how much yours is worth. For a deeper look at the economics, Self Service Laundry can be a useful resource.
If you’d like an external take, Choice Australia offers consumer comparisons on washing costs.
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