Types of Laundry
- Commercial/Off-Site/Contracted Laundry
- On-Premises/On-Site/In-House Laundry
In this laundry setup, huge investment is involved by the management. OPL gives control over linen wash. The quality of final washed clothes can be supervised. Loss of clothes in transit when linen is out-sourced is avoided. Laundry staff handle timely clothes delivery in departments smoothly as the linen is in-house. In industries like pharma and hospital where hygiene in clothes or linen is expected, it can be maintained in in-house laundry format.
Starting a Laundry Business
Before opening a laundry business, permits and registrations from city clerk are secured. This varies based on location but includes health department license, fire department permit for laundry delivery service, air and water pollution control permit, and sewer connection fees on a per-washer basis.
A laundry business is a company that cleans various fabrics for clients. Customers pay a fee by pound for laundry while employees wash, dry, and fold it. Additional services like alterations are available as well.
Industry Education and Business Types
There are organizations providing industry education for those starting a laundry service. Before opening, determine the type of laundry business. Crucial decision is niche planning much ahead. The laundry business types are home pickup/delivery and franchise models. For home pickup/delivery, have a physical outlet and pick up/drop off laundry at customer homes.
Business Insights
Esther is a strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur and educator. Laundry businesses have high success rates and straightforward models. ROI differs depending on the service type. Laundromats reach 20% to 30% ROI making them lucrative to start from low labor costs. With quality supplies, laundromat services provide sustainable income. Moreover, other services can be profitable depending on savvy. Consider service type and costs before starting.
Different Types of Laundry Services
- Full-Service
- Coin Laundromats
- Industrial Catering to Hotels/Hospitals
- Dry Cleaning without Water
Startup costs differ. Full-service tends to be more profitable since people pay extra for convenience. However, coin laundromats have steadier customers less likely to stop.
Target Customers and Service Types
Consider your target customer when setting up a laundry business. A laundry delivery service likely attracts busy professionals. A self-service laundry attracts students. People look for specific types, like a dry cleaner. An unsuitable type won’t appeal.
What is a Laundry Business?
A laundry business offers washing and cleaning services for clothes, uniforms, and fabrics. Customers pay per pound or per wash load. Services include pickup/delivery, self-service laundromats, commercial laundry for hotels/hospitals, and dry cleaning.
Key Steps to Start a Laundry Business
First, determine the type of laundry business – self-service laundromat, pickup/delivery service, commercial laundry, or dry cleaning. Prepare a business plan and minimum $250,000 – $400,000 capital. Get required permits and licenses. Scout locations, buy equipment, and market services.
Joining a franchise helps new entrepreneurs by providing systems and support. However, an independent business allows more flexibility. Weigh options based on your entrepreneurial experience.