Feeling intimidated about how to use laundromat washing machines? You don’t have to; in fact, they are pretty simple and self-explanatory, as most of these places already offer instructions.
Either way, to save you from feeling anxious and wandering around, I will share some of the most useful tips I wish I had known when I first went to this place.
Follow the ultimate guide, and you’ll have nice, clean clothes without hassle.
How to Use Laundromat Washing Machines
Laundromats seem confusing initially, but they won’t be so if you follow the right instructions. When you go there for the first time, you must remember to pack your laundry in bags and carry clean bags, disinfectant, and detergent with you.
First, inspect the washer to see whether it’s empty, and disinfect the entire drum. Next, load the washer with the clothes and add the detergent. Then, insert the coins and start the washer on the desired program. Wait around until it’s finished if you set them on a short program.
Finally, transfer them into the drier or set the drying program if the washer has it already preinstalled.
Read more: How To Make Washing Machine Smell Better
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Your Laundry at a Laundromat
Pick the right washing machine
Well, the first problem that most people face when they go to a laundromat is they get confused about which washing machine to choose.
Most places have placed instructions about each washer’s program and capacity. Each washer must be used with a certain type of detergent and laundry fabric.
Pick the washer that’s large and has a bigger capacity than your load so your clothes will get cleaned more efficiently.
Inspect the washing machine
Loading the laundry? Don’t hurry. First, inspect the laundry and check if there is any bad odor.
Spray the drum with a disinfectant and wipe it thoroughly. Next, open the detergent tray and see if there is any bleach inside. Do you remember those jokes on Instagram about some individuals putting bleach inside to ruin other people’s clothes?
Spray the detergent tray with a sanitizer and remove any detergent residue.
Pour the washing detergent and load the laundry
The washing machine’s detergent tray has a label you need to put in each section. Pour it in the corresponding section depending on what kind of detergent you are using, liquid or soda.
Next, start loading the laundry, and make sure you don’t mix colored clothes with whites. Separate the laundry according to color, fabric, and dirtiness.
Keep in mind that you might need to do multiple cycles.
Set the washing program
Most short-washing programs take about half an hour, so you need to plan your time. Separate the laundry depending on how much time it will take and start with those that will take longer.
Place the money in the slot, choose the corresponding program, and if there is an option, set a time. Press “Start” to run the washing machine.
Drying the laundry
Unload the clothes from the washer in a basket and transfer them into the drier. If the washing machine has an inbuilt dryer, just select the drying program and wait until they are done.
Keep in mind not to hold the basket busy with laundry if there are a lot of other customers. In this case, it’s good to carry your own basket or bag to carry the clean laundry.
Useful Tips
Since laundromat washing machines aren’t the same everywhere, keep in mind some of these things to save yourself from trouble later.
- Make sure you have coins with you since not all laundromat slots work with cards.
- Bring your own detergent/softener, depending on what is appropriate for your clothing’s fabric.
- Use vinegar for extra sanitation; you don’t know who washed their dirty clothes previously.
- Sort your clothes at home and use laundry bags; it’s more hygienic and discrete.
- Bring clean bags or a basket to carry your clean clothes at home.
- Carry a disinfectant and wipes with you to sanitize the washing machine before you use it.
- Plan your time if you have laundry that takes a couple of hours to finish washing. You can run your errands in the meantime if the washing program takes a couple of hours or bring something for entertainment.
Conclusion
So, how to use laundrymat washing machine? Using laundromat washing machines doesn’t have to be intimidating.
By following a few simple tips, you can navigate through the process with ease and have clean clothes in no time.
First and foremost, it’s important to come prepared. Pack your laundry in bags and bring necessary items like detergent, disinfectant, and clean bags.
When you arrive at the laundromat, inspect the washer, disinfect the drum, and load your clothes with the appropriate detergent. Remember to have enough coins for the machine, as some may not accept cards.
Additionally, consider using vinegar for extra sanitation and sorting your clothes at home for convenience and hygiene. Finally, plan your time accordingly and transfer your clothes to the dryer or set the drying program.
By following these guidelines, you can have a hassle-free experience at the laundromat and enjoy fresh, clean laundry.
