Coin-operated laundromats in Japan are said to be among the cleanest and tidiest in the world.
Types of coin-operated laundry machines
Washing machines
Used exclusively for washing laundry
Dryer
Used exclusively for drying laundry
Washer and dryer
Machines that can wash and dry laundry.
Eliminates the need to transfer laundry from a washer to a dryer.
・Some laundromats also have specialized machines for washing beddings or shoes.
What to bring to the laundromat
Money
Bring loose change as many laundromats accept only 100 yen or 500 yen coins.
Note that some laundromats will have coin change dispensers available as well.
Laundry
Laundry detergent is generally not required as the machines will dispense them automatically.
How to use a coin-operated laundry machine
1、Load laundry into the machine and close the door properly.
2、Insert money into the machine.
3、Press the start button. **Washer/dryer machines may have multiple options available, such as wash only, dry only, and a full wash and dry course.
4、The machine should start at this point. The time left until the cycle completes will be displayed on the terminal.
5、Remove laundry from the machine once the wash cycle completes.
Remember that laundromats serve multiple people at any given time.
Be mindful of other customers and immediately remove your laundry from the machine when you are done washing your load.
Laundromat wash time and cost
Washing machines
General clothing items take 30 to 40 minutes to wash. Cost is between 400 to 500 yen per 10 kilos
Dryer
General clothing items take 20 to 30 minutes to dry. Cost is between 300 to 400 yen per 10 kilos
*Note that these are general estimates only, actual time and cost may vary between machines.
Food and beverage is generally prohibited within laundromat premises.
