Launderette vs. Laundromat — What's the Difference?

Launderette is commonly used in the UK and some Commonwealth countries to describe a commercial facility where customers can wash and dry their clothing using coin-operated machines. These establishments often provide a comfortable waiting area and sometimes additional services like dry cleaning or ironing. Whereas laundromat, the term more frequently used in the US, refers to a similar self-service laundry facility. The concept is essentially the same, offering public access to laundry equipment on a pay-per-use basis.

The history of the launderette dates back to the 1930s in the United States, with the first self-service laundry opened by Westinghouse in Fort Worth, Texas, which was initially called a "Washateria," a term still used in some southern US states. The concept spread globally, becoming known as "launderettes" in the UK. On the other hand, the term laundromat was originally a trademark of Westinghouse and has since become genericized to refer to all coin-operated laundry businesses in the US.

Launderettes often serve as community hubs in residential areas, offering a necessary service for those without home laundry facilities. They may vary in size and services, with some providing staff assistance or additional services like laundry folding, dry cleaning, or even cafes and Wi-Fi. Conversely, laundromats in the US tend to emphasize efficiency and convenience, with many open 24/7 and offering various sizes of washers and dryers to accommodate different laundry needs. Some laundromats also offer loyalty programs, online monitoring of machine availability, or mobile payment options.

Regarding services and atmosphere, British launderettes may retain a more traditional charm, with a focus on community and sometimes even offering repair services for clothes. They can be a place for social interaction among locals. While laundromats in the US might lean towards a more modern or utilitarian approach, focusing on providing efficient services with the latest technology in laundry machines, they too can serve as community spaces, especially in urban areas where living spaces are small.

The pricing in launderettes can vary depending on the location and services offered, with prices generally set for a standard wash and dry cycle. Customers can choose from different types of machines based on the load size and specific laundry needs. Laundromats also follow a similar pricing model but may offer more payment methods, including coins, cards, or digital payments, reflecting the broader adoption of technology in the service industry.