How to Start a Laundromat Business with No Money

Starting a laundromat business can be a lucrative endeavor, but it can also be expensive. Many people don’t have the money to start a business outright. Fortunately, there are several ways to get started without spending a dime.

In this blog post, we will discuss 11 steps on how to start a laundromat business with no money. We will also provide information on how to find investors or take out a business loan. So, whether you’re looking for a way to start your own business, fund it, or just want more information on the laundry industry, this blog post is for you.

Key Points

  • Laundromat Business Plan: Key Steps for a Startup
  • How Much Will It Cost to Open a Laundromat Business?
  • How to Start a Laundromat Business with No Money
  • Our Takeaway

Laundromat Business Plan: Key Steps for a Startup


People who dream of becoming their own boss may find the laundromat business an excellent option for building on their entrepreneurial dream. Starting a business can be overwhelming, but with a little hard work and dedication, you’ll be able to see your laundromat business ideas come to fruition.

Come Up with a Business Model

Before starting any business, it’s essential to create a sound business model that defines the products or services you will sell, your target market, and expected costs. This will help you understand how the business will generate revenue and what expenses you need to cover.

That includes how much it would actually take to open a laundromat, the cost of the machines, utilities, marketing, and other operating costs. Identifying and listing all expenses will ensure the profitability of the business.

There are several options to make a profit when running a laundromat business. The most common one is to charge by the wash cycle. Other possible revenue streams include selling laundry detergent and other supplies, providing dry cleaning services, or offering a pick-up and delivery service.

By taking the time to create a solid business model, you’re setting yourself up for a successful laundromat business.

Create a Business Name

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when starting any business is choosing a name. A good business name can help attract customers, set you apart from your competitors, and build brand recognition.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting a name you can incorporate into your laundromat business ideas:

  • Keep it simple. A catchy, easy-to-remember name is more likely to stick in people’s minds.
  • Make it unique. Avoid choosing a name that’s too similar to other laundromats in your area. You may risk confusion and lose potential customers.
  • Be descriptive. A good business name should give people an accurate idea of what your laundromat offers. For instance, if you provide a pick-up and delivery service, you might want to include that in your name.
  • Use keyword research. Use tools like Google Adwords to determine which keywords are most popular among people, like “cheap laundromat near me.” You can then use those keywords in your business name or subheading to attract the attention of potential customers.

Pick a Business Entity

Choosing a business entity is essential in building a laundry business because it affects liability, taxes, and overall company structure. There are several different types of business entities, and the most appropriate choice for your laundromat business will depend on various factors, such as size, scope, and personal liability preference.

With so many considerations in mind, it’s vital to seek professional advice to ensure you pick the most appropriate business entity for your laundromat business.

Develop a Laundromat Business Plan

Business plans are a type of document that outlines the goals, strategies, and financial projections of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or banks or simply keep yourself organized and on track as you grow your business. It should include the following:

  • Executive summary – provides an overview of the entire business plan
  • Market analysis – a section that describes the target market, including demographics, location, and competition
  • Product and service description – part of the document that describes products and services and the corresponding price
  • Management and marketing analysis – provides details of ownership structure and promotional strategies
  • Financial projection – indicates anticipated costs and business growth

Acquire the Necessary Permits and Licenses

Before you can open your laundromat business, you’ll need to obtain specific permits and licenses.

The requirements vary depending on your location. Still, you’ll typically need to obtain a business license from your city or county, a sales tax permit, a building permit, a signage permit, and a zoning permit. Also, after buying a laundromat, you may need to get a license to operate your machine and any other equipment you plan to use.

Find a Location for the Business

Location is everything in a laundromat business. Your business needs to be situated in a high-traffic area to attract customers. However, finding a location is not enough—it’s also important to consider the size, competition, zoning regulations, and demographics of the surrounding area.

Procure Proper Equipment

Before starting your laundromat business, you need to have the right equipment. Ask yourself questions like how much does it cost to buy a laundromat and other equipment.” You need to figure that out because you’ll likely need a bunch of things to start your operations:

  • Coin changer
  • Chairs
  • Folding tables
  • Storage racks
  • Security cameras and alarm systems

Open a Separate Account

Opening a separate bank account for your business is both necessary and wise. This will help you track the business’s income and expenses, making it easier to manage taxes. Plus, having a separate bank account will give your business a more professional look and help you build credibility with your customers.

Create a Marketing Strategy

Many people believe that running a laundromat is as simple as turning on the machines and collecting quarters. So much so that they think about how to start a laundry business from home. However, there is a lot more to it than that.

To be successful, laundromat owners need to develop a marketing strategy to attract and retain customers. There are several different ways to do this, but some of the most effective include offering loyalty programs, running promotional campaigns, sponsoring community events, and partnering with local businesses.

If you’d rather have team experts do it for you, check out some of the best digital marketing agencies available right now.

Insure the Business

One of the most critical and often overlooked steps in starting a laundromat business is getting insurance. There are several types of insurance you should consider. Each one offers essential protection.

  • Property insurance – covers the cost of repairing or buying a laundromat to replace damaged or destroyed machines because of fire, storm, or other calamities
  • Liability insurance – covers the costs of injury that took place within your premises
  • Workers’ compensation insurance – covers employees who get injured while working at your laundromat

How Much Will It Cost to Open a Laundromat Business


A laundry business can be a great way to earn a steady income without putting in too many hours. However, it’s important to understand the costs of starting and running a laundry business before making any decisions.

The answer to the question, “how much does it cost to open a laundromat” depends on several factors, including the size and location of your facility, the type of equipment you’ll purchase, and the number of employees you’ll hire.

In general, you can expect to spend anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000 to get your laundry business up and running. Of course, the actual amount will vary depending on your specific circumstances. However, by doing your research and understanding the costs involved, you can ensure business success.

How to Start a Laundromat Business with No Money


Opening a laundromat business can be a great way to generate income, but it requires a substantial initial investment. While starting a business with no money can be challenging, it’s very much possible if you know alternative sources that can fund your business.

Find Investors

If you’re thinking about how to buy a laundromat with no money so you can open a business without breaking the bank, turning to investors is one option. But how can you attract some investors to help get your business off the ground?

First, you’ll need to put together a solid business plan that outlines your goals and demonstrates how your laundromat will be profitable.

Next, you’ll need to create a pitch deck that you can use to convince potential investors that your business is worth their money.

Finally, you’ll need to brush up on your networking skills and meet potential investors to get them interested in your business.

Apply for a Business Loan

Applying for a business loan may have crossed your mind while thinking about how to open a laundromat with no money. Here are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, you’ll need to have a strong business plan. This should include detailed financial projections and a clear explanation of how you’ll use the loan funds.

Second, it’s important to shop around and compare rates from multiple lenders. You don’t want to get stuck with a high-interest loan that will eat your profits.

Finally, be prepared to answer questions about your credit history and collateral. The lending process can be competitive, but if you’re prepared and have a strong case for your business, you stand a good chance of getting the financing you need.

Open a Business Through Franchising

Franchising is a viable answer to how to open a laundromat with no money. It can jumpstart the business without breaking the bank.

One option is to find an existing laundromat that is up for sale and arrange a payment plan with the current owner. This could involve making smaller monthly payments over a more extended period until the business is fully paid off.

Another option is to look for laundromat franchise opportunities that don’t require any upfront investment. These franchises typically have lower royalty fees, which means more profits for you in the long run.

Apply for Business Grants to Start a Laundromat Business

Applying for a business grant can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. You can do a few things to increase your chances of being awarded the money you need to get your laundromat business off the ground.

First, research which grants are available and make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Next, put together a strong business plan that outlines your goals and how you intend to use the grant money. Finally, submit all required paperwork on time and follow up with the grant organization if you have any questions.

With a little effort, you can increase your chances of getting the funding you need to start your business.

Laundromat Business Plan for a Startup: The Takeaway


Starting a laundromat business is just like building any other company. You need to go through specific steps, and in most cases, you’ll need to have a substantial amount of capital.

However, even if you don’t have a lot of money in your bank account, it’s still possible to start a laundromat business. It might be a lot more challenging, but it’s still feasible. You’ll need to do research and put in some hard work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How profitable is a laundromat business?


A laundromat business can be profitable if managed correctly. The key to success is to provide a convenient location with plenty of parking and offer a wide range of services. Many laundromats also offer dry cleaning, attracting customers who might not otherwise use the facility.

In addition, it’s vital to keep the machines well-maintained and offer different payment options, including credit cards and coins. By providing a clean, safe, and reliable service, a laundromat can become a vital part of the community and generate a healthy profit.

Is it easy to run a laundromat?


Many people think that running a laundromat is easy and that you don’t have to do much. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Owning a laundromat business has its pros and cons. The business can be profitable, but it comes with some challenges.

Apart from the burden of finding a good location and keeping the machines clean and in good working order, there’s the people factor. Laundromats are social places, and customers can get cranky if they have to wait too long for a machine or if their clothes don’t come out looking perfect.

How much money do you need to open a laundromat?


If you’re considering opening a laundromat, you’re probably wondering how much money you’ll need to get started.

The cost to open a laundromat business will reach at least $200,000. This includes the cost of laundry equipment, leasing a space, and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. Of course, if you want to offer additional services or amenities, your costs will be higher.

Ultimately, the amount of money you’ll need to open a laundromat depends on the scope of your business.

How do I start a successful laundromat?


There are a few things you need to do to set yourself up for success when starting a laundromat business.

The first step is to find a good location. Look for a spot that’s convenient for potential customers.

Second, make sure you have the right equipment. Invest in high-quality machines that meet the customers’ needs.

Finally, create a sound marketing strategy. Spread the word about your laundromat through online and offline channels. It’s likely that potential customers will first google “cheap laundromat near me” and head over to the highest-ranked laundromat on search engines.

What permits do I need to open a laundromat?


Once you’ve found an ideal location for your laundry business, obtaining the necessary permits and licenses is what comes next. You will need to apply for a business license and a zoning permit from your local zoning office. In addition, you will need to obtain a laundry machine license from the state in which you plan to run your business. Getting permits is just one of many steps you need to take when figuring out how to start a laundromat business with no money.