How to Start a Laundry Business

A laundry business can be a simple and profitable business to start. There are many types of laundry businesses, including home-based and dry cleaning franchises. Knowing how to start a laundry business begins with choosing the right one for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what kind of laundry business you want to start.
   
   Options range from a home-based laundry business to a dry cleaning business to a coin-operated laundromat. Factors that will influence your decision include how much money you have to invest and how involved you want to be in the work of the business.

2. Find a location.
   
   If you plan to offer laundry and ironing services from home, your decision is easy. For a dry cleaning business you'll need a retail location. A laundromat will require a unique spot that can house washers, dryers, folding tables, etc.

3. Buy any necessary equipment.
   
   This might include washers, dryers, folding tables, dry cleaning equipment, coin changer, cash registers and credit card machines.

4. Hire employees.
   
   Dry cleaners and laundromats may require you to hire help. A home-based laundry business is something you can probably do yourself.

5. Market your services.
   
   Dry cleaners often offer coupons and that will be a good way to get the word out about your laundry business. A home-based laundry business can be marketed in low cost ways, including flyers, Craigslit, and word of mouth. For a laundromat, good signage is going to be highly important in order to let people know where you are.

Tips & Warnings

• For larger businesses, especially those requiring large investments, consult with an attorney about the right legal setup, etc.
• Make sure to investigate what kind of businesses licenses you might need for your laundry business. These are usually done at the local level.