Convenience, safety, and efficiency for customers and business owners
Explore GuideA cashless laundromat payment system allows customers to pay for washing and drying machines without the need for coins. Instead, payments are made using debit or credit cards, mobile wallets, prepaid laundry cards, or apps linked directly to bank accounts.
Traditionally, laundromats relied heavily on coin-operated machines. However, with banking services, smartphones, and tap-and-go technology becoming the norm, cashless systems are now more widely adopted in Australia.
Switching to cashless payments comes with a wide range of advantages:
In Australia, laundromats can integrate cashless payments through multiple systems:
Most laundromats now accept Visa, Mastercard, and EFTPOS cards. Customers simply tap or insert their card at the machine or kiosk.
These allow customers to pay directly from their smartphones or smartwatches.
Apps linked with laundromat systems let customers load credits, track usage, and even receive loyalty rewards.
Some advanced laundromats integrate PayPal and other digital wallets, making the service accessible for international visitors.
While some laundromats still take coins, the industry trend is moving away from them.
Yes, some laundromats operate hybrid systems that accept both cash and cashless payments. However, the percentage of fully cashless laundromats is steadily increasing across Australian cities.
Yes. Machines use encrypted payment systems, ensuring security for customer data.
Most laundromats provide alternative options such as mobile wallets or prepaid laundry cards.
Not necessarily. Pricing is set by the laundromat owner. In fact, operational savings from reduced coin handling can help keep prices competitive.
Yes, provided they are supported by the card reader system. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.
Policies vary, but many laundromats allow customers to leave their laundry running and return once the cycle is complete. Cashless systems often provide timers and notifications through apps.
Some laundromats issue reloadable laundry cards or app-based loyalty systems. These work like prepaid gift cards, allowing customers to load credit and use it for multiple washes and dries.
Yes, in many cases. Apps not only enable payments but also let customers:
In Australia, laundromat apps are growing in popularity due to convenience and added features.
Owners should assess whether customers are ready for a cashless transition. In urban areas, demand is usually higher than in rural towns.
Companies like Bubblepay offer end-to-end solutions, including card readers, loyalty apps, and reporting dashboards.
Installation involves attaching readers to machines or setting up kiosks. Owners must test the system thoroughly before going live.
Clear instructions should be displayed to help customers adapt. Staff should be ready to assist during the transition period.
Owners can track transactions, identify peak times, and optimise pricing based on customer demand.
The cost varies depending on:
On average, installing cashless systems can range from $500 to $1,500 per machine. However, the long-term savings on coin handling, reduced theft, and increased customer satisfaction often outweigh the upfront costs.
Cashless laundromat payment systems are no longer optional, they are becoming the standard. For customers, they provide unmatched convenience and security. For owners, they reduce operational headaches and create opportunities for growth. As more Australians embrace cashless lifestyles, laundromats that adapt early will stay competitive and attract modern customers.
Here are additional resources you can explore:
Wikipedia: Mobile payment Wikipedia: Near-field communication Wikipedia: Contactless payment Wikipedia: Payment card Wikipedia: Digital wallet Reserve Bank of Australia – Payments Data Wikipedia: Laundromat