Laundromat Safety Tips | Western State Design

Owning a laundromat can be a rewarding business venture, but assuring the safety of your customers and your property is paramount for success. Unfortunately, crime and accidents can happen anywhere. The good news is that by taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of these incidents. This article explores nine essential safety tips to create a secure and welcoming environment for everyone who walks through the doors of your laundromat.

1 | Light Up the Laundromat for Safety

A well-lit laundromat is the first step to safety. Bright, clean, and functioning lights inside your laundromat make customers feel safe. A well-lit exterior not only encourages people to use your laundromat at night, it shines a light on those with bad intentions. Regularly check and replace burned-out bulbs, and consider installing motion sensor lights in exterior areas for added security.

2 | Enhance Laundromat Visibility

Good lighting is crucial, but don't forget about clear sightlines. Potential customers should be able to see your laundromat easily from the street, and just as importantly, they should be able to see into your well-lit laundromat. This transparency discourages criminal activity.

Keep an eye on landscaping; trim bushes, trees, and fences that block the view from windows and security cameras. A laundromat with unobstructed visibility is a laundromat that sends a clear message: we prioritize safety.

To eliminate potential blind spots inside your laundromat, consider installing strategically placed mirrors, particularly in corners. You can also angle some security camera lights to illuminate these areas, for maximum visibility throughout the entire space. An experienced commercial laundry distributor can provide expert advice on interior layout to further minimize blind spots.

3 | Set Up Cameras and Alarms

Upgrade your laundromat's safety with a well-placed camera and alarm system. This powerful duo not only deters crime by discouraging theft and vandalism, but it can also provide crucial footage to help law enforcement identify suspects if a crime does occur. The good news is that most modern camera and alarm systems are readily-available with a wide range of features, and there are relatively inexpensive options available to suit most budgets.

Bonus tip: Laundromats with visible security measures create a sense of safety for your customers. They'll feel more comfortable leaving their belongings and focusing on their laundry tasks.

4 | Cash Out Coin-Operated Washers Safely

Collecting cash from your laundromat's coin-operated washers is an important task, but it's also a prime opportunity to prioritize safety. Here are some key precautions to take:

Be aware of your surroundings. Always take a quick look around the laundry area before you start collecting money.
Document your collections. Make a note of the date and time you remove money from each machine. This record-keeping can be helpful for accounting purposes and security reasons.
Speed and efficiency are key. Move quickly and efficiently when collecting cash to minimize the time you spend handling money in public.
Bonus tip: Historically, in some areas, coin-operated washers have been a security concern due to the risk of tampering with machines or break-ins targeting cash boxes. Fortunately, technological advancements offer solutions that significantly reduce this threat.

5 | Clean up for Safety

Maintaining a clean laundromat isn't just about aesthetics; it's a key component of safety and customer satisfaction. A clean and well-maintained laundromat sends a positive message to potential customers, letting them know you take pride in your business. This can deter crime by creating a less appealing target for vandals and thieves. Regular cleaning also helps prevent slip-and-fall accidents caused by spills or debris.

6 | Stock Essential Safety Supplies in Your Laundromat

Every laundromat should be equipped with essential safety supplies to address potential emergencies. Here's what you should have on hand:

Fire Extinguishers. Mount readily accessible fire extinguishers throughout your laundromat and train your laundry attendants on proper extinguisher use.
First-Aid Kits. Keep well-stocked first-aid kits on hand and replace used items promptly so you’re ready for any situation.
Emergency Contact Information. Post emergency phone numbers, including yours, in clear view for customers. Additionally, make sure your employees know how to reach you in case of an incident when you're not on-site.

Note: Include at least one fire extinguisher for every 1,500 feet of space in your laundromat. Check with your local municipality for further regulations.

Eliminate the need for coin collection altogether with Dexter card washing machines or take convenience and security to the next level with DexterPay. This mobile app allows customers to pay for their laundry cycles directly from their smartphones using a variety of secure payment methods, including major credit cards (MC, Visa, Discover), Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

7 | Maintain Your Laundry Equipment

Just like cleanliness, maintaining your commercial laundry equipment is crucial for laundromat safety. Check equipment safety features regularly for proper functioning. This includes making sure front-load washer doors remain locked during cycles, top-load washer spinning stops when the lid is lifted, and dryers automatically shut off when doors are opened. And having a dependable washing machine repair person on speed dial is important. Establish a relationship with a qualified technician or laundromat repair service and be sure everyone on your staff has their contact information readily available.

8 | Invest in Reliable Laundromat Attendants

While not all laundromats are attended, and some only part-time, those with a staff can enhance laundromat safety and security by investing in the right employees. Having a friendly and attentive staff member on-site deters criminal activity and promotes a sense of security for your customers, making them feel more comfortable using your laundromat. Reliable attendants can address potential hazards like spills promptly, minimizing the risk of accidents. Additionally, they can identify and report any equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs.

9 | Discover the Power of Community for Laundromat Safety

Safety doesn't exist in a vacuum. Building a strong network within your community can be a valuable asset for your laundromat's security. Here's how to leverage the power of community:

Connect with Customers. Get to know your regular customers and build rapport. Friendly faces create a welcoming environment and can be extra eyes and ears for suspicious activity.
Neighborly Support. Introduce yourself to other nearby business owners and employees. Strong relationships with neighbors foster a sense of mutual support. They may be able to alert you to potential problems or keep an eye out for suspicious activity around your laundromat when you're not there.

By implementing these laundromat safety measures, you can create a welcoming and secure environment for your customers, fostering trust and loyalty. But creating a successful laundromat goes beyond just safety.

Our team of laundry experts can guide you through every step of the process, from initial design and equipment selection to post-sale setup, training, and ongoing maintenance. We'll help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your laundromat operates smoothly and efficiently for years to come. For expert guidance on all aspects of your commercial laundry operation, contact Western State Design today.