Why Start a Laundromat Franchise in India?
The Indian laundry sector is evolving fast, and self-service laundromats are becoming a new urban trend. With increasing demand for affordable and convenient washing solutions, investing in a laundromat franchise can offer long-term returns, especially in metros and Tier 1 cities.
But before you dive in, it’s essential to understand how this business model works, what it takes to set up, and what alternatives like Clean Craft's full-service laundry franchise can offer.
What Is a Laundromat Franchise?
A laundromat franchise is a retail outlet where customers can use washing and drying machines on a self-service basis. These stores are usually equipped with:
• Industrial-grade washers and dryers
• Coin or card-operated systems
• Basic seating, detergents, and vending kiosks
The franchisee earns revenue per machine usage without offering pickup, folding, or ironing services. Unlike a full-service laundry franchise (like Clean Craft), the customer handles everything from loading clothes to drying.
Who Should Start a Laundromat Franchise?
This business model is ideal for:
• Entrepreneurs seeking low-staff businesses
• Investors targeting student hubs or rental-heavy zones
• Working professionals wanting to manage operations part-time
• Individuals with commercial property near PGs or colleges
However, a laundromat's success heavily depends on footfall and location. For areas where customers expect pickup, folding, or hygiene assurance, a full-service brand like Clean Craft may be a smarter investment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start a Laundromat Franchise
Step 1 – Conduct Local Market Research
Understand your customer profile:
• Is there a student or bachelor population?
• Are apartments small with limited washing space?
• What is the average price for laundry services in your area?
• Are there existing laundromats or laundry franchises nearby?
Step 2 – Choose a Reliable Franchise Brand
Look for brands offering:
• Low machine downtime
• On-ground operational support
• Tech-enabled systems
• Centralized maintenance support
• Equipment with energy efficiency and warranty
If comparing options, consider full-service alternatives too, such as Clean Craft, which offers tech-backed laundry processing with CRM, real-time dashboards, and mobile app integration.
Step 3 – Estimate the Investment
A typical laundromat franchise in India requires:
Cost Component Approx. Amount (INR)
Machines (Washer & Dryer) ₹8–₹12 Lakhs
Interiors, Branding, Setup ₹2–₹4 Lakhs
Franchise Fee ₹2–₹3 Lakhs
Tech Interface & Payment Kiosk ₹0.5–₹1 Lakh
Licensing & Working Capital ₹2–₹3 Lakhs
Total Investment ₹15–₹25 Lakhs
By comparison, Clean Craft’s full-service model may require ₹18–₹28 lakhs but includes training, logistics setup, B2B expansion, app, CRM, and supply chain integration.
Step 4 – Find the Right Location
Look for:
• Ground floor retail space (300–600 sq ft)
• Proximity to PGs, student hostels, or rental apartments
• Adequate water, drainage, and electricity access
• Optional: 24x7 CCTV and automated locking for unmanned operation
Step 5 – Legal Compliance and Setup
Register your business:
• GST number
• Shop & Establishment License
• Pollution Control NOC (if required)
• Local Municipal Approval
A good franchise brand will assist in completing compliance. Clean Craft offers end-to-end setup and licensing support.
Step 6 – Install Equipment and Begin Operations
Install branded machines and connect the tech interface:
• Coin-operated or card-based vending system
• Load balancing systems for machine rotation
• Signage, pricing boards, and detergent dispensers
• Optional: CCTV, digital lockers, waiting area
You can start with one or two staff members, or go unmanned depending on your tech integration.
Step 7 – Marketing and Launch
Promote using:
• Flyers in local PGs and colleges
• Local Google Ads and SEO
• Social media coupons or first wash offers
• WhatsApp or mobile booking integrations
Clean Craft provides centralized marketing, local SEO, franchise branding kits, and Google Map pinning—taking most of the heavy lifting off your plate.
Clean Craft vs Laundromat Franchise: Which Is Better for You?
Here’s a detailed comparison:
Service Type: Laundromat = Self-service | Clean Craft = Full-service
Customer Base: Laundromat = PGs, students | Clean Craft = Families, institutions
Revenue: Laundromat = Per use | Clean Craft = Per kg, dry cleaning, monthly plans
Investment: Laundromat = ₹15–₹25 Lakhs | Clean Craft = ₹18–₹28 Lakhs
ROI Timeline: Laundromat = 12–24 months | Clean Craft = 6–12 months
Technology: Laundromat = Basic | Clean Craft = CRM, app, dashboard
Support: Varies by brand | Clean Craft = Ongoing marketing, B2B tie-ups, training
If you prefer a managed, scalable, and service-based model, Clean Craft provides a far more sustainable opportunity—especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
FAQs – Laundromat Franchise Business in India
Q1. How much does it cost to start a laundromat franchise?
Around ₹15 to ₹25 lakhs including equipment, space setup, and branding.
Q2. How long does it take to break even?
Most laundromats recover their investment within 12–24 months depending on footfall.
Q3. Can I run it without staff?
Yes, if you install a tech-based system with CCTV and digital locks.
Q4. What are the recurring costs?
Water, electricity, detergent, basic cleaning supplies, and machine maintenance.
Q5. Do I get any marketing support?
It depends on the brand. Clean Craft provides centralized and local marketing assistance.
Final Thoughts
A laundromat franchise can be a profitable venture if your chosen location is ideal, and you minimize operating costs. However, the success is heavily reliant on customer discipline and foot traffic.
If you're looking for a more structured and revenue-diversified model, consider Clean Craft, which combines:
• Tech-powered full-service operations
• B2C and B2B client acquisition
• Centralized CRM and customer service support
• Dedicated onboarding, branding, and training
In short, while a laundromat may suit low-maintenance investors, Clean Craft is designed for growth-focused entrepreneurs looking to build a legacy in the laundry franchise industry.
