Getting Coins for the Laundromat

While modern laundromats like Love Wash have moved to cashless payment systems, some laundromats still operate on coins. If you’re using a coin-operated machine, here’s where to get coins and how to make sure you always have enough.

Best Sources for Laundry Coins

• Bank branches: Your bank can exchange notes for coins at the counter. Request $1 and $2 coins specifically. Most banks don’t charge for this service for account holders.
• Supermarkets: When paying for groceries with a note, ask for your change in coins. A $10 note converted entirely to $2 coins gives you five coins.
• Service stations: Petrol stations often have coin change available as part of their service. Smaller purchases paid with notes can yield useful coin change.
• Post offices: Australia Post offices can often provide coin exchange for small amounts.
• On-site coin changers: Many laundromats that still use coins have their own coin change machines in the premises. Check before you leave home — if the laundromat has one, you can bring notes and exchange them there.

How Many Coins Do You Need?

Coin laundromats typically charge $4–8 per wash cycle and $1–2 per 10 minutes of drying. For a standard wash and dry, budget approximately $10–18 in coins. Always bring more than you think you need — running out of coins mid-dry cycle is frustrating.

The Better Answer: Choose a Cashless Laundromat

Honestly, the easiest solution is to use a laundromat that doesn’t require coins at all. Love Wash accepts Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay at all four Sydney locations — St Marys, Bella Vista, Waterloo, and Zetland. No coins, no hunting for change, no risk of the coin machine being out of order.

Keeping a Coin Stash at Home

If you regularly use a coin laundromat, keep a dedicated coin jar at home and add to it whenever you receive change. It becomes a reliable supply and removes the stress of needing to find coins on laundry day. A small jar of $1 and $2 coins adds up quickly and gives you a comfortable buffer for each visit.

For Emergencies

If you’re at a coin laundromat and run out of change, most laundromats have a phone number you can call for assistance, and many convenience stores near laundromats will exchange notes for coins as a courtesy. It’s always worth asking.