Can you pay with Apple Pay / Google Pay at laundromats?

 Yes – you can pay with Apple Pay or Google Pay at many modern laundromats across Australia. But it’s not a universal yes. While some venues have embraced digital wallets, others still cling to coin-only systems that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time warp. Here’s what’s changing – and why it matters if you’re running low on gold coins and patience.

Do laundromats accept Apple Pay and Google Pay?

Increasingly, yes – but not all do. Digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported only at laundromats with upgraded payment terminals. These are typically smart card readers or NFC (Near Field Communication) devices attached to washers and dryers, or a central kiosk. The catch? Older machines, especially in small-town or budget-run venues, might still require physical coins or prepaid laundry cards.

Here’s what you’re likely to find:

  • Modern inner-city laundromats: These often support tap-and-go payments including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless debit/credit cards.

  • Coin laundries in suburban or regional areas: Some are still stuck with coin slots or outdated card-only systems.

  • Franchise chains or high-traffic locations: More likely to offer multiple payment methods including digital wallets.

So if you’ve rocked up with your phone and no coins, check for signs like “Tap to Pay”, “Pay with Apple Pay”, or terminal readers with the contactless symbol.

Why are some laundromats still cash-only?

Good question – and it comes down to cost, habit, and control.

Upgrading to cashless systems involves hardware costs, software subscriptions, and sometimes changes to utility infrastructure. For small operators running older machines, that investment can feel risky, especially if they’ve got steady foot traffic using cash.

There’s also a behavioural resistance: laundromats have traditionally been low-tech, self-service, and built around fast turnover. For owners who haven’t felt the pinch, coins still work “well enough”.

But here’s the kicker – they’re losing customers who expect digital convenience.

What payment methods are common in Australian laundromats now?

Most laundromats in metro areas are diversifying payment options. Common methods include:

  • Apple Pay / Google Pay: Fast and secure for tap-and-go users.

  • Contactless debit/credit cards: Still the most widely accepted digital method.

  • Prepaid laundry cards: Rechargeable cards provided by the laundromat.

  • QR code payments: Some laundromats have adopted app-based QR payment systems.

  • Coins: Still surprisingly prevalent, especially $1 and $2 coins.

As consumer behaviour shifts post-COVID, operators who adopt cashless laundromat payment tech are winning over younger and tech-savvy customers.

Are there benefits to going cashless for laundromat owners?

Absolutely. Beyond customer convenience, here’s what the switch unlocks:

  • Fewer coin jams and machine breakdowns (a maintenance nightmare).

  • Higher customer satisfaction and repeat visits.

  • Real-time payment tracking and automated reporting.

  • Less risk of theft or loss from coin boxes.

  • Easier pricing flexibility – such as surge pricing or discounts.

Behavioural economists call this a “default bias advantage” – when the default (cashless) becomes easier than the effort of sourcing coins, customers stick with what’s simplest.

How can I tell if a laundromat accepts digital wallets?

Here are your best cues:

  • Check their website or Google listing – many list payment methods.

  • Look for “Tap to Pay” or contactless logos at the entrance.

  • Ask the attendant or read signage near the machines.

  • Look for smart readers installed on each machine or a central kiosk.

And if in doubt, carry a few coins – at least for now. But that’s changing fast.

Is cashless payment safer or more private?

From a consumer security standpoint – yes. Apple Pay and Google Pay use tokenisation, meaning your actual card details are never shared with the machine. This reduces the risk of card skimming or cloning (a known issue in unattended payment environments).

And in a privacy-conscious world, digital payments also leave less physical trace, though they do contribute to your financial activity logs (which, let’s be honest, are already tracked by banks).

Are any big-name laundromats already doing this well?

Absolutely. Several independent and franchised laundromats in Australia – particularly in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane – have adopted multi-payment options. Examples include:

  • Soap Bar Laundrette (Melbourne) – Accepts tap-and-go on every machine.

  • Bubbles Express Laundry (Brisbane) – App-based payments and digital wallet support.

  • Laundrlab (Sydney) – Fully cashless with QR payment and mobile integrations.

According to Finde, digital wallet use in Australia has surged in recent years – with more than 15 million Aussies using mobile wallets in 2024. So laundromats lagging behind aren’t just missing tech – they’re missing foot traffic.

FAQ: Quick answers about digital payments at laundromats

Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay at any laundromat?
Not always. Only laundromats with contactless or NFC-enabled systems can accept these payment types.

Do I still need coins for laundry in 2025?
Sometimes, yes. Especially in regional or older city laundromats that haven’t upgraded yet.

Are there laundromat apps that support digital payment?
Yes – apps like PayRange, LaundryPay, or proprietary systems allow users to pay via smartphone. Availability depends on the provider.

As contactless becomes the new normal, more Aussies are choosing convenience over clunky coin slots. The move toward cashless laundromat payment isn’t just a tech upgrade – it’s a behavioural shift tied to how we value time, ease, and hygiene. And if you're curious what options are out there already, this deep dive breaks it down based on real-world usage.

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