How Much Does It Cost to Start a Laundromat Franchise in India?
With the laundry industry evolving rapidly across urban and semi-urban India, entrepreneurs are exploring two promising formats — self-service laundromats and full-service laundry franchises. But one of the most common questions asked is: “How much does it cost to start a laundromat franchise in India?”
This article explores the cost structure of launching a laundromat business and compares it with Clean Craft’s full-service laundry franchise model, which offers a better ROI, brand strength, and long-term sustainability.
What Is a Laundromat Franchise?
A laundromat franchise is a self-service laundry outlet where customers use coin-operated or app-enabled washing and drying machines. Unlike full-service laundry brands, laundromats have minimal staffing, no pickup or delivery, and rely on high machine usage by walk-in customers.
They’re popular in urban areas with dense working populations, hostels, and rental flats.
What Is the Total Investment Required to Start a Laundromat Franchise in India?
The total cost to start a laundromat franchise in India ranges between ₹15 lakhs to ₹25 lakhs, depending on the brand, location, scale, and equipment specifications.
Breakdown of Laundromat Franchise Costs
1. Commercial Washing & Drying Machines
o 2–4 washers + 2–3 dryers
o Cost: ₹8–₹12 lakhs (depending on load capacity and automation)
2. Store Interiors & Renovation
o Front signage, customer lounge, flooring, plumbing
o Cost: ₹2–₹4 lakhs
3. Franchise Fee (Brand-Specific)
o One-time licensing fee to use brand name and systems
o Cost: ₹2–₹3 lakhs (varies by franchise)
4. Utility Setup
o Commercial-grade electricity and water supply
o Cost: ₹1–₹2 lakhs
5. POS System & Payment Gateway
o QR code reader, token dispenser, customer self-service terminal
o Cost: ₹50,000 – ₹1 lakh
6. Working Capital (First 3–6 Months)
o Salaries, electricity, water, cleaning agents, maintenance
o ₹1–₹2 lakhs
Total Estimated Investment: ₹15 to ₹25 lakhs
Hidden & Ongoing Costs to Consider
While the initial setup is important, there are ongoing operational costs that should be considered before investing in a laundromat model:
• Equipment maintenance and AMC
• Machine breakdown downtime costs
• Staff salaries (if any)
• Cleaning chemical replenishment
• Utility bills (can be high during peak seasons)
• Marketing & local promotions
Is It Better to Choose a Full-Service Laundry Franchise Instead?
While laundromats offer a leaner model, many investors are now leaning towards full-service laundry franchises like Clean Craft — and for good reason.
Here’s why:
Clean Craft: India’s Most Trusted Full-Service Laundry Franchise
Backed by years of R&D and deep market insight, Clean Craft offers a comprehensive business model built for Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities.
Clean Craft Franchise Investment Details:
Component Cost Estimate (₹)
Total Investment ₹18 – ₹28 lakhs
Franchise Fee Included in package
Area Required 250–400 sq. ft.
Break-even Timeline 6–12 months
Manpower Required 2–4 trained staff
What You Get as a Clean Craft Franchise Partner:
• Branded Store Setup with interiors & signages
• Automated machines for dry cleaning, ironing & washing
• 1,000+ customer leads provided in the first year
• Mobile app & CRM dashboard for order management
• Complete training & SOPs for staff
• Marketing support (local & online)
• Bulk B2B Contracts with gyms, salons, PGs & hostels
• Subscription model for recurring revenue
Unlike laundromats where walk-in customers drive income, Clean Craft ensures consistent orders via app-based and B2B services, helping you build a loyal customer base from Day 1.
Why Clean Craft Offers Higher Value Than a Laundromat Franchise
• Faster ROI: Break-even in 6–12 months vs 18–24 months for laundromats
• Diversified Revenue: Dry cleaning, ironing, and premium care services
• Doorstep Service: Pickup & delivery attracts busy professionals
• Premium Positioning: Focus on hygiene, packaging, and garment care
• Tech-Enabled: Real-time tracking, CRM insights, and customer retention
• Franchise-First Culture: Continuous handholding from setup to scaling
FAQs on Laundromat Franchise Cost in India
Q1. What is the minimum budget to start a laundromat franchise in India?
Most brands require at least ₹15–₹18 lakhs, depending on machines and location.
Q2. Does Clean Craft offer a laundromat model?
No. Clean Craft operates a full-service laundry franchise model, providing higher revenue opportunities and deeper market penetration.
Q3. Is a laundromat franchise profitable in Tier 2/3 cities?
Not always. In smaller towns, customers prefer assisted laundry services with pickup/delivery. That’s why Clean Craft is expanding aggressively in these regions.
Q4. Do laundromats require a lot of staff?
Laundromats typically require 1–2 attendants. However, breakdowns and customer unfamiliarity with machines can increase support requirements.
Q5. How soon can I recover my laundromat franchise investment?
Generally, laundromats reach break-even in 18 to 24 months if located strategically and managed well.
Final Thoughts
While the initial cost of starting a laundromat franchise in India may appear lower than other business categories, the return timeline and customer retention challenges often impact profitability. In contrast, Clean Craft’s proven laundry franchise model offers a better-structured, tech-driven, and customer-centric business opportunity — especially for investors looking to scale sustainably in the next 3–5 years.
If your goal is to invest in a laundry business that requires low risk, offers recurring income, and delivers premium service, Clean Craft may be the right choice.
