Adding an ATM to your laundromat is one of the simplest and most cost-effective upgrades you can make. While the core of your business is washers and dryers, offering cash access on-site meets a practical customer need—and creates a new revenue stream with minimal overhead. Customers frequently need cash for vending machines, change machines, or laundry cards, and without an ATM, they’re forced to leave and may not return. By keeping them on-site, you reduce friction and improve satisfaction while generating passive income through transaction fees. With more laundromats switching to card-based or hybrid payment systems, having an ATM ensures you’re not turning away cash-preferred customers. The presence of an ATM also improves your store’s perceived professionalism and utility. For many owners, the question isn’t whether they should install one—but how soon they can.
Why ATMs Make Sense for Laundromats
Laundromats are high-traffic, necessity-driven businesses where customers often arrive with limited cash and expect flexibility. Many laundromat customers either forget to bring enough coins or prefer to avoid card transactions for small purchases. By offering an ATM in-store, you solve a problem and earn additional income each time it’s used. This added convenience enhances the customer experience while increasing the likelihood they’ll stay longer or use other amenities. An ATM also reduces the burden on your staff to make change or answer cash-related questions. In underserved neighborhoods or areas with limited banking access, a laundromat ATM becomes even more valuable. It’s a win-win for both operational efficiency and customer retention.
Benefits of Adding an ATM to Your Laundry Business
Laundromat owners are always looking for ways to increase profitability without overcomplicating operations. ATMs offer low-maintenance, high-yield advantages that support both business and customer needs:
- Passive Income Through Surcharge Fees
Every withdrawal adds to your bottom line. Depending on your agreement, you can keep 100% or split revenue with a provider. - Increased Customer Satisfaction
Easy access to cash reduces frustration, especially for first-time or older customers who may not use digital payments. - Longer On-Site Engagement
Customers who stay to withdraw cash are more likely to spend money on vending machines, wash and fold services, or detergent sales. - Reduced Coin Shortage Issues
Customers can withdraw exact change amounts, reducing over-reliance on coin dispensers during high-traffic hours. - Stronger Competitive Positioning
An ATM helps your location stand out by offering more than just laundry—especially when competitors don’t have one.
What to Consider Before Installing an ATM in Your Laundromat
Before you install an ATM, take a moment to evaluate the logistics and economics of the decision. Location inside the store is crucial—it should be visible, well-lit, and accessible without obstructing foot traffic. You’ll also want to evaluate security, both in terms of physical safety and network connectivity. Partnering with a reputable ATM provider is essential; they should offer transparent revenue sharing, maintenance, and EMV (chip card) compliance. Check with your insurance carrier to ensure the ATM is covered under your business policy. Lastly, determine if you want to own the machine outright or lease it—each model offers different levels of control and responsibility. Proper planning ensures your ATM is profitable, safe, and easy to manage.
Choosing the Right ATM Provider for Laundromats
There are two common models for laundromat ATM installation: third-party partnerships and owner-operated machines. Each comes with trade-offs in terms of control, maintenance, and revenue. Here’s how to choose:
- Full-Service ATM Placement
A provider installs and maintains the machine, and you split revenue. This is great for busy owners who want a hands-off passive income option. - Self-Owned ATM Machines
You buy the machine and handle cash loading and service yourself. While this requires more effort, you keep all the surcharge revenue. - Hybrid Models
Some companies allow you to partially manage operations (like loading cash) while they handle repairs and compliance. This middle-ground model offers higher payouts with less tech hassle.
Partner with ATM providers who have experience in retail or laundromat environments, and make sure they offer reliable support and real-time monitoring tools.
Maximizing ATM Revenue in a Laundromat Environment
To get the most out of your laundromat ATM, visibility and marketing are key. Place signs inside and outside your store advertising the ATM’s presence. Highlight it on your website and Google Business Profile. Set a fair but competitive surcharge (e.g., $2.50–$3.00), keeping in mind your customer base’s preferences. Keep the machine stocked with small bills to meet average withdrawal behavior for your area. Pair the ATM with vending machines, laundry cards, or detergent sales to increase onsite spend. Consider bundling promotions like “$5 off wash and fold when you withdraw $40 or more.” The goal is to turn your ATM into an integral part of your customer’s visit—not just an afterthought.
Laundromat ATM Security and Compliance Essentials
Security is critical when adding an ATM to your store, both for customer safety and regulatory compliance. The machine should be bolted down and covered by security cameras. Install it in a well-lit, visible area to deter theft and skimming attempts. Ensure the ATM is PCI-compliant and supports EMV chip technology to protect cardholder data. Regular software updates and anti-virus protection should be included in your provider’s service plan. For insurance purposes, report the machine to your business carrier and follow all local licensing or reporting requirements. Finally, educate your team on how to recognize tampering or suspicious behavior. A secure ATM is a trusted ATM—and trust means more repeat usage and higher earnings.
Closing Thoughts: Small Machine, Big Impact
Installing an ATM in your laundromat is a low-risk, high-reward investment that enhances customer convenience and creates a new stream of passive revenue. It’s one of the few upgrades that serves both customer satisfaction and owner profitability at the same time. Whether you own the machine or partner with a provider, it positions your store as a full-service hub that respects customer needs. In a world that’s increasingly cash-optional—but not yet cash-free—offering ATM access helps you serve a broader audience and reduce friction in everyday transactions. It also supports other in-store purchases and improves retention by keeping customers on-site. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to modernize and monetize your laundromat, adding an ATM is a smart move that pays off with every transaction.
