Advertising a laundromat effectively requires a mix of local outreach, digital visibility, and customer-focused messaging. Because most laundromats rely on a small radius of local customers, smart targeting and consistency are more important than massive budgets. This guide offers practical advertising ideas to help you increase foot traffic, grow your customer base, and build long-term loyalty.
Leverage Google Local Search and Maps
One of the most valuable advertising tools for laundromats is your Google Business Profile. It’s free and allows you to appear in local search results when someone types “laundromat near me.” Optimizing your listing and using Google Ads for laundry-related keywords can significantly boost visibility in your neighborhood.
- Claim and verify your Google Business Profile
- Add quality photos of your machines and interior
- Include accurate hours, contact info, and amenities
- Run Google Ads targeting laundry services within a 3 to 5-mile radius
- Encourage customers to leave Google reviews
Use Facebook and Instagram Ads
Social media ads are ideal for reaching people nearby with promotions, reminders, or new service announcements. With geotargeting, you can advertise only to people within a short drive of your laundromat. Eye-catching photos, videos, and seasonal offers help increase engagement and foot traffic.
- Run location-based ads promoting pickup/delivery or wash-and-fold services
- Highlight new machines, discounts, or loyalty programs
- Use customer testimonials in ad creatives
- Create carousel ads showing clean facilities and friendly staff
- A/B test different promotions to see what resonates
Distribute Flyers and Door Hangers Locally
Printed materials still work well, especially in high-density housing areas like apartment buildings, dorms, and condos. Door hangers and flyers placed strategically can reach customers who may not have seen your online presence. Be sure to include an offer or incentive to motivate action.
- Deliver flyers to local apartment complexes, laundromat deserts, and student housing
- Include a first-time customer discount or free dry credit
- Use QR codes that link to your website or Google reviews
- Ask local businesses to display your flyers at the counter
- Update designs seasonally or for major promotions
Offer Grand Opening or Re-Opening Promotions
Launching with strong promotions creates buzz and brings in new customers quickly. These can also be used if you renovate your space, upgrade machines, or launch a new service like delivery or wash-and-fold. Use a mix of digital and local ads to get the word out.
- Offer free dry time with paid wash during opening week
- Give away branded laundry bags to the first 100 customers
- Promote a “$10 Off First Wash-and-Fold Order” deal
- Partner with a local coffee shop for co-branded giveaways
- Use Facebook Events to promote the launch
Advertise on Local Radio and Podcasts
Local radio stations and community-based podcasts are cost-effective platforms for hyperlocal advertising. They let you reach people in cars, at home, or commuting—many of whom may be looking for a better laundry option. These ads work especially well when repeated consistently.
- Buy 15- or 30-second ad spots during peak hours
- Offer a limited-time promo code in the ad
- Ask for a bundled rate that includes digital mentions or social media shares
- Target stations or podcasts with a strong local following
- Sponsor weather or traffic updates in exchange for name recognition
Sponsor Local Events and Organizations
Sponsoring local events increases brand exposure and demonstrates community support. Many schools, nonprofits, and neighborhood groups welcome small business sponsors in exchange for recognition in programs, banners, and social media posts. It’s also a great way to connect face-to-face with future customers.
- Sponsor a local Little League team, 5K race, or school fundraiser
- Set up a booth with branded swag like dryer sheets or laundry bags
- Offer coupons or raffle prizes in event gift bags
- Donate wash-and-fold services to a silent auction or charity drive
- Post photos from the event to your social media accounts
Partner With Nearby Businesses
Forming alliances with other local businesses allows you to share advertising costs and reach overlapping audiences. For example, gym members, hairstylists, and Airbnb hosts often need regular laundry services. Collaborative promotions can expand your reach and reinforce community ties.
- Trade flyer placements with nearby gyms, cafes, or salons
- Offer discounts to employees of local businesses
- Leave business cards at real estate offices for new residents
- Bundle services with local dry cleaners or delivery apps
- Cross-promote each other on social media
Add Exterior Signage and Window Graphics
Passersby are one of your most valuable audiences. Good signage tells people you’re open, modern, and clean—and encourages them to come inside. Clear window decals and banners can promote current offers or emphasize unique services.
- Use LED signs to display current specials or hours
- Add bold “Open 24 Hours” or “Free Wi-Fi” signage
- Display window decals highlighting wash-and-fold or delivery
- Use A-frame sidewalk signs for daily promotions
- Ensure visibility from the street or parking lot
Promote Loyalty and Referral Programs
Rewarding loyal customers turns them into brand advocates. Referral programs also multiply your customer base at low cost by encouraging word-of-mouth. Be sure to promote these programs on your website, social media, and in-store signage.
- Offer “Refer a Friend, Get $5 Off” incentives
- Create a punch card or digital loyalty program
- Run double-points days to encourage more visits
- Promote loyalty perks through SMS or email campaigns
- Include sign-up info on flyers and counter displays
Advertise on Community Boards and Apps
Local online forums and mobile apps help you target residents in your area who are looking for services like yours. These platforms are often overlooked but can deliver strong results for laundromats. Some even offer free listings or low-cost boosted ads.
- Post on Nextdoor to reach neighbors directly
- Join local Facebook groups and offer limited-time promotions
- List your business on community sites like Alignable or Patch
- Monitor engagement and respond to comments and reviews
- Use app-specific coupons to track effectiveness
Conclusion
Advertising a laundromat doesn’t require massive spending—it requires smart, localized strategies that meet your customers where they are. By combining digital tools, community outreach, and repeat customer incentives, you can create a consistent flow of new business while strengthening loyalty. The key is to advertise consistently, measure results, and stay visible in your neighborhood.
