Do Laundromats Still Take Coins in Australia?

Yes—many laundromats across Australia still take coins. But that's not the whole story. The humble coin-operated washer has become something of a throwback—still alive, but slowly being nudged aside by digital convenience. From tap-and-go payments to app-controlled washers, the laundromat scene is shifting. But if you’re wondering whether you should still bring a jangly pocket of $1 and $2 coins—read on.

Because the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends where you are, what the machine looks like, and sometimes, whether the staff’s stuck a “card reader broken” note on the front.

 TL;DR — Can I still use coins at laundromats?

• Yes, many laundromats still accept coins—especially in older suburban setups.

• Newer laundromats may be card-only or app-based.

• Some offer hybrid machines: coins and cashless options.

• Always check signs or websites before visiting.

Anyone who’s tried to feed a crumpled $5 note into an ancient coin-exchange machine at 8pm knows… it pays to plan.

Why do some laundromats still use coins?

Old habits die hard—and so do coin machines. Many laundromats keep coin-operated machines because:

• They still work. Some have been running for 15+ years without issue.

• Not everyone has a card. Tourists, pensioners, or cash-preferred users still rely on coins.

• Upgrading is expensive. Swapping out machines or installing tap-to-pay readers can cost thousands.

For some owners, if it ain’t broke (and still eats coins just fine), why fix it?

Which laundromats don’t take coins anymore?

In urban areas, especially in cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, many laundromats are switching to:

• Tap-and-go card terminals

• Mobile payment apps

• Prepaid laundry cards (rechargeable)

These newer setups often promote security (less cash on-site), flexibility, and remote monitoring. But they can catch traditional users off guard.

A user on Reddit recently shared their frustration after walking into a “smart laundromat” in Fitzroy only to find not a single coin slot in sight—just QR codes and flashing NFC screens.

How can I tell if a laundromat accepts coins?

Look for these signs—literally and figuratively:

 Machines with actual coin slots
 A visible change machine on the wall
 Posters with coin denominations (e.g., "$4 = 2 x $2 coins")
 No card reader attached = likely coin-only

If you’re unsure, a quick search for a laundromat near me will often reveal payment types in the description or reviews.

What’s the advantage of paying with coins?

It might seem old school, but there are benefits:

• No card fees or surcharges

• Immediate use—no app download, no sign-up

• Great for budgeting—you only bring what you’re willing to spend

• No tech hiccups—coin slots don’t crash when Wi-Fi does

Anyone who’s had their payment app glitch mid-wash knows the comfort of clinking coins.

What’s changing the laundromat payment game?

The future’s arriving one beep at a time. Here’s what’s driving the move away from coins:

1. Cashless society momentum

Australia is one of the world’s leaders in contactless payments. According to RBA data, cash was used for just 13% of all consumer payments in 2022—down from 70% in 2007.

2. Smart laundromats = less downtime

Modern card readers and apps let owners:

• Track machine usage remotely

• Offer loyalty rewards

• Reduce theft and maintenance costs

It’s no wonder that new laundromats are opening with “card-only” proudly on their signage.

3. User convenience

No more coin hoarding, miscounting or jamming. Tap, wash, done.

Are coin laundromats disappearing?

They’re definitely fewer and far between in major cities. But in regional areas, or with long-standing family-owned laundromats, coins are still king.

There’s also something tactile and satisfying about loading in exact change. For many, it’s a ritual—like Sunday arvo fish and chips. It just feels familiar.

Plus, there’s social proof at play. Seeing someone else use coins at the machine next to you makes you feel less outdated—even if there’s a card reader blinking at your elbow.

FAQs

Do all coin laundromats have change machines?
Most do—but not all. Some only accept $1 and $2 coins. Always carry backup coins just in case.

Can I still find coin-only laundromats?
Yes. Especially in suburbs, near caravan parks, and in older retail strips. Look for machines without screens or digital interfaces.

Can you mix payment types on one load?
Nope. It’s either all coins or all card/app—machines don’t split payment methods.

Final Thought

Coins aren’t extinct—but they are an endangered species in the laundry world. While many Aussies still drop in a few bucks’ worth of shrapnel for a quick load, the tide is clearly turning toward digital payments.

So if you’re heading out and asking yourself, “Should I bring coins just in case?”—the answer is probably yes.

Because even if you find a fancy smart washer at the laundromat near me, there’s always an old coin-operated dryer humming in the corner… just waiting for its next $2 piece.