Smart Laundry Tips for College Students to Save Money: For many students, moving away to college means saying goodbye to home-cooked meals—and Mom or Dad doing the laundry. Suddenly, you’re responsible for cleaning your own clothes, and those small costs can add up fast.
The average college student laundry cost runs about $2 to $3 per load. If you’re washing and drying two loads per week, you’re spending more than $200 per academic year—a hidden expense few students plan for.
Here’s how to manage your laundry smarter, stretch your budget, and avoid common pitfalls.
It’s a hidden college cost I discuss in College Secrets, and one of those many expenses that most students forget to include when planning their college budgets.
On-Campus Laundry: Know Your Options
Many schools offer on-campus laundry rooms, and some have even included laundry fees in tuition or housing costs. That means you simply swipe your student ID or laundry card instead of paying cash.
Check your school’s laundry policy so you know whether machines are:
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Free to use
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Coin-operated
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Card-based (preloaded funds)
Tip: If your school uses coin-operated machines, budget at least $5 to $10 a week for laundry-related expenses.
Davidson College’s Laundry Shift
At one time, students at Davidson College enjoyed full-service laundry: clothes were picked up, washed, folded, and returned. That changed in May 2015 when the school ended the perk, saving $400,000 annually and shifting the responsibility back to students.
Off-Campus Laundry Services: Worth It?
If your school lacks adequate laundry facilities, or if you’re looking for convenience, you might be tempted by off-campus laundry services like MyLazyBones or local companies that offer:
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Weekly pick-up and drop-off
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Wash-and-fold service
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Plans by weight or frequency
Some charge as much as $1,000 per year, which can seriously eat into your student budget.
Save Instead: Do It Yourself (the Smart Way)
Washing your own clothes is the most cost-effective option—if you do it wisely.
7 Laundry Hacks to Save Money in College
1. Wear Clothes More Than Once
Not everything needs to be washed after every wear. Jeans, hoodies, and jackets can often be worn 2–3 times before washing.
2. Wait for Full Loads
Doing laundry too frequently wastes water, electricity, and money. Wait until you have a full load to wash.
3. Choose Off-Brand Detergents
Skip the expensive brands. Generic or store-brand laundry detergents get the job done just as well for a fraction of the price.
4. Skip the Fabric Softener
These products can cost $3 to $7 per bottle. Try washing without them first—you may not even miss it.
5. Wash in Cold Water
Using cold water reduces energy use and prevents colors from fading. It’s also easier on delicate fabrics.
6. Use Dryer Balls or Line-Dry
Dryer sheets are another hidden cost. Consider dryer balls (a one-time purchase) or line-drying to extend your clothes’ life and save money.
7. Bundle Up—Laundry Style
If you live close to trusted classmates or roommates, consider sharing detergent or bundling loads to split the cost.
Final Thoughts: Laundry Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
Laundry might seem like a minor expense, but over a full school year, it can become a significant budget buster. By understanding your options and applying these college student laundry tips, you’ll stay fresh—and financially fit.
Whether you’re using campus facilities or visiting the local laundromat, smart planning, frugal habits, and a little know-how can help you cut costs without sacrificing clean clothes.
FAQs
How much should a college student budget for laundry?
About $200 to $300 per school year, depending on frequency and the cost per load in your area.
Is laundry included in college housing?
It depends on the school. Some include it in housing fees, others use coin or card-operated machines.
Are laundry services for students worth it?
Only if convenience outweighs the cost. DIY laundry is typically the cheapest route.
How can I save on laundry detergent?
Buy generic brands, use less per load, or look for deals in bulk packaging.
Do I need to use fabric softener?
Not necessarily. Try skipping it for a few washes to see if you notice a difference.
