For students living on campus, laundry is just another part of the weekly routine — not exciting, but essential. Whether it’s a quick wash before class or tackling a week’s worth of clothes on a Sunday, having access to a clean, well-functioning laundry room can make a big difference in student life.
But laundry rooms often don’t get much attention until something breaks, machines are always full, or queues start forming. When that happens, it quickly becomes clear how important it is for these spaces to run smoothly. A few smart upgrades and adjustments can improve convenience for students, cut down on resource waste, and even save money for the school.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes a laundry room efficient and how colleges can make practical improvements that benefit both students and campus operations.
Upgrade to Smarter Laundry Machines
One of the most effective ways to improve laundry room efficiency is by upgrading to modern, high-efficiency (HE) washers and dryers. These machines use less water and electricity than older models, which not only reduces operating costs but also supports the school’s environmental goals.
High-Efficiency Equipment Benefits
Choosing ENERGY STAR® certified machines can result in significant resource savings. These washers and dryers are designed to handle large loads using less water and energy while still delivering reliable cleaning and drying performance.
Many colleges have already started making this shift. For example, the University of Chicago has successfully reduced its water and energy consumption just by installing HE appliances in their residence hall laundry rooms.
Brands like Huebsch are helping lead the way, offering high-efficiency commercial laundry machines built for heavy campus use. Their equipment combines performance with energy-saving features, making them a smart choice for colleges looking to cut costs and improve laundry room efficiency.
Why Front-Loaders Work Better
Front-loading machines are more efficient than traditional top-loading washers. They typically use less water, spin faster (which means shorter drying times), and handle larger loads. On top of that, they’re gentler on clothes, which helps extend the life of students’ garments — something most students will appreciate.
Choosing Between Gas and Electric Dryers
While selecting the right machines, campuses also need to weigh the pros and cons of gas versus electric dryers. Coin-operated gas dryers tend to dry clothes faster and consume less electricity overall, but they do require a proper gas line and ventilation setup. Commercial electric dryers are easier to install but may be less efficient, depending on energy costs in the area.
Use Laundry Apps to Save Time
Smart technologies are transforming how students interact with laundry facilities. With mobile apps, students can now monitor laundry room availability, check machine status, and even make payments — all from their phones.
Convenient Features of Laundry Apps
Apps like LaundryConnect™ and similar platforms provide features such as:
- Real-time machine availability tracking
- Notifications when a cycle is finished
- Cashless payment systems (via cards or mobile wallets)
These functions eliminate the need for students to wait around the laundry room, helping reduce congestion and wasted time.
Popular Apps on Campus
Some of the widely adopted platforms on college campuses include:
- LaundryConnect™
- WashAlert
- Speed Queen Insights
These systems make the entire laundry process more convenient and user-friendly, particularly for students who are always on the go.
Set Up the Room for Better Flow
Even the most advanced machines won’t be used efficiently if the laundry room itself is poorly laid out. The design and physical arrangement of the space play a big role in how students use the facilities.
Machine Placement and Spacing
Machines should be positioned in a way that allows easy access. There should be enough space between washers and dryers for students to move comfortably while loading and unloading. Keeping the machines accessible helps avoid crowding, especially during peak hours.
Folding Tables and Seating
Providing adequate folding areas can keep the space tidy and prevent delays. When students have somewhere to fold clothes right away, it frees up machines faster for the next person. Seating options also make it easier for students who choose to wait for their laundry to finish.
Signage Makes a Difference
Clear signs and instructions posted around the laundry room are essential. These might include:
- Step-by-step machine operation guides
- Tips on detergent use
- Etiquette reminders (like removing clothes promptly)
These signs help reduce confusion, prevent misuse, and create a more cooperative environment.
Keep Machines Running Smoothly
Smooth operation depends on more than just having good machines. Ongoing management and maintenance are crucial to keeping the laundry room reliable and efficient.
Routine Maintenance and Inspections
Regular inspections can catch minor issues before they become major problems. Checking machines for leaks, odd noises, or performance issues helps extend their lifespan and ensures they’re always ready for use.
Quick Repairs and Reporting Systems
It’s important to make it easy for students to report problems. Whether through an app or a dedicated phone line, having a reliable way to log maintenance issues ensures that broken machines are repaired quickly, avoiding long-term disruptions.
Leasing vs. Buying Equipment
For schools with tight budgets, leasing laundry equipment can be a smart option. Leasing provides access to the latest models with included maintenance, meaning fewer upfront costs and less burden on the school’s facilities team. Purchasing equipment may be more economical in the long run, but it requires more planning and capital investment.
Teach Students Simple Laundry Tips
Efficient use of laundry rooms isn’t just about machines — it also depends on students understanding how to use the equipment properly.
Sorting and Loading Tips
Encouraging students to sort their laundry by fabric and colour can prevent damage and improve wash quality. It’s also important not to overload machines, which can affect performance and reduce cleaning effectiveness.
Detergent Dos and Don’ts
Many students may not realise that HE machines require specific detergents. Using too much or the wrong type of detergent can cause excess suds, leave residue, and harm the machine. Clear signage can help educate students on using the correct amount.
Encouraging Quick Laundry Pickup
When students leave laundry sitting in machines, it slows everything down for everyone else. Posting reminders and encouraging prompt pickup help keep the laundry room running smoothly, especially during busy times.
Go Green and Save Resources
Sustainability is a growing priority for students and institutions alike. A few targeted changes in the laundry process can have a meaningful impact on a campus’s environmental footprint.
- Encouraging Full Loads and Cold Washes: HE machines work best with full loads. Educating students about this helps save water and energy. Cold-water cycles also reduce energy use, and they’re suitable for most daily laundry.
- Green Detergents and Air Drying Options: Promoting the use of eco-friendly detergents is another simple way to reduce environmental impact. These detergents are biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals. Where space permits, providing drying racks or designated line-drying areas can further cut down on electricity use.
Final Thoughts
Improving the efficiency of campus laundry rooms might seem like a small change, but the benefits are far-reaching. With modern equipment, smart technology, thoughtful design, and ongoing student education, universities can reduce costs, support sustainability goals, and create a more comfortable and convenient experience for students.
Every upgrade, from installing better machines to simply posting a few helpful reminders, contributes to a smoother and more effective laundry process. By planning carefully and listening to student needs, colleges can turn their laundry facilities into one of the campus’s most efficient and appreciated resources.
Looking to upgrade your campus laundry rooms? ACE Commercial Laundry Equipment Inc. offers a wide range of high-efficiency machines, smart technology solutions, and expert support to help colleges improve their laundry operations. Contact ACE today to find the right setup for your campus.
