India’s laundry sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience, technological advancements, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Clean India Journal recently convened a panel discussion with key players in the laundromat segment to explore these trends.
We’ve got 65 stores live, and we’re processing 30,000-35,000 clothes daily. Our model is about serving the everyday laundry needs of households.
Aman Sawaran
Aman Sawaran, CEO and co-founder of mr.blue Laundry & Dry Cleaning, Dinesh Bhaleri, founder and CEO of KLiNCO Organic Laundry and Sameer Deodhar, CEO, LaundroMINT, shared insights on their business models and the evolving market with Clean India Journal.
The concept of “laundromats” in India diverges from the Western self-service model. Instead, these establishments function as service-oriented businesses, employing commercial-grade washing and drying equipment operated by staff. Customers drop off their laundry, which is then washed, dried and often ironed, catering to a demand for convenience and quality beyond traditional “dhobi” services. This service-based model is influenced by factors like the availability of affordable labour, cultural preferences favouring assisted services and the increasing urbanization that drives the need for efficient laundry solutions. Thus, “laundromats” in India represent a professionalized laundry service, bridging the gap between traditional manual washing and fully automated, self-service facilities. Understanding these dynamics is important for both consumers and businesses navigating India’s dynamic laundry market.
“At mr.blu, we’re building a network of laundromats across India. Manipur is an untapped resource for the laundry segment where we have 17 outlets, out of which, 14 are live and operational. We’re focused on convenience and affordability, offering services like blanket washing in under an hour for just ₹90 per kg,” explains Aman. “We’ve got 65 stores live, and we’re processing 30,000-35,000 clothes daily. Our model is about serving the everyday laundry needs of households, not just students.”
Aman is particularly passionate about the technology driving his business. “We use Alliance Laundry Systems-Speed Queen machines, along with a sophisticated payment and data management system. We also formulate our own enzyme-based chemicals, ensuring high-quality cleaning.” He envisions a future where laundry outsourcing becomes as commonplace as milk delivery. “The Indian market is ripe for this, but real estate costs and operational management are significant hurdles. Additionally, GST is a big burden for small laundromats.”
Aman is also concerned about government regulations concerning the usage of certified machines and water recycling.
Dinesh’s approach is distinctly eco-conscious. “We use actO+ clean technology, infusing activated oxygen into water for cleaning. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and leaves clothes cleaner and fresher.”
We use actO+ clean technology, infusing activated oxygen into water for cleaning. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and leaves clothes cleaner and fresher.
Dinesh Bhaleri
While the technology is gaining traction, Dinesh acknowledges the challenges. “Many customers are primarily concerned with the outcome, regardless of the method. But we’re seeing increasing interest from the educated and corporate crowd who value environmental sustainability.”
KLiNCO currently operates five outlets in Bengaluru and one in Mumbai, processing 1,800-2,000 loads daily. Dinesh is also working on a water recycling prototype. “Last year’s water crisis in Bengaluru highlighted the need for sustainable solutions. We’re aiming to recycle 60-70% of our water.”
Dinesh is also concerned about the government rules regarding water recycling. He believes that the government will mostly force bigger laundry facilities to install water recycling plants and not the smaller B2C type laundromats.
Sameer focuses on a specific niche: the student population. “Laundromats fill a gap for everyday laundry needs, especially for students who lack proper solutions,” he explains. “We operate in high-density student areas, ensuring no mixing of clothes between customers.” Sameer wants allowances for students from laundries as this population by and large does not have the required financial bandwidth for their clothing care.
Laundromats fill a gap for everyday laundry needs, especially for students who lack proper solutions.
Sameer Deodhar
Laundromint handles about 14,000 garments daily across 15 locations. Sameer is also mindful of water conservation. “We use machines that minimize water consumption and optimize our laundry processes to reduce waste,” he says. “We use 350 liters of liquid detergent daily.”
Sameer shares Aman’s concern regarding government regulations.
Despite their differing business models, Aman, Dinesh and Sameer agree that the Indian laundromat market is burgeoning. However, they also highlight the significant challenges, including real estate costs, operational management, and evolving government regulations.
The conversation highlights the need for sustainable practices, with Dinesh leading the charge in eco-friendly technology and all participants acknowledging the importance of water conservation. The future of laundromats in India will likely depend on how effectively these businesses adapt to these challenges and embrace innovation.
Globally, the laundromat industry is undergoing a tech-driven transformation, moving beyond traditional coin-operated models. Modern laundromats are increasingly integrating app-based services for features like machine availability tracking, digital payments and remote activation, catering to the convenience-driven consumer. Cashless payment systems, including mobile wallets and card terminals, are becoming standard, streamlining transactions. The adoption of IoT technology enables remote machine monitoring, automated detergent dispensing and data collection for operational optimization, leading to improved efficiency and customer service. AI-powered chatbots are enhancing customer support, providing real-time assistance and answering inquiries. Furthermore, there’s a strong emphasis on sustainability, with laundromats implementing high-efficiency machines, eco-friendly detergents, and water recycling systems. These technological advancements are reshaping the laundromat experience, making it more convenient, efficient, and environment conscious.