Last week, we (especially me) lamented the closing of the ASAN Laundromat on the corner of 10th Avenue and West 51st Street, and asked our readers to share their experiences in a survey. Over 60 readers responded, with a common theme of limited self-service laundromat options and rising costs for drop-off service.
Survey results revealed that 80% of respondents use laundromats to keep their clothes and linens clean. The now-closed ASAN Laundromat at 750 10th Ave (bw W51/52nd St) sadly topped the list of laundromats used in the area, followed by Washland (703 10th Ave) and Clothes Pin (656 10th Ave).
Thankfully, there's good news about laundromats: Washland has signs posted announcing new machines will be coming in July and is now open from 7am to 9:30pm, with the last wash at 8pm.
“For 10 years, BKM was my go-to place, but the pandemic forced them to temporarily close and stop their dry cleaning services. I had to switch to a nearby laundromat, which was a challenge. When I first moved to the neighborhood, there were four laundromats within three blocks. Now there might only be one.”Kayla
“The situation has really gotten worse in the past year. I've lived in the neighborhood for over 10 years, and I used to be able to do my laundry on weekends or weekday mornings. Now, if I want to use a washing machine without a long wait, I have to go as soon as they open. I don't know if this is because broken washing machines aren't being fixed, or because other laundromats in the neighborhood have closed, or both.”LK
“It's really annoying to have to carry more laundry. I hope you don't lose any more, otherwise this basic chore will become even more complicated. I hope this works out.” —Kyle
“The ever-decreasing number of options is discouraging, and having to carry heavy laundry bags around the city is a pain. Access to clean clothes, sheets, towels, etc. is also a critical need for city dwellers. Many places don't have separate laundry units or dedicated rooms within the building. Having access nearby is a must.”Jen
With long wait times and self-service options closed, Hell's Kitchen residents are turning to wash-and-fold services, both local and via app, with 37% of respondents in the W42ST survey saying they use this type of service for their laundry needs.
“Options are very limited. When I moved to NYC I struggled to find options and ended up using a home delivery laundry service. It's very expensive, but unfortunately with my work schedule and access to laundromats, this is what I have to do.” —Anonymous
Locally, Washland, Clothes Pin, M&M Cleaners, and Kim's Cleaners wash and fold were recommended. Among the suggestions I received from the app were Rinse and Liox, but they are more expensive than going to my local store.
Not all respondents rely on laundromats — 38% have a laundry room in their building, and a lucky 6% have the coveted in-room washer/dryer — but these perks don't stop us from empathizing with those who rely on outside laundry options.
“I'm so grateful to have a laundry room in the building, as my joints are getting older and it's getting harder to carry laundry. I can't imagine what will happen to people if the laundromat closes. Not everyone can afford drop-off service. This seems like another sign that the working class is being pushed out of neighborhoods.”Greg
“I have a very small washing machine in my building and go to a laundromat every few months to wash larger items (duvets, pillows, etc.). Not having a laundromat nearby is a big loss because while I'm lucky to have one in my building, I know it's a necessity for many in my neighborhood. The cost of bringing it in can be expensive and risky, especially for delicate items that require special drying methods.” —Marielinha
One respondent echoed my idea of opening a new laundromat in the neighborhood, saying, “I loved the Laundromat Cafe and even considered taking out a business loan to take it over. I am devastated by this loss. With more families in the neighborhood and fewer laundromats, doing laundry has become very stressful. The laundromat doesn't have enough machines and is overcrowded. I hope a new laundromat opens soon!”Jamie
If you're really interested in running a laundromat, the former Laundromat Cafe on W. 50th Street is renting out for $7,995 a month with 11 washers, eight dryers, soap dispensers, and beverage refrigerators. Here's hoping someone can restore this beloved business to its former glory.
It's still unclear what the new laundry situation will be, but a neighbor tried the wash-and-fold service at 762 10th Avenue (Blanca's Cleaners, between W51st/52nd St.). He says it's a bit more expensive than ASAN at $1.65 per pound, but they do accept credit card payments. Unfortunately, they close at 7 p.m., so he couldn't pick up his laundry after work.
