7 Tips for Setting Up a Successful Laundry Room in a New Apartment Complex Development

When it comes to new apartment complex developments, few amenities impact resident satisfaction, property value, and operational efficiency as directly as the laundry room. In fact, according to the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), over 70% of renters consider on-site laundry a top amenity, putting it on par with high-speed internet and fitness centers .

If you're in the planning stages of a new development, now is the time to design a laundry facility that not only meets demand but supports long-term revenue and retention goals.

Here are seven tips to help you get it right from day one.

1. Start with a Strategic Layout

A successful laundry room starts with a smart, accessible layout. Your design should prioritize:

Clear entry and flow: Avoid bottlenecks by spacing machines with enough room for residents to move comfortably.
ADA compliance: Reserve at least one washer and one dryer that meet ADA standards, and ensure all controls and amenities are within reach (15-48 inches from the floor).
Visibility: Position the laundry room in a safe, well-lit area of the building. If possible, add glass doors or windows for passive supervision and security.

2. Right-Size Your Equipment Mix

The right mix of washers and dryers will depend on your total unit count and resident profile. A good rule of thumb is one washer and one dryer per 10-15 units, with adjustments for unit size and demographics .

For example:

Smaller studio-heavy buildings may require fewer machines.
Family-friendly developments may need extra capacity for larger loads.

Consider adding high-capacity machines to accommodate comforters and bulkier items, especially if you don’t plan on offering in-unit washers.

3. Choose Commercial-Grade, Energy-Efficient Machines

Don’t skimp on equipment. While residential-grade machines may be cheaper upfront, they aren’t designed for constant use.

Look for:

ENERGY STAR®-rated machines, which use 25% less energy and 33% less water than standard models.
Machines with IoT integration for remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and usage tracking.
Features like auto-dosing detergent or cycle customization to enhance efficiency and user satisfaction.

4. Offer Smart, Flexible Payment Options

Coin-only laundry setups are outdated and limit your revenue potential. Today’s renters expect modern payment options, including:

Mobile apps (e.g., CSC GO, PayRange, LaundryPay)
Contactless/tap-to-pay terminals
QR code scan-and-pay systems
Loyalty and rewards integration

A 2023 PYMNTS report found that over 60% of U.S. consumers prefer digital payments over cash or card swipes. The more frictionless the payment process, the better the resident experience and the more reliable your revenue.

5. Make It Comfortable, Safe, and Well-Lit

Creating a welcoming environment isn’t just about function, it’s about feeling.

Key design touches:

Good lighting and neutral finishes to enhance comfort and security
Ventilation to prevent excess heat or odors
Seating, folding tables, and Wi-Fi access for added convenience
Security cameras or smart locks for resident safety and peace of mind

You don’t need a luxury budget to create a laundry room that feels clean, modern, and safe.

6. Keep Maintenance in Mind from Day One

Design for longevity by:

Installing anti-vibration pads and durable utility connections
Using floor drains and water shut-off valves for quick response
Choosing machines with easy access for servicing
Creating a clear service agreement with a trusted provider

Preventive maintenance is essential for uptime and ROI. A well-maintained commercial washer can last 10-15 years, while poor upkeep can cut that lifespan in half.

7. Consider Revenue Potential

A well-managed laundry room isn’t just a convenience, it’s a passive income stream.

According to Multifamily Executive, laundry rooms can generate between $40 and $100+ per unit annually, depending on usage and pricing structure. App-based systems also allow for dynamic pricing (e.g., charging more during peak hours), further increasing ROI.

Designing a successful laundry room isn’t just about installing washers and dryers—it’s about delivering a high-value amenity that meets resident expectations and supports long-term profitability.

By planning thoughtfully - prioritizing layout, ADA compliance, energy efficiency, smart payments, and comfort, you set your development up for better retention, stronger revenue, and less hassle down the road.

Need help getting started? At A.L.L. Laundry Service, we specialize in end-to-end laundry room design, equipment, and support for new multifamily developments. Let’s build something that works today and long-term.

Sources:

National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) Renter Preferences Survey
ADA National Network: www.adata.org
Coin Laundry Association Guidelines
ENERGY STAR®: www.energystar.gov
PYMNTS Report 2023
TRSA Maintenance Study 2023
Multifamily Executive, Laundry Revenue Data