Turning Laundry Into Gold. My $14,000+/Month Side Hustle. Steps to Begin Your Laundry Side Hustle Journey.
In late 2019, with the world unaware of the impending pandemic, I discovered a golden opportunity right in my home, The 3 a.m. idea? A pick-up and drop-off laundry service. Little did I know, this venture would explode into a thriving business, pulling in $14,000 a month. Here's how I did it and how you can too —transforming the mundane task of laundry into a lucrative business that nets $14,000 a month. Here's a detailed look into my journey and a blueprint for you to potentially replicate this success.
The GenesisAfter some market research, I discovered a high demand for laundry services in my area, especially those offering pick-up and drop-off. The market was ripe, and I was ready to dive in. Living in a locale with a noticeable gap in laundry services, coupled with a desire to work from home to stay close to my children.
At the outset of my laundry service journey, I began modestly with the washer and dryer I already owned, nestled in the corner of my basement. This humble setup was the foundation of what would become a flourishing business. Over time, as demand for my services grew, I transformed my basement into a more robust laundry center, equipped with 4 washers and 5 dryers. This expansion was a testament to the increasing trust and reliance of my clientele on my services.
Recognizing the limitations of my home setup for handling very large orders, I forged a partnership with my local laundromat. This arrangement allowed me the unique opportunity to use their facilities after closing hours. This collaboration was pivotal, enabling me to maintain high-quality service and turnaround times for bulk orders that my basement setup couldn't accommodate alone.
As my business continued to expand, the volume of orders eventually outgrew even this augmented capacity. Faced with the reality of my increasing demand, I made the significant decision to move my operations to a larger space. This transition was a major milestone for my laundry service, marking its evolution from a home-based side hustle to a standalone business entity. Setting the FoundationI named my business, registered it as an LLC, obtained an EIN with the IRS (you know the IRS has to be in the mix like Koolaid), and emphasized the importance of a strong online presence, I created a website, laying the groundwork for my venture. Remember, in the absence of a physical store, your website becomes your storefront. Either hire a professional or learn to DIY to save on costs.
Establish a Business ModelThe objective is to establish a scalable, efficient laundry service that caters to a diverse clientele, including individual households, small businesses, and local institutions. Starting small, with the potential for growth into a comprehensive service offering, the business will prioritize convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction. Initial Setup (Example of an In-Home Model)Location: Begin with a home-based operation using an existing washer and dryer in the basement.Services Offered: Start with basic services such as wash, dry, and fold. Specialized services like stain removal, ironing, and dry cleaning will be considered for future expansion.Target Market: Initially target busy professionals, families, and students in the local area who value time-saving services. Per Pound Pricing: Charge customers based on the weight of their laundry, providing clear and transparent pricing. Expansion PhaseEquipment Upgrade: Gradually add more washers and dryers to increase capacity.Partnership with Local Laundromats: For handling overflow and very large orders, negotiate after-hours usage of local laundromat facilities. Investment in a Commercial Space: As demand grows, move operations to a larger, commercial space to further expand service capacity and offerings.Revenue Streams Subscription Services: Offer monthly subscription plans for regular pickups and deliveries, encouraging long-term customer relationships.Specialized Services: As your business grows, introduce premium services at higher price points, such as eco-friendly washing, express services, and garment repair.
The Digital StorefrontUnderstanding the importance of a virtual presence, I either needed to invest in a web developer or acquire the skills myself. Opting for the latter saved me thousands and set the stage for my digital operations. My website became the heart of my business, hosting my services and a seamless booking system integrated with a POS system—Square—to handle transactions efficiently. There are several POS systems you can integrated with your business, Square just worked for what I needed and could afford at the time. Choosing the PathThe initial offerings were simple: wash, dry, and fold. This focus allowed me to perfect my craft before expanding services. Operating from my home, I started with the appliances I had, eventually upgrading to commercial-grade washers and dryers in my basement. Transportation evolved from using my personal SUV to purchasing a dedicated van for pickups. Mastering the ProcessThe learning curve was steep. Observing competitors on YouTube and adapting their workflows helped, yet I faced my share of mishaps—from detergent misjudgments to sorting errors. Establishing a systematic approach to handling clothes ensured consistency and minimized damage, laying a foundation for scaling. Pricing StrategyRather than charging by the bag, I opted for a per-pound pricing model, which resonated better with my clientele. Initial investments in branded laundry bags were later adjusted to cost-effective, logo-free alternatives, which were provided to customers at no extra charge. Building the TeamStarting with part-time help, I expanded my staff to accommodate the surge in demand during the pandemic, which saw my business grow by over 400%. Starting with a neighbor’s daughter for weekend shifts, I eventually hired additional help for weekdays. The spike in service requests necessitated a larger workforce to maintain quality and turnaround times. I consistently emphasized our commitment to exceptional customer service. It's not just about cleaning clothes, it's also about nurturing relationships, building trust, and creating a community of satisfied customers who feel valued and understood. In a world where services are plentiful but genuine care is rare, we wanted to be the gold standard, proving that when you put the customer at the heart of your business, success is inevitable.
At the outset of my laundry service journey, I began modestly with the washer and dryer I already owned, nestled in the corner of my basement. This humble setup was the foundation of what would become a flourishing business. Over time, as demand for my services grew, I transformed my basement into a more robust laundry center, equipped with 4 washers and 5 dryers. This expansion was a testament to the increasing trust and reliance of my clientele on my services.
Recognizing the limitations of my home setup for handling very large orders, I forged a partnership with my local laundromat. This arrangement allowed me the unique opportunity to use their facilities after closing hours. This collaboration was pivotal, enabling me to maintain high-quality service and turnaround times for bulk orders that my basement setup couldn't accommodate alone.
As my business continued to expand, the volume of orders eventually outgrew even this augmented capacity. Faced with the reality of my increasing demand, I made the significant decision to move my operations to a larger space. This transition was a major milestone for my laundry service, marking its evolution from a home-based side hustle to a standalone business entity. Setting the FoundationI named my business, registered it as an LLC, obtained an EIN with the IRS (you know the IRS has to be in the mix like Koolaid), and emphasized the importance of a strong online presence, I created a website, laying the groundwork for my venture. Remember, in the absence of a physical store, your website becomes your storefront. Either hire a professional or learn to DIY to save on costs.
Establish a Business ModelThe objective is to establish a scalable, efficient laundry service that caters to a diverse clientele, including individual households, small businesses, and local institutions. Starting small, with the potential for growth into a comprehensive service offering, the business will prioritize convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction. Initial Setup (Example of an In-Home Model)Location: Begin with a home-based operation using an existing washer and dryer in the basement.Services Offered: Start with basic services such as wash, dry, and fold. Specialized services like stain removal, ironing, and dry cleaning will be considered for future expansion.Target Market: Initially target busy professionals, families, and students in the local area who value time-saving services. Per Pound Pricing: Charge customers based on the weight of their laundry, providing clear and transparent pricing. Expansion PhaseEquipment Upgrade: Gradually add more washers and dryers to increase capacity.Partnership with Local Laundromats: For handling overflow and very large orders, negotiate after-hours usage of local laundromat facilities. Investment in a Commercial Space: As demand grows, move operations to a larger, commercial space to further expand service capacity and offerings.Revenue Streams Subscription Services: Offer monthly subscription plans for regular pickups and deliveries, encouraging long-term customer relationships.Specialized Services: As your business grows, introduce premium services at higher price points, such as eco-friendly washing, express services, and garment repair.
The Digital StorefrontUnderstanding the importance of a virtual presence, I either needed to invest in a web developer or acquire the skills myself. Opting for the latter saved me thousands and set the stage for my digital operations. My website became the heart of my business, hosting my services and a seamless booking system integrated with a POS system—Square—to handle transactions efficiently. There are several POS systems you can integrated with your business, Square just worked for what I needed and could afford at the time. Choosing the PathThe initial offerings were simple: wash, dry, and fold. This focus allowed me to perfect my craft before expanding services. Operating from my home, I started with the appliances I had, eventually upgrading to commercial-grade washers and dryers in my basement. Transportation evolved from using my personal SUV to purchasing a dedicated van for pickups. Mastering the ProcessThe learning curve was steep. Observing competitors on YouTube and adapting their workflows helped, yet I faced my share of mishaps—from detergent misjudgments to sorting errors. Establishing a systematic approach to handling clothes ensured consistency and minimized damage, laying a foundation for scaling. Pricing StrategyRather than charging by the bag, I opted for a per-pound pricing model, which resonated better with my clientele. Initial investments in branded laundry bags were later adjusted to cost-effective, logo-free alternatives, which were provided to customers at no extra charge. Building the TeamStarting with part-time help, I expanded my staff to accommodate the surge in demand during the pandemic, which saw my business grow by over 400%. Starting with a neighbor’s daughter for weekend shifts, I eventually hired additional help for weekdays. The spike in service requests necessitated a larger workforce to maintain quality and turnaround times. I consistently emphasized our commitment to exceptional customer service. It's not just about cleaning clothes, it's also about nurturing relationships, building trust, and creating a community of satisfied customers who feel valued and understood. In a world where services are plentiful but genuine care is rare, we wanted to be the gold standard, proving that when you put the customer at the heart of your business, success is inevitable.
Service DiversificationOffering a spectrum of services, from regular wash, dry, fold, service, fragrance-free options to premium packages, allowed me to cater to a wider audience. I offered discounts for special holidays and seasons, for example 15% for Mother’s Day, Love is in the Air savings for the month of February, discounts for referrals etc., our customers loved saving on their laundry and this was a great incentive to use our laundry service.This strategy not only increased customer satisfaction but also boosted average order values.
Marketing and GrowthIn addition to Facebook and Instagram, leveraging free tools like Google Business Profile, I maintained an active online presence, posting updates and promotions akin to social media strategies. I used my Google Business Profile to Showcase our laundry service, especially to our non-social media followers. This approach, coupled with word-of-mouth referrals, significantly increased my customer base without the need for paid advertising. Email marketing is not dead! Having a robust email marketing campaign is key and will do wonders for your business. What ever you do, develop a strategy for email collection, the sign up process is probably the best time to collect emails.
Financial VigilanceMeticulous record-keeping of expenses and income was vital. While the Square app tracked revenues, a simple Google Sheets and Google Forms setup logged every expense, from detergent purchases to vehicle maintenance. Understanding the financial health of my business was crucial for sustainable growth. There are several expense tracking software and apps available, research what works best for you and your budget. It’s totally okay to start low and scale up with more pricy software as your business grows.
Liability InsuranceAs my laundry business began to flourish, I recognized the importance of safeguarding not just the garments entrusted to me but also the very foundation of my venture. With the volume of clients increasing, the spectrum of "unknowns" and "what ifs" expanded. What if a cherished silk blouse met an untimely fate in the spin cycle, or a vintage wool sweater shrank beyond recognition? It was clear that protecting myself and my customers' clothes was paramount. I made the prudent decision to purchase liability insurance. It wasn't just about mitigating risks; it was a declaration of my commitment to professionalism and trust. Liability insurance became an invisible safety net, offering peace of mind to both me and my clientele.
Incorporating liability insurance into my laundry service operation, I embarked on thorough research to identify insurance companies that offered both comprehensive protection and affordability. The goal was to find a partner who understood the unique needs of a home-based, client-facing service business, with the flexibility to cover everything from minor damages to more significant incidents—all without breaking the bank.
Understanding Garment NeedsLaundry isn’t just wash, dry and fold. This journey into the intricacies of fabric care wasn't just about keeping clothes clean; it was about respecting the material and ensuring that each item could live its longest, most vibrant life. From the delicate whispers of silk demanding a gentle hand wash to the robust calls of denim seeking to preserve its color in cool water, understanding how to properly care for various fabrics was crucial. I quickly learned that treating a wool sweater the same way as a cotton T-shirt could lead to disastrous (and sometimes shrunken) outcomes. Through trial, error, and a lot of laundry detergent, mastering the art of fabric care became a pivotal aspect of my business, teaching me that sometimes, the key to success and customer satisfaction lies in paying attention to the smallest details.
Expanding HorizonsExploring government contracts through sam.gov opened new doors, with the government becoming a reliable and prompt-paying client. Don't overlook the potential of serving government agencies. This, along with targeting local businesses like salons, barbershops and restaurants, diversified my revenue streams beyond residential customers. Reflections and AdvancementsStarting with a single customer and growing to a substantial monthly income was a journey of persistence, adaptation, and continual learning. The venture taught me the importance of mastering your niche, being adaptable, and always looking for growth opportunities.Whether you're tech-savvy or not, remember that persistence, smart marketing, and have a willingness to learn and adapt are your best tools for success. Your TurnThis business is more than just doing laundry; it's about creating a service that fills a gap, understanding your market, and continuously evolving. If you're seeking a side hustle that combines flexibility with financial reward, consider the laundry service business. With dedication, market understanding, and a customer-focused approach, you too could turn a simple household chore into a profitable business venture. Don’t be discouraged, just remember if your build it they will come. Go ahead and create your laundry service, all you need is that first customer.
Liability InsuranceAs my laundry business began to flourish, I recognized the importance of safeguarding not just the garments entrusted to me but also the very foundation of my venture. With the volume of clients increasing, the spectrum of "unknowns" and "what ifs" expanded. What if a cherished silk blouse met an untimely fate in the spin cycle, or a vintage wool sweater shrank beyond recognition? It was clear that protecting myself and my customers' clothes was paramount. I made the prudent decision to purchase liability insurance. It wasn't just about mitigating risks; it was a declaration of my commitment to professionalism and trust. Liability insurance became an invisible safety net, offering peace of mind to both me and my clientele.
Incorporating liability insurance into my laundry service operation, I embarked on thorough research to identify insurance companies that offered both comprehensive protection and affordability. The goal was to find a partner who understood the unique needs of a home-based, client-facing service business, with the flexibility to cover everything from minor damages to more significant incidents—all without breaking the bank.
Understanding Garment NeedsLaundry isn’t just wash, dry and fold. This journey into the intricacies of fabric care wasn't just about keeping clothes clean; it was about respecting the material and ensuring that each item could live its longest, most vibrant life. From the delicate whispers of silk demanding a gentle hand wash to the robust calls of denim seeking to preserve its color in cool water, understanding how to properly care for various fabrics was crucial. I quickly learned that treating a wool sweater the same way as a cotton T-shirt could lead to disastrous (and sometimes shrunken) outcomes. Through trial, error, and a lot of laundry detergent, mastering the art of fabric care became a pivotal aspect of my business, teaching me that sometimes, the key to success and customer satisfaction lies in paying attention to the smallest details.
Expanding HorizonsExploring government contracts through sam.gov opened new doors, with the government becoming a reliable and prompt-paying client. Don't overlook the potential of serving government agencies. This, along with targeting local businesses like salons, barbershops and restaurants, diversified my revenue streams beyond residential customers. Reflections and AdvancementsStarting with a single customer and growing to a substantial monthly income was a journey of persistence, adaptation, and continual learning. The venture taught me the importance of mastering your niche, being adaptable, and always looking for growth opportunities.Whether you're tech-savvy or not, remember that persistence, smart marketing, and have a willingness to learn and adapt are your best tools for success. Your TurnThis business is more than just doing laundry; it's about creating a service that fills a gap, understanding your market, and continuously evolving. If you're seeking a side hustle that combines flexibility with financial reward, consider the laundry service business. With dedication, market understanding, and a customer-focused approach, you too could turn a simple household chore into a profitable business venture. Don’t be discouraged, just remember if your build it they will come. Go ahead and create your laundry service, all you need is that first customer.