The Ultimate Guide to Using Japanese Coin Laundries (For First-Timers)
Don’t Be Afraid of the Kanji Buttons!
You’ve arrived in Japan, and your suitcase is already full of dirty clothes. You find a nearby coin laundry, but you freeze. The machines look high-tech, and the buttons are covered in complex Japanese characters (Kanji). Don’t worry!
Using a Japanese coin laundry is actually very simple, clean, and efficient. Most modern machines do everything automatically. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll be a laundry master in no time.
Before You Go: Checklist
- Cash (100 Yen Coins): While some newer places accept IC cards (like Suica) or credit cards, cash is still king in Japan. Most laundries have change machines for 1,000 yen notes.
- Laundry Bag: To carry your clothes.
- (Optional) Dryer Sheets: If you prefer specific scents.
- NOT Needed: Detergent! Almost all modern machines in Japan automatically add detergent and softener. Look for signs that say “洗剤自動投入” (Automatic Detergent).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Choose Your Machine
There are generally three types of machines:
- Washer & Dryer Combo (洗濯乾燥機): Does everything in one go. Highly recommended.
- Washer Only (洗濯機): You must move clothes to a dryer afterward.
- Dryer Only (乾燥機): Usually stacked on top of washers.
Tip: Check the drum before loading. It should be empty and clean.
Step 2: Load Your Clothes
Place your clothes inside the drum. Be careful not to overstuff it. There is usually a line on the glass indicating the maximum limit. Overloading means your clothes won’t dry properly.
Step 3: Select Course and Pay
This is the tricky part. Look for these standard buttons on a combo machine:
- 洗濯＆乾燥 (Wash & Dry): The standard course. It takes about 60 minutes.
- 洗濯のみ (Wash Only): If you want to hang-dry your clothes later.
- 乾燥のみ (Dry Only): If you just need to dry wet items.
Once you press the button for your desired course, the screen will show the price (usually 800 JPY to 1,200 JPY). Insert your coins slowly. The machine will lock and start automatically.
Important Manners in Japan
Japan values harmony and consideration for others. Please keep these manners in mind:
- Set a Timer: Don’t leave your finished clothes in the machine for hours. Others may be waiting. Come back 5 minutes before it finishes.
- Check Pockets: Ensure no tissues, coins, or lighters are left in pockets.
- Food & Drink: Eating inside the laundry area is generally frowned upon unless there is a designated cafe space.
Conclusion
Once you try it, you’ll see how convenient Japanese coin laundries are. Enjoy your clean clothes and continue your adventure light and fresh!
