Doing laundry while traveling can be a hassle, especially if you’re trying to limit your spending. The good news is that there are hotels across the country that offer free laundry facilities for guests.
If you’re looking for accommodations where you can wash clothes at no cost, this comprehensive guide will provide all the details you need.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: Many hotels, particularly extended stay chains like Residence Inn, Homewood Suites, and Staybridge Suites, provide free self-service laundry rooms that guests can use anytime.
Upscale chains like Marriott and Hilton also often include free laundry at resorts and higher tier properties.
In this nearly 3,000 word guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding and using hotel laundry facilities that won’t cost you a dime. You’ll learn the best hotel chains for free laundry, how to locate hotels with laundry on site, when you can use the facilities, average load limits, what’s provided for free versus charges, and expert tips for doing laundry efficiently while traveling.
Hotel Chains Known for Free Laundry
When it comes to finding hotels that offer free laundry services, there are several hotel chains that stand out. Whether you’re looking for an extended stay, an upscale experience, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a hotel chain that caters to your needs.
Here are some hotel chains known for their complimentary laundry services:
Extended Stay Hotels
If you’re planning a long-term stay and want to avoid the hassle of finding a laundromat, extended stay hotels are a great option. These hotels typically offer spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens and in-room laundry facilities.
One of the well-known hotel chains in this category is Staybridge Suites. They provide free laundry facilities for guests, making it convenient for travelers who are away from home for an extended period.
Upscale Hotels
Even luxury hotels understand the importance of providing convenient amenities for their guests, and free laundry services are no exception. Some upscale hotel chains go above and beyond to ensure their guests have a comfortable stay. The Ritz-Carlton is one such example.
They offer complimentary laundry services, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without worrying about laundry chores.
Budget Hotels
While budget hotels may not offer the same level of luxury as upscale hotels, they still strive to provide value for money. Some budget hotel chains have recognized the need for free laundry services, especially for travelers on a tight budget.
Red Roof Inn is a budget hotel chain that offers free laundry facilities, making it a convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Vacation Rentals
For those who prefer the comforts of a home away from home, vacation rentals are a popular choice. Many vacation rental companies offer properties with in-unit laundry facilities, allowing guests to do their laundry at no extra cost.
Companies like Airbnb and Vrbo provide a wide range of vacation rentals with free laundry services, giving travelers the flexibility they desire.
It’s important to note that while these hotel chains are known for their free laundry services, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific hotel or property before booking. Policies may vary, and it’s best to confirm the availability and details of the laundry services to ensure a hassle-free stay.
How to Find Specific Hotels Offering Complimentary Laundry
Use Hotel Search Filters
When searching for hotels with complimentary laundry services, it is important to take advantage of the various search filters provided by hotel booking websites. These filters allow you to narrow down your search to hotels that specifically offer free laundry facilities.
By selecting the “Free Laundry” or “Laundry Services” filter, you can easily find hotels that meet your needs. This saves you time and effort in manually checking each hotel’s amenities.
Check Chain Hotel Brand Standards
If you have a preferred hotel chain or brand, it can be helpful to check their standards and policies regarding complimentary laundry services. Many hotel chains have specific standards in place that require their properties to offer free laundry facilities to guests.
This information can usually be found on the hotel chain’s official website. By choosing a hotel within a trusted brand, you can have peace of mind knowing that complimentary laundry will be available during your stay.
Read Property Reviews
Reading property reviews can provide valuable insights into whether a hotel offers complimentary laundry services. Guests often mention the amenities provided by the hotel in their reviews, including laundry facilities.
Look for reviews that specifically mention the availability of free laundry or positive experiences with the hotel’s laundry services. Websites such as TripAdvisor, Expedia, and Booking.com are popular platforms where you can find detailed reviews from previous guests.
By considering the experiences of others, you can make an informed decision about which hotels offer complimentary laundry.
Call the Front Desk
If you are still unsure about whether a hotel offers complimentary laundry services, don’t hesitate to call their front desk directly. The hotel’s staff will be able to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information regarding their laundry facilities.
Be sure to ask specific questions about the availability, hours, and any restrictions that may apply to the complimentary laundry services. Speaking directly to a hotel representative can give you the assurance you need before making a reservation.
When You Can Use Free Hotel Laundry Facilities
Hotels with free laundry facilities can be a great convenience for travelers. Not having to worry about finding a laundromat or paying for expensive laundry services can make your stay much more enjoyable. However, it’s important to know when you can actually use these facilities.
Here are a few factors to consider:
Laundry Room Hours
Most hotels with free laundry facilities will have specific hours during which guests can use them. These hours may vary depending on the hotel, so it’s always a good idea to check with the front desk or consult the hotel’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Some hotels may have limited hours, while others may have 24-hour access to their laundry rooms. Knowing the hours of operation will help you plan your laundry schedule accordingly.
Length of Stay Requirements
In some cases, hotels with free laundry facilities may have certain length of stay requirements. For example, they may only offer free laundry services to guests who are staying for a minimum number of nights.
This requirement is typically in place to ensure that the service is reserved for guests who are staying for an extended period of time, rather than those who are just passing through. Be sure to check with the hotel to see if there are any length of stay requirements before relying on their free laundry facilities.
It’s worth noting that even if a hotel has free laundry facilities, there may be additional charges for things like detergent or dryer sheets. Some hotels provide these items free of charge, while others may require you to purchase them from a vending machine or front desk.
It’s always a good idea to come prepared with your own laundry supplies, just in case.
Load Limits and What’s Included for Free Laundry
When it comes to hotels with free laundry services, it’s important to understand the load limits and what is included. This ensures that guests can take full advantage of the convenient amenity without any surprises or additional charges.
Average Load Allowances
Most hotels that offer free laundry services have specific load allowances for guests. These allowances can vary depending on the hotel’s policies and the size of the machines available. On average, hotels tend to allow guests to wash up to two loads of laundry per day.
This is typically enough for individuals or small families who are traveling.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that some hotels may have different load allowances. It’s always a good idea to inquire about the specific policy when checking in or contacting the hotel’s front desk.
Free Detergent and Supplies
Hotels with free laundry services often provide guests with complimentary detergent and other necessary supplies. These supplies typically include laundry detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets. Guests can use these items without any additional charges, making it even more convenient to do laundry while on the go.
Some hotels may also offer additional amenities like stain removers or bleach for more specific laundry needs. It’s worth noting that while these supplies are provided for free, they may be limited in quantity. Guests should use them responsibly and considerate of other guests who may also need them.
Charges for Extra Use
In some cases, guests may exceed the load allowances or require additional laundry services beyond what the hotel provides for free. In such instances, hotels may charge extra fees for the additional use. These fees can vary depending on the hotel and the specific services required.
It’s important to check with the hotel’s front desk or review their policies to understand the charges associated with extra use. Being aware of these charges ahead of time can help guests plan accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses.
Remember, hotels with free laundry services aim to provide convenience and comfort to their guests. Understanding the load limits and what is included for free ensures a smooth and hassle-free laundry experience during your stay.
Tips for Doing Laundry at Hotels
Doing laundry while traveling can be a hassle, but luckily, many hotels now offer free laundry services to make your stay more convenient. Here are some handy tips to make the most out of these amenities:
Pack Laundry Supplies
Before heading out on your trip, don’t forget to pack your laundry supplies. Bringing a small container of detergent, fabric softener, and stain remover can save you from having to purchase these items at the hotel or nearby stores.
Plus, having your preferred laundry products ensures that your clothes are cleaned to your liking.
Be Flexible with Scheduling
While hotels with free laundry services may have multiple machines available, it’s essential to be flexible with your laundry schedule. During peak hours, there might be a higher demand for the machines, so it’s best to plan your laundry time accordingly.
Consider doing your laundry early in the morning or late at night when there is less competition for the machines.
Check for Instructions
Each hotel may have its own set of instructions or guidelines for using the laundry facilities. Take a few minutes to read any posted signs or check the hotel’s website for specific instructions. This will ensure that you are using the machines correctly and following any additional rules, such as using a specific type of detergent or avoiding certain fabrics.
Set Timers to Avoid Forgetting Clothes
It’s easy to get caught up in other activities while waiting for your laundry to finish. To avoid leaving your clothes unattended, set a timer or alarm on your phone to remind yourself to check on them.
This way, you won’t risk someone else removing your clothes from the machine or having to restart the cycle because you forgot about them.
Be Courteous with Shared Facilities
If the hotel’s laundry facilities are shared with other guests, it’s important to be courteous and respectful. Avoid leaving your clothes unattended for an extended period and promptly remove them from the machines once they are finished.
Additionally, clean up any spills or messes you may have made to leave the area in the same condition as you found it.
By following these tips, you can take advantage of the free laundry services offered by hotels and make your travel experience even more enjoyable. Now you can pack lighter and have clean clothes throughout your trip without the hassle of finding a laundromat or spending extra money on laundry services.
Conclusion
Taking advantage of free hotel laundry can make travel much smoother and more budget-friendly. With this comprehensive guide detailing the top hotels chains, search methods, policies, and expert tips, you’ll be fully prepared to find and use laundry facilities on your next trip without having to pay a dime.
Just be flexible with your laundry schedule during your stay and courteous to other guests, and you can return home with clean clothes without added costs.
For quick, affordable laundry on vacation, look for extended stay, upscale, and budget hotels that offer free self-service guest laundry facilities. With the right planning through search filters, reviews and calling hotels in advance, you can easily locate accommodations that will let you wash clothes for free, saving your budget for the more enjoyable aspects of travel.
