How to Save Money on Laundry as a College Student

College life comes with unexpected expenses, and one of the biggest hidden costs? Laundry. Whether you’re paying per load in a dorm, using a laundromat near your off-campus apartment, or relying on overpriced detergent from a convenience store, washing your clothes can quickly add up.

The good news? There are smarter, cheaper ways to do laundry in college. With a few simple changes, you can cut your laundry costs in half—without sacrificing fresh, clean clothes. Here’s how.

1. Understand How Much Laundry is Really Costing You

Most students don’t realize how much they’re spending on laundry each semester. Let’s break it down:

Average cost per wash: $2.00
Average cost per dry: $2.00
Detergent per load: $0.50
Total per laundry day: $4.50
If you do laundry once a week → $18 per month
If you do laundry twice a week → $36 per month

Multiply that over a semester or a full year, and you’re spending anywhere from $150 to $400+ just to wash your clothes. That’s money that could be used for books, food, or fun instead.

2. Cut Down on How Often You Wash

The simplest way to reduce laundry costs is to do laundry less often. Here’s how to make your clothes last longer between washes:

✔ Wear layers – Keep a light jacket or hoodie over shirts to prevent them from getting dirty too quickly.
✔ Air out clothes – Instead of throwing something in the laundry after one wear, hang it up overnight.
✔ Use fabric refresher sprays – A quick spray of wrinkle release or fabric freshener can extend wear time.
✔ Rotate essentials – Have a few extra pairs of socks, underwear, and T-shirts so you’re not forced to do laundry as often.

Washing less frequently means spending less money on laundry and detergent.

3. Switch to a Portable Washing Machine

If you live in a dorm or small apartment, investing in a portable washing machine can be a game-changer.

✔ No more quarters or paying per load – Once you buy it, you never have to pay for laundry again.
✔ Wash whenever you want – No waiting for machines or finding your clothes thrown on the floor by someone impatient.
✔ Save time – Skip the walk to the laundry room and wash your clothes in your own space.

A small, plug-in washing machine lets you do laundry at your convenience, use less water, and avoid shared, often dirty, dorm washers.

4. Buy Laundry Supplies in Bulk

Stop buying overpriced detergent from the closest convenience store. Instead:

✔ Buy detergent in bulk – A large container lasts months and costs way less per load.
✔ Use detergent pods – They’re pre-measured, so you don’t waste extra liquid.
✔ Skip fabric softener – It’s not necessary and can be replaced with a splash of vinegar in the rinse cycle.

Pro Tip: Team up with roommates or friends and split the cost of bulk laundry detergent—it’ll save everyone money.

5. Dry Smarter (Or Skip the Dryer Entirely!)

Dryers are expensive to use, but they’re not always necessary. Try these tricks instead:

✔ Air dry whenever possible – A drying rack, a towel rod, or even a chair works just fine.
✔ Use a fan or open a window – Clothes will dry faster with airflow.
✔ If you must use the dryer, use dryer balls – They help clothes dry faster, cutting drying time and cost.

By air-drying your clothes instead of using a paid dryer, you could save up to $100 a year!

Final Thoughts: Make Laundry Cheap & Easy

Laundry doesn’t have to be a financial drain. By making small changes—like washing less often, using a portable washer, air-drying clothes, and buying detergent in bulk—you can cut your laundry costs in half while still keeping your clothes fresh.

How much are you spending on laundry right now? Try these tips and start saving today! 🚀

How to Save Money on Laundry in College