While ‘laundrobars’ have been making headlines in New York City, the concept of combining laundry with food and drinks is not new. Businesses like Duds n’ Suds in Reno, Nevada, have been offering beer, wine, snacks, and even slot machines since the early 1980s, creating a community hub that’s far removed from the traditional laundromat experience.
Jimmie May and his wife, Brandy Johnson, took over the Duds n’ Suds franchise in 2019, and they’ve since made the experience more engaging for customers. May recalls how men expecting a typical laundromat often end up surprised by the bar and a selection of snacks, leading to repeated visits. However, the financial reality of running such a business remains challenging, with a $9,000 lease being a significant burden.
Meanwhile, in Portland, Oregon, Spin Laundry Lounge has carved out its own niche by transforming a former metal factory into a cozy café with a laundromat twist. Morgan Gary and Anthony Fusaro, the founders, aimed to create a more welcoming space than a traditional laundromat. Their business experienced rapid growth, attracting locals and travelers alike. The food and drink offerings became the key to Spin’s success, helping it gain a loyal following.
Gary and Fusaro faced challenges during the pandemic, including the need to pause food services temporarily. However, they partnered with Brave Neighbor Coffeehouse to bring the café back, allowing them to focus on enhancing the laundry experience and contributing to the community. Spin now collaborates with nonprofits to provide free laundry vouchers and hosts events such as ‘wash parties,’ where customers learn how to care for specific garments like raincoats. Gary also finds joy in collecting and donating single socks to shelters, providing a meaningful way to give back.
Looking ahead, Gary hopes to expand their delivery services and host more events. She is encouraged by the trend of similar businesses following their model, believing that everyone should have a better, more enjoyable laundry experience. These laundromat bars represent a unique blend of utility and social engagement, highlighting how everyday tasks can be transformed into opportunities for community building and enjoyment.