Grow with facts, not feelings.

You’ve built a laundromat that’s working well. Customers are coming in, your machines are busy, and your wash-and-fold service is picking up. Things feel good.

Now you’re wondering, “Should I open a second location?”

Maybe. But don’t just jump into it because it feels like the next move. Expanding your business is a big step, and if you do it too early or for the wrong reasons, it can hurt more than it helps.

So how do you know if you’re really ready?

Let’s break it down.

1. Your First Store Runs Without You

This is the first big test. If your laundromat still needs you every day just to function, then it’s not time to open another one.

You need: 

• A trained, trustworthy team
• A solid manager or leader at the store
• Systems that keep things running even when you’re not there

If your current store runs well without you being on-site, that’s a good sign you’re ready to scale.

2. You Know Your Numbers

Don’t guess. Look at your numbers.

Ask yourself:

• Is the business making a steady profit?
• Are bills, payroll and utilities under control?
• Are sales growing or at least staying steady?

If the answers are “yes,” then you’ve got a strong foundation. If you’re not sure, dig into your financial reports or get help from someone who can. *See my previous article about Understanding Your Laundromats EBITA.

3. Customers Are Maxing Out Your Store

If your machines are always full and people are waiting, it might be time to grow.

Here’s what to check:

• Are you averaging 6 or more “turns per day” on your machines?
• Is your delivery area stretching too far?
• Are you turning away customers or running out of space?

Overflowing demand is a great reason to open a second location. Just make sure you’re not confusing a busy Saturday with real, long-term growth.

4. You Have the Money (or Access to It)

Opening another laundromat costs money. If you have to empty your first store’s bank account to build the second, it’s probably too soon.

You’ll need:

• A cash cushion (at least 25–30% of your buildout or purchase budget)
• A way to fund the rest, like a loan or investor
• A plan to make that second store profitable within 1-2 years 

Cash flow is oxygen. Don’t open a second store if your first one is still gasping for air.

5. You Found the Right Spot

Not every open building is a good laundromat location. Do your homework first.

Ask: 

• Are there enough renters in the area?
• What’s the competition like nearby?
• Is parking easy? Is the location easy to see?
• Are the utilities (like water and sewer) ready for commercial washers? 

Don’t fall in love with a building. Fall in love with the numbers.

6. You Have Systems That Can Be Repeated 

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel with every new store. If your first laundromat has clear systems for hiring, training, customer service, wash-and-fold, and ordering supplies, you can plug those into a second location. 

If you’re still figuring everything out by feel, hold off. Build the system first, then duplicate it.

7. You’re Ready Personally and at Home

This part matters too. Opening a second store means more time, more decisions, and more stress… at least for a while.

Ask yourself:

• Am I ready to split my time between two locations?
• Is my family okay with the extra time I’ll be away?
• Do I have the energy and focus for this?

If the answer is no, it’s okay to wait. A rushed move can cost you more than just money.

Grow for the Right Reasons

Adding another laundromat should be a smart move based on real facts, not just because you want to feel like a “boss.” Each time I have added a new location, I always make sure it is out of strength and never put previous locations or more importantly, put my family at risk (both financially and time spent).

Use your data. Check your systems. Know your market. Make sure you’re growing because your business is ready, not because your ego is.

And when the time comes, we’re here to help.

Need help running the numbers or choosing your next location?

Join the Laundry Advisors community or hop on one of our strategy calls. We’ll walk with you, every step of the way.

Let’s grow wisely and profitably.