Where Do Visitors to London Do Their Laundry?

1. Hotel Laundry Services

For many visitors, the most straightforward option is to use the laundry and dry-cleaning services offered by their hotel. Most mid-range to luxury hotels in London provide:

• Same-day laundry for a fee.
• Dry cleaning services for delicate garments.
• Pressing and ironing to keep business attire looking sharp.

Pros:

• Extremely convenient — you simply leave clothes in your room and receive them fresh and clean.
• Reliable, especially in premium hotels.

Cons:

• Costly compared to other options.
• Limited flexibility in turnaround times.

This option is perfect for business travelers or anyone who values time over cost.

2. Self-Service Laundromats

London is home to many laundromats (often called “laudrettes”) where visitors can wash and dry their clothes themselves. You’ll find them across the city, from Central London to residential areas.

Pros:

• Affordable compared to hotel laundry.
• Open late in many areas.
• Allows you to handle clothes exactly how you want.

Cons:

• Time-consuming — travelers must wait for the wash and dry cycles.
• Carrying laundry through public transport may not be convenient.
• Limited amenities compared to professional services.

Laundromats are a solid choice for budget-conscious backpackers and long-stay visitors.

3. Professional Laundry & Dry-Cleaning Services

One of the most popular options for modern travelers is booking a professional laundry service that offers pickup and delivery. Companies like LaundraMoon cater specifically to visitors staying in hotels, serviced apartments, or Airbnbs.

Features include:

• Doorstep pickup and delivery across London.
• Eco-friendly cleaning processes.
• Fast turnaround (often same-day or next-day).
• Specialized care for uniforms, business attire, and delicate fabrics.

Pros:

• Saves time — no need to wait in a laundromat.
• Affordable compared to hotel laundry services.
• Professional cleaning ensures clothes look and feel fresh.

Cons:

• Requires online or app booking (though this is simple and quick).

This option is ideal for busy professionals, families, or leisure travelers who want convenience without the steep hotel pricing.

4. Airbnb Hosts and Serviced Apartments

If you’re staying in an Airbnb or a serviced apartment, chances are you’ll have access to a washing machine within the property.

Pros:

• Convenient and free if included.
• Suitable for longer stays where you can plan laundry days.

Cons:

• Machines may not always be modern or efficient.
• No professional finishing like ironing or pressing.

This option works well for visitors who don’t mind doing their own laundry during downtime.

5. Same-Day and Emergency Laundry

Sometimes, travelers face unexpected situations: a last-minute business meeting, a spilled drink at dinner, or luggage delays at the airport. In these cases, London also offers express and emergency laundry services. Companies like LaundraMoon provide urgent cleaning with rapid turnaround, ensuring visitors don’t face embarrassing wardrobe challenges.

Choosing the Right Option

The right laundry choice depends on your needs:

• Business Travelers: Hotel services or professional pickup/drop-off laundry are the best fit.
• Families on Holiday: Professional services save time while ensuring everyone’s clothes are fresh.
• Backpackers and Budget Travelers: Laundromats offer a cost-effective solution.
• Long-Term Visitors: Airbnb or serviced apartments with washing machines make the most sense.

Final Thoughts

Laundry might not be the first thing you think about when planning a trip to London, but it can have a huge impact on your travel experience. No one wants to explore the city’s world-class attractions in wrinkled, stained, or uncomfortable clothes. From luxurious hotel services and traditional laundromats to modern, eco-friendly pickup services like LaundraMoon, visitors have a wide range of choices to keep their wardrobes fresh.

In the end, the best solution depends on balancing convenience, cost, and time. With the right laundry option, travelers can focus on enjoying London — while leaving the dirty work to the experts.