Customer using the control panel of a self-service laundromat

I've been running LaColada in Ponferrada for over 10 years, and if there's one thing I've seen, it's the look of doubt on customers' faces when they walk in for the first time. They look at the big machines, search for where to put the soap, and wonder if it will be too complicated. The reality is, it's easier than withdrawing money from an ATM.

As an appliance technician, I assure you these industrial machines are designed to be robust but simple to use. If you've ever wondered how a self-service laundromat works, what you need to bring, or how long it takes, you've come to the right place. Let's go through the process step by step, just as you would in my shop, so you know exactly what to do.

What do I need to bring from home?

Before leaving, there are a couple of things you should prepare. Unlike washing at home, efficiency is key here.

Sorted clothes: My grandmother, who owned a haberdashery, always said: "whites with whites, and colors with colors." Don't mix towels with delicate shirts.
Detergent and softener? It depends! In many laundromats (like ours at LaColada Ponferrada), you do NOT have to bring anything. Our machines automatically inject high-quality industrial detergent, oxygenator, and softener at the exact moment of the cycle. It's more convenient and guarantees a professional wash.
Small change: Although we have a bill change machine, it's always good to carry some cash.

Step 1: Choose the Washer and Load

Upon entering, you will see machines of different sizes. In our case, we have 12kg washers and a giant 16kg one.

The loading secret

This is the number one mistake I see and the one that causes the most bearing breakdowns: filling the machine until it bursts. Clothes need to "tumble" inside the drum to wash well. Always leave a hand's width of free space at the top of the drum. If you pack it tight, water and soap won't circulate, and the clothes will come out just as dirty.

Close the door firmly and note the number on the machine (e.g., Washer 2).

Step 2: The Payment Station and Program

Head to the central payment kiosk (that machine with a screen and coin slots). The process is intuitive:

Select the washer number where you put your clothes.
Choose the program. Standard options are based on temperature (Cold, 30º, 40º, 60º). If you bring very stained work clothes, at LaColada we have a special "Very Dirty" program that lasts a bit longer, does an intense pre-wash, and spins harder.
Insert the amount. To give you an idea of prices in Ponferrada: our 12kg machines cost €4 and the 16kg one costs €6.
Go back to the washer and press START.

The cycle will last about 35 minutes. Perfect time to run a quick errand, read something, or use your phone with the shop's WiFi.

Loading clothes into a large capacity industrial washing machine

Step 3: Drying (The Magic of Gas)

When the washer finishes, take out the clothes. You'll see they come out very wrung out thanks to the industrial spin, but damp. Now it's time for the dryer.

Here we use 18kg gas dryers. Why gas? Because as a technician, I tell you they heat up faster and leave clothes much fluffier than electric home dryers. The process is similar:

Put the clothes in the dryer. It is vital not to overload it here; clothes need to "fly" inside to dry.
Clean the filter if you see it dirty (although we check it constantly, it's a good habit).
Go to the kiosk, select the dryer number, and pay. In our case, it's €3 for 15 minutes.
Select the temperature on the dryer itself: High (towels, jeans), Medium (synthetics), or Low (delicates).

Normally, with a 15-minute cycle, clothes come out almost dry, ready to iron. If you want to put them straight into the wardrobe, you might need two cycles (30 min), especially if they are thick comforters. If you have doubts about which garments can go in, check the drying labels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it hygienic to wash where everyone else washes?

It's a very common doubt. The answer is yes, even more so than at home. Our washers perform thermal and chemical disinfection in every cycle. Plus, the industrial detergents we use have superior bactericidal power compared to supermarket soap.

Can I open the washer if I forgot a sock?

Once you press START and water enters, the door locks for safety until the cycle ends. So check well before paying.

How long does it take in total?

Between washing (35 min) and drying (15-30 min), in less than an hour you have the whole week's laundry done. If you do it at home, it would take almost all day doing several loads.

Advantages of coming to LaColada Ponferrada

Not just because it's my business, but objectively we offer advantages that are impossible at home:

Saving money: If you add up electricity, water, detergent, softener, and wear on your home machine, you'll see that €4 or €6 pays off, especially for large loads.
Duvets and Blankets: We have a specific article on how to wash duvets, but I can tell you our 16kg and 18kg machines are perfect for this.
Products Included: Forget about carrying soap bottles. We put the best on the market included in the price.

Ready to try?

Now that you know how a self-service laundromat works, we invite you to visit us at LaColada Ponferrada. Bring that mountain of clothes piling up or the seasonal change duvets. I promise you'll leave with everything clean, dry, and smelling incredible in less than an hour. We are waiting for you!

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