PORTLAND, Ore. — While indulging in a microbrew and a goat cheese panini, you receive a text message announcing your laundry is done. Glancing around the retro-mod lounge, you just might have to remind yourself, “Oh right, I’m in a Laundromat.” Portland’s Spin Laundry Lounge is not your typical college-town Laundromat.
Located in the city’s Historic Mississippi District, Spin Laundry Lounge encompasses everything owner and founder Morgan Gary originally had in mind when it came to putting her, well, unique spin on the laundry business.
“My goal was to redefine the Laundromat,” Gary explains. “And a big part of that was creating a community space that functions as more than just a place to wash and dry your clothes.”
EQUIPPED TO SERVE
Remember Gary’s extensive laundry list of cool features and sustainable items? Well, topping her list was having “the most energy-efficient laundry equipment in the world.”
“That would be the Electrolux Professional 450 G-force soft-mount washers,” says Gary. “It has a unique feature called Automatic Water Savings (AWS) that automatically adds the correct amount of water to match the load size, which is incredible. The water saving is up to 30%!” Further, 450-G-force extraction removes more water, which in turn saves time and energy in the dryer.
The cycle speeds were also important to Gary – and her customers.
“Most of our customers are shocked and excited to find out they can complete up to eight loads of laundry in one washer and dryer in as little as 45 minutes.” Plus, Gary is pleased to be able to save on utility costs and pass on those savings to customers.
GOOD NO MATTER HOW YOU SPIN IT
Ever since Spin opened its doors in March, the community response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Customers love the complimentary sanitizing rinse, and all of our Nellie’s All Natural Laundry products,” Gary shares. “And that they can get all of their laundry finished—washed and dried—in only 45 minutes. They also enjoy the atmosphere and the fact that they can order a coffee (or beer!) while they wait.”
Perhaps one of the biggest satisfactions for Gary is being involved in the daily operations of her store.
“I wanted to change people’s perception that ‘laundry day’ had to be this monumental time-consuming chore,” she says. “Looking around at my customers’ faces, I can honestly say that I’ve absolutely changed their laundry experience for the better. And that feels great. Mission accomplished.”
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Bruce Beggs at [email protected].