When travelling to Chiang Mai, it’s essential to keep your clothes clean, especially in the hot and humid weather. However, doing laundry can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the city. In this guide, we’ll provide tips on how to do your laundry in Chiang Mai. We will also suggest options that will make the task more manageable.
Hostel Laundry Services
Travelling in Chiang Mai can be hot and sweaty, so finding a convenient and affordable laundry option is key for many travellers. Luckily, many hostels in the Old City area offer laundry services at reasonable prices, with a quick turnaround time of 24–48 hours. For example, the Deejai Backpackers hostel charges just 50 baht for a wash and 50 baht for a dry. They also guarantee to have your laundry returned within 24 hours.
Laundromats
Laundromats dot the streets of Chiang Mai. They are a convenient option for those who prefer to do their own laundry. These facilities are widely available, including in the Old City area, making it easy to find one near your accommodation. The machines are simple to operate, and you can purchase detergent and softener on-site. Expect to pay around 20–50 THB ($0.65 to $1.60) per wash and 20–30 THB ($0.65 to $1.00) per cycle in the dryer, though prices may vary. As you wait for your laundry, stroll through the city and discover charming temples, street food stalls, and markets.
Pick-up and Delivery Services
The Chiang Mai area provides several convenient laundry services for travellers who prefer not to do their own laundry. Home services are a popular choice and come with pick-up and delivery. Although there is a fee for these services, the convenience is worth it for many. Laundry is usually washed and dried, with a 24–48 hour return time. Prices for these services are reasonable and competitive with other laundry options in the area.
Self-Service Laundry
Self-service laundry is an affordable option for budget-conscious travellers staying in Chiang Mai. Typically found in budget hotels and guesthouses, this service allows travellers to wash their clothes for a fee. The fee usually covers the use of washing machines, detergent, and a drying area. Using a self-service laundry can be convenient, but be prepared to spend a few hours doing laundry. The experience of washing and drying clothes while travelling can be rewarding, as it allows travellers to slow down and take in the local surroundings.
Tips for Doing Laundry in Chiang Mai
To make doing your laundry in Chiang Mai a breeze, it’s important to sort your clothes into piles, separating whites, colours, and delicates. You can choose between liquid and powder detergents, but it’s generally recommended to use liquid detergents to avoid residue on your clothes.
After washing, drying your clothes is essential in the tropical climate. You can either hang your clothes out to dry in the sun or use a dryer, but remember to check the lint trap to prevent any issues. Thai people usually hang their laundry out to dry in the sun.
Keeping your clothes clean in Chiang Mai is easy, with a variety of laundry options. If you prefer to do it yourself, look for a self-service laundry in a budget hotel or guest house. You can separate your whites from your colours and use either liquid or powder detergent to get them sparkling clean. If you’d rather leave it to the experts, there are full-service laundry options that offer pick-up and delivery, for a fee. Did you know Chiang Mai is home to the world’s largest washing machine? It’s true! The giant washing machine can hold up to 20,000 litres of water and is used to clean the robes worn by Buddhist monks.