Keeping your clothes fresh and clean while traveling in Vietnam is easier than you might think! With the hot and humid weather, combined with the occasional downpour, you’ll likely go through your wardrobe faster than usual. Fortunately, laundry services in Vietnam are abundant, affordable, and convenient, making it a breeze to keep your clothes clean without lugging around a massive suitcase.
Laundry service: Problem? Solution!
During your trip to Vietnam, you’ll likely find yourself needing more clothes than you initially packed due to the hot climate and outdoor activities. A large suitcase isn’t practical for frequent travel. Thankfully, laundry service in Vietnam provides a convenient solution to this problem. You can have your clothes cleaned regularly without the hassle of carrying excessive luggage.
How does laundry service work?
Laundry services in Vietnam typically operate on a per-kilogram basis, with prices ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 VND (approximately $1 to $2 USD) per kilo. The standard turnaround time is usually 24 hours, but many shops offer express services for same-day or next-day delivery, often for an additional fee. These services typically include washing, drying, and folding your clothes. Some shops might even offer ironing or dry cleaning services.
Tips for using laundry service
Avoid laundry services of (luxury) hotels
Unless you don’t mind spending it, avoid using the laundry services of luxury hotels. They often charge significantly more per kilo or even per item. Instead, seek out local laundry shops for more affordable rates.
No expensive clothes
To avoid potential damage or color changes, it’s best not to send expensive or delicate clothes to local laundry services. Stick to everyday wear to ensure your valuable items remain in good condition.
Clothes often washed cold
Be aware that clothes are often washed in cold water. If you have items that require a specific wash temperature, you may need to make special arrangements or wash them yourself.
Plan the place
Choose a laundry service at a destination where you will stay long enough for the laundry to be completed. If you happen to be less than a day in Hanoi, you might want to check if it is better timing at your next destination. Also, be mindful of the shop’s operating hours.
Get their contact details
Ensure you have the contact details of the laundry service. Many places use WhatsApp for communication, making it easy to text them when your laundry is done. Also, keep the address handy; taking a photo of the shop front or getting a business card can be helpful if you need to find the place again.
Where to find laundry service
Laundry services are readily available in many parts of Vietnam, including major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An. Here are some ways to locate them:
Google Maps
Use Google Maps to find nearby laundry services. Searching for “laundry service” will yield many results. For better results, you can use the Vietnamese term “dịch vụ giặt là”.
Walking around tourist centers
Walking through tourist areas, you’ll often find several laundry services. These shops sometimes offer additional services such as selling SIM cards or functioning as tour agencies.
Hotels and homestays
While luxury resorts might be costly, many normal hotels, homestays, and guesthouses offer laundry services at the same price as standalone laundry shops. If you’re staying in a more remote area, like in the mountains of countryside, this can be a convenient option. They might not always have a visible sign, so it’s worth asking at the reception.
