How to Set Up and Optimize Google My Business for Your Laundromat

Owning a laundromat means you rely heavily on local customers. In today’s digital age, having a robust online presence is just as important as having high-quality machines or a clean space. One of the best tools to attract local customers is Google My Business (GMB), now known as Google Business Profile (GBP).

This free tool helps your laundromat appear in local search results, on Google Maps, and in the coveted "Local Pack" when potential customers search for terms like "laundromat near me."

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of creating, verifying, and optimizing your GMB profile to boost your local SEO, improve visibility, and attract more customers.

Why Google My Business Is Essential for Laundromats

Here are the top reasons why having a well-maintained GMB profile is a game-changer for laundromat owners:

• Local Visibility: Over 46% of all Google searches have local intent, and potential customers often search for services like “laundromat near me” when they need a solution.

• Mobile Users: Nearly 60% of searches are performed on mobile devices, making it crucial for your laundromat to show up in Google Maps and mobile-friendly search results.

• Trust and Credibility: Customers trust businesses that appear in Google’s “Local Pack” with complete profiles, accurate information, and positive reviews.

• Free Marketing: Your GMB profile acts as a mini-website, showcasing everything from services and photos to promotions—all for free.

Step 1: Create a Google My Business Profile

Setting up your Google My Business profile is simple, but accuracy is key.

1. Sign in to Google

Log in to your Google account. If you don’t have one, create a free account. Make sure this account will be dedicated to managing your business profiles to keep things organized.

2. Go to the Google My Business Page

Visit Google Business Profile and click “Manage Now.”

3. Enter Your Business Name

Type your laundromat’s name. If your business is already listed, select it from the dropdown menu. If not, click “Add your business to Google.”

4. Choose the Right Category

Selecting the correct category is critical because it affects how your business appears in search results. For laundromats, use “Laundromat” or “Laundry Service.” If you offer niche services like dry cleaning or delivery, add those as secondary categories.

5. Add Your Business Address

Enter the full physical address of your laundromat. If you offer pickup and delivery services, select the option to add a service area. Ensure that your location is accurately pinned on Google Maps.

6. Enter Contact Information

Provide your phone number and website URL. These details make it easy for customers to contact you directly. If you have multiple locations, ensure that each location has consistent and accurate contact details across all platforms.

7. Verify Your Business

Google will ask you to verify your business. Common verification methods include:

• Postcard by Mail: Google sends a postcard with a verification code to your business address

• Phone Verification: Some businesses can verify via phone

• Email Verification: This option is available for select businesses.
  Follow the instructions to complete the process. Verification confirms your business legitimacy and unlocks the ability to manage your profile

Step 2: Optimize Your Google My Business Profile

Creating your profile is just the first step. Optimization is where the real magic happens.

1. Fill Out Every Section

Google prioritizes profiles that are complete. Make sure to include:

• Business Hours: Include opening and closing times, and update them during holidays or special events

• Attributes: Add relevant features like “Free Wi-Fi,” “24-hour service,” or “Eco-friendly detergents.”

• Description: Write a compelling description about your laundromat, highlighting unique selling points (e.g., “We’re the only 24/7 laundromat in town with large-capacity washers and a family-friendly atmosphere”)

• Products and Services: List specific services like pickup/delivery, dry cleaning, or folding services

2. Add Photos and Videos

Profiles with visuals are significantly more engaging. Here’s what to include:

• Exterior Photos: Help customers recognize your building

• Interior Photos: Show your machines, amenities, and cleanliness

• Action Shots: Include photos of customers using your services (with permission)

• Video Content: A 30-second walkthrough video of your laundromat can build trust and familiarity

3. Use Keywords Naturally

Incorporate local and industry-specific keywords in your:

• Business description

• Posts

• Review responses

For example, include terms like:

• “Coin-operated laundromat in [Your City]”

• “Affordable laundry pickup and delivery in [Your Area]”

4. Regularly Post Updates

Keep your profile active by posting updates weekly. Use Google My Business posts to:

• Announce special promotions or events

• Share laundry tips or FAQs

• Highlight new equipment or services

Step 3: Encourage and Respond to Reviews

Reviews are a cornerstone of your local SEO success.

1. Request Reviews

Encourage customers to leave reviews by:

• Providing a QR code for easy access to your review page

• Adding “Leave us a review on Google” to your receipts or flyers

• Following up with an email or SMS asking for feedback after their visit. If you don't currently have a system in place to send emails to your customers, check out our Email & SMS Marketing services

2. Respond to All Reviews

Show customers you value their input:

• Positive Reviews: Thank customers and mention specific highlights they enjoyed

• Negative Reviews: Acknowledge the issue, apologize sincerely, and offer to resolve the matter offline

Example:

• Positive Review Response: “Thanks for the great feedback, Mary! We’re so glad you enjoyed the clean environment and fast service. We hope to see you again soon!”

• Negative Review Response: “We’re sorry your experience didn’t meet expectations, John. Please contact us at [your phone/email] so we can make things right.”

Step 4: Use Google My Business Insights

Google provides robust analytics to help you understand how your profile performs:

• Search Queries: Discover what keywords customers use to find your laundromat

• Customer Actions: Track calls, website clicks, and requests for directions

• Photo Views: See which photos are most engaging

Use this data to refine your profile and marketing strategies.

Pro Tips to Maximize Your GMB Profile

1. Leverage Special Features: Use tools like FAQs, booking integrations, and Google Posts to keep your profile dynamic

2. Add a Virtual Tour: A 360-degree view of your laundromat can attract more customers

3. Showcase Unique Services: Highlight special features like “wash and fold,” free dryers, or loyalty programs

4. Track Competitors: Regularly review competitors’ profiles to identify gaps and opportunities

Final Thoughts

Optimizing your Google My Business profile is one of the most powerful ways to grow your laundromat’s online presence. By creating a complete profile, uploading engaging visuals, actively managing reviews, and leveraging insights, you can dominate local search results, build trust, and attract more customers to your business.

Remember, consistency is key. Keep your profile updated, engage with customers, and monitor performance to stay ahead of the competition.

Have questions or additional tips? Share them in the comments below to help other laundromat owners succeed!