Hotel & lodging laundry cost
Properties choose between on-premise laundry (equipment, labor, utilities) and outsourced linen programs. Outsourcing typically prices per pound or per item; most small-to-mid properties land between $1,000 and $6,000 per month depending on occupancy.
Typical weekly rental rates
Published industry ranges — actual quotes vary by market, volume, and route density. Treat these as sanity checks, not promises.
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Per-pound processing | $0.90 – $2.00 / lb |
| Sheets | $0.55 – $1.30 each |
| Towels (bath) | $0.35 – $0.75 each |
| Banquet tablecloths | $0.90 – $2.25 each |
What actually moves your price
- Occupancy and turnover. Linen cost tracks occupied-room-nights more than room count.
- Rental vs COG. Renting linen bundles replacement; customer-owned-goods processing is cheaper per pound but you buy the linen.
- Quality tier. Boutique-weight terry and percale carry premiums.
Watch the contract, not just the rate
The per-item rate is the headline; the money hides in loss & damage billing, delivery and fuel fees, minimums, and automatic escalators. Our guide to contract questions covers what to pin down before signing.
Common questions
Is outsourcing cheaper than on-premise laundry?
For properties under ~100 rooms, usually yes once equipment, labor, water, and downtime are counted honestly.
Can vacation rentals get service?
Yes — turnover-based linen packages exist; see our lodging page.
