With 70% of laundromat investors having 0-2 employees, laundry facilities are at a higher risk for theft due to the low staffing and all-cash nature of business. Help keep your laundromat safe with these tips from Pittsburgh Laundry Systems!

 Prevent Internal Theft with Laundry Technology

With many laundromats operating as small business owners, they are accustomed to problems with internal theft. Investing in laundry technology, like card payment or laundry monitoring systems, helps to prevent employees from stealing because of the closed-loop nature of accounting. These electronic systems offer numerous security benefits, including:

• Less cash on hand during machine pick-up times
• Allow you to track every dollar of both credit cards and cash
• Software that helps you keep tabs on the exact measurement of things like payment history, usage, and more, permitting better protection of assets

Be Mindful During Cash Collection Times

Arguably one of the most vulnerable parts of a coin laundry business, cash collection times can pose increased security risks to yourself or attendants. It’s imperative to be mindful during pick-ups and vary your behavior patterns to decrease the risk of theft. Some tips include:

• Switch up your cash collection times and days on a weekly basis
• Immediately take the collected money to the bank or lock it in a backroom safe
• Be aware of your surroundings and always be checking to the sides and behind you
• Pick-up money from vending machines and dryers first, as they typically take longer to empty and have the least amount of cash

Invest in a Camera Security System in Your Laundry Facility

With many laundromat owners staffing their facility themselves or with a single attendant, it can be difficult to keep tabs on the interactions happening while you are not there. Investing in a  security camera system is a smart business decision to protect your commercial laundry equipment, integrity, and other assets. Video monitoring systems are available in different feature levels and vary in price.  When selecting a security camera system for your coin laundry business, it’s important to consider these questions:

1. What is your budget?
2. Do you want to view the video remotely, away from your laundromat?
3. Do you need help from the manufacturer with installing the system?
4. How advanced do you want your security system to be (i.e. turn off lights, unlock doors, act as an attendant with a two-way communication system)?
5. How much video storage will you need?

Pittsburgh Laundry Systems is dedicated to helping you be a successful laundry facility owner.. Discover more resources you can use to enhance your laundromat, including energy efficiency tips and coin laundry preventative maintenance. If you are located in our sales & service area, contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you!