How to use the machines at SWOSH
Tokens, detergent, programmes and dryers, in the right order. Not sure about something? Call or message us on WhatsApp, 8 am to 9 pm.
Before you start
Italian laundromats run on tokens: you pay for everything with them, detergent included.
Tokens
The machines take tokens only, 1 token = €1. There are two change machines: the big one takes coins and notes, the small one only €5, €10 and €20 notes. They give no change. If staff are around, you can buy tokens from them and pay with Satispay.
Detergent
No need to bring any. The dispenser has detergent, sanitiser, stain remover and softener in single-dose sachets, 1 token each: every product has its own number, type it and the sachet drops. If you bring your own, powder only, straight into the drum.
Prices and hours
The price list, the cost calculator and opening hours are on the laundromat page. See prices
Washing, step by step
The same steps as the signs in the shop, with a little more detail.
Get tokens
From the change machine inside.
Pick a washer
By load size, from 7 to 23 kg: see below.
Load your laundry
Don't pack it in, then close the door firmly.
Add detergent
One sachet from the dispenser, 1 token. Pour it into the washer slot labelled for it.
Choose a programme
On the panel, from 1 to 5. If unsure, follow the care label.
Start
Insert the tokens and press Start. A wash takes 27-29 minutes.
Which washer
Your laundry needs room to move in the drum: better a bigger machine than an overloaded one.
- 7 kgA week's laundry
- 12 kgA medium load
- 16 kgA family load
- 23 kgDuvets, blankets and big loads
How many of each size: seven 7 kg (including no. 7, kept for pets), two 12 kg, two 16 kg and one 23 kg.
Your pet's things. Washer no. 7, at the back with the white paw stickers, is just for pets: beds, coats, pet towels, rags and sneakers. A wash costs €6.00. That way the others stay clean for everyone. And your dog can come in with you.
Duvets and blankets. Duvet guide, in Italian
The programmes
The washer panel is in Italian. It has five programmes, numbered 1 to 5.
Programmes 4 and 5 don't spin: there's a sign on the washer. Your laundry comes out wetter, so give it at least 40 minutes in the dryer.
Each programme takes 27-29 minutes. You don't choose the temperature: the washer sets it for each programme.
| Number | Programme | Spin |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bianco (whites) | Yes |
| 2 | Colorato (colours) | Yes |
| 3 | Sintetico (synthetics) | Yes |
| 4 | Nylon | No |
| 5 | Delicato (delicates) | No |
The dryer
The dryers take 16 and 23 kg, and run on tokens like the washers: 1 token, 8 minutes.
- Fill the drum halfway, so your laundry can tumble.
- Choose the temperature, low, medium or high, and press Start.
- When the cycle ends, clean the filter drawer, every time, so the dryer is ready for the next person.
Check the care label: a square with a circle inside means it can go in the dryer. If it's crossed out, hang it to dry.
How long a cycle lasts and what it costs: it's on the price list. See the price list
What not to wash
For your safety, and for whoever uses the machine after you.
- Clothes stained with oil or solvents
- Foam rubber
- Anything flammable
Don't leave children alone near the machines.
Questions
Can I use my own detergent?
Yes, but powder only: liquid detergent that isn't professional-grade stays in the washer's pipes. Put it straight into the drum. Or the dispenser has detergent, sanitiser, stain remover and softener in sachets at 1 token each: type the product's number and the sachet drops.
How long does a wash take?
A wash takes 27-29 minutes, then drying: 1 token, 8 minutes. For a properly dry load we suggest at least 5. Work out when you'll be done.
Which programme should I choose?
The one on your clothes' care label. Programmes 4 and 5 don't spin, so they need at least 40 minutes in the dryer.
Can I wash shoes, rugs and rags?
Yes, in washer no. 7, the one for pets and very dirty things. Shoes must not go in the dryer, though: let them air-dry.
Do I need to clean the dryer filter?
Yes, at the end of every cycle, so the dryer is ready for the next person.
What if a machine won't start?
Send us a WhatsApp message with a photo of the machine: we answer every day from 8 am to 9 pm.
Not sure? Message us on WhatsApp
- Every day 6:30 am to 10 pm
- Via Cernaia 25, downstairs
- We reply on WhatsApp from 8 am to 9 pm