How do I train an attendant to manage my laundromat without me?

Begin by writing down the routine. A shop opens, cleans, restocks, collects cash, deals with jams, calls repairs and closes. Put each of those into a checklist the attendant can follow, and add the phone numbers for technicians and suppliers. Include what they should never do, such as opening machines they cannot fix.

Train in stages. First work alongside them, then let them run a shift while you stay nearby, then step away for short periods. After each stage, review what went wrong and what went well. Give them clear rules for refunds and complaints so they do not have to guess.

Finally, set up controls. Cash counts, daily reports and camera checks keep everyone honest and protect the attendant too. Talk to your accountant about how to handle cash and payroll, and to your lawyer about employment terms for someone with more responsibility. A trusted attendant may also be a useful candidate if you later sell. Remember to make yourself reachable but not necessary. Agree on which problems warrant a call and which do not. An attendant who must phone you for every small matter has not yet been trained, and one who never calls may be hiding something.

Key takeaways

• Turn the daily routine into a written checklist with contact numbers.
• Train in stages, from working together to running shifts alone, and review each one.
• Set up cash counts and daily reports that protect both of you.