How Professional Laundry Services Help Cleanliness on Cruise Ships

If you and your family are treating yourselves to a cruise, the last thing you want to do is spend your valuable holiday time doing laundry- a holiday is a break from reality, after all.

Laundry services aboard a cruise ship are helpful to guests who are staying for a longer period of time, or those with children who get through a lot of clothing in a short period of time. No matter your requirements, laundry services on cruise ships are a valuable commodity to make your trip that bit easier.

If you are embarking on a cruise, knowing your laundry will be taken care of offers you peace of mind so you and your family can get maximum enjoyment from your special trip. Understanding how professional laundry services help cleanliness on cruise ships will allow you to get the most out of the services whilst on your cruise.

How is Laundry Done on Cruise Ships?

Typically, laundry is done in one of two ways on a cruise ship; via a self-service laundry service or via a professional laundry service aboard the cruise ship. However, these services are subject to availability depending on the cruise line you go with.

Self-Service Laundry

Some cruise lines offer small self-service laundrettes aboard their cruise ships. These self-service laundry facilities are available exclusively to holidaymakers board the ship and allow you to do your laundry yourself using the washing machines and dryers provided.

Depending on the cruise line, some ships will charge a fee per load of laundry. In addition to this, you will likely have to pay for the use of laundry detergent, fabric softener, and tumble dryer sheets, but as mentioned before, these amenities are subject to availability.

Professional Laundry Services Aboard Cruise Ships

Most cruise lines will offer a professional laundry service that provides access to washing, pressing, and in some cases, dry cleaning. This service is typically offered at an additional fee, however, some cruise lines may offer it as a complimentary service.

If professional services are provided aboard your chosen cruise ship, designated laundry bags will be available to place your desired laundry into when required. These bags containing your laundry will then be collected by a cabin steward and taken away to be washed and dried. When complete, the cabin steward will then return the fresh laundry to your room.

If you have any special requirements for your laundry, it is important to let a cabin steward know ahead or upon collection so the cruise line can best accommodate these requirements for you.

How Long Does It Take For Laundry To Be Done?

Each ship will have a designated time for laundry bags to be collected. These pick-up times will usually be first thing in the morning or in the evening. The usual turnaround for laundry is 24 hours, as standard- for example, if your laundry bag is collected first thing in the morning, it’ll likely be returned the following day.

If you require your laundry in a hurry- perhaps a nice outfit for dinner or your child’s favourite pyjamas, then some cruise lines will offer an express service available at an extra cost. The typical turnaround for an express laundry service is same-day delivery.

Are There Laundry Packages Available?

Some cruise lines may provide set laundry packages at a flat rate for your entire cruise aboard the ship, however, these may need to be booked in advance of your cruise. Some of the services that may be available as part of your package could include:

• A set number of loads or bags of laundry
• A collection and drop-off service
• All laundry is washed, dried, and folded
• In some cases, a premium package may be available which includes your garments being hung in your wardrobes for you
• Dry cleaning services
• Pressing of your garments

If you require a laundry package, you should contact your cruise line in advance to arrange this early to avoid disappointment.