BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Sometimes, the best ideas come straight from the community.

When the owners of UpTown Laundry were trying to decide what to do with the front of their building, they kept hearing the same thing over and over.

“Everyone kept asking what we were going to put here,” one owner said. “And almost every time, they’d say, we need a new laundromat in town.”

So, they listened.

After doing their research and putting in the time to figure out what works and what people actually want, they decided to go for it. Now, UpTown Laundry is open and already becoming a go-to spot in Bucyrus.

Inside, the space is clean, bright, and set up with convenience in mind. The laundromat features 36 washers and 36 dryers, with a variety of sizes including 20-, 40-, 60-, and 80-pound machines. While the larger washers were expected to be used less, they’ve actually turned out to be the most popular.

“A lot of people use them for comforters or bigger loads,” the owner said. “It’s been great to see how much they’re being used.”

Customers have options when it comes to payment (Debit, Credit, or Cash). Quarters are still accepted, but there’s also a more modern option. By scanning a QR code, customers can download an app and pay right from their phone using a debit or credit card.

The space also includes an ATM, change machine, and a soap center stocked with detergent, fabric softener, and other essentials. Laundry bags are available for purchase as well, something that ties into one of their newer services.

There’s also a kid’s area, giving families a place for little ones to stay busy while laundry gets done, something many parents will appreciate.

UpTown Laundry also offers pickup and delivery.

“We thought about people working long hours, six or seven days a week,” the owner said. “The last thing they want to do when they get home is laundry. You can get groceries delivered now, so why not laundry too?”

Customers can schedule that service through an app linked on the business’s Facebook page, or by calling the store. For those without smartphones, the team will help get everything set up over the phone.

They also offer wash-and-fold service for anyone who wants to drop off their laundry and come back later to pick it up clean and ready to go.

Beyond convenience, there’s a strong focus on keeping things clean and welcoming. Staff regularly wipe down machines after each use and make a point to greet customers and help if they have questions.

“They’re great with people,” the owner said. “They make sure everything stays clean and help customers understand how to use the machines if needed.”

UpTown Laundry is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., with the last load going in at 10 p.m. The business is open nearly every day of the year, closing only on Christmas.

They’re also giving back to the community.

Customers are entered into monthly raffles just for doing their laundry, with prizes like a 55-inch TV, bicycles, and upcoming school supply giveaways for kids. The goal is to continue growing those giveaways each year.

“If people are choosing to come here, we want to give something back,” the owner said.

At the end of the day, UpTown Laundry is about more than just washers and dryers. It’s about making life a little easier,and creating a place the community can count on.