Laundry and dry-cleaning workers process and finish clothing and textiles using specialized equipment and techniques. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You operate and monitor machines that wash, dry, and press clothing and fabrics. You handle garments carefully, sort items by type and color, and organize work to meet deadlines. You communicate with supervisors and customers about special requests or damage. You follow safety procedures around chemicals and hot equipment. The work requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers earn a median of $34,890 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 31,900 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most laundry and dry-cleaning positions require no formal degree. You typically start with a high school diploma or equivalent and learn on the job. Employers value reliability, basic math skills for measuring chemicals and tracking inventory, and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Some positions may require training in equipment operation and safety protocols specific to the workplace. Starting as an entry-level worker and advancing through experience is the common path.
Most people enter this field directly from high school or through entry-level hiring. If you want to map out your first steps and explore advancement options, Pathly can map the laundry and dry-cleaning worker path that fits you with your counselor to build a plan that fits your timeline.
You do not need a license to work as a laundry and dry-cleaning worker, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You prefer hands-on work with machines and materials. You are practical, detail-oriented, and reliable. You work well with others and take direction well.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).