What Is My Dry Cleaning Business Worth?

Dry cleaners are a staple of small business M&A, though the industry has evolved significantly — casual dress codes, remote work, and washable fabrics have shifted demand. Well-positioned dry cleaners with route delivery and commercial accounts remain solid businesses.

Typical Valuation Ranges

Most dry cleaners sell for 1.5x to 2.5x SDE.

Factors that push toward the higher end:

• Own the cleaning plant (vs. drop-off location)
• Route delivery service with recurring accounts
• Commercial accounts (hotels, restaurants, uniforms)
• Multiple locations or satellite drop-off points
• Revenue above $500K with stable volume
• Modern, environmentally compliant equipment

Factors that push toward the lower end:

• Drop-off only location (no plant)
• Walk-in consumer only (no routes or commercial)
• Declining volume (post-pandemic dress code shifts)
• Aging equipment or environmental non-compliance
• Owner works the counter and operates equipment
• Short remaining lease

Key Value Drivers

Plant vs. drop-off: Plant operators command higher multiples because they control the production process and can service multiple locations and routes. Drop-off locations are essentially retail storefronts sending garments elsewhere.

Route delivery: Pick-up and delivery routes create recurring revenue and customer lock-in. A route with 200+ active accounts is a valuable asset.

Commercial accounts: Hotels, restaurants, and uniform services provide volume, consistency, and higher margins than consumer walk-ins.

Environmental compliance: Dry cleaning chemicals (particularly perc) are regulated. Modern, solvent-compliant equipment and clean environmental history are essential.

How to Increase Your Value

1. Launch route delivery. Pick-up and delivery service captures customers who won't visit the store and creates recurring relationships.
2. Build commercial accounts. Hotels, restaurants, and corporate uniform programs provide volume and stability.
3. Upgrade equipment. Modern, eco-friendly solvents and efficient equipment reduce operating costs and environmental risk.
4. Add services. Alterations, wash-and-fold, leather care, and wedding gown preservation diversify revenue.
5. Secure your lease. Long-term lease with controlled rent escalation.

Browse the valuation multiples guide for industry data, or schedule a free call for a confidential valuation.