Big Washateria

About this location

A few stories people tell about this place

1. It was an unusually quiet Sunday morning in downtown Portland when a delivery driver pulled up to Big Washateria. The sun was just peeking over the rooftops, casting an eerie glow on the usually bustling laundromat. As he opened the door, a familiar scent of detergent and wet clothes greeted him. But something was off—all the machines were silent, and no one was around. Then, from behind a pile of folded towels, emerged a sleepy-eyed neighbor wielding a damp towel. 'Oh, hi!' she yawned. 'I thought you were the new washing machine.'

2. It was a humdrum Monday afternoon in Brooklyn when a delivery driver pulled up to Big Washateria with a peculiar load. As he unloaded the basket, a strange, slightly sour smell wafted through the air, catching the attention of everyone within earshot. Curious neighbors crowded around, trying not to look too nosy. A regular asked jokingly if it was last week’s neighborhood barbecue that got accidentally thrown in. Finally, one brave soul opened the bag—inside were dozens of freshly laundered handkerchiefs, each embroidered with ‘Happy Birthday, Mr. Clean!’ The whole place erupted in laughter, and from then on, Big Washateria became known for its unique sense of humor.

3. It was another ordinary Tuesday night at Big Washateria when a delivery driver muttered under his breath, ‘Why does my washing machine always break down here?’ Just then, an old lady walked in with a basket full of colorful socks. She asked if they had seen her purple ones last washed here. With a straight face, one employee replied, 'Ma’am, your socks are dancing with joy somewhere in our dryer!' Everyone burst out laughing, including the delivery driver who finally realized why his machines were always acting up—magic happened at Big Washateria.

4. It was just another Wednesday afternoon at Big Washateria when a delivery driver pulled up with a peculiar box. As he opened it, a faint whiff of lavender wafted through the air, causing everyone nearby to pause and sniff. Curious glances turned into wide-eyed wonder as the box began gently humming and glowing softly. A few minutes later, an old lady from down the street popped her head in, smiling warmly. 'Oh my,' she said, 'looks like someone ordered themselves some happy laundry!' Everyone laughed, realizing that maybe life at Big Washateria wasn’t so ordinary after all.