7 Proven OPL Brands to Consider

Unimac has long been associated with performance and durability in the on-premise laundry (OPL) space. It's a brand many operations consider when evaluating commercial laundry equipment, but it’s far from the only one delivering industrial-grade quality, efficiency, and control. Several other manufacturers have built strong reputations by offering machines that equal or outperform Unimac across key criteria, including energy-efficient designs, programmability, water-saving innovations, load flexibility, and ease of maintenance.

Understanding OPL Demand in a Growing Market

On-premise laundry (OPL) systems refer to laundry services that are conducted on-site, typically where constant access to clean linens, uniforms, or textiles is non-negotiable. These include hotels, hospitals, long-term care facilities, fire stations, correctional institutions, fitness centers, and industrial operations. In this context, OPL machines hold a central role in the U.S. commercial laundry market. According to a recent market research, the U.S. Commercial Laundry Appliances Market is projected to grow from USD 10.77 billion in 2025 to USD 13.17 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.12%. To meet this demand, manufacturers are engineering durable, tech-driven machines aligned with the unique requirements of various industries.

If you’re managing a high-volume hotel laundry, hospital/assisted living facility, or any other busy laundry operation, there are robust alternatives worth your attention. Below, we explore seven of the most capable brands in the commercial laundry industry and how they meet the demands of modern OPL environments.

Top Unimac On-Premise Laundry Alternatives

1. Dexter Laundry

Dexter has earned its position as a leader in the commercial laundry sector by focusing on durability, speed, and innovative system integration. It’s a go-to choice for facilities running full-capacity loads across multiple shifts.=

• Engineered with stainless steel components and industrial-grade internals for long-term reliability.
• High G-force extraction significantly reduces drying times, lowering energy costs and increasing throughput.
• DexterLive, the brand’s remote management platform, offers complete control over wash cycles, performance metrics, and machine diagnostics from any connected device.
• Ideal for high-demand environments such as correctional facilities, hotels, and healthcare campuses requiring consistency and scalability.

2. Girbau (Continental Girbau) 

Girbau distinguishes itself with eco-conscious engineering and highly programmable controls on its industrial quality washer-extractors and commercial dryers, giving operators granular oversight of their laundry processes.

• Soft-mount, high-speed washers cut water and energy usage while eliminating the need for reinforced flooring.

• Inteli and Sapphire systems allow for precision programming and real-time remote monitoring across multiple machines.

• Ergonomically designed for ease of loading and unloading, which is an essential factor in reducing operator fatigue and injury risk.

• Well-suited to hospitals, universities, and multi-site operations seeking to reduce utility costs without compromising performance.

3. Maytag Commercial

Maytag has built a name around rugged simplicity. Its machines are designed to run reliably with minimal supervision, making them particularly attractive for facilities with smaller teams or limited technical support.

• Offers both hard- and soft-mount models to suit varying infrastructure requirements.

• Straightforward controls reduce training time and enable rapid deployment across locations.

• Components are designed for ease of access, streamlining maintenance and minimising downtime.

• A strong fit for mid-sized hospitality businesses, fitness centres, and residential care facilities that need reliable machines with minimal complexity.

4. Whirlpool Commercial

Whirlpool brings its consumer appliance legacy into the commercial space with compact machines designed for low- to medium-volume operations. It’s a practical choice for operations where affordability and reliability take precedence over advanced features.

• Space-efficient footprints make Whirlpool ideal for smaller laundries or facilities with limited square footage.

• Simple mechanical and digital control interfaces support ease of use without sacrificing quality.

• Designed for consistent performance in light commercial settings, including assisted living, spas, veterinary practices, and outpatient clinics.

5. Econ-O Laundry

Econ-O-Wash and Econ-O-Dry are streamlined commercial models designed to meet the needs of budget-conscious operations without sacrificing durability.

• Fewer electronic components reduce the risk of technical issues, keeping service calls and downtime to a minimum.

• Built for ease of use—perfect for facilities where laundry duties are handled by non-specialist staff.

• Offers robust cleaning and drying cycles suitable for small to medium loads.

• A great match for volunteer fire stations, camps, veterinary clinics, and community centres operating on lean budgets.

6. B&C Technologies

B&C Technologies delivers industrial-level performance at competitive pricing, with a focus on flexibility, capacity range, and long-term reliability.

• Offers a broad lineup of hard- and soft-mount washer-extractors and dryers, with capacities tailored to diverse OPL applications.
• Touchscreen controls provide programmable precision for institutions that require custom wash cycles.
• Built for high daily throughput, with components rated for intensive use over extended lifecycles.
• Well-suited to correctional institutions, large hotels, hospitals, and educational facilities with demanding operational needs.

7. LG Commercial Laundry

LG brings a sleek, modern take to commercial laundry, combining energy-efficient motors, intelligent interfaces, and stackable designs for maximum utility in minimal space.

• Inverter Direct Drive motor systems provide ultra-quiet operation and reduce vibration, ideal for in-building or guest-adjacent laundries.
• Wi-Fi-enabled diagnostics simplify maintenance, while programmable settings offer cycle consistency across locations.
• Stackable, high-efficiency units support multi-machine setups without requiring significant floor space.
• An excellent choice for boutique hotels, fitness clubs, salons, and premium rental properties where aesthetics and performance matter equally.

What to Consider When Choosing On-Premise Laundry Equipment

When selecting the ideal on-premise laundry machines, several key considerations must guide your decision to align operational demands with cost-effectiveness and future-proofing. 

Capacity and Throughput Needs

Analyze the volume and nature of laundry your facility processes daily. Machines come in various sizes, and choosing a capacity that matches or slightly exceeds peak loads ensures efficiency and avoids overuse that can shorten equipment lifespan. Unimac alternatives like Dexter Laundry, Girbau, and B&C Technologies offer a variety of large-capacity washers and dryers suited for high-traffic environments like multifamily housing and healthcare facilities, ensuring they efficiently meet throughput demands.

Energy and Water Efficiency

Modern laundry equipment must meet increasingly stringent environmental standards. Machines with Energy Star ratings or equivalent certifications help reduce utility costs and promote sustainable operation, a critical consideration given rising resource costs.

Durability and Maintenance

Commercial laundry equipment undergoes heavy usage; hence, build quality is paramount. Look for machines with robust construction, reliable parts, and accessible service options. Vendors with strong maintenance networks minimize downtime and long-term repair costs.

Technological Features

Advanced controls, programmable cycles, and smart diagnostics can optimize performance and reduce labor costs. Features like moisture sensing can prevent over-drying, and chemical injection systems enhance wash quality while lowering chemical consumption.

User Interface and Training

Machines with intuitive controls and clear displays reduce operator errors and training time. Make sure to consider the skill level of your staff and the ease with which they can adopt new equipment.

Space and Installation Requirements

On-premise laundry facilities often face spatial constraints. Compact designs or stackable machines can maximize floor space. Also, ensure electrical and plumbing setups are compatible with the new equipment.

Total Cost of Ownership

Beyond the purchase price, evaluate operational expenses including utilities, maintenance, and spare parts. You’re likely to find that lower running costs and longer equipment life justify a higher upfront cost.

Additional Angles to Consider

Vendor Support and Warranty: Prioritize manufacturers with responsive service teams and comprehensive warranty coverage. Brands like Dexter Laundry and Girbau provide extensive service networks and comprehensive warranty programs, crucial for maintaining continuous operation in commercial settings.

Customization and Scalability: Facilities with fluctuating demand should consider vendors like AAdvantage offering scalable solutions or machines with cycle flexibility to adapt to different fabric types and soiling levels.

Compliance and Safety: Equipment must meet all local regulatory requirements and safety standards to protect operators and avoid legal complications.

Environmental Impact: Several brands actively promote sustainability by delivering energy-efficient machines and offering recycling programs for old equipment, supporting corporate responsibility goals.

Find Trusted Unimac Alternatives at AAdvantage

If you're exploring alternatives to Unimac, AAdvantage brings you direct access to top-tier commercial laundry brands trusted by industry professionals. We supply equipment from Dexter Laundry, Girbau, Maytag Commercial, Whirlpool Commercial, B&C Technologies, and more, each known for dependable performance, efficient operation, and long-term value across a range of OPL settings.

Furthermore, our team is here to help you:

• Compare top-tier equipment from trusted manufacturers.
• Determine the best-fit machines based on load demands, utilities, and staffing.
• Access competitive pricing along with flexible financing and leasing options on new models.
• Get reliable technical support, installation, and ongoing service with genuine parts.

Talk to the knowledgeable representatives at AAdvantage to explore your options and build a laundry operation that performs exactly the way you need it to, backed by equipment and service you can count on.

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