Is there a more welcome refuge from the troubles of modern life than the laundromat - that electromechanical chapel of enforced contemplation? I find them very relaxing.
I haven’t had occasion to visit a laundromat for many a year but as well as broadening the mind prolonged travel also enstinkens the garments.
They say cleanliness is next to Godliness and the laundromat is the proof. Like a church, it is a building for a singular purpose, a sanctuary for weary travelers and locals alike to sit and quietly wash away the stains of recent actions.
Indeed, I would argue that cleanliness is even better than Godliness. We are all unworthy under the eye of God, but the machines do not judge us. The token machine might not give change for €20, and the dryers will certainly not get your clothes dry on the first attempt but you can be sure that if you follow the more-of-less simple instructions you will walk out of the laundromat in a better position than when you came in.