Laundry expenses may be deductible when they relate to eligible work clothing, such as qualifying protective or occupation-specific clothing or an eligible uniform. Washing ordinary clothes worn to work does not automatically qualify.
What this means in practice
Start with the clothing itself: if the clothing does not meet the deduction rules, its laundry costs do not become deductible merely because it is worn on shift. Keep a reasonable basis for the calculation and distinguish work clothing from private washing. Do not treat a record-keeping exception as an automatic entitlement to claim a set amount.
Your next steps
- Identify the clothing washed
- Check whether it qualifies
- Keep a basis for your calculation
- Exclude private laundry
Get help with the next step
If this relates to your business, tell us about your current records and the task you need help with. We can explain our service scope and the information needed before work starts.
Official guidance: ATO: Income and deductions ↗
General information prepared on 26 September 2026. Rules and individual circumstances can change. Confirm the treatment that applies to you before acting.
Prepared by the Affordable Bookkeeper content team. Our services and practitioner arrangements.
