The popularity of the Wash-Houses of Fulham can be determined by the numbers who protested at the possible change over the years. Such was the impact on the lives of those who used the laundry, a workshop play was devised in 2013 to celebrate the women of the wash-house. 

During the renovations in the 1960s, there were concerns from locals who protested over the introduction of coin-operated washing machines instead of the new sinks. 

"The housewives claim that the propsal will make it difficult to properly wash woollens, will increase the cost of the weekly wash and will break up the friendly atmosphere of the laundry where they meet their friends." 

Fulham Chronicle, 10th June 1966

Equipment and machinery of the wash house

The way the washers did their laundry naturally evolved with the times over the decades.

In the 'Selected Design', the description of the wash-house detailed that at the time of construction:

"The washers enter through a large waiting-hall adjoining which is the pay-box and matron’s office. A large room containing lockers is placed on the left of the corridor leading to the washhouse. The washhouse contains stalls for 66 washers and a like number of drying-horses, and four hydro-extractors. A large ironing-room is also provided, and two w.c.’s."

In the 1937 reconstruction, the Fulham Chronicle detailed updates of the new washing system: 

" Labour-saving improvements are being brought into the municipal laundry. The old washerwoman, scrubbing at a tub, will soon be a character of the past. A row of mechanical "washers" is being fitted in, and obsolete washing troughs have been scrapped and new ones erected. There will also be facilities for electric ironing."

By 1948 the increased demand for laundry had spurred the local council to invest in Steam Mangles

The wash house was also heavily subsidised; the cost of one washer was 70p and for private launderettes was 80p for 2. 

By 1977 it was estimated that at least 35,000 loads of laundry were done each year at Fulham Baths.