A San Francisco laundromat owner is speaking out after a patron allegedly used the facility's machines to clean gear covered in the notoriously stubborn "playa dust" from the Burning Man festival. The fine, alkaline dust, originating from the dry lake bed where Black Rock City is established for the nine-day event, has led to damaged washing machines and dryers.
Dewi Redpath, owner of Bali Laundry, posted a video on TikTok showing the aftermath, with machines clogged with the fine grit. According to Redpath, the customer used a large 60-pound washing machine, and the dust subsequently coated multiple dryers. The particles are known to infiltrate machinery and are corrosive, making them difficult to remove. Burning Man itself advises festivalgoers to wash clothing immediately after leaving the playa and suggests using white vinegar to help break down the dust, cautioning that it can also damage vehicle electronics and upholstery.
Online commenters expressed frustration with the patron's actions, with some suggesting that businesses near the festival site have policies against servicing Burning Man attendees due to similar issues. Redpath reportedly spent hours cleaning the laundromat and its equipment before requiring a technician to inspect the machinery.
Approximately 70,000 people were expected to attend Burning Man this year, an event that often contends with dust storms in the Black Rock Desert.
