About Us
History
In 1900, Canie Brown founded a laundry business in Asheville, North Carolina. His ambition was to provide the best laundry service available anywhere. In 1961, Mr. Brown was succeeded by his son-in-law, Bretney Smith. Mr. Smith’s son, Bretney Smith Jr., took over the business in 1977. After 40 years at the helm Bretney handed the reins over to his daughter Stacy Smith making her the fourth generation of the family to operate the company. Since, Stacy has retired. Today, Marvin Thomas, a second generation cleaner himself, operates the firm. Swannanoa Cleaners staff also enjoy ownership through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
Mission Statement
Swannanoa Cleaners is totally committed to quality, excellence and first class customer service. We offer our customers state-of-the-art cleaning as well as experienced, highly trained cleaners and pressers. Our customers can be assured their garments will receive gentle, thorough cleaning care.
“I have been doing business with Swannanoa Cleaners in North Asheville on Merrimon for about 10 years. The service I receive is truly wonderful!”
Community Involvement
Swannanoa Cleaners has teamed up with WLOS and Goodwill Industries for the community service project, Outfitting You for Success.
We feel honored to be featured on ABC 13News, below is an excerpt of the article.
[14 years ago], a drive began to protect the homeless and the otherwise needy in Asheville. What happens in October could go a long way to saving lives in December. Our Person of the Week has played a major role in coats for the cold because what he gives is a clean start in the winter. When November comes, what happened in October will make all the difference.
A collection of donated coats goes to those who need them most. They’ll go to people like Paul Russ who was once homeless, “that first year I was here six years ago. Remember we had all that heavy snow? I didn’t have a coat.” Marvin Thomas, co-owner of Swannanoa Cleaners, makes sure they get them clean and ready to wear as he’s done for ten years now.
“I have been doing business with Swannanoa Cleaners in North Asheville on Merrimon for about 10 years. The service I receive is truly wonderful!”
“I just wanted to let you know what a incredible job your company did restoring my mothers vintage wedding dress. We gave it to my daughter, who was VERY close to her Grandmother, for Christmas and she was blown away. Thank you so much for the amazing job you did!!!!!!”
Our Locations
Check our Google Listing or FB for up-to-date hours as hours may change due staffing.
(Click each address for directions)
Downtown Asheville
- 165 Coxe Avenue, Asheville, NC 28802
- 828-253-3691
- 712 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804
- 828-252-3676