Small laundry rooms can feel cramped and overwhelming, but with clever design, they can be transformed into efficient and stylish spaces. Here are 27 design ideas to help you maximize your laundry room’s potential, regardless of size:
Vertical Storage with Open Shelving
Vertical storage is key for maximizing space in small laundry rooms. Open shelving offers a sleek and modern aesthetic, perfect for showcasing baskets filled with folded laundry or displaying decorative items. In the US, white or light wood shelving is popular for a clean and airy feel, while in the EU, darker woods and industrial metals are trending for a more contemporary look. Consider using baskets or containers in complementary colors to add visual interest and help categorize items. To prevent dust, opt for shelves with lip edges or use clear storage bins.
Utilize the Wall Above the Washer and Dryer
Don’t let the wall space above your appliances go to waste! Install a shelf or cabinet to store detergents, fabric softener, and other laundry supplies. Consider using a tension rod to create an additional hanging space for drying delicate items. For a seamless look, choose a cabinet that matches your washer and dryer, or opt for a floating shelf in a contrasting color to create visual interest. In the US, minimalist white cabinets are popular, while in the EU, open shelves in natural wood tones are trending for a rustic charm.
Maximize Wall Space with Pegboards
Pegboards are a versatile and visually appealing solution for small laundry rooms. They provide ample storage space for hanging laundry baskets, ironing boards, and other essential tools. You can personalize the pegboard by adding decorative hooks in various sizes and finishes. In the US, white pegboards are popular for their clean look, while in the EU, black or copper-toned pegboards are trending for a more industrial vibe. Consider using colorful pegboard hooks to add a pop of personality to your space.
Stacking Appliances for More Floor Space
Stacking your washer and dryer is a space-saving solution that frees up valuable floor space. Look for models specifically designed for stacking, as not all appliances are compatible. If you have limited floor space, consider a combination washer-dryer unit. In the US, stainless steel appliances are popular for their sleek and modern look, while in the EU, white appliances are still prevalent, but black and other dark colors are gaining popularity for a more sophisticated feel.
Utilize the Under-Sink Area
The space under your sink is often overlooked, but it can be transformed into a functional storage area. Install a pull-out drawer for storing cleaning supplies or a tiered shelf for organizing laundry detergents. You can also opt for a shallow cabinet with doors for a neater appearance. In the US, white or light gray cabinets are popular, while in the EU, darker wood finishes or industrial metal cabinets are trending for a more contemporary look.
Create a Dedicated Drying Rack Area
Even if you have a dryer, having a dedicated drying rack area is essential for air-drying delicates and larger items. Consider installing a retractable clothesline, a fold-down drying rack, or even a simple tension rod across the room. If space allows, you can create a designated drying area with a dedicated shelf or hanging space. In the US, white or stainless steel drying racks are popular for their modern aesthetic, while in the EU, wooden drying racks are trending for their natural charm.
Foldable Ironing Board
A foldable ironing board saves space and is easy to store when not in use. Look for models that can be mounted to the wall or tucked away in a cabinet. Consider a wall-mounted ironing board with a built-in storage compartment for your iron and ironing board cover. In the US, white or silver-colored ironing boards are popular, while in the EU, black or other darker colors are trending for a more modern look.
Laundry Hamper with Storage
A laundry hamper with built-in storage is a practical and space-saving solution. Look for hampers with shelves, drawers, or compartments for storing cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, or other essentials. Choose a hamper in a style that complements your laundry room’s aesthetic. In the US, fabric hampers with a minimalist design are popular, while in the EU, woven baskets or rattan hampers are trending for a more natural look.
Maximize Vertical Space with a Rolling Cart
A rolling cart is a versatile and mobile storage solution that can be used to organize laundry supplies, cleaning products, or even serve as a drying rack. Choose a cart with multiple shelves or drawers for optimal storage capacity. In the US, rolling carts with a minimalist design in white or silver are popular, while in the EU, metal carts with industrial finishes are trending for a more contemporary look.
Wall-Mounted Storage Baskets
Wall-mounted storage baskets are a great way to keep items organized and off the floor. Look for baskets in various sizes and materials to suit your needs. You can use them to store laundry detergent, fabric softener, or other laundry supplies. In the US, white or light gray baskets are popular for a minimalist look, while in the EU, woven baskets or baskets with a rustic finish are trending for a more natural aesthetic.
Over-the-Door Organizer
An over-the-door organizer is a budget-friendly solution for adding extra storage space in your laundry room. Use it to store laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, or even small items like clothespins. In the US, over-the-door organizers with mesh pockets are popular, while in the EU, organizers with fabric pockets are trending for a more elegant look.
Decorative Hooks for Towels and Garments
Decorative hooks are a stylish and practical way to add storage space to your laundry room. Use them to hang towels, robes, or even laundry bags. Choose hooks in different sizes and finishes to create a visually appealing display. In the US, chrome or brushed nickel hooks are popular for their modern look, while in the EU, black or copper-toned hooks are trending for a more industrial vibe.
Designated Sorting Area
A designated sorting area is essential for keeping your laundry organized. You can create a sorting area by using a shelf or cabinet with multiple compartments or by using baskets or bins. Choose a system that works for your laundry routine and helps you keep track of different items. In the US, baskets with labels are popular for easy identification, while in the EU, woven baskets with natural textures are trending for a more rustic charm.
Use Wall-Mounted Mirrors to Make the Room Seem Larger
Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of more space, making your laundry room feel larger and brighter. Consider using a large mirror to cover an entire wall or placing several smaller mirrors strategically throughout the room. In the US, simple, framed mirrors are popular, while in the EU, mirrors with ornate frames or antique finishes are trending for a more elegant look.
Incorporate a Drying Cabinet
A drying cabinet is a space-saving solution that can dry laundry quickly and efficiently. It’s especially useful for delicates that can’t be put in the dryer. Consider a drying cabinet with adjustable shelves and a timer to control drying time. In the US, drying cabinets with a modern stainless steel finish are popular, while in the EU, drying cabinets with a sleek white or black finish are trending for a more contemporary look.
Maximize Wall Space with a Rolling Ladder
A rolling ladder is a practical and stylish solution for reaching high shelves or cabinets in your laundry room. It also adds a unique design element to the space. Consider a rolling ladder with a wood or metal finish to complement your laundry room’s aesthetic. In the US, rolling ladders in white or black are popular for their minimalist look, while in the EU, rolling ladders with rustic wood finishes are trending for a more natural charm.
Use Baskets to Contain Unfolded Laundry
Don’t leave unfolded laundry scattered on the floor! Use decorative baskets to contain clean laundry until it’s ready to be put away. Choose baskets in various sizes and materials to suit your needs. In the US, canvas baskets with a minimalist design are popular, while in the EU, wicker or rattan baskets are trending for a more natural look.
Install a Built-in Ironing Board
A built-in ironing board is a space-saving solution that integrates seamlessly into your laundry room. It can be incorporated into a cabinet or shelf, and it folds away neatly when not in use. In the US, built-in ironing boards with a minimalist design in white or silver are popular, while in the EU, built-in ironing boards with a more industrial aesthetic are trending for a more contemporary look.
Utilize Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers are a simple and effective way to organize drawers in your laundry room. They can be used to separate different types of laundry supplies, cleaning products, or even small items like clothespins. Choose drawer dividers in various sizes and materials to suit your needs. In the US, clear plastic drawer dividers are popular for their versatility, while in the EU, wooden drawer dividers with a natural finish are trending for a more elegant look.
Add a Small Table or Countertop
A small table or countertop provides a workspace for folding laundry, sorting clothes, or even storing small appliances. Choose a table or countertop in a style that complements your laundry room’s aesthetic. In the US, simple, folding tables are popular for their practicality, while in the EU, small, vintage-inspired tables are trending for a more unique look.
Decorate with Laundry-Themed Artwork
Add personality to your laundry room with laundry-themed artwork. You can find prints, posters, or even create your own artwork using fabric scraps or other materials. Choose artwork that reflects your personal style and complements the color palette of your laundry room. In the US, minimalist prints with bold colors are popular, while in the EU, vintage-inspired prints with muted colors are trending for a more eclectic look.
