Creating a functional and stylish laundry room that caters to the needs of a family with children can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. With clever storage solutions and thoughtful design choices, you can transform this often-overlooked space into a well-organized and visually appealing hub. This article explores 22 design ideas for a laundry room with kid-friendly storage, incorporating the latest color trends and design styles from both the US and EU.
Built-In Cubbies with Colorful Baskets
Maximize vertical space with floor-to-ceiling built-in cubbies. Paint the cubbies a crisp white or a soft neutral like greige, and then incorporate pops of color with woven baskets in vibrant hues like turquoise, coral, and sunshine yellow. This creates a designated space for each child’s laundry, fostering responsibility and organization. Trendy in both the US and EU, this approach combines functionality with a playful aesthetic.
Pull-Out Drawers for Detergents and Supplies
Keep cleaning supplies safely out of reach of little hands with pull-out drawers beneath the countertop. Opt for sleek, modern hardware in brushed nickel or matte black for a contemporary feel. Inside, use clear organizers to separate detergents, stain removers, and other laundry essentials. This streamlined approach is popular in minimalist designs seen across the US and particularly in Scandinavian-inspired aesthetics prevalent in the EU.
Hanging Drying Rack with Colorful Clothespins
Install a retractable drying rack above the washing machine for delicate items or smaller garments. Use colorful clothespins in a rainbow of hues to add a playful touch. This not only saves space but also adds a whimsical element to the laundry room. The use of bright colors is a growing trend in both US and EU laundry room designs.
Designated Lost Sock Basket
A dedicated “lost sock” basket is a must-have in any family laundry room. Choose a fun, oversized basket in a bright color or with a playful pattern. This simple addition can help reduce clutter and make laundry day a little less chaotic. This practical solution transcends stylistic trends and is universally appreciated.
Magnetic Chore Chart
Hang a magnetic chore chart on the wall to keep track of laundry responsibilities. Assign each child a specific color and let them move their magnet to indicate completed tasks. This interactive element adds a fun and engaging aspect to chores. Chalkboard paint walls offer a versatile backdrop for this, reflecting a popular trend in both US and EU homes.
Under-Counter Hamper Drawers
Conceal laundry hampers within pull-out drawers beneath the counter. Opt for tilted drawers for easy access and label each drawer with the corresponding family member’s name. This eliminates visual clutter and keeps dirty clothes hidden away. This sleek and integrated approach aligns with the growing trend of maximizing space and minimizing visual clutter in modern laundry room designs across both the US and EU.
Open Shelving with Labeled Bins
Utilize open shelving to store folded towels and linens. Incorporate labeled bins in various sizes and materials to maintain organization and add visual interest. Consider using natural materials like wicker or seagrass for a touch of texture. Open shelving combined with natural materials is a prominent trend in both US and European farmhouse and bohemian-style interiors.
Wall-Mounted Ironing Board Cabinet
Save space with a wall-mounted ironing board that folds away neatly into a cabinet. Choose a cabinet that complements the overall design of the laundry room and consider adding a built-in light for added convenience. This functional solution is a classic that remains popular due to its space-saving benefits in both US and EU homes.
Folding Counter with Built-in Storage
Incorporate a dedicated folding counter with built-in drawers or cabinets underneath. This provides a designated space for folding clothes and keeps laundry supplies organized. Quartz or granite countertops offer durability and style. This feature is a staple in larger laundry rooms and reflects the growing emphasis on functionality and dedicated workspaces in US and EU home design.
Personalized Hooks for Backpacks and Jackets
Install individual hooks for each child to hang their backpacks, jackets, and other belongings. Use personalized labels or different colored hooks to designate each child’s space. This helps keep the laundry room tidy and prevents items from being misplaced. This practical and personalized approach is universally appealing and transcends specific design trends.
Pegboard Wall for Hanging Supplies
A pegboard wall offers versatile storage for frequently used laundry supplies like brushes, spray bottles, and measuring cups. Paint the pegboard a vibrant color or leave it natural for a more rustic look. Pegboards offer flexible organization solutions, reflecting a trend towards adaptable and personalized spaces in both US and EU homes.
Rolling Laundry Cart
A rolling laundry cart provides a convenient way to transport clothes to and from the laundry room. Choose a cart with multiple compartments for sorting and a sturdy frame for durability. This is a practical solution for larger homes or families with multiple children, popular in both US and EU.
Wall-Mounted Drying Rack for Delicates
Install a wall-mounted drying rack specifically for delicate items that require air drying. Opt for a rack made of wood or metal with a sleek design. This maximizes space and prevents delicate garments from being damaged in the dryer. This solution is particularly popular in smaller European apartments where space is at a premium.
Built-in Laundry Basket Sorter
Integrate a laundry basket sorter directly into the cabinetry. This allows for pre-sorting of clothes by color or fabric type, streamlining the laundry process. This built-in solution maximizes space and efficiency, aligning with the growing trend of integrated and customized storage solutions in both US and EU laundry room designs.
Colorful Laundry Room Rug
Add a pop of color and personality with a vibrant laundry room rug. Choose a rug that is durable and easy to clean, such as a cotton or synthetic blend. Patterned rugs are also a great way to add visual interest and hide minor spills or stains. Colorful rugs and playful patterns are increasingly popular in laundry rooms, adding a touch of personality and vibrancy to the space in both the US and EU.
Task Lighting Under Cabinets
Install task lighting under the cabinets to illuminate the countertops and work surfaces. LED strip lights offer energy efficiency and a sleek, modern look. Adequate lighting is essential for a functional laundry room and under-cabinet lighting is a popular trend in both US and EU kitchen and laundry room designs.
Over-the-Door Organizer for Small Items
Utilize an over-the-door organizer to store small laundry items like dryer sheets, stain remover pens, and sewing kits. This maximizes vertical space and keeps frequently used items within easy reach. This practical solution is a classic space-saver that remains popular in both US and EU homes.
Child-Safe Cabinet Locks
Install child-safe cabinet locks on cabinets containing cleaning supplies and detergents to prevent accidental access. This is a crucial safety measure for families with young children. This essential safety feature transcends design trends and is a must-have in homes with young children globally.
Label Maker for Clear Organization
Use a label maker to clearly label bins, baskets, and shelves. This helps maintain order and makes it easy for everyone in the family to find what they need. Clear labeling is a cornerstone of organized spaces and is a popular organizational trend in both the US and EU.
Fun Wallpaper or Wall Decals
Add a touch of whimsy to the laundry room with fun wallpaper or wall decals. Choose a design that complements the overall style of the room and reflects your family’s personality. Bold patterns and playful designs are a growing trend in laundry room decor, transforming the space from utilitarian to stylish in both the US and EU.
Decorative Laundry Baskets
Instead of hiding laundry baskets, embrace them as decorative elements. Choose baskets in different sizes, colors and textures to add visual interest to the room. Wicker, seagrass, and canvas baskets are popular choices that can complement a variety of design styles. This trend is popular in both the US and EU, adding a touch of personality and charm to the often overlooked laundry room.
