Doing laundry is one of those necessary evils of life.
No one really enjoys spending time sorting clothes, waiting for loads to finish, and folding a mountain of towels and sheets.
But having an efficient, well-designed laundry room can make this chore a little less dreadful.
The layout and setup of your laundry room can have a big impact on your productivity and enjoyment of this space.
The right layout allows you to easily move around to load and unload machines, fold and put away laundry, and store supplies.
It also helps the room feel more inviting so you don’t mind spending time in there.
In this article, we’ll look at 10+ layout ideas to transform your laundry room into a functional, organized space you’ll actually want to spend time in.
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Idea 1: Folding Layout
One of the best ways to upgrade a laundry room is by incorporating a dedicated folding station.
This provides a large, uncluttered surface for folding fresh laundry right out of the dryer.
No more balancing baskets on top of machines or dragging clothes to another room.
For a basic folding station, look for an open counter or tabletop that’s at least 36-48 inches wide.
Position it near the washer and dryer so you can transfer loads easily.
Add a couple of laundry baskets or bins below to organize folded clothes.
For a more built-in look, have a continuous countertop installed along one wall with upper and lower cabinets.
The countertop can double as folding space.
Make sure the folding area is at a comfortable height for you.
Around 36 inches high is ideal.
Have a stool or chair handy so you can take a load off while folding.
Good lighting is also key – install task lighting overhead and/or position the folding station near a window.
Little extras can make your folding station even more functional.
A rack for hanging delicate items to dry, hooks for sorting clothes pins, and cubbies for small laundry accessories will streamline your laundry workflow.
Idea 2: Laundry Tasks Zones
Instead of cramming everything together, think about dividing your laundry room into functional zones.
Having separate areas for laundry, folding, supplies, and storage helps make the space more efficient and organized.
Start by positioning your washer and dryer along one wall.
Then decide the logical order of steps from dirty to clean laundry.
For example, you may want to create a sorting zone near the washer with bins or baskets for lights, darks, delicates, etc.
Next to that, have a folding and pressing station as mentioned above.
Nearby, incorporate open shelving or cabinets for laundry supplies like detergent, dryer sheets, and stain removers.
Across from the washer and dryer, build in adjustable shelves and rods for air drying.
This creates separate but connected zones for each step.
Within each zone, make sure to allow adequate space to move around comfortably.
A minimum of 32-36 inches around machines is ideal.
The zones themselves can be delineated with changes in flooring material, rugs, or wall paint color.
Get creative with how you define and outfit each functional area.
Idea 3 Utility Sink Layout
One of the handiest laundry room upgrades is adding a utility sink.
A sink provides a designated spot to pretreat stains, hand wash delicate items, dye fabrics, and more.
Look for a roomy sink basin at least 18 inches wide and 10 inches deep.
Shallow laundry tubs don’t provide enough volume.
Position your utility sink near the washer so you can easily move wet items from sink to machine.
Wall-mount faucets are preferable over deck-mount to maximize basin space.
Include a mixing valve for hot and cold water.
For safety, make sure to install GFCI outlets nearby.
Build generous countertop space around the sink for setting down supplies and doing projects.
Upper cabinets provide enclosed storage while open shelves work for quick access.
Consider adding a rack over the sink for drying hand-washed items.
With the right sink setup, you can handle all kinds of laundry tasks with more ease.
Idea 4: Smart Laundry Pairings
Your washer and dryer are the heart of your laundry room.
But besides investing in reliable machines, it’s also key to think about their size and configuration.
Well-matched sets that are thoughtfully arranged can vastly improve your laundry room’s workflow.
First, pay attention to the capacity and dimensions of both appliances.
Make sure they are proportional – don’t pair an oversized washer with a standard dryer.
This creates bottlenecks where clean clothes pile up out of the washer while waiting to be dried.
When possible, choose stackable washer/dryer units.
They maximize floor space and can be tucked into closets or small spaces.
Make sure to order the correct stacking kit so they align properly.
Another space-saving option is a combo unit with the washer on top and dryer below.
For standard side-by-side machines, allow at least 2-3 feet between them and the walls.
This gives you room to load/unload comfortably.
Position them close enough to transfer loads easily but not too close if you need space between.
Angling the appliances in an L-shape takes up less linear space while still allowing elbow room.
Just be sure to match the doors – install the washer’s door on the inside corner and the dryer’s on the outside for easier access.
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Idea 5: Allocate Space for Hampers & Sorting
The first step of any laundry routine is collecting dirty clothes in hampers around your home.
Make sure to allow for ample hamper space in your laundry room layout.
Provide at least 2-3 canvas or woven hampers on wheels so family members can transport loads from bedroom to laundry room with ease.
For large families, consider setting up a sorting station with 3-4 hampers labeled for different types of laundry.
Install shelving above with bins for delicate items.
Near your washer, leave open floor space for transferring clothes from hampers.
Or, install a wide shelf or tabletop above the machines – this can act as a hamper stand when laundry day arrives.
For wet laundry that needs air drying, incorporate retractable drying lines or a ceiling-mounted rack.
Install rods and hooks along the walls for hanging shirts and delicate pieces.
Make sure to allow adequate floor space for clothing piles.
Having a clear organization system from dirty to clean clothes will keep your laundry moving efficiently.
Idea 6: Functional Over Fancy Layout
When planning your laundry room layout, remember that function is far more important than having the most stylish or innovative design.
Focus first on creating a logical workflow and allowing ample space for tasks.
Once you have a practical layout, then you can add pretty features.
That means picking durable appliances and materials that can handle messes and moisture.
Porcelain, quartz, and solid surface countertops are better than real wood.
Look for cabinets with moisture-resistant finishes and hardware that won’t corrode.
Consider laundry-specific storage like pull-out drying racks, retractable ironing boards, and compartmentalized drawers.
Have open shelving for extra ventilation and easy access.
Install washable walls like tile or vinyl rather than delicate wallpaper.
And make sure you have plenty of lighting.
Add windows if possible along with LED fixtures on the ceiling and inside cabinets.
The brighter the space, the more pleasant it will be.
With the right sturdy, laundry-focused features in place, you can then stylishly decorate your laundry room with fun colors, patterns, and accessories.
Idea 7: Incorporate Hidden Storage
One challenge with laundry rooms is dealing with all the associated clutter – detergents, pretreat sticks, stain removers, and other supplies.
Keep these items organized yet out of sight with smart hidden storage.
Start by looking for stackable washer/dryers with storage drawers built into the pedestal.
Or install a matching freestanding pedestal with drawers next to the machines.
Use them for laundry products, small accessories like lint rollers and laundry bags, and extra rags.
Take advantage of all vertical space with floor-to-ceiling shelving on the walls.
You can hang a curtain to conceal shelves when they start to look messy.
For a sleeker look, install cabinets with doors to hide clutter.
If you have high ceilings, add shelves or cabinets above appliances and countertops.
They’ll be out of the way but still easily accessible.
Construct a platform with railings and stairs for a second level of storage.
Build bins and cubbies into unused nooks and crannies around pipes, the utility sink, and behind appliances.
A little hidden storage goes a long way in keeping a laundry room looking orderly.
Idea 8: Maximize Natural Light
Laundry rooms have a reputation for being cramped, dark spaces.
But they don’t have to be!
Bring in natural light to make your laundry area feel more cheerful and inviting.
If possible, add a window above the washer and dryer or on an adjacent wall.
Supplement with reflective surfaces like mirrored cabinet doors which “bounce” light around.
Opt for light wall colors like white, ivory, or soft yellow.
You can also install glass-paneled doors rather than solid ones on cabinets and closets.
Glass laundry room doors let light filter in from adjoining rooms.
For privacy, use textured or opaque glass.
Place mirrors strategically to amplify light.
Hang one near a window to reflect more sun.
Or put a mirrored wall cabinet directly across from a light source.
The reflection will brighten up the whole room.
Good lighting isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s also key for practical tasks like treating stains, matching socks, and inspecting laundry loads.
Brighten up your laundry room with natural light for both form and function.
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Idea 9: Embrace Open Shelving
Traditional laundry rooms often have closed cabinetry from floor to ceiling.
But open shelving can provide better visibility and access to essentials.
Installing a mix of open and closed storage creates visual contrast.
Use open shelves near appliances and countertops to hold laundry supplies you use frequently.
Reserve closed cabinets along walls or distant areas for less-used items.
Wire shelving has an airier, industrial vibe.
Wooden shelves offer a warmth and elegance.
No matter the material, make sure shelves are sturdy enough to handle heavy bottles and stacks of linens.
Have at least 12-15 inches of depth for ample storage capacity.
Consider mounting shelves away from walls to create “floating” units.
This modern look opens up the room visually.
Make sure to securely anchor shelves to prevent tipping.
Sized properly, shelves can double as display spaces in your laundry room.
Folding laundry is more pleasant surrounded by decorative objects or favorite collectibles.
Just avoid fragile items that could tumble.
Idea 10: Embrace Small & Narrow Spaces
Don’t let a tiny laundry room deter you from a makeover.
There are lots of smart design solutions that make the most of narrow layouts and tight spaces.
Stackable washer-dryer units are ideal for small laundry rooms since they maximize vertical space.
Measure carefully to ensure front-loading units can open fully without hitting walls.
Install shelf units that extend all the way to the ceiling.
You can utilize the area above appliances and cabinets that would otherwise go unused.
Just leave adequate room for ventilation.
Take advantage of all available wall space with floor-to-ceiling shelving.
You can include cubbies and compartments to corral laundry supplies.
Use removable tension rods for hanging clothes to dry.
Look at underlying areas like stairs and closets that can house laundry facilities.
Just be sure utilities like electrical, gas and plumbing can be easily accessed.
A closet laundry layout works best with bi-fold or sliding doors.
With creative spatial planning and compact appliances, even the tiniest laundry room can be totally functional.
Don’t let limited square footage deter your upgrade plans.
Idea 11: Add Some Personality
Once you’ve got function covered, have fun adding decorative touches to reflect your personal style.
The laundry room doesn’t need to be strictly utilitarian.
Paint the walls a cheery hue like aqua, sunshine yellow or lavender.
Opt for patterned wallpaper or tiles as an accent.
Decorate with art, photos and colorful prints related to laundry and cleaning.
Incorporate furniture-like cabinets and hutches rather than boring solid cabinetry.
Floating shelves with decorative brackets and legs look stylish.
Use baskets, bins and pretty canisters to corral supplies.
Dress up windows with charming cafe curtains, valances or roman shades.
Add a cushioned bench or chair for comfort while folding.
Bring in greenery and flowers to brighten the space.
Little decor upgrades make doing laundry feel less like a chore.
Surround yourself with colors, patterns and accessories you love.
Don’t settle for a bland laundry room – create a space with personality you look forward to spending time in.
Upgrading your laundry room layout and design is one of the most worthwhile home projects.
You’ll reap the benefits each time you need to do laundry.
By implementing smart organization systems and comfortable, functional spaces, you can transform the way you tackle this common chore.
Use the layout ideas in this article as inspiration for designing your ideal laundry room.
Focus first on creating an efficient workflow.
Then incorporate storage solutions to keep clutter contained.
And finally, don’t forget to add personal touches to make the space uniquely yours.
Investing thought and effort into your laundry room pays off tremendously in the long run.
You’ll boost productivity, reduce frustration, and maybe even start enjoying doing laundry with a well-designed space.
Tackle your laundry room makeover and watch your motivation improve each time you walk through the door.
