
Designing a laundry room can be approached in two ways: either you already have a space for the laundry and want to design it, or you're designing from scratch and need to decide how much space to dedicate to your laundry room and where to locate it.
The first step is to decide on the location of your laundry room. In the past, most people kept their laundry machines in the basement to keep the noise out of the main living areas. Today, laundry rooms are usually found in the main part of the house, often near the bedrooms, to make it easier to wash sheets and clothing.
The next step is to consider the noise coming from the laundry room. Most washing machines and dryers will have a level of noise that you have to listen to while they are running. A solid door and rugs can help reduce some noise.
Then, you need to think about the steps involved in your primary laundry duties and install elements like cabinets, shelves, counters, and rods to make your life easier. For example, create a space for sorting laundry using bins or baskets, and ensure there is a tabletop or counter space for folding.
Other things to consider include the water supply, air extraction, and electricity supply for your machines, as well as the possibility of flooding and the need for adequate ventilation to prevent health issues.
Finally, don't forget to add some character to your laundry room through inventive colour schemes, flooring, lighting, and unexpected personalized touches to make this space one you actually look forward to working in.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Location | The laundry room can be in the basement, the main part of the house, or the upper level. It can also be combined with another room, such as the mudroom or a spare bathroom. |
Noise | The noise of the laundry machines should be considered, especially if the room is in the main part of the house. Some appliances have extra insulation and better suspension to reduce noise. |
Space | The room should have enough space for sorting, loading, and folding laundry, as well as for any desired storage solutions. |
Laundry Machines | Consider whether to use front-loading or top-loading machines, and whether to stack them or place them side by side. Also, consider the size of the machines and whether they will need to be replaced with larger ones in the future. |
Sink | A sink in the laundry room is useful for hand-washing and pre-treating clothes. |
Drying | There should be space for air-drying clothes, such as a rod, a standalone clothing rack, or wall-mounted drying racks. |
Countertops | Countertops or tables are needed for folding clothes. Durable and stain-resistant materials are recommended. |
Storage | Cabinets, shelves, or closets can be used for storing laundry supplies and other items. Hazardous items should be stored out of reach of children. |
Lighting | The room should have a bright overhead light, as well as task lighting and lower lighting to ensure good visibility during laundry tasks. |
Decor | The laundry room can be decorated with wallpaper, fun flooring, a chandelier, or other personal touches to make the space more enjoyable to work in. |
What You'll Learn
Choosing a washer and dryer
When choosing a washer and dryer, you have two main options: front-loading or top-loading machines. Front-loading machines can be stacked to save space, and the top can be used as a surface for folding and storage. However, they can be hard on your back, so you may want to elevate them using pedestals or lower cabinets. Top-loading machines, on the other hand, are difficult to reach into if you are petite, but they allow you to add a forgotten item mid-cycle.
If you are designing your laundry room from scratch, you have the flexibility to choose either option. However, if you are working with an existing space, you will need to consider the layout and dimensions of the room when selecting your washer and dryer. Measure your space and choose appliances that fit comfortably, leaving a little extra space for future upgrades or to accommodate larger machines.
Another option to consider is a washer/dryer combo machine, which can save space and automatically dry clothes after washing them. Alternatively, you can opt for separate washer and dryer units, allowing for greater flexibility in your laundry routine.
When selecting a washer and dryer, you should also think about the noise level of the appliances. If your laundry room is located near living areas, look for machines with extra insulation and better suspension to reduce noise. Washing machines with high-speed spin cycles greater than 1,000 rpm tend to be particularly noisy.
In addition to the type of washer and dryer, you should also give thought to the placement of the appliances within your laundry room. Consider installing the washer and dryer on pedestals or lower cabinets to raise them to a comfortable height for loading and unloading. You may also want to build a shelf over the units to create additional storage and folding space.
Finally, don't forget to consult with your local appliance store to learn about the latest washing machine and dryer capabilities and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and requirements.
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Storage solutions
Storage is key to a functional laundry room. There are many ways to incorporate storage solutions into your design, from cabinetry to shelves and everything in between.
Cabinets
Cabinets are a great way to maximise storage space in your laundry room. Opting for wall-to-wall cabinets will ensure you have ample storage for laundry essentials, such as detergent, dryer sheets, and stain removers. If you're short on space, consider installing upper cabinets only, or go for a standalone closet with shelves.
Shelves
Shelves are another excellent option for laundry room storage. You can choose between open or closed shelves, depending on whether you want to display your laundry supplies or keep them hidden. Open shelves are a great way to create a sense of openness in a small space, while closed shelves provide a neater appearance.
Countertops
Countertops are essential for any laundry room, providing a space for folding and sorting clothes. But they can also offer additional storage solutions. Consider adding shelves or cabinets above the countertops to store laundry essentials within easy reach.
Hampers and Baskets
Hampers and baskets are perfect for storing and sorting clothes pre-wash. You can place them in bedrooms, hallways, or bathrooms, making it easy for family members to collect their dirty laundry. Opt for woven bins that slide onto your washer and dryer for a space-saving solution.
Drying Solutions
When it comes to drying clothes, there are several storage-friendly options to consider. A hanging rod between walls or cabinets is handy for air-drying items, and be sure to add some wire hangers for easy access. If space permits, install wall-mounted drying racks or a standalone clothing rack on wheels.
Ironing Board Storage
Ironing boards can be bulky and take up a lot of space. Consider a wall-mounted, fold-down ironing board, or create a shallow recess in an open wall to mount the board horizontally and attach a cabinet door. Alternatively, lean the ironing board against a narrow blank wall, or invest in a storage stand that can be mounted on the wall or inside a cupboard door.
Vertical Storage
Make use of the height of your laundry room by maximising vertical storage. Stack your washer and dryer to save space, and install cabinets that reach the ceiling. You can also add floating shelves for supply storage, or opt for a combination of open shelves and closed cabinets to store extra supplies, knick-knacks, and decorative items.
Portable Storage
If you're working with a small space, portable storage solutions can be a lifesaver. Add a tiered rolling cart to store laundry supplies, and attach a small ironing board for quick touch-ups. Hampers on wheels are also convenient, as they can be easily rolled and tucked into tight corners.
Multi-Purpose Spaces
If you're combining your laundry room with another space, such as a mudroom or bathroom, create multi-functional storage solutions. Install a countertop over the machines for folding clothes, and add floating shelves for supply storage. You can also incorporate a laundry sorting system, such as individual laundry baskets tucked under the sink or behind closet cabinets.
Creative Solutions
Get creative with your storage solutions to make the most of your space. Build a shelf over your washer and dryer to create a workable area for folding and sorting, or add a non-laundry workstation with low countertops where family members can work or relax while the laundry spins.
By incorporating a combination of these storage solutions into your laundry room design, you'll create a functional and efficient space that meets your unique needs.
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Location and noise
When designing a laundry room, it's important to consider the location and how to minimise noise.
Location
The first step in designing a laundry room is to decide on its location. Traditionally, laundry machines were kept in the basement to muffle the noise. Nowadays, laundry rooms are often found in the main part of the house, making them more accessible. Some people prefer to have their laundry room on the same level as the bedrooms, so that laundry can be washed near where it is generated.
If space is an issue, you could combine your laundry room with another space, such as a spare bathroom or a mudroom. Alternatively, you could convert an underused closet or a small and oddly shaped room into a laundry room.
If you're creating a laundry room in a space that has the proper hookups, it's a good idea to place it near an exterior wall to facilitate ventilation.
Noise
Laundry machines will generate a certain level of noise, which may be bothersome to some. If you are sensitive to noise, you might prefer to have your laundry room away from the main living areas. Many washing machines and dryers have extra insulation and better suspension to reduce noise while in use. If a machine doesn't have a decibel rating, it's likely to be particularly noisy. Machines with high-speed spin cycles greater than 1,000 rpm are also especially loud.
To reduce noise, you can install a solid door and rugs, which will help to muffle the sounds.
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Counter space
Location and Layout
If you're designing a laundry room from scratch, consider the room's location and layout. The laundry room is often integrated with other spaces, such as the bathroom, kitchen, or mudroom. Think about how much space you can dedicate to counter surfaces. A standalone countertop or an 'island' in the centre of the room can provide a versatile work area. Alternatively, if your laundry room is long and narrow, install a narrow countertop along one wall, as suggested by designer Stephanie Brown.
Height and Functionality
Counters of varying heights can suit different tasks and improve functionality. For example, a raised surface above front-loading machines is ideal for folding, while a standard height of 36 inches is typical for counter space near a sink. If your laundry room doubles as an office, you can adjust the counter height to accommodate both functions, such as 42 inches for folding clothes and 30 inches for a comfortable desk height.
Materials and Durability
When choosing countertop materials, consider durability, maintenance, and cost. Laminate countertops are budget-friendly, smooth, and mostly seamless, but they can chip, peel, and flake over time. Solid surfaces, such as acrylic, offer smooth and invisible seams but can be damaged by hot irons and certain solvents. Ceramic tile countertops are durable and heat-resistant but have numerous seams and grouting that may be annoying when dealing with clothing. Wood countertops, like butcher blocks, are durable and easy to install but can warp in warm and humid areas, so proper sealing is essential. Quartz and engineered stone countertops are premium choices, known for their durability, low maintenance, and sleek appearance, but they come with a higher price tag.
Storage and Organisation
Maximise your counter space by incorporating storage solutions. If you have enough room, leave the area beneath the counter empty to create storage space for laundry baskets or rolling carts. Cabinets, shelves, and open storage above the counter can keep folded linens organised and within reach. You can also utilise the space above the washer and dryer for folding and storing laundry baskets.
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Lighting and decor
When it comes to lighting and decor, there are several ways to make your laundry room a bright, functional, and welcoming space.
Lighting
First, consider the lighting. A bright overhead light is generally sufficient, but if you have poor eyesight, you may want to install task lighting under shelves or on countertops. You could also add lower lighting to ensure you don't miss any clothes at the bottom of the washing machine or dryer. If your laundry room is small and narrow, pendant lights above the sink can illuminate the space without taking up too much room.
Decor
Now, for the fun part: decor. There are endless ways to decorate your laundry room and make it a space you enjoy spending time in. Here are some ideas:
- Add a splash of colour—whether it's a bright, cheery palette or a dark, moody theme, choose colours that make you happy. You could even add an unexpected pop of colour with a fun floor design, like a classic black and white checkerboard pattern or playful terrazzo.
- Incorporate wallpaper—whimsical wallpaper will make the space feel less sterile and more inviting. You could also add a feature wall with an accent colour or wallpaper.
- Add some greenery—fresh flowers or indoor plants will infuse a sense of brightness and tranquility.
- Install a backsplash—a beautiful backsplash is a simple way to make the room feel sophisticated and intentionally designed.
- Hang framed wall art—add some form and function to your walls with art that ties into your taste and makes you smile.
- Embrace wooden cabinets—if you like the look of earthy wooden tones, you can sand down and restain your cabinets for a cohesive and natural look.
- Add a non-laundry workstation—create a true hangout zone by adding a small table and chairs where you can work or where kids can do their homework.
- Soften the space with a rug—a rug will make the utilitarian space feel extra cosy and inviting.
- Make it cosy with decor—incorporate decorative details like thrifted paintings, vases, and baskets to infuse warmth and texture, making the space feel like an extension of the rest of your home.
- Go retro—play with retro colours and patterns to create a welcoming, cosy space.
- Choose soothing tones—create a serene space with soft, soothing colours to ease the mind while you tackle the never-ending chore of laundry.
- Add a personal touch—add some whimsy and personality to your laundry room with inventive colourways, gorgeous flooring, and unexpected personalised touches. You could even install a small TV to keep you entertained while you work.
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Frequently asked questions
The location of your laundry room is a personal preference. You may want to consider placing it near the bedrooms, so it's easy to wash clothes and sheets near where they belong. Many people also opt to combine their laundry room with their mudroom or a spare bathroom to save space.
The noise level of your appliances is an important factor. Some machines have extra insulation and better suspension to reduce noise. Front-loading machines can be hard on your back, so you may want to elevate them with pedestals or lower cabinets. Top-loading machines can be difficult to reach into for those who are petite. Stacking machines is a great space-saving option, but ensure they are properly attached.
You will need space for sorting, loading, and folding laundry. Consider installing cabinets, shelves, counters, and rods to make these tasks easier. Ensure there is a tabletop or counter space for folding, and store laundry detergent and other products within easy reach of the washing machine. If you have the space, consider adding a sink for handwashing or a non-laundry workstation to make the room a true hangout zone.
Utilise vertical space by stacking your washer and dryer and installing cabinets or shelves that reach the ceiling. You can also create a DIY countertop over your machines and add narrow rolling units or woven bins for extra storage. If you don't have room for full-sized ironing boards, consider a wall-mounted or foldable option.
Adding some character to your laundry room through colour, flooring, lighting, and personal touches can make the space more enjoyable to work in. Consider adding fresh flowers or plants, installing a stylish backsplash, or choosing a fun wallpaper.