Laundry Room Makeover: From Drab To Fab

How to Make an Unfinished Laundry Room Look Nice

An unfinished laundry room can be transformed into a stylish and functional space with a few simple changes. Here are some tips to make your laundry room look nicer:

- Paint the walls, ceiling, or floor to add colour and brighten up the space.

- Improve the lighting by installing overhead lighting fixtures or task lighting.

- Enhance storage options with wall-mounted cabinets and shelves, laundry sorters, baskets, and bins.

- Conceal utility fixtures with room dividers, curtains, or built-in enclosures.

- Add decorative elements such as wall decor, window treatments, plants, and rugs.

- Install a folding table, countertop, or hanging rod for a dedicated space to fold and air-dry clothes.

- Create a cohesive look by choosing a colour scheme and using matching or complementary accessories.

- Deep clean the area and use cleaning products with a scent you love.

- Use trays to organise and display laundry products, creating a stylish and functional space.

Paint the ceiling and floor to add colour and protect your knees

Painting the ceiling and floor of your unfinished laundry room can instantly elevate the space, making it more inviting and enjoyable to spend time in. Here are some tips and ideas to guide you through the process:

Choose the Right Paint

Opt for light, neutral colours such as light shades of white, beige, or pastel hues. These colours will make the room feel more open and airy, reflecting light to make the space appear larger. Consider a semi-gloss or satin finish for added durability and ease of cleaning. These finishes are moisture-resistant and can be easily wiped down.

Prepare the Surface

Before painting, ensure that the ceiling and floor surfaces are clean and free of any dirt, grease, or old paint. Use a wire brush or a solution of mild soap and water to remove any stubborn dirt or paint residue. Fill in any cracks or imperfections with spackle, and sand the surfaces to create a smooth finish. If there are existing "grout" lines on the floor, you can use these as a guide for your new paint job.

Protect Your Knees

Painting the floor can be a tedious task, so don't forget to protect your knees! Use knee pads or place a soft mat underneath your knees to prevent soreness and bruising.

Add a Pop of Colour

Consider creating an accent wall or ceiling by painting it with a bold colour or a contrasting shade. This will add a touch of personality and style to your laundry room. You can also incorporate colours that make you happy, such as your favourite colour or a cheerful shade that brightens your mood.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Open windows or use ventilation fans during the painting process to maintain adequate air circulation. This will help with the drying process and reduce the intensity of paint fumes.

Final Touches

Once the paint is dry, add some decorative elements to enhance the space. Hang artwork, prints, or photographs on the walls that complement the colour scheme and theme of your laundry room. You can also add rugs or mats to protect the floor and create a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

By following these steps and adding your personal touches, you can transform your unfinished laundry room into a bright and inviting space that makes doing laundry a more enjoyable task.

Decorate the walls with signs and artwork

Decorating the walls with signs and artwork can instantly elevate the look of your unfinished laundry room. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Wall Art and Prints

• Opt for playful and fun art pieces that showcase your personality and style. Consider choosing colourful and cheerful artwork or motivational quotes to make the space more inviting.
• Look for laundry-themed art prints or vintage posters that add a touch of retro style to your laundry room.
• You can also create a gallery wall by grouping together multiple pieces of art, such as paintings, prints, or photographs.

Signs and Plaques

• Vintage-style metal signs with laundry-related quotes or sayings are a popular choice for laundry room décor.
• Rustic wooden signs with sayings like "Wash, Dry, Fold, Repeat" or "Laundry Today or Naked Tomorrow" add a touch of humour to the space.
• Consider making your own handmade signs using materials like wood, pipes, or vintage windows for a unique and personalised touch.

Shelves and Trays

• Install shelves on the walls to add both storage and style to your laundry room. You can display laundry-related décor items or organise supplies in baskets or bins.
• Use decorative trays to style your laundry products and create a designer look.

Wallpaper and Paint

• Consider adding an accent wall with bold colours or patterns to make a statement in your laundry room.
• You can also use wallpaper or paint to create a cohesive look by coordinating it with your laundry room décor and artwork.

Install good lighting to brighten up the space

Good lighting is essential to brightening up your unfinished laundry room and making it a more inviting space. Here are some tips and ideas to help you achieve this:

Types of Lighting

Laundry rooms often have limited opportunities for design elements, so lighting can play a significant role in enhancing the space. There are several types of lighting you can consider:

• Overhead Lighting: This includes recessed lights, track lighting, or pendant lights, depending on your style and ceiling height.
• Task Lighting: Install focused lighting in specific areas, such as above the folding table or near the ironing station, using under-cabinet lights or wall-mounted task lights.
• Natural Light: Maximise natural light by keeping windows clean and opting for sheer curtains or blinds. Light-coloured walls can also reflect natural light and make the room feel brighter.

Lighting Fixtures

The right light fixtures can add style and functionality to your laundry room. Here are some options:

• Pendant Lights: Perfect for task lighting over countertops. Simple designs work best, and glass shades can radiate light effectively but may require extra dusting due to lint.
• Flush Mount and Semi-Flush Mount Lights: Ideal for low ceilings or small spaces as they don't hang low or take up visual space.
• Recessed Lighting: A good choice for smaller laundry rooms or larger rooms without windows, providing a layer of ambient light.
• Chandelier: Adds a decorative touch and brings ample light to the room. Choose a size that suits your room dimensions, ensuring the bottom of the chandelier is at least seven feet from the floor.
• LED Lights: LED lights with adjustable settings (warm, neutral, cool) can now cater to different lighting preferences.
• Wall Lights (Sconces): Provide an extra layer of light and can be directed to specific areas. Adjustable arm sconces offer flexibility.
• Directional Spotlights: Provide focused task lighting in dim areas.
• Track Lighting: Functional and versatile, allowing you to direct light to different areas.

Lighting Controls

Consider installing dimmer switches or smart lighting controls to adjust the brightness according to your needs. This can create a cosy atmosphere for evening or night-time laundry sessions.

Hang curtains to separate the laundry room from the rest of the basement

Hanging curtains is a great way to separate your laundry room from the rest of the basement. It is a simple, elegant, and cost-effective solution that can be easily installed and maintained. Curtains can be purchased ready-made or custom-ordered to fit your specific needs. Here are some tips and ideas to help you hang curtains and separate your laundry room:

• Consider the view on both sides of the curtains: Choose curtain styles that look the same from both sides, such as rod pockets, tab tops, or tie tops. Avoid styles with header tapes on the back, as they may not be visually appealing from the rear.
• Plan the hardware: Decide whether you will hang the curtains across a cased opening or mount them on the ceiling. You can use drapery poles or a modern curtain track system for installation.
• Select suitable curtain material: If you want clear and strict separation between the laundry room and the rest of the basement, choose tight-knit, heavier curtains like blackout or thick velvet curtains. For a more relaxed and airy feel, go for sheer or linen fabric.
• Choose the right curtain style: Consider how often you will be operating the curtains. If you want them to slide open and closed easily, choose styles with rings or grommets, such as grommet tops or flat panel tops.
• Lighting considerations: Think about the window position and lighting in the room. If you don't want to block the light from the window, consider using sheer curtains or providing additional light sources in the zoned-off area.
• Decide on the decor value: Do you want your curtains to blend in with the space or stand out as a statement piece? Choose a solid color or pattern that matches your current color scheme if you want them to blend in seamlessly. Go for bold patterns and colors that draw attention if you want them to be a focal point.
• Get the length right: Design your curtains to hang slightly above or graze the floor. Avoid making them too short, as they may not provide enough privacy and will lose their decorative appeal.
• Determine the number of panels: Double-panel curtains can create an entryway effect when drawn open from both sides. Multiple-panel curtains are suitable for wider areas, while single-panel curtains work best for narrow openings or areas that don't require frequent passage.

Add a folding table to make things easier

Adding a folding table to your laundry room can make your life much easier and is a great way to make the space more functional and inviting. Here are some tips and ideas to help you create a practical and stylish folding area:

Choose the Right Table for Your Space

Before selecting a folding table, consider the amount of space you have available in your laundry room. If you have limited space, opt for a slim or narrow table that can be placed against a wall or on top of your appliances. You can also choose a table with built-in storage to maximize your storage options. If you have more room, consider a larger table with seating, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

DIY Your Own Folding Table

If you're handy, you can build your own folding table to fit your space perfectly. Determine the height and depth you need, and cut the wood to size. You can use plywood or repurpose an old dining table for the tabletop. For the base, you can use 2x3 boards mounted to the wall for support, ensuring that they are level. Sand and stain the table to your desired finish, and don't forget to add a coat of protection like wax or poly.

Multi-Purpose Features

To make your folding table even more practical, consider adding multi-purpose features. You can hang a folding drying rack above the table, which can be folded back against the wall when not in use. This saves space and keeps your laundry room tidy. You can also incorporate a sink into your folding table setup, making it easier to rinse off dirty clothes or treat stains. Just be sure to include enough counter space next to the sink for folding.

Storage Solutions

Storage is key in a laundry room, so try to incorporate it into your folding table design. You can add shelves, drawers, cabinets, or bins nearby to store laundry supplies and folded clothes. If you're crafting a custom table, consider adding cubbies or storage bins directly into the table design for easy access to your most-used items.

Standalone Tables

If renovations or custom builds aren't an option, you can simply place a standalone table in your laundry room. Look for a table with the right dimensions to fit your space, and browse thrift stores and garage sales for budget-friendly options. A small dining table or a coffee table can work perfectly, and you can always give it a fresh coat of paint to match your laundry room's style.

Frequently asked questions