Accessing The Crawl Space Over Your Laundry Room

If you're looking to maximise the space in your laundry room, there are plenty of options to consider. From custom-built shelves to space-saving appliances, you can transform your laundry room into a bright and organised space.

One way to make the most of a small laundry room is to utilise vertical space. Installing cabinets that reach up to the ceiling can provide extra storage without taking up any additional floor space. You can also hang shelves or mount a towel bar above your washer and dryer to keep essential items within reach.

Another idea is to install stackable front-loading appliances, which can be placed side by side or stacked on top of each other. This setup not only saves space but also makes it easier to transfer wet clothes from the washer to the dryer.

To create a functional workspace, consider adding a countertop or table adjacent to your appliances for sorting, treating, and folding clothes. If you opt for front-loading machines, you can even install a counter on top of them to save space.

There are also various creative storage solutions you can explore, such as behind-the-door shelves, laundry chutes, and retractable clotheslines.

By combining smart storage strategies and design tricks, you can maximise the space in your laundry room and make doing laundry a more enjoyable task.

Install a shelf and clothes rod to save ironing time

This DIY laundry room hanging rod project will save you hours of ironing and organising. You can now hang up your shirts and jackets as soon as they come out of the dryer, saving you time and energy. This project will also give you an out-of-the-way upper shelf to store all sorts of odds and ends.

To install a shelf and clothes rod, you will need standard closet rod brackets, a closet rod, and a pre-cut 12-inch-deep melamine shelf. You will also need drywall anchors, or if your wall is made of concrete, plastic anchors and a corresponding masonry bit.

First, locate the studs in your wall. Drill clearance holes and screw the shelves to the studs with 2-1/2-inch wood screws. Put a rubber bumper on the frame to protect the door. Fasten the shelves to the wall and add the closet rod.

If you are installing a double-rod system, the top rod should be placed 81-3/4 inches above the floor, and the lower rod 40-1/2 inches above the floor. If you are installing a single-rod system, the rod should be placed 66 inches above the floor. Ensure the rod is at least 12 inches from the rear wall of the closet to avoid wrinkling your clothes.

If you are installing the rod on a concrete wall, you will need to use expandable anchors that are rated high enough to hold the rod and the weight of the clothes.

Use a rolling ladder to access supplies

A rolling ladder is a great way to access supplies in a crawling space over the laundry room. It is a safe and convenient option that can make the most of your vertical storage space. Here are some tips on how to use a rolling ladder effectively:

Install Floor-to-Ceiling Cabinetry:

Start by building floor-to-ceiling cabinetry along the walls of your laundry room. This will provide ample storage space for all your laundry supplies and other household essentials. You can include a mix of shelves and closed cabinets to store items of different sizes.

Ensure Safe Ladder Usage:

When installing the rolling ladder, make sure it is securely attached to the cabinetry or wall. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation. The ladder should be able to roll smoothly along the base cabinetry or wall mounts. Always test the stability of the ladder before using it and avoid overloading it with weight.

Organize Your Supplies:

Group similar items together and place them on the shelves at a reachable height. For example, you can have separate sections for laundry detergents, stain removers, fabric softeners, and cleaning supplies. Use labelled containers or baskets to keep smaller items together and avoid clutter.

Optimize Ladder Accessibility:

Position the rolling ladder so that it can easily access all areas of your cabinetry. If you have multiple sections of cabinetry, consider installing a ladder that can be moved from one area to another. This will allow you to reach items stored at higher levels safely.

Maintain a Safe Environment:

Keep the area around the rolling ladder clear of obstacles and tripping hazards. Ensure that the floor is non-slippery and there are no loose items that could cause accidents. If you have young children or pets, consider adding a safety gate or barrier to prevent unsupervised access to the ladder.

By following these tips, you can efficiently use a rolling ladder to access supplies in your crawling space over the laundry room. It is a practical solution that maximizes storage space and provides easy access to items stored at various heights. Remember to always prioritize safety when using a rolling ladder and ensure that it is properly secured and maintained.

Install a countertop over front-loading machines

Installing a countertop over front-loading machines can be a great way to create more space in your laundry room. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Planning and Preparation:

Firstly, you will need to choose an appropriate material for your countertop. Consider factors such as heat and water resistance, weight capacity, and cost. Common options include plywood, particleboard, stainless steel, butcher block, quartz, granite, marble, and laminate.

Next, decide on the design of your countertop. You may want to consider a hinged or waterfall design, especially if you need easy access to your machines. Additionally, ensure that your design allows access to the water shut-off valves and that the height is suitable for your needs, such as folding clothes or reaching built-in cabinets.

Installation Process:

• Prepare the Countertop: Design and prepare your countertop according to your chosen material and design. For example, if you are using polyurethane, allow sufficient time for the wood to cure.
• Measure the Walls and Machines: Measure the back and sidewalls, as well as the height and depth of your front-loading machines. Leave a gap of 1" to 3" between the machines and the countertop to allow for movement and repair work.
• Mark the Counter Installation: Use a level to draw a straight line on the wall, indicating the underside of the countertop. Ensure this line is above the top of your machines to allow for movement.
• Cut the Wood Braces: Cut wood braces to support the countertop. Cut the wood to the measured length of the back wall and the depth of the machines. For braces near the machines, cut the wood at an angle to make them less visible. Also, cut out sections for the wall brace joints.
• Install the Wall Braces: Use a level and stud finder to attach the wall braces. Install braces on all sides of the wall where support is needed.
• Install Center Supports: Install narrower wood boards across the middle of the countertop to provide additional support. You can use wood glue to permanently affix these braces.
• Attach the Countertop: Slide the countertop into place and secure it to the braces using L-brackets.
• Finish the Countertop: Add a finish to your countertop, such as paint or a veneer. For example, a laminate veneer is inexpensive and easy to work with, providing protection against water and heat damage.

Additional Considerations:

• Accessibility: Ensure your design allows for easy access to your machines for maintenance and repairs. You may need to pull them out, so consider using slides to protect your floor.
• Water Shut-Off: Make sure you have a cut-out in your countertop to access the water shut-off valves in case of a leak.
• Weight Support: Confirm that your braces and anchors can support the weight of the countertop and laundry loads.
• Sealing: If you are sealing the countertop, use a polyurethane that won't cause discolouration, especially if you are aiming for a white finish.

Create a custom ironing centre

Creating a custom ironing centre in a crawl space can be a great way to save space and add a unique feature to your laundry room. Here are some steps and ideas to help you get started:

Planning Your Custom Ironing Centre

Before you begin building your custom ironing centre, it's important to consider your specific needs and requirements. Do you want a stationary ironing board or one that can be folded away? Would you like additional storage space for your iron and other supplies? Taking the time to plan out your design will help ensure that your custom ironing centre is functional and tailored to your needs.

Choosing a Location

When selecting a location for your custom ironing centre, consider the amount of space available and the layout of your laundry room. If you have limited space, you may want to opt for a foldable or recessed ironing board that can be hidden when not in use. Additionally, think about the proximity to your washer and dryer, as well as any electrical outlets that may be needed for your iron.

Materials and Tools

The materials and tools you will need will depend on the design of your custom ironing centre. Here are some general items you may need:

• Plywood
• Ironing board
• Hinges
• Screws
• Nails
• Fabric or padding for the ironing board cover
• Paint or stain (optional)

Building Your Custom Ironing Centre

Once you have your design and materials ready, it's time to start building! Here are some general steps to follow:

• Cut the plywood to size according to your measurements.
• Assemble the frame for your ironing centre, using wood glue and hinges.
• Attach the ironing board to the frame. Ensure that it is secure and can bear weight.
• If desired, add shelves or drawers for additional storage.
• Cover the ironing board with fabric or padding to create a comfortable and heat-resistant surface.
• Paint or stain your custom ironing centre to match your laundry room decor.
• Install your custom ironing centre in the desired location, ensuring that it is securely attached to the wall or floor.

Additional Features

To enhance your custom ironing centre, consider adding some of these features:

• A built-in light to illuminate your work area.
• A power outlet to plug in your iron.
• A timer to promote safety and energy efficiency.
• Adjustable height and rotation settings for the ironing board to accommodate different users.

Install a laundry chute

Installing a laundry chute is a great way to make your life easier when it comes to doing the tedious chore of laundry. It is a convenient way to transport laundry from upstairs to the laundry room, without having to carry heavy baskets up and down.

Step 1: Planning and Choosing Materials

Firstly, you need to plan the route of the chute. Identify a wall or space that is unobstructed and runs parallel to the floor joists. Check for any pipes, ducts, or wires that might be in the way. It is recommended to start with a pilot hole to confirm the alignment before making any large cuts.

For the chute itself, you can use galvanized ductwork, large-diameter PVC pipe, wood, drywall, or melamine. Galvanized ductwork is a popular choice as it is smooth, quick to install, and can be angled to avoid obstacles.

Step 2: Cutting the Inlet

Once you have determined the route, cut a hole in the ceiling or floor for the inlet of the chute. Use a wallboard saw or a circular saw to make the cut. Make sure to cut a hole that is large enough for your chosen chute material to fit snugly.

Step 3: Installing the Chute

Now, it's time to install the chute. If you are using ductwork, snap the rectangular pieces together and secure them with metal-cutting snips or duct tape. Ensure that the joints are sealed to prevent snags. Attach the duct to the framing or studs using screws.

For other materials, such as wood or melamine, you may need to build a custom frame to fit the hole. Make sure to sand and smooth any rough edges to ensure laundry can pass through without catching.

Step 4: Installing the Door

At the top of the chute, install a door to prevent any accidents and to keep the laundry hidden. You can use a simple cabinet door with hinges, or a pull-down door for easier access. Position the door at a comfortable height, and consider adding a child-safe lock if there are small children in the house.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Finally, test your new laundry chute by sending a test load through it. Make sure to smooth out any rough spots with sandpaper or paste wax to ensure the laundry passes through without catching. You may also want to add a laundry basket at the bottom of the chute to catch the laundry.

Safety and Building Codes

Before installing a laundry chute, be sure to check your local building codes and fire codes. Some municipalities have strict regulations prohibiting or restricting laundry chutes due to fire safety concerns. Consult with a local building inspector or official to ensure your installation complies with all relevant codes.

Additionally, if you have small children, consider placing the chute door out of their reach and downsizing the door to prevent any accidents.

Now you have a convenient laundry chute installed in your home, making laundry day a breeze!

Frequently asked questions