Laundry Room Diy Makeover

Doing laundry is a chore, but with some clever DIY ideas, you can transform your laundry room into a stylish and functional space. From simple updates to creative makeovers, there are plenty of ways to elevate your laundry room without breaking the bank. Whether you have a small or large space, these DIY ideas will help you maximise storage, improve efficiency, and add a touch of personality to your laundry room. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and give your laundry room the love it deserves!

Stacking washer and dryer

Stacking your washer and dryer is a great way to save space in your laundry room. It's a good idea to opt for a washer and dryer of the same brand, as many manufacturers sell washers and dryers that are designed to be stacked together. If you already own the appliances, check the instruction manual to see if they can be stacked safely. If you're buying new models, consult the retailer to confirm that they are stackable.

Before stacking your washer and dryer, measure the height and width of the area where you want them to go. Then, compare the measurements to the combined height and width of the washer, dryer, and stacking kit. Make sure you have enough space to comfortably reach the controls and door of the dryer. You should also leave 2 to 3 inches on all sides to allow space for cords, vents, and heat dispersal.

Once you've confirmed that your washer and dryer can be stacked and that you have enough space, it's time to purchase a stacking kit. Stacking kits are designed to distribute the weight of the dryer on top of the washer and absorb vibrations from both appliances while they're running. They typically consist of hardware to secure the machines to one another and rubber feet to keep the dryer from sliding around. You can usually find stacking kits wherever washers and dryers are sold, and they range in price from $40 to $100 or more.

Now it's time to install your stacking kit and stack your washer and dryer. First, uninstall the dryer's feet and place the appliance on a piece of cardboard to protect your floor. If your stacking kit comes with rubber stacking feet, install them on the dryer. Move the washer into the general area where it will be placed, but space it a few inches away from the wall to give yourself room to work.

With the help of a friend, lift the dryer on top of the washer, using appliance lifting straps if necessary. Once the dryer is resting on the washer, position it according to the manufacturer's placement guidance, typically with the dryer slightly overhanging the back of the washer. Never attempt to stack a washer on top of a dryer, as washers are significantly heavier, especially when filled with clothes and water.

Use the provided hardware to attach the stacking kit brackets to the washer and dryer, securely tying the two appliances together. Then, attach any water, gas, and vent lines to the washer and dryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure they are secured properly to prevent leaks. Plug in the appliances and slide them into place, leaving 2 to 3 inches of clearance from the wall.

Finally, run a test load on both appliances and monitor them for wobbling or excess vibration. Adjust the positioning if necessary. And that's it! You've successfully stacked your washer and dryer, maximizing space in your laundry room.

DIY memo station

A DIY memo station is a great way to keep your laundry room organised and efficient. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a vintage washboard memo station that doubles as a handy cupboard:

Materials:

• Vintage washboard with a metal corrugated section
• ¾-inch wood, 3½ inches wide and 8½ feet long
• Small cabinet doorknob
• Wood stain (optional)
• Foam brushes or a rag (optional)
• Particleboard
• Adhesive magnet strips
• Empty spice tins and glass soda bottles with lids/caps
• Nails
• Hinges
• Screws
• Drill

Steps:

• Measure the washboard from the bottom of the legs to about an inch from the top. Cut two pieces of ¾-inch wood to that length for the sides of the cupboard.
• Measure the width of the washboard and cut two pieces of ¾-inch wood to that length minus 1½ inches for the top and bottom of the cupboard.
• Nail the two sides, top, and bottom together to create a box frame.
• Cut the desired number of shelves from the remaining ¾-inch wood, using the length of the top and bottom pieces as a guide. Nail the shelf pieces into place inside the box.
• Measure the height and width of the box frame and cut a piece of particleboard to fit. Nail the particleboard to the back of the box frame.
• Optional: Stain the box to match the washboard finish and let it dry.
• Place the washboard on top of the box and determine where the hinges fit best. Drill pilot holes and screw the hinges in place on the box and the washboard.
• Screw the doorknob onto one leg of the washboard, opposite the hinges.
• Hang the cupboard on the wall.
• To make magnets, empty and thoroughly wash and dry spice tins and glass soda bottles. Cut adhesive magnet strips to fit the backs of the tins and soda caps. Apply the magnets.
• Fill the spice tins with pencils and pens and place them on the washboard.

Now you have a stylish and functional memo station in your laundry room!

Ironing centre

An ironing centre is an essential part of any laundry room. It keeps all your ironing equipment in one place and can be hung on the wall or over a door, taking up minimal space. You can build your own ironing centre in a couple of hours with a few simple materials. All you need is a 10-foot 1x8, a 2-foot piece of 1x6 for the shelves, and a pair of hooks to hang your ironing board. You can also add a 1x2 board from your scrap stash to create more air-drying space for clothes that cannot be put in the dryer.

There are also ironing centres available to purchase, which can be built into your laundry room. The Hide-Away Supreme Series Ironing Center is a recessed unit that is pre-finished in a scratch-resistant white. It features a swivelling ironing board, a heat shield, and a built-in shelf for iron storage. The unit can be installed with the door on either the right or left side of the cabinet, and comes with an ironing board cover, pad set, hardware, and installation instructions.

Another option is the Deluxe Electric Ironing Center, which features a spring-activated, adjustable swivel board that can move 180 degrees in either direction. This unit also has a special storage area for a hot iron, so you don't have to wait for it to cool down before putting it away. The ironing board is made of industrial-strength, heavy-duty treated fabric for lasting use.

Air-drying solutions

Retractable Clothesline

A retractable clothesline can be mounted between two opposite walls or surfaces, providing ample drying space. Look for one with adjustable lines that can be tightened through a thumb screw. This option gives you the flexibility to dry your clothes indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather and your preference.

Ceiling-Mounted Rack

A ceiling-mounted rack, like the Foxydry model, can be adjusted to different heights and stopped at any intermediate position. It features several drying rails that offer a significant amount of drying space. This option helps reduce the weight of laundry, making it easier to lift and handle.

Wall-Mounted Drying Racks

Wall-mounted drying racks are compact and versatile, especially in small spaces. They can be put up when not in use, saving floor and closet space. Look for sleek, modern designs made of stainless steel that can complement your laundry room's aesthetics.

Over-the-Door Drying Rack

An over-the-door drying rack is perfect for smaller items and can be hung over an interior door, like a laundry or shower door. Its powder-coated finish allows for both indoor and outdoor use. This option is excellent for those with limited wall or floor space.

Accordion-Style Drying Rack

The accordion-style drying rack is a functional and attractive space-saver. When needed, it extends to provide multiple hanging racks, and when not in use, it collapses under a top shelf that can hold supplies or decorative items. Some models also come with coat hooks for added functionality.

Basement Laundry Room Air-Drying

If you have a basement laundry room, a simple DIY solution is to trim a board to fit across a few joists overhead. Tack it in place with heavy-duty nails, and you've instantly created more space to air-dry several pieces of clothing using hangers.

Remember to consider your local ordinances, as some neighbourhoods may have restrictions on hanging clotheslines outdoors. Additionally, always check pollen and weather reports to avoid drying clothes outside when pollen counts are high or during inclement weather.

Storage and shelving

Wall-mounted shelves

Wall-mounted shelves are a great way to save floor space. You can add open shelves above your washer and dryer to keep laundry detergents and other supplies within easy reach. If you have a top-loading machine, ensure you leave enough clearance for the door to open. For a more customised look, opt for wall-mounted wooden shelves. You can also install adjustable shelves to cater to your changing needs.

Corner shelves

Take advantage of all your available space by installing corner shelves.

Repurpose a bookshelf

If your laundry room lacks built-in storage, repurpose an unused bookshelf.

Cabinets

If you prefer a less cluttered look, you can keep your laundry supplies stored behind cabinet doors. Install a standard two-door kitchen cabinet or, for small spaces, choose cabinets designed to fit around washers and dryers. You can also create custom cabinets to hide your washer and dryer, which can be especially useful if your laundry area is in your kitchen or bathroom.

Hanging storage

Consider adding hanging storage, which is ideal for small spaces. If you have wire shelves, you can hook hangers directly onto them. Alternatively, design your shelves with a tension rod or hanging bar below. Leave enough space between the bottom shelf and the floor to ensure you have adequate hanging room.

Freestanding drying rack

If you have the space, add a freestanding drying rack to your laundry room. If space is tight, opt for a drying rack that folds out from the wall, door, or ceiling.

Hooks

Install hooks on any free wall space or the back of doors.

Pegboard wall

A pegboard with hooks provides adjustable hanging space for laundry and cleaning supplies, as well as other items like dog leads.

Storage containers and bins

Use small drawers, baskets, cubbies, and cube storage to organise your laundry supplies. Wire baskets offer a uniform look and allow you to see their contents, while fabric cube storage disguises clutter and adds a decorative touch. Glass containers can also be used to store items like powder detergent, turning them into decor.

Laundry baskets

Keep a hamper or handled basket nearby for transporting laundry. A three-bag laundry hamper is ideal for quickly sorting laundry into lights, darks, and whites.

Tips for small spaces

If you're working with a small laundry room, try these tips:

• Add a vertical wire shelving unit, especially useful if you have a stacked washer and dryer.
• Utilise narrow spaces by adding wheels to tall shelving units and moving them out of the way when necessary.
• Make the most of door space by installing wall-mounted hanging racks that fold away when not in use.
• Use a curtain to hide your washer and dryer if you can't have a separate door.
• A fold-away ironing board can double as a folding table.
• Install a shelf over your washer and dryer to use as a countertop and folding station.

Frequently asked questions