Laundry Rooms: Smart Storage, Counter Space

A laundry room doesn't have to be just a place to wash and dry clothes. With a few simple additions, it can become a stylish and functional space that you might actually enjoy spending time in. Here are some must-have features to elevate your laundry room:

- Ample counter space for sorting and folding clothes is essential. Consider adding a table or a pull-out countertop for convenience.

- Opt for a stylish utility sink, such as a stainless steel or farmhouse sink, instead of a plain plastic one.

- Improve the lighting in your laundry room to make the space more inviting and tasks easier.

- Maximise storage with custom cabinetry or open shelving to keep laundry supplies organised and within easy reach.

- Include a hanging rod or drying rack to air-dry clothes and reduce wrinkles.

- Choose water-resistant flooring like ceramic tile or vinyl to handle spills and moisture.

- Ensure your laundry room has good ventilation, such as a fan or a window, to keep the space cool and dry.

- Add a touch of personality with decor, such as wallpaper, colourful tiles, art, or plants.

A convenient location

When it comes to designing a laundry room, one of the most important considerations is its location in the house. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are several factors to keep in mind when deciding on the best spot. Here are some ideas and suggestions for creating a convenient and functional laundry room:

Off the Kitchen

Putting the laundry room near the kitchen is a popular choice among designers. This is because the kitchen is typically the heart of the home, where people spend a lot of time, and it is usually located on the main level of the house. By having the laundry room nearby, you can easily switch between cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry without having to go up and down stairs. Additionally, you can take advantage of the existing utilities in the kitchen, such as electricity and water connections, for your washer and dryer. However, one downside to consider is the noise factor. Washers and dryers can be loud, and if your kitchen is near a quiet area, you might need to invest in sound insulation.

In the Kitchen

If space is limited, you might consider incorporating the laundry area directly into your kitchen design. This can be a great option for small homes or condos, especially if you're willing to invest in stackable washer and dryer units or smaller European models. However, keep in mind that this option may result in a loss of storage space and can be less ideal for larger families or those who prefer to keep their laundry out of sight. It's also important to ensure that your countertops are high enough to accommodate the appliances and that you have proper ventilation and drainage.

In a Hallway Closet

Hallways are often centrally located and provide easy access to bedrooms, making them ideal spots for laundry rooms. Converting a hallway closet into a laundry area can be a great way to utilize space efficiently. Consider adding shelves, countertops, or a hanging rod to maximize functionality. However, keep in mind that hallways are usually high-traffic areas, so ensure there is enough room for people to move around, especially if you have a large family or multiple people doing laundry at once.

Off the Master Bedroom

Having the laundry room near the master bedroom can be extremely convenient, especially for couples or single people. This setup allows for easy access to and from the bedroom, making laundry tasks less of a chore. It also keeps the laundry area out of sight from guests. However, if your bedroom is located far from the main living areas, you may still need to travel back and forth quite a bit. Additionally, doing laundry late at night might be disruptive to those sleeping nearby.

In a Mudroom

Mudrooms are often located near the main entryway of the house, making them a practical choice for a laundry room. This setup is especially useful for families with children, as it provides a dedicated space to remove dirty clothes or muddy shoes before entering the main living areas. While some people may be concerned about mixing clean laundry with muddy boots, proper organization and designated areas can help keep things tidy. Additionally, having the laundry room in a well-used area like the mudroom can make it easier to stay on top of laundry tasks.

Adequate counter space

The minimum recommended space for a laundry room is 80 square feet, which allows for a single row of cabinets, a sink, and a hamper space, as well as a walkway. Within this space, countertops should be at least 24 inches deep, and ideally 25.5 inches, to accommodate a sink and leave enough room for laundry baskets and folded clothes. If you opt for front-loading machines, you should also provide 48 inches of clearance in front of each appliance to walk around the open doors.

When it comes to choosing the right countertop material for your laundry room, there are a few options to consider. Laminate countertops are budget-friendly and offer a smooth surface for folding, but they can chip and peel over time. Solid surfaces are more durable and scratches can be sanded out, but they can be damaged by hot irons. Ceramic tile countertops are durable and inexpensive, but the many seams and grouting may be annoying when dealing with clothing. For a premium look, quartz countertops are sleek and highly durable, but they are also one of the most expensive options. Wood countertops are a mid-range option that can be installed by homeowners, but they must be sealed to protect against moisture and heat damage.

Overall, the key to adequate counter space in a laundry room is to consider the amount of space needed for sorting and folding clothes, as well as storage. By choosing the right countertop material and layout, you can create a functional and efficient space that makes doing laundry a breeze.

A table for folding

Location and Space

When planning your laundry room, ensure you have enough space for a folding table. A minimum of 80 square feet is recommended, providing room for cabinets, appliances, and a generous walkway. If your space is limited, consider a wall-mounted folding table or a pull-out countertop. Another option is to place your washer and dryer side by side instead of stacking them, creating more counter space.

Countertops

Deep countertops are ideal for laundry rooms as they provide ample room for folding and sorting clothes. Aim for a depth of at least 24 inches, or 25.5 inches if possible, to accommodate a sink and allow for basket and hamper storage. If space is limited, consider foregoing a top-loading washing machine to create more counter space or opt for a two-in-one washer-dryer combo.

Folding Table Options

There are several options available for folding tables:

• Wall-mounted tables: These are perfect for small spaces as they can be folded down when not in use, freeing up valuable real estate in your laundry room.
• Pull-out countertops: These can be installed in cabinetry, providing a flexible solution that can be tucked away when not in use.
• Freestanding tables: If you have the space, a freestanding table or island can provide a dedicated workspace for folding and sorting.

Materials and Finishes

When selecting materials and finishes for your folding table, consider durability and ease of maintenance. Opt for countertops with a smooth surface that can be easily wiped down. For the flooring, choose tiles with a patina or stone look as they can better withstand scuffs and smudges common in high-traffic areas like the laundry room.

Good ventilation and lighting

Ventilation

Laundry rooms can be a significant source of contaminants in your home, from the off-gassing of cleaning detergents to the heat and humidity produced by appliances. Poor ventilation can lead to an uncomfortable space and even promote the growth of mould and mildew, which can damage your clothing, walls, and floors.

There are several options for improving laundry room ventilation:

• Exhaust fans: These can be installed in an exterior wall or window to remove hot air and pull in fresh air from outside. Exhaust fans should be placed near appliances to prevent lint build-up and reduce fire hazards.
• Window installation with a vent fan: If your laundry room has a window, installing a vent fan in it can help with airflow and bring in fresh air.
• Vent hoods: These are typically placed over the dryer and work similarly to a stove hood, capturing and pushing hot air outside while preventing lint build-up.
• Vent pipes: These are attached to an exterior wall and allow hot air from the dryer to escape outside or into another part of the laundry room.
• Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs): ERVs are considered the most effective option as they mimic a building's natural "breathing" abilities by drawing out hot, humid air and replacing it with fresh outdoor air. They also reduce airborne contaminants like lint and off-gassed chemicals.

Lighting

When it comes to lighting, the goal is to create a bright and well-lit space. Here are some ways to achieve this:

• Windows: If your laundry room has windows, utilise natural light by keeping them clean and unobstructed.
• Artificial lighting: In addition to windows, ensure you have adequate artificial lighting. Ceiling lights or wall-mounted lights can illuminate the entire room, while task lighting, such as under-cabinet lighting, can provide focused light for specific activities like folding clothes or reading detergent instructions.
• Light colours: Opt for light colours for your walls, such as white or light neutrals, to reflect light and make the space feel brighter and more open.

By incorporating good ventilation and lighting into your laundry room design, you'll create a functional and pleasant space to tackle laundry chores.

An attractive utility sink

A utility sink is a helpful addition to your laundry room, garage or anywhere you might find yourself washing things other than dishware. When designing a laundry room, it is important to keep in mind the functionality and efficiency of the space.

Choose the Right Style and Material

Select a utility sink style that fits your space and needs. Common styles include self-rimming or over-mounted, undermount, and wall-mounted or floor-standing designs. Consider the material of the sink as well. Popular options include acrylic, cast iron, stainless steel, and vitreous china, each offering unique advantages in terms of durability, heat resistance, and noise amplification.

Consider the Size and Depth

Ensure your utility sink has ample space and depth to accommodate your tasks. A deeper basin can be useful for washing pets or laundry. Additionally, consider the counter space around the sink for folding clothes or placing baskets.

Add Attractive Features

Enhance the aesthetics of your utility sink by incorporating attractive features. You could opt for a vintage zinc tub as a sink for a rustic touch, or choose a colourful or patterned tile backsplash to create a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Don't be afraid to add some artistic flair with unique tiles or a lavender hue.

Provide Adequate Storage

Integrate smart storage solutions near your utility sink to keep the space organised and efficient. This could include cabinets, shelves, or pull-out hampers to sort laundry. You could also include a hanging rod above the counter to make drying shirts easier and reduce ironing.

Create a Pleasant Atmosphere

Make your laundry chores more enjoyable by adding some decorative touches to the utility sink area. Bright paint colours or fun wallpapers can liven up the space. You can also bring in some greenery with plants or incorporate decorative lighting fixtures to enhance the ambiance.

By incorporating these ideas, you can create an attractive and functional utility sink area in your laundry room that makes your chores a little more delightful.

Frequently asked questions