Laundry Room Design Ideas
The laundry room is a hardworking space for the endless cycle of washing, drying, folding, and garment care. Once relegated to basement corners, modern laundry rooms have evolved into well-designed spaces that make a tedious chore more pleasant. Good laundry room design balances efficiency (workflow, storage, durability) with aesthetics that elevate this utilitarian space.
About Laundry Room Design
Laundry rooms handle washing, drying, folding, ironing, and garment storage. They should support efficient laundry workflow while containing the mess and supplies associated with laundry tasks.
Design Considerations
- Plan workflow: sort, wash, dry, fold, store
- Include counter space for folding
- Add storage for supplies, cleaning products
- Consider hanging space for drying or ironing
- Plan for dirty clothes sorting
- Include good lighting
- Make the space easy to clean
Common Challenges
- Limited space for machines and tasks
- Storage for supplies and linens
- Counter space for folding
- Hiding the mess when not in use
- Making a utilitarian room pleasant
- Drainage and plumbing requirements
- Noise from machines
Layout Tips
- Position machines for easy loading/unloading
- Place folding surface at comfortable height
- Store supplies within reach of machines
- Consider stacking machines in tight spaces
- Plan door swing and clearances
Best Styles for Laundry Room
Explore design styles that work exceptionally well for laundry rooms.
Laundry Room Furniture Guide
Essential Furniture
- Washer and dryer
- Storage cabinets or shelving
- Folding surface (counter)
- Laundry sink (if plumbed)
Optional Additions
- Hanging rod or drying rack
- Ironing board (built-in or freestanding)
- Hamper system
- Step stool for reaching
- Seating (for folding or waiting)
Lighting Needs
- Bright task lighting over machines and counter
- Natural light if possible
- Under-cabinet lighting
Storage Solutions
- Laundry detergent and supplies
- Cleaning products
- Extra linens and towels
- Ironing supplies
- Lost-and-found items
Size Considerations
Small Laundry Room
Small laundry spaces (closets or corners) maximize vertical space: stacked washer/dryer, wall-mounted cabinets, over-door organizers. Fold elsewhere or use a fold-out counter. Every inch serves a purpose.
Medium Laundry Room
Medium laundry rooms fit side-by-side machines with counter above, base cabinets, and upper storage. Room for a hamper system and ironing setup. Comfortable for regular laundry tasks.
Large Laundry Room
Large laundry rooms can include a utility sink, extensive counter space, room for ironing, pet washing station, and household organization center. Can double as mudroom or utility hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Design Your Laundry Room
Transform your laundry room with AI-powered interior design.