When it comes to designing a laundry room, size doesn’t matter as much as you might think. With a little creativity and some clever solutions, even the tiniest laundry room can be transformed into a functional and stylish space. Whether you’re dealing with a cramped closet, a basement corner, or a small nook, these 15 DIY Small Laundry Room Ideas will help you make the most of every square inch. From smart storage solutions to stylish decor tips, we’ve gathered the best ideas to inspire your next project!
1. Utilize Vertical Space with Shelving
One of the best ways to maximize space in a small laundry room is to make use of the walls. By adding vertical shelving, you can create ample storage for detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry essentials. Opt for floating shelves or install narrow shelves above your washer and dryer to keep frequently used items within reach. Shelving also provides the perfect spot to display decorative elements like plants or framed artwork, adding a personal touch to your laundry room. To make the most of your vertical storage, use baskets or bins to group similar items together, ensuring a neat and tidy appearance.
2. Install a Fold-Down Drying Rack
If floor space is limited, a fold-down drying rack is a game-changer. It can be mounted to the wall and easily folded down when needed, providing an efficient solution for drying clothes without taking up precious room. When not in use, it folds flat against the wall, keeping the space open and uncluttered. This DIY project can be as simple or elaborate as you want—choose a rustic wooden rack for a farmhouse vibe or a sleek metal design for a modern look. Not only does a fold-down drying rack save space, but it also offers a practical solution for air-drying delicate garments.
3. Create a Hidden Ironing Station
An ironing board can be cumbersome in a small laundry room, but you can easily create a hidden ironing station. Consider installing a wall-mounted ironing board that folds up into a cabinet when not in use. This idea is perfect for those who want to keep their space neat and tidy while still having the convenience of an ironing board nearby. You can even incorporate a small shelf or hooks inside the cabinet to store your iron, spray bottles, and other ironing essentials. With this DIY idea, you’ll have everything you need for a wrinkle-free wardrobe without compromising on space.
4. Use Bright Colors to Make the Room Feel Larger
Colors play a significant role in how we perceive space. Light, bright colors can make a small laundry room feel more open and airy. Consider painting the walls in shades of white, light gray, or soft pastels to reflect light and give the illusion of a larger room. You can also add pops of color through accessories like storage baskets, rugs, or curtains to create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. To add depth and interest, consider using a fun wallpaper or a bold accent wall. The key is to keep the color palette light and cohesive, ensuring your small space feels spacious and well-designed.
5. Add a Countertop Above the Washer and Dryer
If you have a front-loading washer and dryer, consider adding a countertop above them to create a functional workspace. A countertop provides a convenient spot for folding clothes, sorting laundry, or organizing supplies. Choose a durable material like butcher block, laminate, or stainless steel, depending on your style and budget. This simple DIY addition not only adds valuable surface area but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your laundry room. Plus, it helps keep the space looking neat by hiding the tops of your appliances and providing a smooth, continuous surface.
6. Incorporate Multi-Functional Furniture
In a small laundry room, every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose. Consider adding a bench with storage underneath, which can double as seating and a place to keep laundry baskets or cleaning supplies. You could also use a slim rolling cart that fits between appliances or in a corner, providing extra storage that can easily be moved around as needed. By choosing multi-functional furniture, you maximize the utility of every item, ensuring your laundry room remains functional and organized without feeling cramped.
7. Use Over-the-Door Organizers
Don’t overlook the back of your door as a potential storage area! Over-the-door organizers are a great way to store small items like cleaning supplies, lint rollers, and dryer sheets. These organizers come in various styles, from simple hooks to multi-pocket fabric hangers, allowing you to customize your storage solution. Using the door space keeps your countertops clear and ensures that all your essentials are easy to find. Plus, it’s a super simple DIY idea that requires minimal effort and investment but makes a big difference in keeping your small laundry room tidy.
8. Install Sliding Doors
If your laundry room is located in a narrow hallway or closet, consider installing sliding doors. Sliding doors take up less space than traditional swinging doors, allowing for easier access to your laundry area. You can choose from barn-style doors, pocket doors, or modern glass panels, depending on your design preference. Sliding doors are also a great way to add personality to your space—paint them in a bold color or add decorative hardware to make a statement. This DIY project is relatively easy to accomplish and instantly adds a stylish touch to a small laundry room.
9. Use Pegboards for Flexible Storage
Pegboards are a versatile and customizable storage solution that works wonders in a small laundry room. Install a pegboard on an empty wall and use hooks, baskets, and shelves to create a flexible storage area. Pegboards can hold everything from ironing boards and brooms to laundry supplies and small baskets. The best part is that you can easily change the layout as your needs evolve, making it a dynamic solution for small spaces. With a pegboard, you can keep frequently used items within reach while maintaining a clutter-free environment.
10. Add Mirrors to Reflect Light
Mirrors are an excellent way to create the illusion of more space in a small laundry room. By reflecting light, they make the room feel brighter and more open. Consider adding a large mirror on one wall or using mirrored cabinet doors to enhance the sense of depth. This simple DIY trick can make a dramatic difference in how your laundry room feels. Additionally, mirrors can add a touch of elegance and style, transforming a functional space into something more visually appealing.
11. Install Under-Cabinet Lighting
Proper lighting is essential in a small laundry room to create a functional and welcoming space. Under-cabinet lighting is a simple DIY solution that can brighten up dark corners and make it easier to sort and fold clothes. LED strip lights or puck lights are easy to install and provide a soft, ambient glow that enhances the room’s overall atmosphere. Not only does under-cabinet lighting improve visibility, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to your laundry room design.
12. Repurpose Old Furniture
Instead of buying new furniture, consider repurposing old pieces to fit your laundry room. An old dresser can be transformed into a storage cabinet, or a vintage ladder can serve as a drying rack. This approach adds character to your space and saves money, making it a sustainable choice. Get creative with your repurposing projects—paint or stain furniture to match your decor, and add new hardware or trim for a fresh look. The result is a unique and personalized laundry room that reflects your style and ingenuity.
13. Install Hooks for Hanging Storage
Hooks are a simple yet effective storage solution for a small laundry room. Install hooks on the walls or the back of doors to hang everything from clothes and bags to brooms and mops. This keeps the floor clear and maximizes vertical space, ensuring your laundry room remains organized and clutter-free. Hooks come in various styles, from simple adhesive hooks to decorative metal ones, allowing you to add a touch of personality to your space while increasing functionality.
14. Add a Foldable Laundry Table
A foldable laundry table is an excellent addition to any small laundry room. It provides a dedicated space for folding clothes and can be easily folded up and stored when not in use, saving valuable floor space. Choose a lightweight, portable design that can be hung on the wall or tucked away behind a door. This DIY solution offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to create a functional workspace in even the tiniest laundry areas.
15. Use Compact Appliances
If space is extremely limited, consider investing in compact appliances designed for small spaces. Stackable washer and dryer units, washer-dryer combos, or slimline models can save a significant amount of room while still providing the functionality you need. Compact appliances are often just as efficient as their full-sized counterparts and can be installed in tight corners or small closets, freeing up space for other storage solutions. This final DIY idea might require a bit more investment, but it can make a world of difference in a small laundry room.
With these 15 DIY Small Laundry Room Ideas, you can transform even the tiniest laundry space into a functional, stylish, and efficient area. Whether you’re working with a closet or a corner, these tips will help you create a room that meets your needs and reflects your style.
