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Laundry closets often become the dumping ground for miscellaneous items, leading to a cramped, chaotic space that’s anything but efficient. If your laundry area is giving you the blues, don’t despair! You can transform even the tiniest laundry closet into a well-organized, functional space with clever tweaks and storage solutions.
Get ready to say goodbye to laundry day woes and hello to a streamlined routine. These 17 small laundry closet ideas will help you reimagine your space and revolutionize your laundry experience.
1. Vertical Storage Solutions:
Install tall cabinets that reach the ceiling, giving you ample space to store laundry essentials like detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, cleaning supplies, extra towels, and even small appliances like a handheld steamer or iron. Consider adjustable shelves to accommodate items of varying heights and make the most of the vertical space.
To further enhance organization, you can add bins or baskets to the shelves to keep similar items together and prevent clutter. If you’re looking for a quick and easy storage solution, the Whitmor Supreme 4-Tier Shelving Unit is a great option. Its sturdy construction and adjustable shelves make it perfect for storing various laundry and cleaning supplies.
2. Pull-Out Drying Racks:
Don’t let delicates or air-dry-only items clutter your laundry room or take up valuable floor space. Install a pull-out drying rack that discreetly tucks away when not in use. This space-saving solution provides a dedicated spot to dry your clothes without sacrificing valuable real estate.
A pull-out drying rack is especially useful for smaller items like lingerie, sweaters, or workout clothes that require air drying. It’s a fantastic way to keep your laundry organized and prevent delicate items from getting damaged in the dryer. The Household Essentials Pull-Out Drying Rack is a fantastic option for small spaces, offering ample drying space while remaining compact and easy to install.
3. Stackable Washer and Dryer:
If you’re short on space, upgrading to a stackable washer-dryer unit is a game-changer. By cleverly placing the dryer on top of the washer, you instantly free up valuable floor space that can be utilized for storage, folding, or even a small ironing station.
This configuration is a lifesaver for smaller homes or apartments where every square foot counts. The Panda Compact Laundry Combo is an excellent choice for those seeking a space-saving solution without compromising functionality. Its compact design and efficient operation make it ideal for small laundry closets.
4. Wall-Mounted Ironing Board:
Ditch the bulky, freestanding ironing board that takes up precious floor space and opt for a sleek, wall-mounted version. These clever ironing boards fold flat against the wall when unused, creating a seamless look and maximizing your available space.
Plus, they’re always ready to go whenever you need to touch up a wrinkled garment. The Polder Deluxe Wall-Mount Ironing Board is a top pick for its sturdy construction, easy installation, and convenient features like a built-in iron rest and heat-resistant cover.
5. Over-the-Door Organizers:
The back of your laundry closet door is prime real estate for storage, often overlooked and underutilized. Hang an over-the-door organizer to capitalize on this vertical space and corral various laundry supplies, cleaning tools, or even extra towels and linens.
The Simple Houseware Over the Door Hanging Organizer is a versatile option with multiple pockets and compartments, perfect for keeping everything organized and within easy reach. You can store anything from detergent bottles and dryer sheets to ironing spray and stain removers.
6. Built-In Hampers:
Streamline your laundry sorting process and eliminate unsightly laundry piles by incorporating built-in hampers into your closet design. You can create separate hampers for whites, darks, and delicates, making laundry day a breeze. This built-in solution saves space and adds a touch of sophistication to your laundry area.
If you’re feeling handy, you can build custom hampers to fit your closet dimensions perfectly. Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-made solution like the Sorbus 3-Bag Laundry Hamper Sorter Cart. This rolling cart features three removable bags for easy sorting and transport, making it a convenient and practical addition to any laundry room.
7. Rolling Carts:
A rolling cart is an MVP of the laundry room, providing extra storage and flexibility in a compact space. It can hold various laundry essentials, from detergents and stain removers to ironing supplies and cleaning tools. The beauty of a rolling cart is its mobility; you can easily move it around as needed, bringing everything you need right to your workspace.
The Honey-Can-Do Rolling 3-Tier Utility Cart is popular for its durability, versatility, and ample storage space. Its three tiers offer plenty of room for all your laundry essentials, and its sturdy wheels make it easy to maneuver even in tight spaces.
8. Pegboards:
Pegboards are a DIY enthusiast’s dream, offering endless possibilities for customization and organization. Install one on a blank wall in your laundry closet, and you’ll have a versatile storage solution that can be adapted to your specific needs. Hang baskets to hold laundry supplies, hooks to hang ironing tools or cleaning brushes, or even small shelves to store folded linens or other essentials.
The Wall Control Metal Pegboard Pack is a great starter kit that includes a pegboard panel and a variety of hooks and accessories. With a pegboard, you can easily rearrange and adjust your storage as your needs change, making it a flexible and practical solution for any laundry room.
9. Magnetic Strips:
Metal laundry tools like scissors, clothespins, and lint rollers can easily get lost in a cluttered closet, leading to frustration and wasted time. Attach a magnetic strip to the wall or the inside of a cabinet door, and you’ll instantly create a designated spot for these items.
This simple solution keeps your tools organized and within easy reach, eliminating the need to rummage through drawers or cabinets. The Magnetic Knife Holder is a surprisingly versatile option that also works great for laundry tools; its magnetic solid hold ensures that your items stay securely in place, even when the door is opened and closed.
10. Hidden Laundry Baskets:
Keep dirty laundry out of sight and maintain a tidy appearance in your laundry closet with hidden laundry baskets. Install pull-out baskets in cabinets or drawers, creating a discreet and convenient storage solution. This clever idea saves space and helps contain any odors or mess associated with dirty laundry.
You can choose from various pull-out basket options to suit your closet’s configuration and your laundry needs. Some baskets are designed to fit seamlessly into existing cabinets, while others can be installed as standalone units. Hidden laundry baskets can keep your laundry area organized and clutter-free.
11. Under-Shelf Baskets:
With under-shelf baskets, you can maximize your cabinet space and keep smaller laundry items organized. These handy baskets attach to the underside of shelves, providing additional storage without taking up valuable cabinet space. They are perfect for storing items like laundry pods, dryer balls, stain removers, or other small essentials that tend to get lost in larger drawers or cabinets.
Under-shelf baskets come in various sizes and styles to fit your specific needs. Choose from wire baskets for a more open and airy look or solid baskets for a more concealed storage solution. With under-shelf baskets, you can make the most of every inch of your laundry closet and keep everything neatly organized.
12. Hanging Rod:
Air drying is a gentle and energy-efficient way to dry delicate clothes or items that shouldn’t be tumbled in the dryer. Install a hanging rod in your laundry closet to create a dedicated space for air drying. This simple addition can save you money on energy bills and prolong the life of your clothes.
Choose a sturdy rod that can support the weight of wet laundry, and consider installing it at a height that allows for easy hanging and removal of clothes. You can add hooks or hangers to the rod to maximize drying space. With a hanging rod, you can air-dry your clothes with ease and convenience right in your laundry closet.
13. Folding Station:
Create a dedicated folding station within your laundry closet to streamline your laundry routine and prevent piles of clean clothes from accumulating on your bed or couch. Incorporate a countertop or pull-out shelf where you can comfortably fold and sort your laundry.
This designated space will help you stay organized and move your laundry efficiently from the washer and dryer to its final destination. If space is limited, consider a fold-down table that can be tucked away when not in use. Add a few baskets or bins to your folding station to further organize your laundry and make it easy to put away.
14. Lighting Solutions:
Good lighting is essential in any workspace; your laundry closet is no exception. Upgrade the lighting in your laundry area to ensure ample visibility for sorting, folding, and treating stains. Install bright LED lights or under-cabinet lighting to illuminate dark corners and make it easier to find what you need.
Consider motion-sensor lights for added convenience and energy efficiency. Proper lighting can create a more pleasant and functional laundry space that’s easy to navigate and use.
15. Retractable Clothesline:
For those who prefer air-drying but have limited space for a dedicated hanging rod, a retractable clothesline is a clever solution. These lines can be mounted on a wall or ceiling and extended when needed, providing ample drying space for clothes, towels, or even delicate items. When not in use, the line retracts neatly.
Consider installing a retractable clothesline above your washer and dryer or on an unused wall. If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use retractable clothesline, the Amazon Basics Retractable Clothesline is a great option. It’s durable, easy to install, and can hold up to 30 pounds of laundry.
16. Multi-Purpose Appliances:
Every inch of space counts in a small laundry closet. Consider investing in multi-purpose appliances that can perform multiple functions, saving you valuable space. A washer-dryer combo unit is an excellent option for those with limited space. It combines the functions of a washing machine and a dryer into a single appliance.
This not only saves space but also simplifies your laundry routine. Another space-saving appliance to consider is a steam cleaner. It can refresh clothes, remove wrinkles, and even sanitize surfaces, making it a versatile tool for any laundry room. Look for compact and efficient models that can easily be stored in your closet when not in use.
17. Decorative Touches:
Just because your laundry closet is functional doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Add a touch of personality and style to your space with decorative touches. Paint the walls cheerfully, add a patterned wallpaper, or hang some artwork to brighten the space.
You can also incorporate decorative storage solutions like woven baskets or colorful bins to add visual interest and organize your laundry essentials. Consider adding a small rug or a plant to bring a touch of nature indoors. With a few simple decorative touches, you can transform your laundry closet into a space that you actually enjoy spending time in.
Final Thoughts
These clever ideas can transform your small laundry closet into a functional and organized space. By utilizing vertical space, incorporating smart storage solutions, and adding a touch of personality, you can create a laundry area that’s both efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
Don’t let a small space limit your laundry possibilities. With a little creativity and these helpful tips, you can revolutionize your laundry routine and make laundry day a breeze. Remember, even the smallest laundry closet can be a haven of organization and efficiency with the right approach.
