We’ve been quietly planning a major laundry room remodel for years—really years. It started with a private Pinterest board, a notes list on my phone, and more saved Instagram reels about folding tables than I care to admit.
Our laundry room isn’t huge, but it’s a practical size: large enough to make meaningful changes, small enough that layout and storage decisions matter. When space is limited, every inch should deliver function without making the room feel cramped.
We gave the room a quick refresh back in 2017 and haven’t really updated it since. Old cabinetry and an awkward layout have left it short on function, so a proper remodel is overdue.
A week ago I asked my Instagram followers for their laundry room must-haves, and the responses were full of smart, practical ideas. Whether you’re building a laundry room from scratch, updating an existing space, or just looking for a few clever upgrades, these 27 functional laundry room ideas will help you make the most of every square inch.
1. Deep Sink
A deep utility sink is indispensable. Use it for soaking stained garments, rinsing muddy boots, cleaning paintbrushes, or any task where a little extra depth matters.
2. Drying Rack
Install a wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or pull-out drying rack for delicates and items that need to air dry. Retractable or fold-away models are ideal for saving space when not in use.
3. Hanging Rod
A simple hanging rod is perfect for drip-dry items, freshly steamed clothing, or staging outfits. Mount it above a counter or between cabinets for convenient access.
4. Under Washer/Dryer Pedestal Drawers
Pedestals elevate machines to a comfortable height and create hidden storage for detergent, dryer sheets, and cleaning supplies—both ergonomic and tidy.
5. Rolling Hampers
Multiple rolling hampers simplify sorting and transporting laundry. Choose labeled or color-coded bins to keep each family member’s laundry organized.
6. Fold-Away Ironing Board
A fold-away or pull-out ironing board tucks away neatly when not in use and frees floor space. Mount it inside a cabinet, in a drawer, or on the wall.
7. Closed Storage for Supplies and Towels
Mix cabinets and baskets to hide clutter while keeping everyday items within reach. Closed storage creates a cleaner, more organized look.
8. Folding Table
A dedicated folding surface makes laundry tasks faster and more pleasant. Consider a built-in counter over machines, a pull-down table, or a rolling folding cart that stores under the countertop.
9. Shelf with Cubbies for Basket Storage
Cubby shelving keeps laundry baskets tidy and off the floor. Assigning a cubby per family member helps streamline sorting and put-away.
10. Waist-Level Washer and Dryer
Placing machines at waist height reduces bending and makes loading and unloading more comfortable—especially helpful for frequent laundry days.
11. Drawers, Not Just Cabinets
Drawers offer better visibility and easier access than deep shelves. Use them for small items, cleaning supplies, and linens for quick retrieval.
12. A Place to Hide Detergent
Stash detergent in a dedicated drawer or cabinet for a cleaner aesthetic. Dispensers can be handy, but a closed cabinet keeps bottles out of sight and organized.
13. Storage for Wool Dryer Balls
Keep dryer balls in a small bin, basket, or jar so they won’t roll away and are always easy to grab.
14. Lint Keeper
A small countertop container or wall-mounted basket for lint prevents mid-load trips to the trash. (Dryer lint also works as fire-starting material if you use it safely outdoors.)
15. Dog Kennel / Cat Litter Box
If you don’t have a separate mudroom, the laundry room can be a discreet spot for a pet kennel or litter box—out of the main living areas but still accessible.
16. Space for Brooms and Cleaning Supplies
A slim broom closet or wall-mounted organizer keeps tall tools like brooms, mops, and vacuum accessories neat and out of the way.
17. DryAway
A slide-out or hidden drying cabinet is an elegant solution for small spaces—pull it out when you need it, tuck it away when you don’t.
18. Wall Hooks
Install hooks to hang bags, hats, damp clothes, or tomorrow’s outfit. Hooks are an inexpensive way to add daily convenience.
19. Double Washer/Dryer
If you have the room and frequent large loads, two washers or two dryers can dramatically reduce laundry time. It’s a luxury that pays off for big households.
20. Fun Color or Wallpaper
A bright paint color or playful wallpaper can make the room feel cheerful and less like a chore zone. Don’t be afraid to add pattern or personality.
21. Window
Natural light makes a laundry room feel larger, brighter, and more pleasant to work in. Even a small window can change the atmosphere dramatically.
22. Outlet for Steaming Clothes
Install an outlet near your hanging rod so you can steam and hang garments in the same spot. A dedicated steamer makes quick work of wrinkles if your budget allows.
23. Shelves
Open shelving works well for items you reach for often. Use baskets and jars to keep things tidy and add a decorative touch.
24. Shoe Storage
A shoe rack or cubbies prevent muddy boots from tracking dirt across the floor. Designate a spot for outdoor footwear near the door or entry point.
25. Cozy Lighting
Replace harsh builder lighting with a pendant, sconce, or even a small lamp to make the space feel inviting while providing useful task light.
27. Under Cabinet Lighting
Under-cabinet task lighting illuminates counters for folding, stain-spotting, and organization, making chores faster and more accurate.
26. Hideaway Washer and Dryer
For open-plan homes or rooms without doors, sliding panels, bifold doors, or an under-counter skirt can conceal machines when they’re not in use, keeping the space tidy.
Our Next Step
For our remodel we’ll combine several of these ideas to boost both function and style: a deep sink, a generous folding counter, plenty of closed storage, wall-mounted drying racks, cubbies for baskets, and if space allows, a slide-out broom cupboard. Those features should make the room work harder for our household while keeping it calm and organized.
Laundry probably won’t become my favorite chore, but a well-designed space can make it a lot less of a hassle. For the next few days I’ll be buried in cabinet planners and layout sketches, figuring out how to make every inch count.
