Make laundry less of a chore by moving your washer and dryer to a more convenient spot. See how we converted a hall closet for the job.
Stack the Appliances
Install a ventless electric dryer designed to fit in a small space but big enough to handle a king-size comforter. This ENERGY STAR®-qualified washer has 16 wash options, and it lets you program custom cycles. To access everything, use louvered bifold doors that provide ventilation. A porcelain tile floor works better than carpet in a potentially wet space.
Made to Sort
Add a ventilated shelving system with additional shelves for quick vertical storage.
Stock Your Shelves
Corral small items, such as hand towels and mismatched socks, in wicker baskets to contain clutter in a tight space.
Study the Space
A laundry on the main floor or upper level -- instead of in the basement -- is a step-saving convenience you’ll appreciate for years. From a hall closet measuring only 3 feet deep by 5 feet wide with a 4-foot opening, we created this compact laundry station after checking it for the necessary space and access to utilities.
Small-Space Laundry Tips
Technology upgrades to washers and dryers have changed how we do laundry. Before you start a load of laundry, remember these key points.
Upkeep. To reduce buildup in a front-load washer dispenser drawer, use only high-efficiency detergent and bleach. Detergent and fabric softener may build up in the dispenser drawer. Residue should be removed once or twice a month.
Weight control. In a front-load washer, wash like-weight items together. (Do not mix lightweight dedicates with heavy bath towels.)
Size matters. Combine large and small items in a load; add large items first.
Pillow talk. Pillows and comforters should not be mixed with other items to avoid an out-of-balance load.
Keep it clean. Clean your front-load washer’s drum monthly. Run the clean cycle with 1 cup of bleach or a cleaner like Affresh to avoid odors.
Bolted down. If you opt to place a stackable dryer above the washer, you will need a stacking kit to safely secure the machines. Some come with a kit, but check before you leave the store.
Laundry Your Way
Style-Setter Laundry
A side-by-side washer and dryer maximize counter space. Upper cabinetry hides laundry necessities. Shelves between the cabinets display your prettiest laundry goods, such as sachets and linen water. Add a bulletin board -- or use chalkboard paint -- to create a message center for family to-dos.
Linen Lover
Stacking a washer and dryer opens up floor space. Hide dirty clothes in cabinetry hampers. Hang an ironing board on the closet doors. A shower rod or curtain rod puts hangers within arm’s reach. Add shelving for blankets, duvets, pillows, and other seasonal linens. A basket stores a fresh set of towels, extra blankets, and other linens for drop-in guests.
Clean Freak Laundry
A two-in-one washer/dryer increases space for other items, including a vacuum cleaner. A rubber mat protects the floor from messy brooms and mops while favorite tools hang from perforated hardboard hooks. Build custom-size, brightly painted boxes using our DIY instructions and fill them with ironing tools, laundry supplies, and lightbulbs.
DIY Devotee Laundry
Stack your washer and dryer to make room for a rolling tool chest that stores tools, cleaning products, or DIY supplies. Above the upper appliance, store laundry goods in one convenient place. Perforated hardboard hooks store your most frequently used tools. Add a shelf for household items such as lightbulbs or towels.