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A well-organized laundry room can make a world of difference in how efficiently you get through laundry day. Whether you have a dedicated laundry room or a small nook in your home, effective storage solutions can turn a chaotic space into a functional, tidy area. Here are some smart storage ideas to help you organize your laundry room and keep it neat and practical.
1. Install Shelving Above or Around the Washer and Dryer
Shelves are a fantastic way to maximize vertical space in your laundry room. Installing shelves above or around the washer and dryer can give you a place to store detergent, fabric softener, bleach, and other laundry essentials. You can also use shelves to keep cleaning supplies, baskets, and even decorative items for a more polished look.
- Tip: Use open shelving for easy access to frequently used items, or opt for closed cabinets to hide away less attractive cleaning supplies.
2. Use a Rolling Cart for Flexibility
A rolling cart can be a game changer in a small laundry room. You can keep it stocked with essentials like stain remover, dryer sheets, and lint rollers, then move it around as needed. These carts are typically narrow, so they fit into tight spaces easily, and they can be tucked away when not in use.
- Tip: Consider a cart with multiple levels to maximize storage space. This can also be a great place to store extra laundry baskets for sorting clothes.
3. Hang Hooks for Brooms, Mops, and Other Cleaning Tools
If your laundry room doubles as a space for cleaning supplies, make use of wall hooks to hang brooms, mops, and even dustpans. Installing hooks on the inside of your laundry room door or along one of the walls keeps these tools off the floor, freeing up valuable space for other storage.
- Tip: Install a pegboard or a few strong hooks near your washer and dryer so you can hang items like clothespins or lint brushes as well.
4. Store Laundry Baskets on a Shelf or in a Cabinet
Laundry baskets are essential, but they can take up a lot of space if left on the floor. Consider installing a shelf or dedicating a cabinet to storing baskets. You can even have separate baskets for different laundry loads, such as colors, whites, or delicates, to make sorting easier.
- Tip: If you need extra space for sorting, use a multi-basket laundry sorter that can sit on top of a counter or be hung up. This way, you can store several baskets in one organized space.
5. Use Clear Storage Bins for Detergents and Supplies
Clear plastic bins are perfect for storing smaller laundry essentials like dryer sheets, cleaning supplies, and extra detergent. By using transparent bins, you can easily see what’s inside without having to open each one. Stackable bins are also a great way to keep things organized and accessible without taking up too much space.
- Tip: Label your bins for easy identification. This will save time and help everyone in the house know where to find what they need.
6. Install a Pull-Out Ironing Board
Ironing boards can be cumbersome, but they don’t have to take up precious space in your laundry room. Installing a pull-out ironing board or an ironing board that folds down from the wall can save space and keep it hidden when not in use.
- Tip: Consider an ironing board with a built-in storage unit underneath to keep your iron and spray bottles neatly stored.
7. Add a Folding Station
If you have the space, designate an area in your laundry room as a folding station. A countertop or a flat surface where you can fold clothes will make the process more efficient. If you don’t have a lot of space, you can add a portable folding table or use the top of your washer and dryer.
- Tip: If your countertop is narrow, consider using a countertop extension or a foldable table that can be tucked away when not in use.
8. Create a Drying Area for Delicates
For items that can’t go in the dryer, you’ll need a drying area. If you don’t have a dedicated space, use an over-the-door drying rack or install a collapsible drying rack that can be folded away when not needed. This allows you to air-dry your delicates without taking up too much space.
- Tip: Install a retractable clothesline across a corner of the laundry room for extra drying space. This can be tucked away when not in use, saving valuable room.
9. Use a Laundry Hamper with Multiple Compartments
A laundry hamper with multiple sections is perfect for sorting clothes before washing. You can separate your clothes into categories such as colors, whites, and darks right from the start, making the laundry process faster and more organized.
- Tip: Look for hampers that are either stackable or have wheels for easy transport to the washer and dryer.
10. Keep Small Items in a Storage Tray or Drawer
Small laundry-related items like fabric softener pods, lint rollers, or stain removers can easily get lost if not stored properly. Use a small drawer, tray, or basket to keep these items organized and accessible. This keeps them out of sight but still easy to grab when needed.
- Tip: For easy access, place this tray or drawer near the washer or dryer, so you won’t have to go digging for your supplies during each load.
11. Maintain a Regular Decluttering Routine
A big part of maintaining an organized laundry room is regularly decluttering it. Take time every few months to go through your supplies, throw away anything expired, and donate items you no longer use. This will keep your space organized and prevent unnecessary clutter from building up.
- Tip: Keep a trash bin or recycling bin nearby so you can quickly dispose of old or expired products as you go through your supplies.
Conclusion
Organizing your laundry room may seem like a daunting task, but with the right storage solutions, it can be a simple and rewarding process. By utilizing vertical space, creating designated areas for different tasks, and using storage bins and hooks effectively, you can turn your laundry room into a functional and clutter-free space. With a bit of planning and regular maintenance, your laundry room will be an efficient, organized area that makes laundry day a breeze.