A small laundry closet might seem challenging to design, but with a little creativity and thoughtful planning, you can turn it into a highly functional and efficient space. The key is making the most of the limited square footage by organizing everything in a way that’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some small laundry closet ideas to help you make the most out of this often-overlooked space.
1. Maximize Vertical Space for Storage
In small laundry closets, the most important design principle is to maximize vertical space. By thinking upwards, you can store cleaning products, laundry baskets, and supplies without crowding the floor space.
Shelving Above the Washer and Dryer
Install floating shelves above your washer and dryer to store detergents, fabric softeners, or cleaning supplies. You can also use these shelves for decorative items, like baskets or jars filled with essentials.
Wall-Mounted Organizers
Use wall-mounted racks or hooks to hang laundry essentials such as a drying rack, lint rollers, or small tools. You can even incorporate a folding board or ironing board that folds up and tucks away when not in use.
Overhead Cabinets
If you have enough space above your machines, consider adding cabinets that close, allowing you to hide cleaning supplies and laundry items out of sight. This will keep your laundry closet organized and visually appealing.
2. Use Multi-Functional Furniture
Maximizing utility in a small laundry closet means using furniture and fixtures that serve more than one purpose.
Fold-Out Ironing Board
Instead of a bulky ironing board that takes up space, opt for a fold-out or pull-down ironing board mounted on the door or wall. This will save space and still provide you with an efficient place to iron your clothes.
Stackable Washer and Dryer
If you’re working with a very small space, consider stackable washer and dryer units. These appliances allow you to place the washer and dryer vertically, taking up much less floor space while maintaining the same functionality.
Pull-Out Hamper
A pull-out laundry hamper can be tucked into a closet, cabinet, or under your counter, making it easy to sort laundry without cluttering the floor. Many pull-out hampers come with multiple compartments to help organize your laundry by color or fabric type.
3. Clever Storage Solutions for Cleaning Supplies
In a small laundry closet, organizing cleaning supplies efficiently is essential. You want everything to be within easy reach but not in the way.
Basket Storage
Baskets are perfect for grouping similar items together. Use baskets for storing items like dryer sheets, clothespins, or extra detergent. You can label the baskets for easy identification.
Pegboards or Hooks
Install a pegboard or wall hooks to hang cleaning tools, like mops, brooms, or brushes. This frees up valuable cabinet space for other essentials and ensures everything is easy to access.
Pull-Out Drawers
Consider installing pull-out drawers inside cabinets for storing smaller items. This helps keep everything organized and accessible while making good use of deep cabinet space. Pull-out drawers also allow you to access items in the back of the cabinet easily.
4. Make Use of Doors for Extra Storage
Closet doors don’t just have to close the space; they can also be used for additional storage solutions that save space and keep the room organized.
Over-Door Hooks and Racks
Install hooks or racks on the inside of the closet door for hanging smaller items, like towels, robes, or cleaning tools. This provides easy access to everyday items without taking up additional floor space.
Pocket Doors
If you don’t have enough space for traditional hinged doors, consider installing pocket doors that slide into the wall. This option frees up the area in front of the closet for other storage solutions and makes it easier to navigate the space.
Magnetic Organizers
Magnetic organizers can be attached to the inside of the door for small items like laundry pods or lint brushes. These simple organizers help keep smaller essentials organized and off the counter.
5. Create a Bright, Inviting Space
Just because it’s a laundry closet doesn’t mean it should feel drab. Brightening up the space with light colors, mirrors, and good lighting can make the area feel larger and more welcoming.
Light, Neutral Colors
Use light, neutral colors like white, beige, or light gray to keep the space feeling open and bright. These colors can help reflect light, making the space appear larger and more inviting.
Install Adequate Lighting
Good lighting is essential in a small laundry closet. Install overhead LED lights to brighten the entire room. Under-cabinet lighting or small wall-mounted sconces can help illuminate darker corners.
Add a Mirror
If your laundry closet has a narrow feel, consider adding a mirror to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Mirrors also give the room a more polished, organized look.
6. Keep It Functional and Tidy
Organization is key in any small space, but it’s especially important in a laundry closet. With limited room to work with, keeping everything organized ensures that your laundry closet remains both functional and visually appealing.
Keep Everything in Its Place
Use bins, baskets, or drawer organizers to keep everything in order. This prevents the laundry closet from becoming overcrowded and messy, ensuring you can easily find what you need when you need it.
Regularly Purge Old Items
Take some time every few months to declutter and remove unused or expired products. By keeping your cleaning supplies to a minimum, you’ll ensure that the space stays organized and efficient.
Use Clear Containers
Using clear containers for your laundry supplies helps keep everything visible and easy to access. This works especially well for items like detergent, bleach, and fabric softener, ensuring you can see when you’re running low.
FAQs
1. How can I make the most of a small laundry closet?
Maximize vertical space by using shelves, wall-mounted racks, and hanging organizers. Choose multi-functional furniture like stackable washers and fold-out ironing boards to save space. Keep everything organized with baskets, clear containers, and storage bins.
2. What are the best storage solutions for a small laundry closet?
Consider using wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, and hanging racks. Pull-out drawers, baskets, and over-door storage can also help maximize space. The goal is to use vertical and hidden storage to keep the closet tidy and functional.
3. Should I choose a stackable washer and dryer for a small laundry closet?
Yes, stackable washers and dryers are an excellent option for small spaces. They save a significant amount of floor space and can still handle your laundry needs without compromising on performance.
4. How can I organize cleaning supplies in a small laundry closet?
Use baskets, bins, or clear containers to store laundry supplies. Consider wall-mounted pegboards or hooks for cleaning tools like brooms, mops, or brushes. Install pull-out drawers or shelves inside cabinets to keep supplies accessible but out of sight.
5. What colors work best in a small laundry closet?
Light, neutral colors such as white, cream, or light gray are perfect for small laundry spaces. These colors help reflect light, making the space appear larger and brighter. You can add pops of color with accessories like towels or storage bins.
6. How can I improve the lighting in a small laundry closet?
Install bright, energy-efficient LED lighting overhead to illuminate the entire space. You can also use under-cabinet lights or wall-mounted sconces to brighten dark corners. Task lighting near your folding area or workstations is also helpful.
7. How do I keep a small laundry closet organized?
Use clear containers or labeled bins for detergents and other supplies. Regularly purge old or unused items and keep things off the floor. Take advantage of vertical space by using shelves or hanging racks for easy-to-access storage.
8. Can I use a small laundry closet for other purposes?
Yes! A small laundry closet can double as a utility closet for cleaning supplies, extra towels, or even seasonal storage. Just be sure to use multi-functional furniture, like a pull-out drying rack or fold-out ironing board, to keep the space versatile.
9. How do I add style to my small laundry closet?
Incorporate stylish storage containers, baskets, or decorative bins for an organized look. Adding a mirror or some artwork can also make the space feel more inviting. Choose clean, minimalistic designs to keep the space functional and aesthetically pleasing.
10. How can I make my laundry closet feel bigger?
Use light colors and mirrors to create the illusion of space. Keep the space organized and clutter-free by using smart storage solutions. Install shelves, hooks, and cabinets to store items efficiently without overcrowding the room.