21 Nov
How to Create a Laundry Room for Small Spaces
Many people find doing the laundry to be a tedious chore that they want to get over with as soon as possible. Investing in washing machines is one of the best ways to speed up the process, as using the appliance is more convenient compared to washing clothes by hand. However, the problem with getting a bulky appliance is having enough space for it. If you live in a tiny apartment or a small home, you might think that having a laundry area is not an option for you.
Fortunately, with a few adjustments and smart home designs, you can cleverly create a laundry area in your home. Applying one of these small space laundry ideas might allow you to finally buy a front load washing machine and do your own laundry at home instead of using a service. You’ll be able to save more and take better care of your clothes in the long run! Here are a few setups you can try:
Combine the Bathroom and Laundry Room
If you don’t have the luxury of converting a spare room into a laundry room, you can combine spaces to serve as your laundry area. For example, you can put your washing machine and laundry supplies in the bathroom. Depending on the amount of space available, you can opt for a single washer-dryer combo unit or separate washing machine and dryer units.
If you choose to get standalone machines, you can load the appliances on top of each other to maximize the vertical space in your bathroom. Just remember to choose a washer and a dryer in similar sizes for a more seamless look. If you need storage space, install open shelving and stash your toiletries and laundry products there.
Hide Appliances in the Kitchen
Cooking and doing the laundry in the same space may seem strange, but sometimes it’s the best solution given your limitations. If you feel that the washing machine looks completely out of place in the kitchen, you can cleverly hide the appliance behind cabinet doors. Simply enclose the machine in cabinetry that matches the rest of your kitchen, and no one will be the wiser.
If you don’t want to impede traffic flow in the kitchen, install doors that open and slide back into the cabinet. Such a design also lets you access your washer easily, whether you prefer a top-load or front-load washing machine. If the space allows it, install shelves above the washer so you have somewhere to stow laundry products and cleaning supplies.
Transform a Closet into a Laundry Room
A laundry area doesn’t always have to occupy an entire room. Sometimes, a space as big as a closet is adequate for housing all your laundry needs. Even a half-square-meter closet is enough to fit a front-load washing machine and a dryer placed side by side. Depending on how deep the closet is, you may make it more functional by installing a countertop to hold your laundry detergent, baskets, and other products. The countertop also doubles as a space to fold clothes. Additionally, you can use the vertical space to install a drying rack and hang your clothes.
Instead of typical closet doors that swing open, install barn doors that can slide into place to conceal the area when you’re done with chores. You may also opt to keep the doors closed if you want to reduce the sounds coming from the appliances when they’re in use.
Maximize Narrow Spaces with the Right Appliances
If you have a small home, you need to maximize every inch of available space, including the narrowest areas. For example, a top-load washing machine is a perfect choice if the only space you can work with is a compact area between walls. This is also a practical solution if there isn’t enough area to maneuver the door of a front-load washer since you open the appliance from the top. Additionally, top-load washers are available in various sizes, so you should be able to find one that fits the available space.
Another option is to get a stacked washer and dryer. Compared to putting two free-standing appliances on top of each other, a stacked washer and dryer come as a single unit. It also has a narrower design that makes it an attractive choice for compact spaces.
Convert an Outdoor Area into Your Laundry Room
Some people don’t have the indoor space to accommodate a laundry room but have a veranda they can use. Setting up your laundry area here is a good option as it helps free up your living space and the open air allows for line drying. Do make sure the area is covered and won’t expose your appliances to the elements, as rain and excessive sun exposure can damage them. Alternatively, you can install durable waterproof cabinets to safely house your washing machine and dryer outside.
Doing the laundry may not be a fun way to spend your time, but being able to do it in the comfort of your own home is preferable to spending your day at the laundromat. Don’t let your small space stop you from setting up a laundry area. With the right appliances and some creativity, you can maximize small spaces and come up with a laundry room that makes your wash days less tedious.
