Laundry rooms are loads of fun. NOT. They’re all work, work, work. If the point of home improvements is to increase function, however, then the laundry room is the perfect candidate for your next project, big or small. You can gut the whole thing and move it up or downstairs, or do something a bit simpler. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your laundry room upgrade, here are a few tips and tricks to consider.
Appliances
You may or may not need to upgrade your appliances. They can push a small remodel into renovation price ranges, but having the right washer/dryer to fit your space can make all the difference. Energy Star rated appliances are a no-brainer. They save resources and money simultaneously. Front or top loading, really comes down to preference. The only real edge is the angle of the drum in a front loader; with its tilt front loading washers spin away excess water more efficiently, making your clothes more damp than wet when they go into the dryer, which also helps reduce drying times.
Consider how these two major appliances are placed within the room and how that can affect workflow. Stacking your washer and dryer saves a ton of floor space. Situating them in the traditional side-by-side arrangement and you can build storage around it like the framing of a picture.
Location
In some cases, moving the location of your laundry room can be the big game changer. If your laundry is located in the basement and your ability to handle stairs is declining, opting to move the laundry room upstairs near the kitchen or a bathroom (so you can piggy-back off existing plumbing) will benefit you as much as your laundry. For some families, having the laundry room upstairs where all the laundry originates is more helpful. Changing the location will cost extra, but if it boosts efficiency without interfering with any other part of the house, it’s worth it.
Flooring
Because there’s the potential for major water leaks, you’ll want to make sure that your flooring is something that works well around moisture. Engineered wood or tile with the proper subfloor are classic choices that can handle excess moisture and have a variety of style options so you’re sure to find something that fits you.
Accessories
A folding table/countertop, pre-sorted laundry bins, drying rack, work sink for hand washables and stains, even a steam closet can all be included in your new laundry room. When it comes to the bells and whistles, no one knows your laundry like you do. Don’t forget to add all the things that will make your job easier and less tedious.
Storage
Storage is just as important in the laundry room as it is anywhere else in the house. As mentioned previously, if you choose to place your machines side-by-side, you can add shelves above the units, or build a series of cabinets around the machines to store detergents, dryer balls, iron, stain remover, and a sewing kit. Storage solutions can be as elaborate as full on cabinets with doors and drawers, or simple shelves and a counter space with the underneath area masked by a decorative curtain.
Style
Don’t forget to Inject a little of you into the room. You’ll be spending a lot of time in there, so don’t be afraid to dress it with photos of your family, some flowers, or other artwork that puts your mind at ease.
Multi-purpose
If there’s one room that was meant to be combined with another, it’s the laundry room. Laundry rooms pair very well with kitchen pantries, en suites, and mudrooms. Some folks like to keep their laundry in their full bathroom, just be sure you’re ventilated properly or there will be no hope in drying your clothes. Ever.