Laundry is one of the least favorite chores for any homeowner. However, a well designed laundry room can make this chore fast and efficient. Taking time out to brighten up the room can really brighten up your outlook on the space; what’s more, you can renovate your laundry room and maximize the space on any type of budget. The goal here is to create a space that is inviting and functional to help you tackle your most dreaded chore and turn it into something that you will look forward to.
If you have a separate room in your home set aside for doing your laundry you understand the convenience of having a space to handle this responsibility. Or perhaps you are thinking of converting a room in your home or a basement into a laundry room not only to update your home, but to give you ample space to take care of business. Either way you go, there are some things you want to keep in mind as you get ready to tackle your project.
Plan the Layout
A laundry room requires electrical, plumbing, and venting. It is important to take time to review the room’s layout and floor plan. If you are planning to install new appliances or remodel this room you must understand where all the valves and vents need to be placed. You should also know that a machine that is a front loader is designed to have the washing machine to the left and the dryer to the right. If you place them the opposite way, it will be awkward to manage.
If the space you are working with is small, you can have the laundry room also double up as a mudroom or storage room depending on your room’s location and your specific needs. It may be the simple addition of cabinets or countertop space that makes all the difference in the world. The main goal is to make sure you consider multi-tasking when you are planning out the look of the room.
Location, Location, Location
Today’s laundry room no longer has to be a damp, dark space set aside in a garage or basement corner. If you have the extra space to build a room around your laundry area or to move it to another room in your home on an outside wall, go for it. Not only will you be creating a space that is more convenient for you, but it will also improve the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers in the future. If your home lacks a specific room then consider utilizing a linen or coat closet and installing a stackable, compact unit.
The Right Appliances Make a Big Difference
When it comes to washers and dryers there are so many options available today. But you want to make sure you choose the right set up to suit your needs and functionality for your space.
Top Loading Machines are the least expensive choice. They do have a smaller capacity and tend to use more electricity. You can purchase a top loader that is “High-efficiency” because they utilize less energy, but sometimes they have less capacity.
Front Loading Machines offer the most efficiency in water and energy consumption. They are available in a variety of styles and colors.
Combination Washer Dryer Units are great for space saving, although they typically have a small load capacity.
Taking Time to Find Extra Space
For making the most of your usable space, you might consider a stackable washer and dryer. These units aren’t ideal for all layouts or lifestyles, but is might be a great option if you are working with a small space. You can also consider a combination washer and dryer. This option combines the washer and dryer inside one appliance and it takes up less space.
Consider a Wash Sink
If you don’t have a wash sink in your laundry room, a good time to add one is during your remodel if space allows. Make sure to align the sink next to a counter or choose an option with a counter accompanied by a built-in sink. This will add more convenience to your space and will give you a place to take care of washing needs that aren’t the best option for your kitchen sink.
Sort Your Laundry
Before you can start your laundry, you want to design an area to properly sort your clothes. You can include various bins marked for certain types of laundry or even utilize bags and hang them on hooks on the wall. When each bin or bag is full it can represent one load to simplify your tasks.
Hanging Up Clothes
If space allows, hang a rod across the room that you can utilize to hang up the laundry as you remove it from the dryer. You can secure the rod over the top of your appliances into the opposite walls or under a cabinet. If you don’t have a room long enough for a closet rod, consider other types of options such as installing towel racks on the wall. You can easily hang your clothes here for a short time while you unload the dryer before you move them to the closet to store them.
Take Time to Fold
Instead of tossing your clean laundry on the floor or the middle of the bed to fold, try to set up a folding area within your laundry room. If you are short on space you could consider utilizing the top of the dryer. In some cases, you can repurpose your folding table as a hobby or sewing area.
Where is the Ironing Board
If you have available wall space, consider installing a ironing board cabinet that is built into the wall. Instead of having to drag the ironing board out and setting it up and then lugging it back into its space when finished, you just open the door, the board drops down and you use it. When you’re done it hides away back into the wall. This is a simple and efficient use of space that will leave you much more room for other tasks.