Let’s be real—most of us aren’t working with a sprawling laundry room worthy of a showroom. If you’re like me, you’ve got a compact space that has to work extra hard. But here’s the good news: with a little creativity (and a few smart storage tricks), your small laundry room can still be stylish, functional, and dare I say it… downright dreamy. Whether your washer and dryer are tucked into a hallway closet or squeezed into the corner of a mudroom, these space-saving laundry room ideas will help you make the most of every square inch. Let’s dive into 19 small laundry room ideas that are total game-changers—and yes, you’ll want to steal every single one.
1. Stack your washer and dryer to save floor space
If you’re short on square footage, stacking your washer and dryer is one of the easiest ways to reclaim valuable floor space. This vertical setup creates room underneath for storage bins, laundry baskets, or even a cozy little folding station.
2. Add floating shelves for extra storage
Floating shelves are my go-to in a small laundry room. They’re perfect for holding detergent, dryer sheets, and cute jars without taking up precious floor space. Plus, they instantly make the room feel more polished.
3. Use a slim rolling cart between appliances
That awkward gap between your washer and dryer? Fill it with a slim rolling cart. It’s a sneaky little solution that keeps all your laundry essentials within arm’s reach and easy to tuck away when not in use.
4. Install a wall-mounted drying rack
When you don’t have space for a floor-standing rack, go vertical! A fold-down drying rack mounted on the wall is ideal for air-drying delicates and disappears when you’re done.
5. Try a pull-out ironing board
Traditional ironing boards can be such a hassle to store. A pull-out version built into a drawer or cabinet makes ironing quick and convenient—no wrestling with bulky boards required.
6. Hide your laundry area behind cabinet doors
If your laundry setup is in a hallway or open space, hide it behind bi-fold or cabinet doors. It keeps things looking clean and uncluttered while still being totally functional.
7. Go for vertical cabinetry
When floor space is tight, think up! Tall, narrow cabinets add loads of storage without eating up the room. I love using them to stash cleaning supplies, extra linens, and those random odds and ends.
8. Make the most of under-counter space
If you’ve got a front-loading washer and dryer, install a countertop above them. Not only does it create a surface for folding clothes, but it also gives the room a more built-in, intentional feel.
9. Use baskets and bins to keep things organized
You know I love a good storage basket (HomeSense has the best ones!). Group like items together in matching bins or baskets and label everything to keep clutter at bay and make laundry day a little easier.
10. Opt for a light and bright color scheme
A fresh coat of white paint or light-toned cabinetry can make a small laundry room feel instantly more open. Add a few pops of color through accessories for a cheerful, clean look.
11. Add wallpaper or a bold accent wall
Just because your laundry room is small doesn’t mean it has to be boring. A fun wallpaper or bold paint color adds personality and makes the space feel more designed.
12. Hang hooks for easy access
Hooks are a small-space lifesaver. Hang them on the back of the door or on an empty wall to store items like reusable laundry bags, aprons, or even your ironing board.
13. Use the back of the door
Don’t overlook the back of the door! Over-the-door organizers or hanging baskets give you a little extra storage without using any extra space. Perfect for dryer sheets, stain removers, or clothespins.
14. Choose a compact, all-in-one unit
If you’re really tight on space, consider a combo washer-dryer unit. These compact machines are ideal for studio apartments or secondary laundry setups and free up room for storage.
15. Install pegboards for flexible storage
I’m a big fan of pegboards in tight spots. Customize it with hooks, baskets, and small shelves to store cleaning tools, laundry supplies, and even a few decorative touches.
16. Build custom cabinetry around your appliances
If your space (and your budget) allows, wrap your washer and dryer in custom cabinetry. It hides the mess, adds style, and gives you built-in storage that fits your needs perfectly.
17. Add a curtain to hide everything
No doors? No problem. A simple curtain on a rod can tuck your laundry nook out of sight and add a little softness to the space.
18. Use multipurpose furniture
A bench with storage cubbies or a fold-down table gives you extra function without crowding the room. Every piece should earn its keep in a small laundry area!
19. Incorporate open shelving above machines
If cabinetry feels too bulky, open shelving might be your best friend. It keeps everything visible, accessible, and visually light—which is exactly what a small space needs.
More tips for designing a small laundry room that works hard
Want to create a small laundry room that looks good and works even better? Keep these tips in mind:
- Stick to light, bright colors to open up the space
- Use every available surface—walls, doors, under counters—for storage
- Choose compact appliances or stackable models when possible
- Keep it clutter-free with labeled bins and baskets
- Add a touch of personality with wallpaper, art, or cute jars
- Make sure every item has a purpose (bonus points if it’s pretty and practical)
Small laundry rooms might be short on space, but they’re full of potential. With the right layout and a few smart solutions, you can create a space that’s just as functional as it is beautiful. Which space-saving idea is your absolute fave? Hit me up in the comments below.
