When it comes to designing a narrow laundry room, the challenge often lies in making the most of the limited space available. Whether you have a small nook tucked away in your home or an oddly-shaped area that’s hard to make functional, a bit of creativity can transform it into a beautiful, efficient space.
Today, we’ll be exploring 23 clever and inspiring narrow laundry room ideas to help you get the most out of your laundry space. From space-saving storage solutions to design tips that make your room feel bigger, we’ve got you covered!
1. Use Vertical Storage for Maximum Efficiency
One of the best ways to optimize a narrow laundry room is to make use of vertical space. Instead of cluttering the floor with bulky storage items, focus on storing things up high. Tall cabinets, wall-mounted shelves, or even pegboards for hanging smaller items can go a long way in keeping your laundry room organized and neat.
Why it works: Vertical storage keeps your floor clear, making the space feel less cramped. You can store detergents, fabric softeners, cleaning products, and even spare towels without taking up much-needed floor space. Additionally, with shelves reaching the ceiling, you maximize every inch of the room, allowing you to store seasonal items or bulk supplies out of the way.
To make it even more functional, add labeled bins or baskets to your shelves. This will help you easily grab what you need without digging through piles of products.
2. Opt for Stackable Washer and Dryer Units
If your narrow laundry room doesn’t have a lot of horizontal space, stacking your washer and dryer can save a significant amount of room. Stackable units are a great space-saving solution that allows you to still have both appliances without the need for them to take up the entire length of the room.
Why it works: Stackable washers and dryers typically come in slim, compact designs, perfect for small spaces. This arrangement frees up valuable floor space for other uses, such as adding additional storage or a countertop for folding clothes. You can also place them in a corner or a closet to further enhance the efficiency of your laundry room layout.
Modern stackable units come with features that can help with energy efficiency, making them an eco-friendly choice for those looking to save on electricity and water usage as well.
3. Install Open Shelving for Easy Access
Open shelving might not be for everyone, but when done correctly, it’s an excellent option for a narrow laundry room. This solution allows you to store all of your laundry supplies—like detergent, bleach, and fabric softener—where you can easily grab them when needed. Open shelving can also make your room feel more airy and spacious by allowing you to see everything without having to rummage through closed cabinets.
Why it works: It’s simple, accessible, and functional. Plus, open shelving can help create a more open feel, which is essential in narrow rooms. You can even install floating shelves or wire shelving to keep the design modern and sleek. Add some small storage baskets to keep your laundry essentials organized, so things don’t look too cluttered.
Open shelving can also serve as an area for decorative touches, such as a few potted plants or pretty jars for laundry pods.
4. Add a Slim Laundry Cart for Extra Storage
Another great space-saving solution is a slim, rolling laundry cart. These carts fit perfectly in narrow spaces, such as the area between your washer and dryer, or even next to a wall. They can be used for storing detergent, softeners, or even as a place to sort laundry before washing.
Why it works: The beauty of a slim laundry cart lies in its versatility. You can roll it out when you need it, then push it back into place when you’re done. Look for carts that have multiple tiers for added storage, and choose ones with adjustable shelves so you can customize them based on your specific needs.
A slim cart can also double as an extra folding station when not in use, making it a truly multi-purpose addition to your laundry room.
5. Incorporate a Fold-Down Table or Counter
Adding a fold-down counter or table can make a significant difference in the functionality of your narrow laundry room. A wall-mounted, fold-down table is perfect for folding clothes, sorting laundry, or even ironing. When you’re not using it, simply fold it up against the wall, and it’s out of the way.
Why it works: Folding tables take up zero floor space when they’re not in use, and when they are extended, they provide a generous workspace. This idea works especially well for small laundry rooms where every inch counts. Install a wall-mounted table above a slim laundry cart or near your washer and dryer for an easy-to-access folding station.
Incorporating a fold-down table is an excellent way to maintain functionality in a narrow space without sacrificing design.
6. Go with Light Colors to Brighten the Room
When working with a narrow space, choosing light, neutral colors can help open up the room and make it feel larger. Opt for whites, creams, soft grays, or pastel shades for the walls and cabinetry to brighten the space. Light colors reflect light, making the room feel airy and spacious, even if square footage is limited.
Why it works: Light colors help bounce natural or artificial light around the room, making the space feel less cramped. In a narrow laundry room, dark tones can have the opposite effect, making the space feel even smaller. With the right color palette, your laundry room can feel open and inviting, even if the space is tight.
If you love adding some color to your space, you can incorporate vibrant accents, like colored towels or accessories, to add personality without overwhelming the room.
7. Use Sliding Doors Instead of Traditional Hinged Doors
Traditional hinged doors take up extra space when opened, making them less than ideal for a narrow laundry room. Sliding doors, on the other hand, glide open without encroaching on the limited floor space around them. Sliding barn doors are a popular trend, but you can also opt for pocket doors or bi-fold doors depending on your style and available space.
Why it works: Sliding doors eliminate the need for door clearance, which is essential in tight spaces. This also gives you more flexibility with furniture placement and allows the entire room to feel more open. Whether you’re choosing rustic barn doors or a sleek, modern sliding door, this feature can be both stylish and space-saving.
Consider installing a sliding door for your laundry room entry or to separate the space from other areas in your home. The style options are endless!
8. Create a Laundry Nook with a Pocket Door
If your home has an alcove or underutilized corner, consider transforming it into a compact laundry nook. By installing a pocket door, you can create a designated laundry space while still keeping it out of sight when not in use. A pocket door slides into the wall, eliminating the need for extra clearance space.
Why it works: Pocket doors provide a sleek and seamless way to create a laundry nook in even the smallest of spaces. By hiding the laundry area behind a pocket door, you can maintain the open feel of your home without sacrificing functionality. This is ideal if you want your laundry room to be tucked away but still easy to access.
A laundry nook with a pocket door also makes for an easy upgrade if you want to add a touch of elegance to your narrow laundry area.
9. Make the Most of Hidden Storage
If your narrow laundry room has limited space, consider maximizing hidden storage. This can include cabinets with pull-out shelves, hidden compartments, or under-sink storage. Hidden storage keeps laundry products out of sight while still keeping everything accessible.
Why it works: Hidden storage helps maintain a clean and uncluttered space, which is essential when working with a small room. Look for cabinetry that offers pull-out drawers or rotating shelves, which will make it easier to access what you need without disrupting the neatness of the room.
Think about placing storage beneath counters or even utilizing the space above your washer and dryer with hidden storage solutions. This keeps everything neatly tucked away yet within reach.
10. Consider a Compact Washer/Dryer Combo
For the ultimate space-saving solution, consider installing a washer/dryer combo unit. These units integrate both appliances into one compact machine, allowing you to save significant space in a narrow laundry room. They’re perfect for smaller households or those who need a second laundry area.
Why it works: A washer/dryer combo is perfect for homes with limited space and is an excellent option for apartments or smaller homes. These units are often energy-efficient and have all the functions of a traditional washer and dryer, but in a compact form.
While it might not be the ideal solution for large families, a washer/dryer combo works wonders in tight spaces and can simplify laundry day.
11. Incorporate a Wall-Mounted Drying Rack
A wall-mounted drying rack is another great space-saving solution for narrow laundry rooms. This can be folded down when needed, allowing you to air-dry clothes after washing without taking up any floor space.
Why it works: Wall-mounted drying racks are practical and versatile. They can be placed above your washer and dryer or near a window for optimal airflow. Not only does this solution save space, but it also helps prevent wrinkles, which can save you time ironing later.
Look for foldable options or extendable drying racks that can be tucked away when you’re done.
12. Utilize a Corner Laundry Sink
If you have a corner available in your narrow laundry room, consider adding a corner laundry sink. This can be used for pre-treating clothes, washing delicate items, or even soaking laundry before a wash. Corner sinks fit into small spaces and can be customized to suit your needs.
Why it works: Corner laundry sinks are a great way to make use of otherwise wasted space in a narrow laundry room. These sinks are compact but offer plenty of functionality. Add a simple faucet with a retractable hose, and you’ll have a highly efficient laundry area.
13. Go for a Minimalistic Design
When space is limited, less is often more. A minimalistic design can help create a clutter-free and serene laundry room. By focusing on simple, functional elements and avoiding unnecessary items, your narrow laundry room will feel less crowded and more inviting.
Why it works: A clean, streamlined look allows you to focus on the essentials, which is key in a narrow space. Use neutral tones, simple cabinetry, and clean lines to keep things looking organized. Remove any non-essential items and focus on storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the rest of the room.
Incorporating minimalist design elements can also help create a visually relaxing space, especially if your laundry room is near a living area where you want to maintain a calm atmosphere.
14. Use Multi-Function Furniture
When you’re working with a small laundry room, every piece of furniture should serve more than one purpose. Look for multi-functional furniture, such as benches with hidden storage, foldable ironing boards, or laundry baskets that double as seating. This allows you to make the most of the space without cluttering it with unnecessary pieces.
Why it works: Multi-function furniture helps you maintain a tidy space while offering additional convenience. A laundry bench with hidden storage underneath, for example, provides both seating and a place to store laundry supplies. An ironing board that folds into the wall can be tucked away when not in use, providing a clean look and more room to move.
Choosing multi-purpose furniture helps make the space not only more efficient but also more enjoyable to use.
15. Install Pull-Out Laundry Bins
For a narrow laundry room, pull-out laundry bins are a fantastic way to keep your clothes organized. These bins are often built into cabinetry or mounted on rails, so you can easily pull them out for sorting laundry and then tuck them back out of sight when you’re finished.
Why it works: Pull-out bins provide a neat and accessible way to separate darks, lights, and delicates. They save floor space by sliding neatly into cabinetry, and they make the process of sorting laundry much easier. You can even label each bin for added organization.
Look for pull-out bins with mesh or fabric liners for a more flexible solution that can be easily cleaned and adjusted to fit your needs.
16. Add Accent Lighting for a Bright, Inviting Space
Lighting plays a huge role in how a narrow laundry room feels. By adding accent lighting, you can brighten up the room, making it feel more spacious and inviting. Consider under-cabinet lighting, LED strips along shelves, or recessed lighting to create a soft and flattering glow.
Why it works: Proper lighting helps make the space feel open and airy, especially if your laundry room is tucked away in a basement or closet. Accent lighting also adds a touch of style and sophistication. LED lights are energy-efficient and can be dimmed to create the perfect mood while you work.
Adding accent lighting is a simple yet effective way to transform a functional space into one that feels more comfortable and visually appealing.
17. Use a Sliding Hamper
A sliding hamper is a clever and functional solution for a narrow laundry room. This design lets you store dirty laundry out of sight while providing an easy way to transport it to the washer. The sliding feature makes it easy to access even in cramped spaces, allowing you to tuck it away when not in use.
Why it works: Sliding hampers save space and help keep your laundry area organized. You can slide the hamper under a counter or place it against the wall, making it unobtrusive when not in use. This is especially helpful in tight laundry rooms, as it helps you avoid the mess of piling clothes on the floor.
Consider a built-in sliding hamper or a stylish, free-standing option to fit seamlessly into your laundry room.
18. Go for Custom Wall-Mounted Hooks
Wall-mounted hooks are an inexpensive yet highly effective solution for narrow laundry rooms. These hooks can be used for a variety of purposes, such as hanging brooms, mops, dustpans, laundry bags, or even items that need to air-dry. By mounting them on the wall, you can free up floor space for other uses.
Why it works: Wall-mounted hooks are versatile and easy to install. They help you keep cleaning tools and laundry accessories organized without taking up precious space. You can place hooks near the entrance to your laundry room or on the inside of cabinet doors for additional storage.
Use decorative hooks to add a bit of charm to your laundry room while keeping everything within reach.
19. Use a Simple, Neutral Color Palette for Calmness
A neutral color palette is a great way to create a sense of calm in your narrow laundry room. Soft tones such as taupe, beige, or light blue can make the space feel more open and peaceful. These colors also work well with a wide range of decor styles, allowing you to keep your room timeless and adaptable.
Why it works: Neutral colors are known to create a soothing atmosphere, which can help turn a functional laundry room into a space that you don’t mind spending time in. Light hues reflect more light, helping to brighten the room and make it feel larger.
Add interest with colorful accents, such as patterned towels or a bold rug, to inject personality into your neutral space.
20. Add Natural Elements with Plants
Adding plants to your laundry room is a great way to bring life and vibrancy to the space, no matter how small it is. Choose low-maintenance plants, like succulents, ferns, or ivy, that thrive in indirect light. You can place them on shelves, window sills, or in hanging planters to add a touch of nature to your laundry area.
Why it works: Plants not only look beautiful but also purify the air, making your laundry room a healthier environment. They can soften the industrial feel of a utilitarian space, turning it into a pleasant place to be. Plus, plants are an easy and affordable way to inject some color and texture into your room.
Opt for small plants or vertical planters to avoid taking up too much space.
21. Use a Laundry Room Organizer Kit
To keep your narrow laundry room neat and tidy, consider using a laundry room organizer kit. These kits often come with adjustable shelves, baskets, and hooks, giving you the flexibility to customize your storage according to your needs.
Why it works: Organizer kits are ideal for creating a well-ordered space, especially in smaller areas. They offer a range of storage options, from shelf dividers to pull-out drawers, which help keep everything in its place. Whether you’re organizing cleaning supplies, laundry detergents, or small appliances, these kits are a great way to keep things streamlined.
Look for kits that offer modular components, so you can add or remove pieces as your storage needs evolve.
22. Install a Pull-Out Ironing Board
An ironing board that pulls out from a drawer or cabinet is a great space-saving solution for a narrow laundry room. These boards tuck neatly out of sight when not in use, helping to keep the space tidy while still offering you a convenient spot for ironing clothes.
Why it works: A pull-out ironing board is hidden away until needed, freeing up valuable floor space in your laundry room. It’s a clever addition that saves you from the hassle of setting up a traditional ironing board every time. Additionally, many pull-out ironing boards come with extra storage for iron, starch, or other ironing supplies.
This simple addition makes your laundry room both functional and stylish.
23. Install a Tension Rod for Hanging Clothes
If you need extra hanging space in your narrow laundry room, consider installing a tension rod above the washer and dryer. This simple solution allows you to hang clothes immediately after washing, preventing wrinkles and creating more space for drying.
Why it works: A tension rod is easy to install and doesn’t require permanent hardware. You can hang clothes, delicates, or even towels while your laundry room stays organized. When not in use, the rod can be removed or repositioned to keep the room clear.
This is a particularly useful solution for smaller laundry rooms where you may not have room for a large drying rack.
Conclusion
A narrow laundry room doesn’t have to be a limitation. With a little creativity and thoughtful design, you can maximize every inch of space and create a functional, stylish environment for doing laundry. From stackable units and vertical storage to clever multi-functional furniture and hidden storage, the possibilities are endless.
By incorporating these 23 ideas, you’ll transform your laundry space from a cramped, cluttered area into a well-organized, efficient room that you actually enjoy spending time in. Remember to choose solutions that work for your specific needs, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your design choices.
Whether you’re renovating a small laundry nook or working with a tiny laundry closet, the key is to think vertically, use multi-purpose items, and create a space that reflects your style. Happy organizing!
