20 Smart Laundry Room Shelving Ideas for an Organized, Stylish Space
Giving your laundry room a makeover can be incredibly satisfying. I've found that the right modern shelving is the key to transforming this often-overlooked space from cluttered to chic. Smart storage, whether from sleek floating shelves or custom built-ins, doesn't just improve how the room works—it adds a layer of style. I'm excited to share 20 of my top ideas to help you get inspired.
LAUNDRY & UTILITY
Why Good Shelving Matters in a Laundry Room
Before jumping in, let's consider why shelving is so transformative. When you're planning a remodel, well-placed shelves are a total game-changer. They introduce order, meaning you're no longer hunting for detergent. This boost in functionality and storage clears clutter, making the entire chore feel more efficient and a lot less stressful.
1. Embrace Airy Open Shelving
This is perfect for keeping your most-used items, like detergent and dryer balls, in plain sight. It makes the room feel larger and more open, especially if you use matching containers.
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2. Install a DIY Industrial Pipe Shelf
For a popular and sturdy look, combine warm wood planks with black industrial pipes. You can add a lower pipe to serve as a convenient hanging rack for delicates.
3. Conceal Clutter with Closed Cabinets
Upper cabinets are ideal for hiding less attractive items—think bleach, cleaning supplies, or mismatched towels. This gives the room a clean, streamlined, and polished appearance.
4. Combine Open and Closed Storage
Get the best of both worlds. Use a sleek, minimal cabinet for clutter and add a few open shelves next to it for displaying decorative items, neatly folded towels, or glass jars.
9. Go Vertical
Don't forget the space above your head! Use tall, narrow shelving units or stack cabinets to draw the eye up and use every available inch of wall height, which is especially important in rooms with small footprints.
10. Activate Awkward Corners
Corners are often wasted space. Install simple L-shaped or triangular corner shelves to hold smaller items like stain removers, lint rollers, or a small plant.
6. Use Thick, Rustic Wood Shelves
To add warmth and character to a sterile laundry space, install chunky wooden floating shelves. Paired with woven baskets and a bit of greenery, they create a cozy, calming atmosphere.
7. Maximize Space with Custom Built-ins
If you have an awkward nook or want a fully integrated, high-end look, built-in shelving is the ultimate solution. It can be tailored perfectly to your room's dimensions and storage needs.
8. Organize with Symmetrical Cubbies
A built-in unit with square cubbies creates a neat, intentional vibe. Use matching bins or labeled baskets in each cubby to store different categories of supplies.
5. Add Modern Floating Shelves
For a clean, contemporary vibe, floating shelves are a perfect choice. They work especially well in small spaces because they create storage without any visual bulk, making the wall feel less heavy.
15. Create a Dedicated Folding Station
This is a must-have. Install a smooth countertop over your front-load machines or under a set of shelves. This gives you a clear, ample surface to fold clothes immediately.
16. Organize with Cohesive Baskets
Woven wicker, fabric, or wire baskets are the key to making open shelves look tidy. They hide visually cluttered items (like loose dryer sheets) and add a textural, decorative element.
17. Install a Wall-Mounted Drying Rack
A foldable or retractable drying rack mounted to the wall is essential for air-drying clothes. It saves floor space and can be tucked away when not in use.
18. Incorporate Greenery
Add life and fresh air to your laundry room. A few potted plants or a trailing vine on a high shelf can make the chore feel much more pleasant.
19. Bring in Natural Textures
Enhance a modern farmhouse or boho vibe by using natural elements. Think wooden shelves, wicker baskets, and clear glass jars for pods and powders.
20. Place Shelves Near a Window
If you have a window, place your shelves or folding station near it. The natural light makes the room feel bigger, helps you spot stains, and makes the space more enjoyable to be in.
Conclusion
Upgrading your laundry room shelving is about more than just finding a place for the detergent; it’s about creating a space where function meets peace of mind. Whether you opt for the rustic charm of thick wood planks or the sleek efficiency of custom built-ins, these changes can turn a mundane chore into a much more manageable part of your routine. Start with one or two ideas that resonate with your space, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with a beautifully organized home.
11. Build a Simple Machine Ledge
A fantastic, low-cost idea is to build a simple wooden ledge that sits just above your washer and dryer. It hides the messy hoses and gives you a new, narrow surface for essentials.
12. Choose Multifunctional Pieces
Look for shelving units that do more than one job. A shelf with a built-in hanging rod or a fold-out ironing board is a brilliant space-saver.
13. Create a Mudroom/Laundry Hybrid
If your laundry room is near an entrance, combine its function. Add a shelving unit with hooks for coats, cubbies for shoes, and upper shelves for laundry detergent.
14. Design a Pantry and Laundry Space
In smaller homes, the laundry room often doubles as a pantry. Use sturdy, adjustable shelving that can accommodate both tall detergent bottles and bulk food items.