Let’s be honest—the laundry room rarely gets the design attention it deserves. While we obsess over kitchen layouts and living room aesthetics, this hardworking space often becomes a chaotic collection of detergent bottles, mismatched socks, and cleaning supplies with nowhere to call home. As someone who designs functional spaces for a living, I can tell you that proper laundry room storage isn’t just about looking tidy—it’s about creating workflow efficiency similar to what we aim for in kitchen design.
After years of helping clients optimize their homes for both beauty and function, I’ve compiled my favorite laundry room storage solutions that blend practicality with style. These ideas work regardless of whether your laundry room is a dedicated space, a basement corner, or a hallway closet. The key is maximizing every inch while creating systems that make laundry day less of a chore.
1. Maximize Vertical Space with Wall Shelving
The inspiration for this collection struck when I realized how much unused vertical real estate exists in most laundry rooms. Installing wall shelving transforms those bare walls above appliances into valuable storage zones for detergents, fabric softeners, and stain removers. This simple addition keeps frequently used items within arm’s reach while freeing up precious counter space and floor area.
When selecting shelving, consider both function and aesthetics. Adjustable systems offer flexibility as your needs change, while floating shelves provide clean lines and modern appeal. Wire shelving promotes air circulation in potentially humid environments, while wooden shelves add warmth. For maximum efficiency, install shelves at varying heights to accommodate different bottle sizes, and consider adding small baskets to corral smaller items like dryer sheets and stain sticks.
The magic of this piece lies in its ability to transform your laundry workflow instantly—suddenly everything has a designated spot that’s visible and accessible when needed.
2. Install Upper Cabinets for Hidden Storage
Beyond the obvious placement, consider using upper cabinets for a cleaner, more polished laundry room storage solution. Unlike open shelving, cabinets conceal visual clutter and protect items from dust. They’re particularly valuable for storing potentially hazardous cleaning products safely away from children and pets, while maintaining a streamlined appearance that makes the entire space feel more organized.
When selecting upper cabinets, measure carefully to ensure proper fit with your ceiling height and available wall space. Shallower cabinets (12-15 inches deep) often work best in laundry rooms to prevent head bumps during use. Consider pull-down shelving within cabinets to make accessing items on higher shelves easier, especially for those with limited reach. For a cohesive look, choose cabinet styles that complement your home’s existing architecture—this continuity makes the laundry room feel like an intentional space rather than an afterthought.
The designer’s secret here is to choose cabinet hardware that’s both functional and beautiful—this small detail elevates the entire look while making daily access effortless.
3. Utilize Base Cabinets for Bulkier Items
What makes this design special is the way base cabinets provide essential storage for items too large or heavy for upper shelving. These workhorses are perfect for housing bulk detergent, fabric softener jugs, cleaning supplies, and even collapsible laundry baskets. By keeping these bulkier necessities contained and organized, base cabinets create a foundation for a more streamlined laundry room.
To maximize functionality, consider incorporating specialized features within your base cabinets. Pull-out shelves or drawers make accessing items at the back of deep cabinets much easier. Vertical dividers can store ironing boards or drying racks, while stackable bins keep smaller items contained and sorted. For homes with limited square footage, consider installing a pull-out sorting system with multiple bins directly into a base cabinet—this consolidates the sorting process into a single, efficient unit.
The styling mistake most people make is treating base cabinets as simple boxes rather than customizable storage solutions—the right internal organization transforms their utility completely.
4. Add a Rolling Utility Cart for Flexible Storage
The craftsmanship reveals itself in details like a well-designed rolling utility cart that brings unmatched flexibility to laundry room storage. Unlike fixed cabinets or shelving, these mobile assistants can follow you wherever they’re needed—beside the washer while loading, next to the folding area while sorting, or tucked away when not in use. This adaptability makes them particularly valuable in smaller spaces where every inch matters.
Select a cart with multiple tiers to maximize vertical storage and sturdy wheels that glide smoothly across your flooring. The top level works perfectly for frequently accessed items like detergent and fabric softener, while lower shelves can hold heavier supplies or folded items waiting to be put away. Consider clear plastic bins or small baskets on the cart to further organize smaller items by category. A cart with a butcher block or solid surface top provides the added benefit of a small workspace for spot treatments or folding delicates.
- Best items for utility carts:
- Daily-use detergents and softeners
- Stain treatment products
- Dryer sheets and wool dryer balls
- Small tools like lint rollers and sweater shavers
- Mesh bags for delicates
The artisan collective that creates these pieces understands that flexibility is essential in functional spaces—a principle that applies perfectly to laundry room design.
5. Hang an Over-the-Door Organizer for Essentials
The revival of this classic form comes with a twist when applied to laundry room storage. Over-the-door organizers transform that overlooked vertical surface into valuable storage real estate without requiring any permanent installation—perfect for renters or those hesitant to drill into walls. These hanging systems keep frequently used smaller items visible and instantly accessible.
Choose an organizer with clear pockets to easily spot contents, or opt for fabric pockets that add a touch of texture and color to the space. The ideal items to store here include stain remover pens, dryer sheets, lint rollers, clothespins, and small tools like scissors or measuring cups for detergent. Label each pocket for maximum efficiency, especially if multiple family members handle laundry duties. For added functionality, some door organizers include hooks at the bottom for hanging items that need air drying.
When clients ask us about balancing style with comfort, we often suggest choosing door organizers in colors that complement your laundry room’s palette—this transforms a purely functional item into an intentional design element.
6. Incorporate Pull-Out Baskets or Drawers
If you’ve struggled with similar rooms before, you’ll appreciate how pull-out baskets and drawers transform deep, hard-to-access cabinet spaces into easily navigable storage. These sliding solutions bring items from the back of cabinets forward for full visibility and access, eliminating the frustration of digging through dark recesses to find what you need. They’re particularly valuable for organizing laundry supplies, sorting dirty clothes, or storing folded linens.
When incorporating pull-out storage, consider the weight capacity needed based on what you’ll store. Wire baskets allow for ventilation and visibility, making them ideal for laundry rooms where moisture may be present. Solid drawers provide a cleaner look and contain smaller items more effectively. For maximum organization, add drawer dividers to create designated zones for different products or supplies. Pull-out hampers installed directly into cabinetry offer a particularly elegant solution for dirty laundry, keeping it hidden yet accessible.
The environmental story behind this piece began with the recognition that efficient storage reduces the need for excess products and packaging—when you can see and access what you have, you’re less likely to buy duplicates unnecessarily.
7. Mount a Foldable Drying Rack on the Wall
The unexpected material discovery story of wall-mounted drying racks began centuries ago, but remains one of the most practical laundry room storage solutions today. These ingenious space-savers provide ample hanging space for air-drying delicates, sweaters, and other items that shouldn’t go in the dryer, yet fold flat against the wall when not needed. This dual functionality makes them perfect for smaller laundry rooms where floor space is at a premium.
Select a drying rack that complements your space in both size and style. Wood options offer warmth and traditional appeal, while metal versions provide industrial flair and often greater durability. Consider painting the rack the same color as your wall for a seamless look when folded. Position the rack where it won’t obstruct movement when extended, ideally in a location that allows air to circulate freely around hanging garments. Some clever installations place these racks above the washer and dryer, utilizing otherwise unused vertical space.
“The most effective laundry room designs incorporate air-drying solutions that don’t compromise floor space. A wall-mounted drying rack is the perfect marriage of function and space efficiency.”
The sustainable journey of this material involves reducing energy consumption through air-drying—an added benefit beyond just practical laundry room storage.
8. Install a Hanging Rod for Air-Drying
As morning light filters through, the texture creates beautiful shadows below a well-placed hanging rod—an essential element in comprehensive laundry room storage. Unlike folding racks, rods are specifically designed for items that benefit from hanging on proper hangers, such as dress shirts, blouses, and pants. This prevents wrinkles and can significantly reduce ironing time, making your laundry workflow more efficient.
When installing a hanging rod, consider height and length carefully. Position it high enough that longer garments won’t touch the floor, but low enough to remain accessible. For maximum versatility, consider a combination of fixed and retractable rods—the permanent one for regular use and the retractable option for times when you have more items to hang. Tension rods offer a non-permanent solution ideal for renters, while ceiling-mounted options maximize vertical space in tight quarters.
The craftsmanship behind this piece shows in the thoughtful placement—ideally positioned where air can circulate freely around hanging garments for efficient drying.
9. Use Baskets and Bins for Sorting and Supplies
The cross-cultural design inspiration for laundry room storage baskets dates back centuries, yet remains perfectly relevant in today’s homes. These versatile containers bring order to chaos by creating designated homes for everything from dirty clothes awaiting washing to clean items sorted by owner or destination. They establish visual boundaries that make the entire laundry process more organized and efficient.
Choose baskets and bins based on both function and aesthetic. Wicker or rattan adds warmth and texture, plastic offers durability and easy cleaning, while canvas provides lightweight flexibility and often comes in decorative patterns. Clear bins allow for instant visual inventory, while opaque options conceal visual clutter. Consider color-coding your laundry baskets by family member or laundry type (whites, darks, delicates) to streamline the sorting process. Labeling each container further enhances organization, especially in households where multiple people handle laundry duties.
- Best basket materials for laundry rooms:
- Plastic: Durable and moisture-resistant
- Wire: Allows airflow and prevents odors
- Canvas: Lightweight and collapsible
- Natural fibers: Adds warmth and texture
- Hybrids: Combines materials for function and style
The emotional response this evokes begins with the satisfaction of seeing everything in its proper place—a fundamental benefit of effective laundry room storage.
10. Create a Dedicated Space with a Laundry Sorter
The unexpected pairing that always works is a dedicated laundry sorter combined with thoughtful room design. These multi-compartment units revolutionize the pre-washing process by providing separate sections for whites, darks, colors, and delicates right where you need them. By pre-sorting as clothes come off, you eliminate the time-consuming sorting step on laundry day and prevent color-transfer mishaps.
Select a sorter that matches your volume needs and available space. Rolling versions offer mobility and often feature removable bags that can be transported directly to the washing machine. Stationary sorters provide a more permanent solution, while hanging options maximize vertical space. Look for models with lids to contain odors and prevent pets from accessing dirty laundry. Some premium sorters include additional features like ironing boards or folding surfaces on top, maximizing functionality in limited spaces.
The interplay between the colors creates not just organization but a system that makes laundry day significantly more efficient—the ultimate goal of all laundry room storage solutions.
11. Hang Tools and Supplies with a Pegboard System
Unlike conventional options, this approach reduces visual clutter while keeping essential tools accessible. Pegboard systems transform blank walls into customizable storage displays for laundry tools and supplies. The genius lies in their adaptability—hooks, baskets, and shelves can be rearranged as your needs change, creating a storage solution that evolves with your habits and preferences.
Install pegboard in a location convenient to your main work area, typically near the washer and dryer. Choose moisture-resistant options like plastic or metal for laundry environments. The range of available accessories is vast—hooks of various sizes hold spray bottles, brushes, and tools; small baskets contain dryer balls or clothespins; and specially designed holders accommodate irons or measuring cups. Consider color-coding hooks or painting sections of the board to designate zones for different categories of supplies. For added functionality, mount a small shelf on the pegboard to hold frequently used detergents or stain removers.
The visual weight balances perfectly when you organize pegboard tools by frequency of use, with daily items at eye level and occasional tools higher or lower on the board—a principle that applies to all aspects of laundry room storage.
12. Add Wall Hooks for Brooms, Mops, and Ironing Board
When your existing decor doesn’t seem to coordinate with cleaning tools, wall hooks offer an elegant solution that transforms necessities into organized elements. These simple hardware additions keep awkward items like brooms, mops, and ironing boards off the floor and neatly contained against the wall. This not only frees up valuable floor space but also prevents these items from becoming tripping hazards or falling over repeatedly.
Choose hooks appropriate for the weight and shape of each item. Spring-loaded grips or clamps work well for broom and mop handles, while specialized ironing board hooks distribute weight properly to prevent wall damage. Install hooks at appropriate heights—typically eye level for frequently used items, with consideration for the full length of the item when hung. Group similar items together to create a dedicated cleaning station, and consider adding a small shelf above for associated supplies like dustpans or spray bottles.
The composition comes together when you position these hooks in a logical workflow pattern—another principle I bring from kitchen design to laundry room storage planning.
13. Store Your Ironing Board Neatly with a Wall Mount
The traditional methods used result in elegant storage solutions like specialized ironing board mounts. These purpose-built holders solve the perpetual problem of the awkward, space-consuming ironing board by providing a dedicated storage spot that keeps it secure, accessible, and out of the way. Unlike general hooks, these mounts are designed specifically to accommodate the unique shape and weight distribution of ironing boards.
Select a mount that suits both your space and preferences. Simple brackets hold the board flat against the wall, while over-the-door options utilize that often-overlooked space. For a truly streamlined look, consider cabinet-style holders that completely conceal the board when not in use, some of which include additional storage for the iron and supplies. Position the mount in a location that allows for easy removal and replacement of the board, ideally near where you’ll actually use it. Some innovative mounts even incorporate a heat-resistant rest for the iron, allowing it to cool safely while still mounted.
The material sourcing makes all the difference in how these mounts perform—look for sturdy metal construction that can support the full weight of your board without sagging over time, another essential consideration in quality laundry room storage.
14. Use Stackable Bins or Shelves for Efficiency
Many homeowners wonder how to maximize vertical space in laundry room storage, and stackable solutions provide the perfect answer. These modular components allow you to build upward rather than outward, making them ideal for small spaces with limited floor area. By stacking compatible bins or shelving units, you create customized storage towers that efficiently contain supplies while maintaining accessibility.
Choose stackable components designed to lock together securely to prevent toppling. Clear bins allow for easy identification of contents, while solid-colored options present a more uniform appearance. Consider drawer-style bins for items you access frequently, and standard bins with lids for seasonal or less-used supplies. For maximum organization, group similar items together in designated bins—one for detergents and softeners, another for stain treatments, and perhaps another for specialty laundry accessories like mesh bags or wool dryer balls.
The tactile experience changes the entire room’s energy when everything has a designated place—suddenly the laundry process feels manageable rather than overwhelming, the ultimate goal of effective laundry room storage.
15. Add Under-Shelf Baskets for Extra Capacity
The challenge of awkward spaces becomes easier when you discover under-shelf baskets—those clever storage additions that utilize the often-wasted space between shelves. These wire or plastic containers clip or slide onto the underside of existing shelves, creating an additional layer of storage without requiring any permanent installation. This maximizes the utility of every shelf while keeping smaller items contained and accessible.
Select baskets sized appropriately for your shelves and the items you plan to store. Wire versions offer visibility and air circulation, while solid plastic contains small items more effectively. These baskets are perfect for storing dryer sheets, stain remover pens, measuring cups, or other small laundry accessories that might otherwise get lost on open shelving. Consider using different colored baskets to categorize contents, or label them clearly for at-a-glance identification. For maximum organization, arrange items by frequency of use, with daily essentials in the most accessible baskets.
The silhouette draws inspiration from traditional kitchen storage solutions—proving that good design principles transfer effectively between functional spaces in the home, including laundry room storage.
16. Keep Detergent Handy with Wall-Mounted Dispensers
For those worried about maintenance and organization of bulky detergent bottles, wall-mounted dispensers offer an elegant solution. These clever devices transform laundry room storage by eliminating the need for large, heavy bottles on your limited counter space. Instead, they dispense precise amounts of detergent, fabric softener, or other laundry liquids with a simple push or pull, streamlining the entire washing process.
When selecting dispensers, consider both capacity and aesthetic. Commercial-grade plastic versions offer durability and larger capacity, while sleeker models in glass or stainless steel provide a more upscale look. Position dispensers directly above your washing machine for maximum convenience, making sure they’re at a comfortable height for all household members. Some advanced systems can hold multiple products, allowing you to dispense different liquids from a single installation. For a cohesive look, choose dispensers that complement your other laundry room hardware and fixtures.
The finishing touch that elevates the entire look comes from labeling each dispenser clearly—this prevents mix-ups and creates a professional, organized appearance in your laundry room storage system.
17. Install a Wall-Mounted Lint Bin
Even in smaller spaces, here’s how this works: a dedicated lint bin mounted on the wall near your dryer creates an immediate home for dryer lint, thread snippets, and pocket treasures. This simple addition to your laundry room storage prevents lint from accumulating on floors or countertops, which not only looks untidy but can actually pose a fire hazard. The wall mounting saves valuable floor space while keeping the bin at a convenient height for regular emptying.
Choose a bin with a size appropriate to your laundry volume and cleaning schedule. Covered options contain lint more effectively and present a neater appearance, while open containers offer the convenience of quick disposal. Position the bin within arm’s reach of the dryer for easy access when cleaning the lint trap. Some creative homeowners repurpose decorative containers as lint bins, using vintage metal canisters or ceramic planters to add personality while maintaining functionality. Remember that lint is highly flammable, so regular emptying is essential for safety.
The heritage technique gets a contemporary update through these purpose-built containers—transforming a mundane necessity into an intentional part of your laundry room storage system.
18. Utilize Magnetic Storage on Appliances
The designer’s attention to detail shows in the creative use of magnetic storage attachments that transform the sides of your washer and dryer into valuable laundry room storage surfaces. These magnetic hooks, baskets, and containers adhere directly to the metal sides or fronts of most appliances, creating instant storage for small, lightweight items without taking up any additional space in the room.
Select magnetic accessories with strong magnets that can securely hold their intended contents. Small containers work well for holding safety pins, loose buttons, or coins found in pockets, while magnetic hooks can hold measuring cups, lint rollers, or small spray bottles. Magnetic baskets are perfect for dryer sheets, wool dryer balls, or stain removal pens. Before attaching any magnetic storage, clean the appliance surface thoroughly to ensure maximum adhesion. Position these accessories thoughtfully—keep them away from hot surfaces on the dryer and make sure they don’t interfere with the operation of either machine.
Running your hand across this material reveals the practical genius of using otherwise unused vertical surfaces—a principle that can be applied throughout your laundry room storage planning.
19. Maximize Countertop Space for Folding and Sorting
The forecast for next season already hints at the continued importance of dedicated work surfaces in laundry room storage and design. A generous countertop provides essential space for folding clothes, treating stains, sorting items by owner or destination, and temporarily staging laundry baskets. Without adequate work surface, these tasks become cumbersome and often migrate to other rooms, creating disorganization throughout the house.
If your laundry room lacks built-in countertops, consider creative alternatives. A shelf installed above front-loading machines creates an instant work surface, while a wall-mounted drop-leaf table provides space when needed but folds away when not in use. For temporary solutions, a sturdy ironing board set at waist height can double as a folding station. Keep countertops clear of unnecessary items by utilizing other storage solutions for supplies and tools, reserving this valuable flat surface for active work. Consider adding a heat-resistant section where a hot iron can rest safely during use.
“The most functional laundry rooms treat the countertop as command central—keeping it accessible rather than cluttered with supplies that could be stored elsewhere. This principle transforms the entire workflow.”
The mood shifts dramatically when you add proper work surfaces to your laundry room storage plan—suddenly the space feels purposeful rather than chaotic.
Conclusion
Creating effective laundry room storage isn’t just about buying containers—it’s about designing systems that make this necessary household task more efficient and less frustrating. By applying these 19 solutions strategically, you can transform even the smallest laundry space into a highly functional work area that serves your specific needs.
The best approach combines several of these ideas based on your available space, laundry volume, and personal preferences. Start with the fundamentals like vertical storage and proper sorting systems, then layer in specialized solutions for your particular pain points. Remember that the most effective laundry room storage evolves with use—don’t be afraid to adjust your systems as you discover what works best for your household. With thoughtful planning and the right storage solutions, your laundry room can become one of the most efficiently organized spaces in your home, making this routine task significantly more manageable.
