Your laundry room can be so much more than a boring space with a washer and dryer. With the right design ideas, this hardworking room can become one of the most stylish spots in your home. And guess what? You don’t need a big budget or a huge space to make it happen.
Whether you have a tiny closet or a full-size room, these 16 laundry room ideas will help you create a space that looks great and works even better. From clever storage tricks to trendy paint colors, we’ll cover everything you need to know. Let’s dive in and turn your laundry room into a space you actually enjoy!
Why Your Laundry Room Deserves Some Love
Think about it. You spend hours every week doing laundry. Sorting, washing, drying, folding it never stops! So why should you do all that work in an ugly, messy room?
A well-designed laundry room makes chores feel easier. When everything has a place and the space looks nice, you might even look forward to laundry day. Okay, maybe “look forward” is a stretch. But at least you won’t dread it as much!
The Benefits of a Great Laundry Room
A thoughtfully designed laundry space offers more than just good looks. First, good organization saves time. You won’t hunt for detergent or dig through piles of clean clothes anymore. Second, proper storage keeps your supplies neat and tidy. Third, a pretty space can boost your mood even during boring chores.
According to housing data, about 70% of new homes now include first-floor laundry rooms. People want their laundry areas close to where they live and use their clothes. The trend of second-floor laundry rooms near bedrooms is also growing fast. It just makes sense to wash clothes where you actually wear them!
Small Laundry Room Ideas That Maximize Every Inch
Got a tiny laundry room? Don’t worry! Small spaces can be just as stylish and functional as big ones. The secret is using every inch wisely.
Stack Your Machines
One of the best ways to save floor space is stacking your washer and dryer. A stackable washer and dryer combo frees up valuable floor space for other things. You could add a folding table, extra storage, or even a small sink.
Many new stackable units come with great features too. Some have smart technology that lets you control them from your phone. Others have steam cycles that remove wrinkles without ironing. Pretty cool, right?
Go Vertical with Storage
When floor space is tight, look up! Vertical storage is your best friend in a small laundry room. Install floating shelves above your machines to hold detergent, fabric softener, and other supplies. Add hooks on the walls for hanging delicates or air-drying clothes.
Wall-mounted drying racks are another smart choice. These fold flat against the wall when you don’t need them. Then pull them out when you have clothes to dry. They take up almost no space!
Corner shelves are often overlooked but super useful. Those awkward corners can hold baskets, plants, or decorative items. Every little bit of storage counts in a small room.
Use the Door
Don’t forget about the back of your door! An over-the-door organizer can hold all sorts of small items. Stain removers, dryer sheets, lint rollers they all fit perfectly. This keeps your counters clear and your supplies within easy reach.
If you’re looking for more ways to organize tight spaces, check out our guide on pantry organization ideas for similar storage solutions.
Farmhouse Laundry Room Ideas for Cozy Charm
The farmhouse style remains super popular in 2026. It combines warmth, comfort, and a touch of vintage charm. And it looks amazing in laundry rooms!
Shiplap Walls
Nothing says farmhouse quite like shiplap walls. You can install real wood planks or use affordable plywood strips cut into slats. Either way, shiplap adds instant character to any wall.
Classic white shiplap creates a bright, airy feel. But don’t be afraid to try other colors! Weathered wood tones add rustic warmth. Deep navy or forest green shiplap can create a bold, unexpected look.
You could cover all your walls with shiplap or just create an accent wall behind your machines. Either option looks fantastic!
Open Shelving with Character
Open shelving is a farmhouse staple. Use reclaimed wood or weathered wooden boards for an authentic look. Then display pretty jars, wire baskets, and vintage-inspired containers.
Store your detergent in glass jars with labels. Line up folded towels in neat stacks. Add a small potted plant for a pop of green. These simple touches turn storage into decor!
Wire baskets are perfect for holding dryer balls, clothespins, or hand towels. Look for galvanized metal buckets or enamelware containers at thrift stores. They add character and tell a story.
Farmhouse Sink
A deep farmhouse sink is both beautiful and practical. It’s perfect for hand-washing delicates, soaking stained clothes, or filling buckets. Plus, it serves as a gorgeous focal point.
Pair your farmhouse sink with a classic bridge faucet in antique brass or oil-rubbed bronze. Add a simple skirt underneath to hide cleaning supplies. You’ll love this combo!
For more farmhouse decorating ideas, visit our farmhouse decor living room guide.
Modern Laundry Room Ideas for a Sleek Look
Love clean lines and a minimalist vibe? Modern laundry room design might be your style. It focuses on function, simplicity, and sophisticated finishes.
Sleek Cabinetry
Modern laundry rooms often feature flat-panel or slab-style cabinet doors. These smooth surfaces create a clean, streamlined look. Choose finishes in crisp white, rich navy, or moody charcoal for a contemporary feel.
Floor-to-ceiling cabinets maximize storage while keeping the room looking sleek. They hide clutter behind closed doors. Everything stays neat and organized, but completely hidden from view.
Consider cabinets with soft-close hinges and drawers. This small upgrade adds a luxurious feel every time you use them.
Integrated Appliances
Want your laundry room to look like a high-end space? Hide your washer and dryer behind cabinet doors! This creates a seamless look where the machines blend right into the cabinetry.
When the doors are closed, your laundry room could pass for a butler’s pantry or home office. It’s a clever trick that works great in open-concept homes or laundry closets visible from other rooms.
Minimalist Color Palette
Modern spaces often stick to a simple color palette. Black, white, and gray form the foundation. Then add warmth with natural wood tones or metals like brass, copper, or matte black hardware.
A monochromatic scheme creates a calming atmosphere. White walls, white cabinets, and light gray countertops feel clean and peaceful. Add texture with tiles, textiles, or wood accents to keep it from feeling cold.
Laundry Room Storage Ideas to Stay Organized
Let’s be real storage is the most important part of any laundry room. Without good storage, even the prettiest space becomes a cluttered mess.
Cabinets for Hidden Storage
Wall-mounted cabinets are your best option for hiding bulky items. Extra detergent, cleaning supplies, spare linens they all disappear behind closed doors. Install them above your machines to use that vertical space.
Tall storage cabinets work great for brooms, mops, and other cleaning tools. A slim cabinet tucked into a corner holds more than you’d think.
Consider cabinets with pull-out features too. Pull-out hampers make sorting laundry a breeze. Pull-out shelves bring items from the back within easy reach.
Image Prompt: A organized laundry room with white shaker cabinets, pull-out wicker hampers built into lower cabinets, upper glass-front cabinets showing neatly folded towels, countertop folding station, and labeled storage jars.
Baskets and Bins
Baskets and bins add style while keeping things tidy. Use matching baskets on open shelves for a cohesive look. Wire baskets with labels work great for sorting different types of laundry supplies.
Fabric storage cubes in neutral colors like cream, gray, or natural tones look clean and organized. They’re perfect for hiding odds and ends that don’t look pretty on their own.
Rattan and woven baskets add texture and warmth. They look beautiful while hiding all sorts of stuff inside!
Folding Station
Every laundry room needs a spot to fold clothes. A countertop over your machines provides the perfect workspace. If your machines are front-loaders, you can add a butcher block or laminate counter right on top.
Make your folding station the right height for comfortable work. Standard counter height works well for most people. Add task lighting above so you can see what you’re doing.
If space is really tight, consider a fold-down table mounted to the wall. It folds flat when you don’t need it, then opens up when it’s time to fold clothes.
Laundry Room Paint Colors That Make a Statement
Paint is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to transform any room. The right color can make your laundry space feel bigger, brighter, or more inviting.
Soft Greens
Green paint colors continue to trend in 2026. Shades like sage, eucalyptus, and olive create a calm, nature-inspired vibe. They work beautifully with white trim, natural wood, and brass fixtures.
Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt is a popular choice. It’s a blue-green that looks amazing with both fresh and muted color palettes. It works in mudrooms, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.
Green also hides dirt better than pure white. That’s a big plus in a room where splashes and spills happen regularly!
Crisp Whites
You can never go wrong with white paint in a laundry room. It makes the space feel clean, fresh, and bigger than it actually is. Bright whites reflect light beautifully, especially in windowless rooms.
Popular whites include Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace and Sherwin-Williams Alabaster. These shades have just enough warmth to avoid feeling stark or clinical.
White walls also provide a perfect backdrop for colorful accessories. Add pops of color through baskets, artwork, or decorative containers.
Bold Accent Colors
Feeling brave? Try a bold paint color! Laundry rooms are small, low-traffic spaces where you can experiment without committing to a huge area.
Deep navy, rich emerald green, or warm terracotta can add drama and personality. Paint just one accent wall if you’re not ready for a full room commitment.
In 2026, warm earth tones and sunbaked hues are trending. Colors with brown, orange, or rust undertones create cozy, grounded spaces. They’re perfect for turning a boring utility room into a stylish retreat.
For more color inspiration, explore our bedroom color schemes ideas guide.
Laundry Room Flooring Ideas for Style and Function
Your laundry room floor takes a beating. It needs to handle moisture, spills, heavy appliances, and constant foot traffic. But that doesn’t mean it can’t look gorgeous!
Porcelain and Ceramic Tile
Tile remains the top choice for laundry room floors. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. They come in countless colors, patterns, and sizes.
Large format tiles create a clean look with fewer grout lines. They also make small rooms feel bigger. Wood-look porcelain tiles give you the warmth of hardwood with the durability of tile.
Patterned cement tiles or encaustic tiles add instant personality. Bold geometric patterns can become the focal point of your entire room!
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become hugely popular for laundry rooms. It’s waterproof, affordable, and mimics the look of real hardwood or stone. Plus, it’s softer underfoot than tile.
LVP installs easily over existing floors. It’s warm and comfortable to stand on, which matters when you’re folding laundry for an hour! Many options feature realistic wood grain textures and colors.
Classic Checkerboard
Checkerboard floors never go out of style. Black and white checkerboard tiles add vintage charm and visual interest. They work perfectly with farmhouse, cottage, or retro aesthetics.
If you love this pattern, check out our checkerboard vinyl flooring ideas for more inspiration.
Laundry Room Backsplash Ideas to Add Personality
A backsplash isn’t just for kitchens! In the laundry room, a backsplash protects your walls from water splashes and adds serious style points.
Subway Tile Classic
Subway tiles remain a timeless choice for laundry room backsplashes. White subway tile with white grout creates a clean, classic look. Try a contrasting dark grout for a bolder statement.
Install subway tiles in the traditional horizontal brick pattern. Or get creative with herringbone, vertical stack, or chevron layouts. The same tile looks totally different depending on how you arrange it!
Patterned Statement Tiles
Make your laundry room unforgettable with patterned tiles! Mediterranean-inspired tiles, Moroccan patterns, or graphic geometric designs create stunning focal points.
Blue and white patterns feel fresh and clean perfect for a laundry room. Green patterned tiles add organic, nature-inspired vibes. Choose colors that complement your cabinets and countertops.
Extend your backsplash from the counter all the way to the ceiling for maximum impact. This full-height approach looks modern and protects more of your wall.
Natural Stone Options
Marble, slate, or travertine tiles add luxury to your laundry room. These natural materials feature unique veining and color variations that make each installation one-of-a-kind.
Natural stone requires sealing to prevent stains, but the beautiful results are worth the extra maintenance. Pair stone backsplashes with simple cabinetry to let the natural beauty shine.
Laundry Room Lighting Ideas for Function and Style
Good lighting makes everything easier in the laundry room. You need to see those stains clearly and match colors accurately. But your lighting should look good too!
Overhead Lighting
Start with good general lighting. Flush-mount or semi-flush ceiling fixtures work well in most laundry rooms, especially those with lower ceilings. LED options provide bright, energy-efficient illumination.
Aim for 2,000 to 3,000 lumens of light in an average-sized laundry room. Use cool white bulbs (around 4000K-5000K) to see colors accurately and spot stains easily.
If you have higher ceilings, consider a statement pendant or small chandelier. It adds personality while providing plenty of light.
Task Lighting
Task lighting is key around work areas. Under-cabinet lights brighten your countertops and folding stations. LED strip lights installed beneath upper cabinets eliminate shadows completely.
Puck lights also work great under shelving. They spotlight specific areas and can even become decorative features. Some options are battery-powered, so installation is super easy.
Natural Light
Natural light is the best light of all! If you’re lucky enough to have a window in your laundry room, make the most of it. Skip heavy window treatments that block light. Use simple shades or shutters instead.
Light paint colors and reflective surfaces bounce natural light around the room. Mirrors can also help brighten dark corners.
Laundry Room with Dog Wash Station
If you have furry family members, a dog wash station is a game-changer. It keeps muddy paw prints from tracking through your house and makes bath time easier for everyone.
Design Considerations
A dog wash station works best near an exterior door. That way, you can grab your pup right when they come in from outside. The laundry room is perfect since it usually has plumbing already in place.
For sizing, aim for about 36 inches wide and 27 inches deep. This accommodates most dog sizes comfortably. Raise the station 12-18 inches off the floor for small to medium dogs. Larger dogs are more comfortable at floor level.
Essential Features
Include a handheld sprayer with adjustable temperature. You need to reach every part of your dog easily. A non-slip floor surface prevents accidents during squirmy bath time.
Add built-in storage nearby for dog shampoo, towels, brushes, and treats. Hooks for leashes and towels keep everything handy. Some people even add built-in pet beds or crates near the wash station!
Tile the walls behind and around your dog wash for easy cleaning. Penny round tiles or subway tiles work great and look stylish too.
For more ideas on creating multi-functional spaces, check out our mudroom design ideas guide.
Laundry Room and Mudroom Combo Ideas
Combining your laundry room with a mudroom makes so much sense. Both spaces involve coming and going, cleaning up, and staying organized.
Smart Layout Planning
Keep your space organized by creating zones. The “dirty zone” near the entrance handles shoes, bags, and muddy clothes. The “clean zone” holds your washer, dryer, and folding area. Clearly defined areas prevent chaos.
Built-in cubbies or lockers give each family member a spot for their stuff. Add hooks at different heights so kids can reach their coats. Include a bench for putting on and taking off shoes.
Practical Finishes
Choose finishes that can handle dirt, mud, and moisture. Tile or luxury vinyl flooring cleans easily. Washable paint on walls and cabinets stands up to fingerprints and scuffs.
Dark grout hides dirt better than white. Low-maintenance surfaces throughout make cleanup quick and painless.
Double Duty Storage
In a combo space, storage needs to work twice as hard. Use upper cabinets for laundry supplies and cleaning products. Reserve lower storage for bags, sports gear, and outdoor accessories.
A bench with hidden storage underneath serves two purposes. It provides seating for putting on shoes and hides bins for hats, gloves, or pet supplies.
Smart Laundry Room Ideas with Technology
Technology has transformed the laundry room in amazing ways. Smart appliances make washing and drying clothes easier, faster, and more efficient than ever.
Wi-Fi Connected Appliances
Modern smart washers and dryers connect to your home Wi-Fi network. You can start, stop, and monitor cycles from your smartphone. No more running downstairs to check if your laundry is done!
Many apps send notifications when cycles finish. You’ll never forget a load in the washer again. Some even alert you when you’re running low on detergent.
Voice control through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant adds convenience too. Just say “Start the washer” while your hands are full of dirty clothes.
AI-Powered Features
Artificial intelligence takes laundry to the next level. AI sensors detect fabric types, load sizes, and soil levels automatically. Your machine then adjusts water, detergent, and cycle length for optimal results.
Smart dispensers hold enough detergent for multiple loads. They release the perfect amount automatically. No more guessing or measuring!
Some paired washer-dryer sets communicate with each other. The dryer knows what wash cycle you used and automatically selects the right drying settings.
Steam Features
Steam technology has become a must-have feature. In washers, steam helps lift stains and odors without harsh chemicals. In dryers, steam releases wrinkles and refreshes clothes between washes.
Some dryers can even freshen dry-clean-only items with steam. That saves money on trips to the dry cleaner!
Budget-Friendly Laundry Room Ideas
You don’t need a huge budget to create a beautiful laundry room. These affordable updates make a big impact without breaking the bank.
Paint Power
A fresh coat of paint is the cheapest way to transform any room. Pick a color you love and give your walls a whole new look. Don’t forget to paint the ceiling too for a complete refresh!
Paint your cabinets instead of replacing them. A few coats of semi-gloss paint can make old cabinets look brand new. It’s much cheaper than buying new cabinetry.
DIY Countertops
A butcher block countertop adds warmth and function. You can find butcher block at hardware stores for a reasonable price. Cut it to size, finish it with mineral oil, and install it yourself.
Laminate countertops are another affordable option. They come in many colors and patterns, including ones that look like marble or granite.
Affordable Upgrades
Swap out old hardware for new knobs and pulls. This small change makes a surprisingly big difference. Brushed brass, matte black, or polished nickel hardware updates any cabinet style.
Add a peel-and-stick tile backsplash for instant style. These tiles install easily without special tools or messy grout. They’re affordable and removable if you change your mind later.
Hang floating shelves from your local home improvement store. They’re inexpensive and provide both storage and display space.
Laundry Room Decor Ideas for Personal Touches
Decor turns a functional space into one you actually enjoy. Add personality with these finishing touches.
Artwork and Signs
Hang artwork or decorative signs on the walls. Laundry-themed prints add humor to the space. “The Never-Ending Pile” or “Laundry Today or Naked Tomorrow” signs make people smile.
Vintage laundry signs or advertisements add character. Look for them at antique shops, thrift stores, or online marketplaces.
Frame photos or prints you love. Just because it’s a laundry room doesn’t mean it can’t have real art!
Plants and Greenery
Plants add life to any room, including the laundry! Choose low-maintenance options like pothos, spider plants, or succulents. They thrive even without perfect light.
If your laundry room lacks natural light, use high-quality faux plants instead. Today’s artificial plants look incredibly realistic.
A small herb garden on a sunny windowsill serves double duty. Fresh lavender or rosemary smells amazing near your clean laundry!
For more ideas about adding plants to your home, visit our spring decor living room ideas.
Rugs and Textiles
A washable runner rug adds comfort and style. Standing on hard floors while folding laundry gets tiring. A rug cushions your feet and brightens the space.
Pretty hand towels near your sink add a decorative touch. Turkish towels or linen towels look elegant and sophisticated.
Hang a decorative curtain to hide open storage or utility areas. It’s an easy way to add color, pattern, and texture.
FAQs About Laundry Room Design
What is the best layout for a laundry room?
The best layout depends on your space and needs. Generally, place your washer and dryer side by side or stacked to save space. Add a counter above or beside them for folding. Include storage for supplies within arm’s reach. A sink is helpful but not required.
How much does a laundry room remodel cost?
Costs vary widely depending on scope. A simple refresh with paint, hardware, and accessories might cost $200-$500. A moderate remodel with new flooring, counters, and storage runs $2,000-$5,000. Full renovations with new appliances, cabinets, and plumbing can cost $10,000 or more.
What colors make a laundry room look bigger?
Light colors make small rooms feel bigger. Crisp whites, soft grays, and pale blues reflect light and open up the space. Avoid dark colors on all walls in tiny laundry rooms. You can use darker shades as accents instead.
Should I tile behind my washer and dryer?
Yes! Tiling behind your machines protects the wall from moisture and makes cleaning easier. A tile backsplash also adds style and can become a focal point. Choose water-resistant tile like porcelain or ceramic for best results.
What is the best flooring for a laundry room?
Porcelain tile and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are the top choices. Both are waterproof, durable, and easy to clean. Porcelain tile offers more design options but feels colder underfoot. LVP is warmer, softer, and often more affordable.
How do I add more storage to a small laundry room?
Go vertical! Install floating shelves or cabinets above your machines. Use the back of the door for over-the-door organizers. Add hooks on walls for hanging items. Look for furniture with hidden storage, like benches with lift-up seats.
Are smart washers and dryers worth it?
For many people, yes! Smart features like app notifications, remote start, and automatic detergent dispensing add real convenience. AI-powered settings optimize each load for better results. The extra cost pays off in time savings and better fabric care.
Final Thoughts
Your laundry room works hard for you every single day. It deserves to be a space that’s both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re dreaming of a farmhouse retreat, a sleek modern space, or a high-tech smart laundry, these 16 ideas can help you get there.
Start with what matters most to you. Maybe it’s better storage. Maybe it’s a fresh coat of paint. Or maybe it’s finally adding that dog wash station you’ve been wanting. Pick one or two changes to start, then build from there.
Remember, even small updates can make a big difference. A new light fixture, some pretty baskets, or updated hardware can transform your space without a full renovation.
Ready to get started? Pick your favorite idea from this list and make it happen. Your future self the one standing in a beautiful laundry room will thank you!
For more home design inspiration, explore our small living room design ideas andmaster bedroom ideas to transform every room in your home.
