Maximize a small laundry room with smart storage, thoughtful decor, and practical organization strategies that make the most of every inch.
This throwback post from when we first moved into our townhouse is a pleasant reminder to revisit older projects and appreciate how much has changed. Since this initial mini laundry room makeover, we did another weekend laundry room refresh.
We haven’t made many changes since then, but even in a compact space I really like how it turned out. And I’m certainly grateful for reliable washers and dryers—especially when they work as they should!
When we moved in, the laundry area wasn’t high on my renovation list. Tucked at the end of a narrow hallway off the kitchen, it quietly did its job without attracting much attention.
After I unexpectedly painted the kitchen, I refreshed the adjoining hallway too, though I avoided the space directly behind the washer and dryer because I couldn’t move the appliances to reach that wall.
The machines occupied most of the alcove and, until recently, they sat on pedestal drawers that provided useful storage for items like cleaning cloths, spare lightbulbs, and the occasional waterproofing spray. Those pedestals, however, made the upper shelf inaccessible.
I loved the look of the pedestals, but when the washing machine finally gave out, it created a chance to rethink the entire layout and paint the previously unreachable wall.
Replacing the machine led to a big design decision: I chose a top-loading washer. That change allowed the removal of bulky pedestals and opened up the vertical space above the appliances, instantly transforming the feel of the room.
With the pedestals gone, we could paint and style the laundry nook to look integrated with the rest of the main-floor finishes—a small but meaningful makeover.
Making a few intentional choices—like switching to a top-loader and prioritizing visible storage that also looks tidy—gave the space a refreshed, cohesive look.
Ideas for Small Laundry Room Organization
This laundry space sits just outside the main-floor powder room and sees frequent foot traffic, so I wanted it to feel intentional rather than like a hidden utility closet. Simple styling choices and clever storage help it read like a designed space while remaining highly functional.
1. Add full-width shelves above the washer and dryer for open storage
Installing a shelf that spans the width of the nook created immediate storage for baskets, bins, and decorative items. Open shelving keeps essentials accessible and encourages organization, while baskets and bins hide clutter and tidy the visual plane.
2. Use a small curtain to conceal plumbing and unsightly hardware
A short, simple curtain provides an inexpensive, farmhouse-inspired solution to hide pipes and the faucet box behind the machines. It softens the area and keeps the focus on the styling above.
3. Store commonly used supplies in attractive, easy-to-reach containers
If you don’t have closed cabinetry, transfer detergents and other frequently used items into clear jars or labeled canisters. A glass jar with a scoop makes powdered detergent easy to use and looks tidy. A small tray on top of the dryer is perfect for dryer balls or a few folded cloths.
4. Add art and simple decor for personality and cohesion
Framed printables, simple artwork, and a cohesive color palette create a purposeful, finished appearance. I painted an old frame with chalk paint to match the room’s tones and grouped a few prints for a gallery-like display that feels cheerful and curated.
The combination of functional storage, concealed plumbing, and a few decorative touches allows a small laundry area to feel bright, organized, and welcoming instead of cramped or purely utilitarian.
Printable artwork and coordinated frames make an impact in a small space while remaining budget-friendly.
Wall Color: Benjamin Moore Gray Cashmere — a soft neutral that ties the laundry nook to nearby rooms while keeping the space feeling fresh and bright.
Further small laundry room inspiration
- Small laundry room ideas
- How to make laundry smell good (without dryer sheets!)
- Laundry room makeover — a second update and quick refresh
With a few intentional updates—replacing bulky components, adding open storage, and styling the walls—you can transform a narrow laundry nook into an organized, attractive part of your home. Small changes often yield big improvements in both function and style.
