A small laundry room is often a closet or a corner of the bathroom, and it still has to hold a washer, supplies and a pile of clothes. The solution is to use the walls and the space above the machines. These ten ideas help a tiny laundry space run smoothly, and most take only a few minutes to set up.
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Plan the space
Measure the wall space above the washer and dryer and the height to the ceiling. Check how much room you need to open the machine doors. Decide whether you want to sort clothes on the way in or at the machine, and choose storage that supports that habit.
Above the machines
An over-washer shelf
A shelf above the machines holds detergent and baskets and turns dead space into storage. Check that the lids can still open and that the unit stands securely.
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A wall shelf with a basket
A wall unit with a mesh basket holds towels and supplies and often includes a rail for drying. Check the fixings and the weight limit.
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A hanging basket
A basket on a shelf holds small items such as stain sticks and dryer sheets.
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Sorting and carrying
A sorting hamper
A hamper with three sections sorts lights, darks and delicates as you go. Measure the space so it fits, and pick one with removable bags that you can carry.
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A collapsible basket
A basket folds flat when empty and carries a full load. It suits a shared laundry room or a small flat.
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A drying rack
A rack folds flat when not in use and holds a load of delicates. Look for one that stands firmly when full.
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Supplies
A detergent container
Decanting detergent into a container looks tidy and makes pouring easier. Label it clearly, especially if you keep more than one product.
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A cleaning caddy
A caddy keeps stain removers and sprays together and carries them wherever you need them.
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A basket for towels
Baskets hold clean towels and cloths on a shelf and keep them from drifting.
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A label maker
Labels make it clear what is in each container, which helps everyone in the household.
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Keep it flowing
Do a load a day rather than a pile on Sunday. A small laundry space works when it is never overloaded.