How much does a laundry room remodel cost?

Basic refresh: $500-$2,000 (paint, shelving, organization). Mid-range remodel: $3,000-$10,000 (new flooring, cabinets, countertop, sink). Full renovation: $10,000-$25,000+ (relocating, custom cabinetry, all new). New washer/dryer: $800-$3,000 for the pair. Relocating laundry room: $3,000-$8,000+ (plumbing, electrical, venting). Most common project: adding cabinets, a countertop, and a utility sink to an existing laundry area. Cost: $2,000-$5,000.

What is the best laundry room layout?

Depends on available space. Closet (3x3 ft): stackable units, minimal storage. Best for apartments and small homes. Galley (3x6+ ft): side-by-side machines with counter above. Good storage potential. L-shaped (6x6+ ft): counter space on two walls. Room for sink, sorting area. Dedicated room (6x8+ ft): full cabinets, sink, counters, hanging space. The dream setup. Key principles: counter space for folding (minimum 2 ft deep). Machines close to a water supply and exterior wall (for dryer venting). Good lighting. Easy-to-clean flooring (tile or vinyl, not carpet).

Should I get a front-load or top-load washer?

Front-load: pros: more energy and water efficient (uses 40-50% less water). Better cleaning performance. Stackable. Allows counter on top. Cons: more expensive ($600-$2,000). Can develop odors (leave door open between loads). Longer wash cycles. Harder to load (bending down). Top-load: pros: less expensive ($400-$1,500). Faster wash cycles. Easier to load. Less odor issues. Cons: uses more water and energy. Cannot be stacked. Takes more space. Recommendation: front-load for efficiency and space savings. Top-load for convenience and budget. Agitator top-load vs impeller: agitator is better for heavily soiled items. Impeller is gentler on clothes and more efficient.

Can I move my laundry room upstairs?

Yes but it is a significant project. Cost: $3,000-$8,000+. Requirements: hot and cold water supply. Drain line. 240V electrical outlet (for electric dryer) or gas line. Dryer vent to exterior. Adequate floor support (washer vibration). Waterproofing (pan under washer, floor drain if possible). Benefits: no more carrying laundry up and down stairs. Closer to bedrooms where laundry is generated. Concerns: noise and vibration (use anti-vibration pads). Leak risk (waterproofing is essential). Space (may need to convert a closet, part of a hallway, or small bedroom). Tip: consult a contractor to assess plumbing and structural feasibility before committing.

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Laundry Room Guide: Design, Cost & Organization Ideas

Lumberama Editorial Team, Home Design & Organization Specialists Nov 20, 2026 7 min read

Laundry Room Design

Layouts: Closet laundry: stackable washer and dryer in a closet. Minimal space needed (3x3 ft). Most affordable to set up. Galley/hallway: appliances along one wall. Add a countertop above for folding. Dedicated room: separate room with counter, sink, storage. L-shaped or U-shaped layout for maximum function. Mudroom combo: laundry + entry area. Popular for families (drop zone + laundry in one).

Must-have features: Countertop over washer/dryer for folding. Utility sink (for hand washing, soaking, and cleaning). Good lighting (overhead + task lighting). Adequate ventilation (dryer vent properly routed outside). Storage: cabinets, shelves, or both. Hanging rod or retractable clothesline for air drying. Floor drain (if possible, in case of leaks).

Nice-to-have: Built-in ironing board. Pet washing station. Steamer. Drying rack that folds flat. Charging station. Sound insulation (if near living areas).

Cost

By scope: Basic setup (washer/dryer hookups): $1,000-$3,000. Refresh existing room: $500-$2,000. New paint, shelving, organization systems. Mid-range remodel: $3,000-$10,000. New flooring, cabinets, countertop, sink, lighting. Full renovation: $10,000-$25,000+. Relocating laundry, adding plumbing, custom cabinetry.

By component: Washer: $400-$1,500 (top load). $600-$2,000 (front load). Dryer: $400-$1,200. Cabinets: $500-$5,000. Countertop: $200-$2,000. Utility sink: $150-$500 (+ plumbing $200-$500). Flooring: $300-$1,500. Shelving and organization: $100-$500. Lighting: $100-$500.

Relocating laundry: Moving to a different floor: $3,000-$8,000+. Requires plumbing, electrical, venting, and possibly structural work. Most common move: from basement to main floor or upstairs.

Organization Ideas

Storage solutions: Over-washer/dryer shelving or cabinets. Pull-out hamper cabinet. Wall-mounted drying rack. Shelf with baskets for sorting. Tension rod for hanging between cabinets. Pegboard for cleaning supplies. Door-mounted organizer.

Sorting systems: Triple-bin sorter: lights, darks, delicates. Color-coded baskets by family member. Rolling cart between machines.

Small space solutions: Stackable washer/dryer (saves floor space). Compact washer/dryer (24-inch units for apartments). Wall-mounted folding table (folds flat when not in use). Over-the-door hooks and organizers. Vertical shelving to use wall space.