How do I add storage to a small laundry room?

Go vertical: install shelves or cabinets above the washer/dryer (leave 12-18" clearance above top-load machines). Add a folding counter over front-load machines. Mount a fold-down drying rack on the wall. Use the back of the door for an over-door organizer. Install a narrow (6-12") pull-out cabinet between machines and wall if space allows. Stack washer and dryer to free floor space for a tall utility cabinet.

What is the best shelving for a laundry room?

Wire shelving is the most practical: affordable ($15-$40/shelf), ventilated (good for damp rooms), adjustable, and easy to install. For a more polished look: upper cabinets (stock kitchen cabinets work great at $50-$300 each) conceal clutter and protect from moisture. Open wood shelves with baskets are a popular middle ground for a farmhouse look.

How much does a laundry room remodel cost?

Basic shelving DIY: $50-$150. Open shelving + hanging rod: $100-$300. Stock cabinet installation: $300-$1,500. Full makeover (countertop + cabinets + shelving + paint): $1,000-$5,000. Custom built-in system: $3,000-$10,000. The biggest ROI comes from adding a folding counter over front-load machines ($50-$200 for butcher block) and upper cabinets ($50-$300 each stock).

Should I put cabinets or open shelving in my laundry room?

Cabinets: better for hiding clutter, protecting from dust/moisture, and a clean look. Open shelving: easier to install, more affordable, and makes frequently-used items accessible. Best approach: upper cabinets for most storage (detergent, supplies) with one section of open shelving for daily-use items. Many homeowners use a combination of both for function and aesthetics.

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Laundry Room Shelving & Storage Guide: Ideas, Materials & Costs

Lumberama Editorial Team, Home Organization & Interior Design Specialists Jun 10, 2026 12 min read

Laundry Room Layouts

Closet laundry: Washer and dryer stacked or side-by-side behind bi-fold or sliding doors. Common in apartments and condos. Limited space — every inch counts. Shelf above machines is essential.

Galley/corridor: Narrow room with machines on one side and storage on the other. Typically 5-7 feet wide. Maximize the wall opposite the machines with floor-to-ceiling shelving or cabinets.

L-shaped: Machines on one wall, counter/sink on the adjacent wall. Good workflow. Add upper cabinets on both walls.

Dedicated room: Full room with counter space, sink, hanging area, and folding station. The ideal setup. Space for a folding table, ironing station, and full cabinet system.

Shelving Options

Wire Shelving

Ventilated wire shelving above the washer/dryer. The most common and affordable option. Allows air circulation (good for damp environments). Easy to install. Adjustable height. $15-$40 per shelf (4-ft sections). Brands: ClosetMaid, Rubbermaid. Best for: budget setups, rental units.

Floating Shelves

Wall-mounted shelves with hidden brackets. Clean, modern look. Wood, MDF, or laminate. $15-$60 per shelf. Can hold detergent bottles and supplies. Decorative option. Not ideal for heavy loads unless mounted into studs with heavy-duty brackets.

Open Wood Shelving

Bracket-mounted wood or plywood shelves. Sturdy. Can be stained or painted. DIY-friendly. $20-$80 per shelf. Great for a farmhouse or rustic look. Use with baskets and bins for a tidy appearance.

Cabinets (Upper)

Wall-mounted cabinets above machines. Conceals clutter. Protects from dust and moisture. Stock kitchen cabinets work perfectly (24" deep uppers may be too deep — 12-15" depth is better). $50-$300 per cabinet (stock). $200-$800 per cabinet (custom). Best for: polished, organized look.

Tall Utility Cabinets

Floor-to-ceiling storage towers beside machines. 18-24" wide, 12-24" deep, 72-84" tall. Adjustable shelves inside. Great for brooms, mops, ironing boards, and bulk supplies. $100-$500 per unit (stock). Brands: Prepac, ClosetMaid, IKEA.

Must-Have Features

Folding counter: A countertop over front-load machines or a wall-mounted fold-down table. Standard depth: 25-27" to span machines. Materials: butcher block ($50-$200), laminate counter ($30-$100), or solid surface ($100-$400).

Hanging rod/bar: A tension rod or wall-mounted rod for air-drying and hang-to-dry items. Install above the folding counter or between cabinets. $10-$40.

Sorting hamper: Built-in or freestanding multi-bin laundry sorter. Tilt-out cabinet hampers save floor space. $30-$150.

Drying rack: Wall-mounted fold-down drying rack saves space when not in use. $20-$80.