Are you tired of hiding your laundry room behind closed doors? Transform this utilitarian space into a stylish and functional area you’ll actually enjoy spending time in!
As an interior design expert with years of experience creating beautiful homes across the country, I’m sharing my 15 favorite laundry room makeover ideas that combine practical solutions with eye-catching design.
| Makeover Idea | Estimated Cost | DIY Difficulty | Visual Impact | Functional Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strategic Storage Solutions | $200-$1,500 | Moderate | High | Very High |
| Statement Flooring | $300-$2,000 | Difficult | Very High | Medium |
| Functional Sink | $250-$800 | Difficult | High | High |
| Smart Drying Solutions | $50-$300 | Easy | Medium | Very High |
| Vertical Storage | $100-$500 | Easy | Medium | High |
| Wall Treatments | $100-$400 | Easy | Very High | Low |
| Proper Lighting | $150-$600 | Moderate | High | High |
| Folding Counter | $150-$700 | Moderate | Medium | Very High |
| Updated Appliances | $1,200-$3,000 | Easy | High | Very High |
| Decorative Elements | $50-$200 | Very Easy | High | Low |
| Mudroom Combination | $500-$2,500 | Difficult | High | Very High |
| Colorful Cabinetry | $100-$500 | Easy | Very High | Medium |
| Organization Systems | $100-$400 | Easy | Medium | High |
| Utility Closet | $300-$1,200 | Moderate | Low | Very High |
| Budget-Friendly DIY Updates | $50-$300 | Easy | High | Medium |
1. Create a Multi-Functional Space with Strategic Storage Solutions
The most successful laundry room renovations incorporate clever storage solutions that maximize every inch of available space. Think vertically and utilize every surface area to create a highly functional workspace.
🧺 Wall-mounted cabinets provide enclosed storage for detergents, stain removers, and other laundry essentials while keeping them out of sight but within easy reach.
🧺 Floating shelves offer open storage for frequently used items and decorative elements that add personality to the space.
“A well-designed laundry room should have designated zones for sorting, washing, drying, folding, and storing. This workflow approach makes laundry day more efficient and less of a chore.” – Brad Smith, Omni Home Ideas
Installing a countertop over front-loading washers and dryers creates a valuable workspace for folding clothes or pre-treating stains. For small laundry spaces, consider stackable appliances to free up floor space for additional storage or a utility sink.
Pro tip: Incorporate pull-out hampers or sorting bins into your cabinetry to keep dirty laundry organized and out of sight until wash day.
2. Transform Your Space with Statement Flooring
Flooring is one of the most impactful elements in a laundry room makeover, capable of completely changing the look and feel of the space while providing practical benefits.
🔹 Checkerboard tile patterns in marble or luxury vinyl create a timeless, elegant look that elevates the entire room. This classic pattern works wonderfully in traditional and modern spaces alike.
🔹 Patterned cement tiles introduce personality and visual interest, instantly making the laundry room feel like a designed space rather than an afterthought.
When selecting flooring for a laundry room, durability and water resistance are crucial considerations. Ceramic tile, luxury vinyl planks, and sheet vinyl are all excellent choices that stand up to moisture and heavy foot traffic.
For those undertaking a DIY laundry room makeover on a budget, peel-and-stick vinyl tiles offer an affordable alternative that can dramatically transform the space with minimal effort and expense.
Pro tip: Choose a dark grout for light-colored tiles in high-traffic laundry areas to minimize the appearance of dirt and stains.
3. Add a Functional Sink for Enhanced Utility
Installing a dedicated sink takes your laundry room’s functionality to the next level, providing a convenient spot for hand-washing delicate items, pre-treating stains, or cleaning up after messy household projects.
A utility sink doesn’t have to be utilitarian in appearance. Consider these options for a sink that combines style with function:
🚿 A farmhouse or apron-front sink adds character and provides a deep basin for soaking items.
🚿 A vanity-style sink with cabinetry underneath offers valuable additional storage space for cleaning supplies and laundry essentials.
🚿 A wall-mounted utility sink works well in tight spaces where floor space is at a premium.
For maximum functionality, pair your sink with a pull-down faucet that provides flexible water direction for rinsing and cleaning.
Follow these steps to incorporate a sink into your laundry room makeover:
- Assess your plumbing situation and determine if you need professional help
- Select a sink style that complements your design and fits your space
- Choose faucet fixtures that provide the functionality you need
- Consider adding a small backsplash for protection against water damage
4. Incorporate Smart Drying Solutions
Effective drying solutions are essential for a fully functional laundry room that handles all your clothing care needs.
🧵 Install a wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted retractable clothesline that can be pulled out when needed and tucked away when not in use.
🧵 A brass or stainless steel hanging rod mounted under a shelf or cabinet provides a convenient spot for hanging clothes directly from the dryer to prevent wrinkles.
🧵 A collapsible drying rack offers flexibility for items that need to lay flat to dry without taking up permanent space in your laundry room.
If space permits, consider a dedicated drying cabinet with built-in ventilation for delicate items that shouldn’t go in the dryer. This high-end addition is becoming increasingly popular in luxury laundry room makeovers.
Pro tip: For a budget-friendly DIY option, mount a tension rod inside a cabinet or between two walls to create a hidden hanging space for air-drying clothes.
5. Use Wall Space Effectively with Vertical Storage
When floor space is limited, looking upward is the key to maximizing storage in your laundry room. Vertical storage solutions make use of otherwise unused wall space to keep essential items organized and accessible.
⬆️ Open shelving installed above the washer and dryer provides visible storage for frequently used items and creates opportunities for decorative touches that enhance the room’s aesthetic.
⬆️ Pegboards offer customizable storage that can evolve with your needs, providing hooks for hanging tools, small baskets for supplies, and endless configuration possibilities.
“The most successful small laundry room makeovers focus on maximizing vertical space. Taking your storage all the way to the ceiling can double your capacity without expanding the room’s footprint.” – Brad Smith, Omni Home Ideas
Wall-mounted cabinets that extend to the ceiling provide maximum storage capacity while keeping items dust-free and out of sight. Consider glass-front doors on upper cabinets to maintain an open feel while still providing enclosed storage.
For a custom look, install cabinetry in a bold color that contrasts with your wall color, creating a focal point that transforms the laundry room from purely functional to design-forward.
6. Create Visual Interest with Wall Treatments
Wall treatments are a relatively low-cost way to make a major impact in your laundry room makeover, adding personality and style to what might otherwise be a purely utilitarian space.
🎨 Wallpaper creates instant impact, transforming the laundry room into a space with character and charm. Consider removable wallpaper for a renter-friendly option or if you like to change your decor frequently.
🎨 Vertical shiplap adds texture and dimension while creating a classic, timeless look that works with many design styles from modern farmhouse to coastal.
🎨 Bold paint colors make a statement in small spaces and can completely transform the feel of your laundry room with minimal investment.
When selecting wall treatments, consider the humidity and potential for splashes in the laundry environment. Washable paints and moisture-resistant materials will stand up better to the conditions in this hardworking space.
Pro tip: If you’re hesitant to commit to a bold wallpaper throughout the room, create an accent wall behind the washer and dryer for maximum impact with minimal materials.
7. Illuminate Your Space with Proper Lighting
Effective lighting is often overlooked in laundry room design, but it’s essential for both functionality and atmosphere. The right lighting can make tasks easier and transform the mood of the space.
💡 Replace outdated fluorescent fixtures with modern alternatives like recessed lighting, pendant lights, or a semi-flush mount fixture for ambient illumination.
💡 Under-cabinet lighting provides task lighting for countertop work areas, making it easier to spot stains and treat garments properly.
💡 A statement light fixture can serve as a focal point and elevate the design of your laundry room, signaling that this is a designed space worthy of attention.
Consider the color temperature of your lighting carefully. Cooler light (4000K-5000K) provides better visibility for spotting stains and sorting colors, while warmer light (2700K-3000K) creates a cozier atmosphere.
For the most flexible lighting scheme, install fixtures on dimmer switches so you can adjust the brightness to suit different tasks and times of day.
8. Install a Folding Counter for Enhanced Functionality
A dedicated folding surface is a game-changer for laundry efficiency, providing a convenient space to sort, fold, and organize clean clothes before distributing them to their proper locations.
🔄 For front-loading washers and dryers, a countertop installed above the machines creates a natural workspace without requiring additional floor space.
🔄 In smaller laundry rooms, consider a wall-mounted drop-leaf table that can be folded down when needed and tucked away when not in use.
Here’s how to incorporate a folding counter in your laundry room makeover:
- Measure the available space carefully, accounting for machine dimensions and clearance needs
- Select a durable, moisture-resistant material like quartz, butcher block, or laminate
- Ensure the counter height is ergonomically comfortable for folding (typically 36″-38″ from the floor)
- Consider adding a small backsplash to protect walls from detergent spills
Pro tip: If installing a counter above front-loading machines, leave a small gap between the counter and the wall to accommodate hoses and electrical cords, and allow machines to be pulled forward for maintenance.
9. Modernize with Updated Appliances
New, energy-efficient appliances can be the centerpiece of your laundry room makeover, providing improved functionality, reduced utility costs, and updated aesthetics.
⚡ Front-loading washers and dryers offer space-saving benefits and can be installed with a counter above them for additional workspace.
⚡ Stackable units maximize floor space in small laundry rooms, making room for additional storage or other functions.
⚡ All-in-one washer/dryer combos provide a compact solution for extremely tight spaces, though they typically have smaller capacities.
When selecting new appliances, consider features that will make laundry day more efficient, such as steam cycles, sanitizing options, or smart technology that allows you to monitor and control cycles from your phone.
“The latest appliance trend for 2025 is a focus on sustainable features that save water and energy while still delivering excellent cleaning performance. Look for machines with high Energy Star ratings and eco-cycles.” – Brad Smith, Omni Home Ideas
10. Add Personality with Thoughtful Decorative Elements
Decorative touches transform a utilitarian laundry space into a room you enjoy spending time in, without compromising functionality.
🌿 Incorporate plants (real or faux) to add life and color to the space. Snake plants and pothos are excellent low-maintenance options that thrive in humid environments.
🌿 Display laundry supplies in attractive containers like glass jars, woven baskets, or matching dispensers to create a cohesive, organized look.
🌿 Hang artwork or framed prints that complement your color scheme and add personality to the space.
Remember that decorative elements in the laundry room should be practical as well as beautiful. Consider items that serve dual purposes, such as attractive baskets that store supplies or a vintage stool that provides both character and a place to sit.
Pro tip: Avoid generic “Laundry Room” signs in favor of more sophisticated artwork and accessories that reflect your personal style and elevate the space.
11. Create a Combined Mudroom/Laundry Space
For homes where the laundry room serves as an entry point from the garage or backyard, combining laundry and mudroom functions creates a highly efficient multi-purpose space.
🧣 Install hooks or a built-in locker system for coats, bags, and shoes, keeping outdoor gear contained and organized.
🧣 Incorporate bench seating with storage underneath for additional organization and a place to sit while removing shoes.
🧣 Add designated storage for seasonal items, sports equipment, and pet supplies that naturally belong near an entryway.
The key to a successful combined space is clearly defined zones that keep laundry functions separate from mudroom activities. Use different flooring materials, wall treatments, or lighting to visually separate the areas while maintaining a cohesive overall design.
For pet owners, consider adding a pet washing station to your laundry/mudroom combination. A raised utility sink or dedicated shower area provides a convenient spot to clean muddy paws before pets enter the main living areas.
12. Go Bold with Colorful Cabinetry
Cabinetry in unexpected colors transforms a utilitarian laundry room into a space with personality and style. Don’t be afraid to make a statement in this hardworking space!
🎭 Deep blues and greens create a sophisticated, moody atmosphere that feels luxurious and intentional.
🎭 Soft pastels like sage green, blush pink, or powder blue add subtle color while maintaining a light, airy feel.
🎭 Two-tone cabinetry with contrasting upper and lower cabinets adds visual interest and dimension to the space.
When selecting cabinet colors, consider how they’ll work with your flooring, walls, and appliances to create a cohesive overall look. For maximum flexibility, keep walls neutral if you’re opting for bold cabinetry colors.
Pro tip: If you’re not ready to commit to colorful permanent cabinetry, consider painting existing cabinets or using removable wallpaper on cabinet fronts for a temporary, renter-friendly update.
13. Implement Smart Organization Systems
Well-planned organization systems are the foundation of a functional laundry room that streamlines your workflow and makes the chore more manageable.
📊 Sorting systems with labeled hampers or bins help family members pre-sort laundry, saving time on laundry day.
📊 Designated storage for specific categories keeps everything in its place—cleaning supplies in one area, laundry products in another, and household tools in a third.
📊 Pull-out drawers and bins maximize the usable space in cabinets and make it easier to access items stored at the back.
Consider implementing these organization steps in your laundry room makeover:
- Categorize all items that need storage in the laundry room
- Measure and plan storage spaces for each category
- Select appropriate containers and labels for each type of item
- Establish a system that’s intuitive for all family members to maintain
“The best organization systems are those that are simple enough for everyone in the household to use consistently. Overcomplicated systems tend to break down quickly.” – Brad Smith, Omni Home Ideas
14. Incorporate a Utility Closet for Expanded Storage
A dedicated utility closet within or adjacent to your laundry room provides valuable storage for bulky cleaning equipment and household supplies that don’t fit easily in standard cabinets.
🧹 Install adjustable shelving to accommodate items of various heights and allow your storage system to evolve as your needs change.
🧹 Add hooks inside the closet door for hanging mops, brooms, and dustpans, keeping them accessible but out of sight.
🧹 Consider pull-out drawers or bins for smaller items that might get lost on deep shelves.
For maximum accessibility, install motion-sensor lighting inside the closet so you can easily see contents even when your hands are full. This simple upgrade makes a significant difference in the functionality of the space.
Pro tip: If building a new utility closet isn’t feasible, consider repurposing an existing nearby closet or installing a tall cabinet with similar functionality.
15. Budget-Friendly DIY Updates for Immediate Impact
Not every laundry room makeover requires a complete renovation. These budget-friendly DIY projects deliver significant results without breaking the bank.
💰 Refresh cabinet fronts with new paint and updated hardware for an instant facelift that transforms the look of the entire room.
💰 Apply peel-and-stick wallpaper or backsplash tiles to add pattern and visual interest without the commitment or expense of traditional materials.
💰 Install inexpensive floating shelves to add storage and display space that enhances both function and aesthetics.
Simple cosmetic updates like replacing outdated light fixtures, adding a colorful rug, or installing new window treatments can dramatically change the feel of your laundry room with minimal investment.
For the budget-conscious homeowner, focus on one high-impact change—like flooring or a statement wall—and complement it with smaller updates to create a cohesive new look without a complete renovation.
Wrapping Up
A thoughtfully designed laundry room makeover transforms one of your home’s hardest-working spaces into an area that combines functionality with style. By implementing strategic storage solutions, incorporating practical work surfaces, and adding personal touches, you can create a laundry room that makes household chores more efficient and enjoyable.
Remember that the most successful makeovers address both form and function—beautiful spaces that don’t work well will quickly become frustrating, while purely utilitarian designs miss the opportunity to create a space you genuinely enjoy.
Ready to tackle your laundry room transformation? Start by assessing your current pain points and prioritizing solutions that address your specific needs. Even implementing just a few of these ideas can significantly improve your laundry routine and create a space that works harder for your household.
