Having a laundry area in your garage can transform how you handle household chores. Many homeowners are discovering the convenience of garage laundry rooms as a practical solution when indoor space is limited.
With thoughtful planning, a garage laundry area can be both functional and stylish, making wash day less of a chore.
I've found that creating a dedicated laundry space in the garage offers unique advantages for homes of all sizes. The garage provides extra room for sorting, folding, and storing laundry supplies without taking up valuable living space.
From simple setups to stylish designs, there are countless ways to customize your garage laundry area to fit your specific needs and preferences.
1) Install A Stylish Backsplash
Adding a backsplash to my garage laundry area was one of the best upgrades I made. It not only protects the wall from water splashes but also adds a decorative element to an otherwise utilitarian space.
Laundry room backsplashes come in many durable and chic options that can instantly elevate the style of the area.
I found that peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are perfect for a garage setting. They're easy to install, affordable, and come in designs that mimic more expensive materials like ceramic or stone.
No specialized tools are needed for this project, making it ideal for a weekend DIY.
For my utility sink area, I chose a water-resistant option that coordinates with my storage containers. Garage laundry room makeovers often benefit from these simple aesthetic improvements that make the space more inviting.
White subway tiles gave my space a clean, classic look, but there are countless options to match any style preference. I made sure to select materials that could withstand temperature changes common in garage environments.
The backsplash has been both functional and decorative, catching splashes while making my laundry area feel more like an intentional part of my home.
2) Use A Top-loading Washing Machine
Top-loading washing machines are ideal for garage laundry areas. I find they offer several advantages over front-loaders in this particular setting. They're typically more affordable and can be easier to use without bending down as much.
When setting up a top-loader in your garage, remember to leave adequate space above the unit. It's recommended to have about 16-18 inches of clearance above the machine to ensure comfortable use when loading and unloading laundry from the top lid.
One benefit I've noticed is that top-loading washers can be more tolerant of garage environments. They generally have fewer issues with mold and mildew compared to front-loaders, which is helpful in potentially damp garage settings.
The top surface of these machines can double as useful storage space. I like to place my detergent bottles and laundry supplies on top, making them easily accessible while keeping my garage laundry area organized.
Even in colder garages, top-loaders can function well. I've learned they can withstand cooler temperatures, though in freezing conditions you may need to wait for things to thaw before use.
3) Incorporate Space-saving Drying Racks
When planning my garage laundry area, I found that adding space-saving drying racks was essential. These racks provide a dedicated space for air-drying delicate items without taking up valuable floor space.
A wall-mounted laundry drying rack made of stainless steel is my top recommendation. These racks are designed to withstand daily use and won't rust or corrode, making them perfect for garage environments.
I love that these racks extend from the wall when needed and fold back when not in use. This accordion-style design is similar to the practical wooden racks our grandparents used in their laundry rooms.
For maximum versatility, I installed my drying rack above my washing machine. This placement allows me to easily transfer wet clothes directly to the rack.
Retractable drying racks are especially useful in tight garage laundry spaces. I can pull them out only when needed, keeping my workspace open and functional the rest of the time.
The best part is that these racks help my clothes last longer by reducing dryer use. I've saved money on both electricity and clothing replacement costs.
4) Add A Utility Sink
A utility sink is a practical addition to any garage laundry area. I find it useful for washing dirty hands after working on projects, pre-treating stained clothing, or cleaning items too large for a kitchen sink. Installing a utility sink is possible even if your garage doesn't have existing plumbing.
First, I need to assess the available space carefully. I measure the area where I want to place the sink and make sure there's enough room for comfortable use. Proper planning prevents headaches later.
For water supply, I can tap into existing water lines from inside the house. If my washing machine is already in the garage, I can use the same water supply by installing a Y-connector to split the line.
Drainage is another important consideration. I might need to install a drain pipe that connects to the main sewer line or use a utility pump system if the main line isn't accessible.
I prefer deep basin models for maximum versatility. These sinks give me plenty of space for soaking items or washing larger objects that wouldn't fit in a standard sink.
5) Create A Folding Station
A folding station is essential in a garage laundry area to keep clothes neat and organized. Without one, I often find myself piling clean laundry in baskets or on top of machines. Having a dedicated space makes the laundry process much more efficient.
Space-saving options are perfect for garage laundry areas where room might be limited. I recommend a folding table that mounts to the wall and can be folded down when not in use. This clever solution gives you a solid surface when needed without permanently taking up valuable floor space.
For a more permanent option, you can build a simple laundry fold table attached to the wall. I find that a counter height of about 36 inches works best for comfortable folding without straining your back.
Your folding station can double as extra storage space. I like to add a few shelves above it to hold detergent and other laundry supplies. Some laundry folding station ideas include adding baskets underneath for sorting or hooks on the side for hanging items.
Good lighting above your folding area is important. I installed an LED light fixture above mine to ensure I can see stains or spots that need additional treatment.
6) Elevate With Wood Finishes
One of the easiest ways to transform a utilitarian garage laundry space is with warm wood finishes. Wood countertops can instantly add visual appeal and create a more welcoming atmosphere. I recommend using a rich stain to give the surface a rustic look that contrasts nicely with the often cold feeling of a garage.
Wooden shelving is another excellent option for adding warmth while increasing storage capacity. Open wooden shelves not only look great but provide practical space for laundry essentials and decorative items. I've found that natural wood tones work wonderfully against white appliances or light-colored walls.
Consider incorporating wooden cabinets or cabinet fronts if you want a more substantial transformation. These can hide unsightly laundry supplies while bringing a high-end look to your garage laundry area. For a budget-friendly option, I suggest wooden crates mounted on the wall as storage cubbies.
A wooden folding table or countertop extension gives you extra workspace and adds style. I've seen beautiful traditional laundry spaces that use wood elements to create a cohesive design that feels intentional rather than afterthought.
7) Implement Vertical Storage Solutions
When organizing a garage laundry area, looking up is key. I've found that vertical storage maximizes limited space by using walls and ceiling areas that would otherwise go unused. Vertical storage solutions like stackable machines, hidden cabinets, and wall-mounted systems help make the most of compact areas.
Wall-mounted shelves are perfect for storing laundry supplies while keeping them within easy reach. I recommend installing adjustable shelving that can be reconfigured as your storage needs change. Custom shelving units can be built to fit perfectly around plumbing and electrical connections.
Overhead racks are another smart option for garage laundry spaces. I can store seasonal items or rarely used supplies above the laundry area without taking up valuable floor space. Wall-mounted cabinets are excellent for hiding cleaning supplies and keeping chemicals out of sight.
For smaller items, I use stackable bins that can be arranged vertically. These bins help separate and categorize laundry items while saving floor space.
A combination of open shelving and closed cabinets works best in my experience. This setup lets me display nice baskets while hiding less attractive necessities behind cabinet doors.
8) Use Labeled Bins For Organization
I find that bins are essential for keeping my garage laundry area tidy, but unlabeled bins quickly become a mess. Clear plastic storage containers work best because I can see what's inside, but labels still make everything easier to find.
Standardized storage bins keep my laundry area looking neat. I choose bins of similar sizes that stack well together, which maximizes my limited space.
For labeling, I've discovered that a good template makes all the difference. Some people use fillable PDF templates that allow for customization, which I find particularly helpful for keeping track of seasonal items.
Labels should be clear and specific. Instead of writing “Stuff,” I use detailed descriptions like “Winter Gloves” or “Cleaning Supplies” to avoid confusion later.
I place frequently used items in easily accessible bins at eye level. Less-used seasonal items go on higher shelves, all clearly labeled so I can spot them when needed.
Clear plastic containers with labels have transformed my garage laundry area. I use them for storing detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry essentials that I want to keep handy but out of sight.
9) Install Under-cabinet Lighting
Under-cabinet lighting can transform your garage laundry area by providing task lighting and creating a more functional workspace. I chose LED strip lights for my installation because they're energy-efficient and produce minimal heat. They're perfect for illuminating countertops where I fold clothes and store laundry supplies.
Before starting, I gathered all my supplies and created a mock installation to ensure I had everything needed. This helped me visualize the final result and avoid mistakes during the actual installation.
For my garage laundry area, I installed hardwired LED lighting for a clean, permanent solution. I ran the low voltage wiring through the walls to a switched driver underneath the sink, similar to what professionals recommend.
Proper mounting is crucial for a clean look. I marked the mounting holes with a pencil, drilled shallow starter holes, and then secured the mounting caps as shown in Lowe's installation guide.
I added aluminum channels with plastic diffusers to create a professional finish that spreads light evenly. The result is a well-lit workspace that makes laundry tasks much easier and gives my garage laundry area a modern, finished look.
10) Incorporate A Rolling Laundry Cart
A rolling laundry cart is a game-changer for my garage laundry area. I find it incredibly useful for moving clothes between washing, drying, and folding stations without straining my back. The mobility factor alone makes laundry day much more efficient.
Large capacity carts can hold an entire family's worth of laundry. Some models offer impressive 280L capacity with divided compartments that help me separate colors from whites or delicates from regular items.
I love carts with additional features like hanging bars for freshly dried garments. These are perfect for items that need to air dry or for hanging clothes straight from the dryer to prevent wrinkles.
The best laundry carts come with lockable wheels for stability. I can lock the wheels when I'm sorting clothes and unlock them when I need to move to another area of my garage laundry space.
Many rolling laundry carts with hanging bars also include storage baskets for detergent and other supplies. This keeps everything I need in one convenient place.
Carts with removable bags are especially practical. They allow me to take only what I need to the folding area without moving the entire cart.
11) Hang A Decorative Curtain
A great way to hide your garage laundry area is to hang a decorative curtain. I've found this solution works especially well when you want to section off the laundry space without permanent construction. Curtains add both function and style to what might otherwise be an uninspiring area.
You can suspend a rod from the ceiling or attach it to nearby walls to support your curtain. I recommend natural linen curtains for their durability and timeless appearance, though any fabric that matches your style will work nicely.
This approach is particularly flexible compared to fixed solutions like doors. I can simply pull the curtains closed when I want to hide messy laundry piles or open them for easy access when working.
The installation process is straightforward and affordable. You'll need curtain rods, ceiling or wall mounts, and curtain panels that reach from ceiling to floor for complete coverage.
For extra convenience, consider sliding curtain dividers that move easily along a track system. Some homeowners even replace accordion doors with curtains for a softer look that takes up less space.
12) Transform With Vibrant Paint
One of the easiest ways to refresh a garage laundry area is with vibrant paint. I've found that bold colors can turn a utilitarian space into something special. A bright coat of paint can make laundry tasks feel less like a chore.
Red paint creates a striking statement in laundry rooms, as seen in some impressive home renovations. I love how red adds energy to a space that's typically forgotten. Consider an accent wall if a full red room feels too intense.
Light colors can make small laundry areas feel larger and more welcoming. I've noticed that white paint in particular creates a clean backdrop that makes the space feel fresh and organized.
Some homeowners have created bright and colorful laundry transformations using simple painting techniques. I recommend choosing paint with a semi-gloss finish for laundry areas because it stands up better to moisture and is easier to clean.
Strategic painting can truly elevate utilitarian spaces like garages and laundry rooms, turning them into stylish and inviting areas. I suggest selecting colors that make you feel happy since you'll spend considerable time in this space.
13) Create A Hidden Ironing Board
Ironing is a necessary part of laundry care, but ironing boards can take up valuable space in a garage laundry area. I recommend installing a hidden ironing board to save space while keeping this essential tool accessible.
One clever solution is a wall-mounted folding ironing board that can be tucked away when not in use. I've found these are relatively easy to install and can fit into narrow spaces between cabinets or in unused corners of your garage laundry area.
Storage options matter too. Some hidden ironing board designs include built-in storage for your iron and spray bottles, keeping everything organized in one place.
Another smart option is a roll-out shelf ironing board that can be integrated into your existing cabinetry. I particularly like how these blend seamlessly with the rest of your laundry storage when not in use.
For those with minimal wall space, consider a shelf over your washer and dryer that can accommodate a fold-out ironing board. This dual-purpose solution maximizes your vertical space while keeping your ironing station conveniently located.
14) Add A Ceiling-mounted Drying Rack
A ceiling-mounted drying rack is a game-changer for any garage laundry area. I installed one last year and it's become one of my most practical additions. This type of rack combines capacity with space-saving practicality, keeping my garage tidy and functional.
The best part about these racks is they use vertical space that would otherwise go unused. When I'm not drying clothes, I can raise the rack up to the ceiling and completely free up the floor area below. This flexibility is especially valuable in a multipurpose garage.
Installation is straightforward with basic tools and hardware. I secured mine directly into ceiling joists for maximum stability and load capacity.
Energy savings are another benefit I've noticed since adding my ceiling rack. By air-drying more items, I've reduced my dryer usage and lowered my utility bills.
Some models come with pulley systems that make raising and lowering incredibly easy. I can adjust the height depending on what I'm drying, making it accessible regardless of my height.
15) Use A Fire-rated Door
When creating a laundry area in your garage, safety must be a top priority. The wall between your garage and home interior needs to be fire-rated, and this includes the door. I recommend installing a 20-minute fire door assembly between your garage laundry area and the rest of your house.
Fire-rated doors help prevent flames and smoke from spreading quickly in case of a fire. They're designed to withstand fire for a specific time period, giving you valuable minutes to evacuate safely. The most common requirement for residential garage-to-house doors is a 20-minute rating.
In many areas, this isn't just a suggestion—it's required by building code. The wall and door must be a rated assembly to properly separate the garage from living spaces. Without this protection, you risk failing home inspections and, more importantly, compromising your family's safety.
Steel doors are a popular choice for this application. They're durable, provide excellent fire protection, and often come with the necessary fire rating. I've found that many homeowners choose steel doors with lever handles for easier operation when carrying laundry.
Designing An Efficient Garage Laundry Area
Creating a functional laundry area in your garage requires careful planning and smart decisions. The right layout and appliances can transform a basic utility space into an efficient work area that makes laundry tasks easier.
Space Planning and Layout
Start by measuring your available garage space and determining the best location for your laundry area. I recommend positioning appliances near existing plumbing and electrical connections to minimize installation costs. A typical washer and dryer setup needs about 4-6 feet of wall space plus additional room for moving around comfortably.
Consider installing built-in shelves above or beside your appliances for detergent and supplies. Wall-mounted cabinets keep items accessible without taking up floor space.
For functionality, include a small countertop for folding clothes. This can be a simple floating shelf or a purpose-built surface. Some garage laundry rooms benefit from hanging a curtain to visually separate the area from the rest of the garage.
Adding a utility sink near the washer provides convenience for pre-treating stains or hand-washing delicate items. If space is tight, consider stackable appliances to free up valuable floor area.
Choosing the Right Appliances
Select appliances that match your household's needs and available space. Front-loading washers typically use less water and energy than top-loaders, making them ideal for efficiency-minded homeowners.
Key considerations for garage laundry appliances:
- Temperature tolerance (many garages aren't climate-controlled)
- Energy efficiency ratings
- Size appropriate for your space
- Noise levels
- Special features like steam cleaning or quick wash cycles
If your garage experiences extreme temperatures, look for models designed to operate in variable conditions. Some washers have built-in heaters to ensure proper water temperature even in colder environments.
For dryers, I suggest venting directly outside through a short duct run when possible. This improves efficiency and reduces heat buildup in your garage. Electric dryers are typically easier to install in garage settings, but gas models often dry clothes faster and may cost less to operate.
Optimizing Storage Solutions
A garage laundry area demands smart storage to keep supplies organized and make the most of limited space. Well-planned storage solutions can transform a cluttered area into an efficient workspace.
Utilizing Vertical Space
When working with a garage laundry area, I always recommend looking up to maximize storage potential. Wall-mounted shelving systems like Elfa shelving offer customizable options that can be adjusted as your needs change. These systems typically install easily and can be found on sale for significant discounts.
I've found that installing cabinets above the washer and dryer creates valuable storage for detergents and cleaning supplies. Open shelving works well for items you use frequently, while closed cabinets hide visual clutter.
Don't forget the ceiling! Overhead storage racks can hold seasonal items or rarely used supplies. For smaller items, pegboards provide flexible storage that can be reconfigured as needed.
Stackable washer-dryer units are another excellent way to maximize vertical space in tight areas, freeing up floor space for other storage solutions.
Incorporating Multi-Functional Furniture
I believe multi-functional furniture is essential for an efficient garage laundry area. A folding table that can be mounted to the wall and folded down when needed serves as both a folding station and workspace without permanently taking up floor space.
Rolling carts offer versatile storage that can be moved where needed. I recommend models with multiple tiers to separate supplies by category or frequency of use.
Consider a bench with hidden storage underneath for sorting clothes while providing a place to store bulky items. This maximizes efficiency while giving you a comfortable place to sit.
Tension rods installed between cabinets or in unused corners create instant hanging space for drying delicate items. For additional functionality, I suggest installing a slim pullout rack between the washer and dryer for hanging clothes right out of the wash.
