31+ Best Basement Laundry Room Ideas And Designs
The basement’s unique characteristic of dampness presents an opportunity for renovation and refurbishment. One such space is the laundry room, which can be set up with the help of dehumidifiers, windows, and the enclosed nature of the basement. This quiet area is ideal for washing, drying, and ironing clothes. If you’re looking for inspiration for your basement laundry room project, this post features a range of styles and designs that you can draw from to create a space that suits your needs.
This article showcases various ideas for unfinished and finished basement laundry rooms, including exposed beams and plumbing, 50s flair, compact to spacious layouts, and more. From natural stone tile flooring to luxury features like wood and concrete combinations, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Unfinished basement laundry room ideas
Exposed beams and plumbing
Transform your old cellar room by the basement into a functional and efficient laundry room without sacrificing its unique characteristics. With its compact space, raw ceiling, and proximity to the rest of the house, this area is ideal for housing your washing machine and dryer. To optimize the space, position these appliances ergonomically, taking into account their dimensions and your workflow preferences.
This will not only streamline your laundry process but also create opportunities for vertical storage solutions, allowing you to make the most of this often underutilized space.
50s flair
Imitating the iconic style of 1950s laundries, this concept involves leaving the ceilings and block walls exposed and unfinished. Instead of traditional partitions, use curtains or drapes to create cozy enclosures for the laundry room. The setup is characterized by cabinets situated on one side, with the washing machine and dryer positioned beneath the sink. Warm pendant lights add a touch of warmth, while an old iron table takes center stage in the middle.
This design aesthetic perfectly captures the essence of a 50s-style laundry room.
Basement laundry room makeover ideas
From dark to cozy
To revitalize a compact basement laundry room, often characterized by its dark, damp, and dungeon-like ambiance, consider implementing two straightforward yet effective solutions. Firstly, inject a burst of freshness by painting the area a bright, crisp white – this simple trick can work wonders in transforming the space’s overall aesthetic. Secondly, optimize your storage setup by transitioning from flat, floor-based shelves to stacked ones.
This clever rearrangement will not only declutter the area but also create a sense of openness and visual breathing room. Finally, take the opportunity to purge any unnecessary items, focusing solely on the essentials like your washer and dryer. By doing so, you’ll be able to conserve precious space and create a more functional, streamlined laundry zone.
Compact to spacious
When designing a basement laundry room, it’s essential to create an illusion of space. One effective way to achieve this is by opting for compact washer and dryer models that won’t overwhelm the area. To maximize the space, consider installing cabinets and floor shelves specifically designed to accommodate your appliances. Additionally, incorporating wall ledges provides easy access to frequently used laundry essentials.
Furthermore, updating the flooring can greatly enhance the overall ambiance of the room.
Finished basement laundry room ideas
Packed basement
For those with a spacious basement, the possibility of creating an all-encompassing laundry room is an exciting prospect. By incorporating floor-to-ceiling cabinets and shelves on all sides, you can effectively hide away the washer and dryer while maintaining a sense of openness. The crowning jewel of this design is undoubtedly the built-in ironing and folding board, which adds a touch of sophistication to the space.
Wainscoted ceiling
To create a modern and sophisticated space, consider incorporating wood paneling or wainscoting on your ceiling. This design element can be further enhanced by adding a statement piece of lighting, such as a long fluorescent fixture placed strategically to add visual interest. For added functionality, install a multi-functional storage unit that combines hanging rods, cabinets, and shelves.
On the floor level, incorporate additional storage units topped with a foldable countertop, providing ample space for practical purposes. Additionally, cleverly position your washer and dryer between floor-level cabinets and drawers, keeping these essential appliances out of sight yet easily accessible.
Basement laundry room flooring ideas
Natural stone tile flooring
Natural stone tile flooring remains a top choice for laundry rooms that double as mudrooms, despite its reduced slip-resistance compared to ceramic tiles. Its ability to effortlessly shed dust is an added bonus. Moreover, the versatility of natural stone allows it to seamlessly blend with any color scheme, thanks to its diverse palette of hues.
The addition of built-in shelves for the washing machine and dryer, accompanied by drawers below, effectively transports the space back in time while injecting a touch of southern contemporary flair. This thoughtful design creates a charming laundry room experience that feels both nostalgic and modern.
Concrete herringbone
When considering flooring options for a laundry room and mudroom, concrete is another viable choice. While plain poured concrete can appear unassuming, there are ways to elevate its aesthetic appeal. For instance, opting for a charcoal black herringbone pattern can add visual interest and complement the deep colors of gray or black washing machines and dryers.
This design element not only enhances the look of the laundry room but also creates an illusion of increased space in compact areas, making it particularly well-suited for smaller rooms. With its unique angles adding depth and visual stimulation, herringbone concrete flooring is a thoughtful choice for these functional spaces.
Small basement laundry room ideas
Laundry room by the sink
When designing a small basement laundry room, it’s common to place washers and dryers alongside the sink, maintaining a square layout that doesn’t disrupt the flow of the space. This thoughtful arrangement allows the appliances to blend seamlessly into the overall aesthetic, creating a cohesive look. For homeowners with limited space, this configuration can be particularly effective in optimizing functionality without sacrificing style.
Tan and brown arrangement
In small spaces, dark neutrals like brown and tan can have a profound impact. This colour combination brings depth and texture to a compact laundry room, creating a sense of coziness. The rustic feel this pairing evokes is further enhanced by the addition of wood countertops, which add an air of elegance to the space. To maintain the square shape of a small laundry room, consider placing the washer and dryer cabinet beside the sink.
This strategic placement ensures a harmonious flow and prevents visual clutter.
Basement laundry room ceiling ideas
Plain ceiling
While a laundry room ceiling doesn’t require grand designs, a thoughtful approach to lighting can make it shine. For instance, pairing simple white walls with a plain white ceiling and recessed can lights creates a harmonious space. The result is a well-lit area that benefits from natural light throughout the day, making it an ideal solution for laundry basements.
Finished ceiling with exposed beams
To create a striking visual effect, consider incorporating exposed beams into your basement’s ceiling design. You can achieve this by using a combination of concrete and steel elements. For instance, you could install a concrete ceiling with visible steel lines running through it to add depth and texture. Meanwhile, arrange your cabinets and shelves at a 90-degree angle to create a sense of balance and visual harmony.
By leaving an open floor plan, you can maintain the illusion of more space and create a brighter, airier atmosphere in your basement.
Luxury basement laundry room ideas
Wood and concrete
Combine the natural charm of wood with the industrial chic of concrete for a truly luxurious look. To achieve this aesthetic, consider installing hanging wood cabinets that add a touch of sophistication to the space. Pair these with ceramic tiles on the half-ledge wall to create a striking visual effect. For an added layer of elegance, incorporate smaller ceramic tiles above the sink to create a beautiful focal point.
And let’s not forget about the wood countertop that wraps around the washer and dryer – it adds warmth and texture to the space while also keeping functionality top-of-mind. With this design, you’ll be trading in your boring laundry room for a high-end retreat that’s anything but low-key.
Aisle style luxury basement laundry room
Luxurious laundry spaces are not limited to sprawling areas. Even compact rooms can be styled to perfection with clever design. The aisle style laundry room is an excellent example of this. By utilizing vertical space, you can pack one side with the washer and dryer, as well as built-in cabinets and shelves for maximum storage. A long countertop with a sink at the end adds a touch of elegance.
On the opposite side, consider adding a washroom or more storage options like cabinets and drawers to keep your laundry essentials organized.
Basement laundry room wall ideas
Marble walls
While marble walls may be a common sight in bathrooms, they’re less likely to be found in laundry rooms. However, incorporating this luxurious material into your compact laundry space can elevate its aesthetic appeal significantly. The understated beauty of marble walls pairs seamlessly with patterned flooring options like herringbone concrete, creating a visually striking combination.
To further refine the space and emphasize its elegance, incorporate neutral-colored accent pieces, preferably white. A crisp white marble countertop is an excellent addition, providing easy access to small laundry essentials while adding a touch of sophistication. Supplementing the design with hanging shelves provides ample storage opportunities, ultimately transforming your laundry room into a serene and stylish retreat.
Wood panels
Transforming an old cellar room into a modern laundry space doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your farmhouse-style home. By thoughtfully designing the layout, you can create a stylish and functional area that seamlessly blends with the existing aesthetic. In this case, the washer and dryer are strategically positioned on either side of a sink, all contained within floor-to-ceiling cabinetry.
The white wood panels add a touch of warmth and coziness to the space, perfectly complementing the open shelving and sleek granite countertop. Recessed lighting provides ample illumination, while a focus light above the sink adds a subtle pop of brightness.
Basement laundry room bathroom ideas
Open floor bathroom-laundry room
A space-saving solution to consider when designing your laundry setup is incorporating an in-wall washing machine and dryer into a corner near the sink. This clever design feature allows these essential appliances to blend seamlessly into the room, mimicking circular drawers on one side. For a cohesive look, it’s crucial to select matching color units that complement the surrounding space.
Laundry room and tub
For those seeking inspiration for their home’s bathroom and laundry areas, this plan offers an attractive and functional layout. The enclosed shower space features a ceramic tile wall and glass door, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. The tub is situated alongside the shower enclosure, while the sink and toilet occupy the opposite end of the rectangular room. To complete the design, a mirror, cabinet, and towel rack are cleverly placed to provide ample storage and reflective surfaces.
Meanwhile, the washer and dryer are thoughtfully positioned adjacent to the shower area, making it easy to manage daily tasks.
Hidden basement laundry room ideas
Stored in the cabinet
To incorporate a washer-dryer combo into your home design, you’ll need a built-in cabinet with ample interior space specifically designed for these appliances. Optimize this cabinet by incorporating multiple shelves and drawers to efficiently store all laundry essentials. On the opposite side of the cabinet, consider adding a sink to create a convenient laundry station. For a stylish touch, pair it with a chic hamper that complements your home’s aesthetic.
This thoughtful design will result in a functional and visually appealing space.
Under the stairs
When it comes to concealing the washer and dryer, you don’t have to sacrifice functionality for aesthetics. Consider creating a hidden laundry room under your stairs instead of storing them in a cabinet where they’ll only get occasional use. This clever solution allows you to seamlessly integrate these essential appliances into your home’s design.
By positioning the washer and dryer within the stairwell space, they can blend in with the surrounding architecture, appearing as just another tasteful accent piece. To ensure a harmonious integration, make sure to carefully measure the area to guarantee the appliances fit comfortably without obstructing the flow of traffic.
Basement Laundry Room Lighting Ideas
Pendant lights
When it comes to creating a striking laundry room in an unfinished or industrial-style basement, pendant lighting can be a game-changer. Rather than hanging low over the washer and dryer, these lights can instead pop out from the ceiling, adding visual interest and depth to the space. This unique design feature is especially effective in damp basement environments, where it can help create a sense of brightness and airiness that’s often lacking.
Recessed can and accent lights
When it comes to basement lighting, recessed lights remain a popular choice for their ability to provide ample illumination in these often-dimly lit spaces. However, to take your laundry room’s aesthetic to the next level, consider incorporating accent lights that draw attention to specific areas, such as countertops or shelves and cabinets. This thoughtful touch can make all the difference in transforming a functional space into a warm and inviting one.
Storage ideas for basement laundry room
Surrounded with shelves
For a multi-functional laundry room that also stores cleaning and sanitation essentials, consider investing in all-inclusive shelving and cabinetry solutions. This approach allows you to create a seamless space where detergent, laundry items, toilet paper, and household chemicals can be neatly organized and easily accessed.
By incorporating hanging shelves, floor cabinets, and hanger partitions, you can transform your laundry room into a versatile storage haven that keeps all your necessities in one convenient location.
Vertical storage
The convenience of washing machines and dryers lies not only in their compact size, but also in the versatility of storage options available for laundry supplies. While a shelf can easily accommodate these appliances, a customized vertical storage solution can be designed to optimize space for essentials like detergent, fabric conditioner, and hampers. This approach can involve installing floor-to-ceiling cabinets with drawers below, providing ample room for organization.
Consider exploring this concept further in the context of basement storage ideas and designs.
Basement laundry room paint ideas
Pastel and tiles
A calming ambiance in a laundry room can be achieved by incorporating bright, cheerful colors on the walls. This aesthetic appeal is further enhanced when paired with pastel shades that complement the washer and dryer units, which are often finished in white. To add an extra layer of visual interest, consider installing ceramic tiles as an accent wall.
Not only will this feature serve as a striking focal point, but it will also help define the space between hanging cabinets and countertop shelving for the laundry equipment.
Cherry red
One way to deviate from traditional neutral tones is to incorporate cherry red hues into your design. This bold color can be used for appliances like the dryer and washer, or as a statement piece on shelves and cabinets to add visual interest against white walls and ceilings. Additionally, you can introduce other vibrant colors through smaller decorative elements like hangers, vases placed near countertops, or even the countertop itself.
As long as your overall aesthetic remains grounded in neutrals, incorporating brighter hues is unlikely to be a mistake. For instance, consider introducing cherry red accents into your design.
FAQs
How to make an unfinished basement laundry room look nice
Transforming an unfinished basement into a cozy and functional laundry room requires some creativity and planning. Here’s how you can turn the space from drab to fab:First, tackle the flooring by installing vinyl floors, floor mats, or even stone tiles. This will not only improve the look but also provide traction to prevent slips and falls. You can also use this opportunity to create a mudroom area in your basement laundry room.
Lighting is another crucial aspect that can make or break the ambiance of the space. Recessed lights, string lights, ambient lighting, and track lighting are all cost-effective options that can brighten up the area and create a cozy atmosphere. Don’t forget to highlight scenic areas with additional lighting to create visual interest. Storage is essential in any laundry room, but it’s especially important in an unfinished basement where space may be limited.
Make sure you have ample storage for your fabrics, detergents, and washer/dryer supplies. A well-organized laundry room looks seamless, neat, and cozy – just the way you want it to feel. For added functionality and comfort, consider setting up curtains or dividers in your basement laundry room. Not only will this provide privacy, but it can also create separate areas for different activities. Add some ornate trims or beautiful patterns to give your space an extra pop of color.
Finally, don’t forget about the ceiling! You can conceal exposed beams and pipes with a fabric canopy or paint the raw ceiling white for a bright, natural light effect. If you have a wooden ceiling, simply seal it for a glossy finish. Ultimately, the key to creating a beautiful unfinished basement laundry room is keeping it organized. Make sure everything has its place, and consider using vertical organizing methods to maximize your space.
What is the best flooring for a basement laundry room?
When it comes to selecting the perfect flooring for a basement laundry room, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, you’ll want to prioritize two key factors: slip resistance and water absorption. Here are some top contenders that can help you achieve this ideal balance: Luxury vinyl planks, with their textured surfaces and self-cleaning properties, are an excellent choice for a basement laundry room.
Ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles also deserve consideration, thanks to their durability, ease of maintenance, and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. Concrete is another contender, offering a no-nonsense, practical solution that can be finished in various ways to suit your taste. Engineered wood, laminate wood, and solid wood/hardwood options provide a touch of warmth and character, but it’s essential to consider their potential susceptibility to moisture damage.
On the other hand, carpet or floor mats/foam should be strictly avoided, as they can create slippery surfaces that pose a serious safety risk in a basement laundry room.
What is the best dehumidifier for the laundry room in basement?
When selecting a dehumidifier for your basement laundry room, several factors come into play. The size of your basement and the dehumidifying coverage are crucial considerations. Additionally, it’s essential to note that dehumidifiers can also aid in drying clothes, making them an energy-efficient alternative to traditional drying methods. In fact, some homeowners rely solely on dehumidifiers for air-drying their laundry due to their low energy consumption.
Here’s a rundown of top-rated dehumidifiers suitable for your basement laundry room:
The Waykar Home Dehumidifier, Vacplus 30-Pint Dehumidifier, Honeywell Energy Star Home Dehumidifier, GoCheer Dehumidifier, and Inofia 30-Pint Dehumidifier are all excellent options to consider.
If you’re interested in learning more about these dehumidifiers or would like to expand your search for the perfect fit, we recommend consulting reputable review sites and gathering actual testimonials from fellow homeowners who have used these products.
For further information and to explore other dehumidifier options suitable for basements, click here.
How to insulate laundry room in basement
For a peaceful living space, it’s essential to address the noise and vibrations generated by your washer and dryer in the basement laundry room. One effective way to achieve this is by installing good insulation that blocks possible entryways for mold growth. To further reduce noise levels and prevent vibration transmission, consider the following DIY-friendly tips: First, install anti-vibration pads in the windows to minimize sound penetration.
Next, place soundproofing blankets underneath your washer and dryer to absorb vibrations and sounds. Don’t forget to check air sweeps in the window or door for any gaps that may be allowing noise to escape. You can also attach soundproofing blankets to walls like wallpaper to add an extra layer of insulation. For floor-level noise reduction, opt for soundproofing rugs or foam mats.
If the whirring sound or vibrations are still noticeable, it may be worth having your washer and dryer checked for any internal damages that could be contributing to the issue. Finally, consider adding shelves, racks, or cabinets to your walls, which can help absorb vibrations and create a more peaceful environment. By implementing these cost-effective tips, you can effectively insulate your basement laundry room and enjoy a quieter living space.
How to build a laundry room in basement
Transforming a basement into a cozy laundry room is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and execution. To achieve this, follow these steps:
Firstly, assess your basement’s condition by decluttering the space, shutting off the main valve if necessary, and checking for any leaks in the pipes.
Next, measure the area to create a blueprint of your remodeling plan, taking into account the placement of plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, and storage solutions.
With the groundwork laid, focus on installing new drain and vent pipes to ensure proper drainage and ventilation. Then, inspect the electric lines and replace any supply lines that need attention.
The sink system installation is the next crucial step, followed by connecting your washer and dryer to the pipes. Don’t forget to consider the interior design elements, such as flooring, ceiling, and walls, which will greatly impact the overall ambiance of the space.
Finally, incorporate storage solutions like cabinets, shelves, and racks to keep the area organized and clutter-free.
For visual guidance, reference tutorials from DIY Huntress and Komar Project.
Conclusion
Transforming a basement into a functional laundry room can be a game-changer for homeowners. Whether you’re working with a large or small basement, there are numerous ways to turn this often-underutilized space into a convenient and practical area for tackling your laundry needs. While the process does require some elbow grease and careful planning, the end result is well worth the effort – a cozy and efficient space where you can easily get in and out with your dirty clothes.
