First Steps and Storage Ideas:
- Declutter both your closet and your laundry space. That way, you can get rid of clothing you no longer wear and have a more accurate assessment of the space you'll be working with.
- Keep the floor space in front of your washer and dryer clear as much as possible. You don't want to have to navigate a messy minefield every time you do a laundry load!
- Make sure you have a laundry room cabinet or laundry closet that's well-stocked with the essentials: laundry detergent, clothespins, extra linens, lint rollers, cleaning products, stain removers, dryer sheets or dryer balls, fabric softener, etc. And it's easy to keep things tidy with a well-chosen set of pull-out storage baskets.
- If you don't have a cabinet or closet designated for laundry supplies, consider adding open-shelving (such as Elfa) or Preston cabinetry to make better use of any unused vertical space above your washing machine. Then add a few storage bins with handles and you'll be ready to go!
- If that doesn't work, try to find an unused corner in which to add a simple set of storage cubbies.
Sorting Superstars:
- If possible, ditch the single-compartment laundry basket and embrace a¿compartmentalized sorting hamper. Think¿whites in one section,¿darks in the second,¿and delicates or towels in another.
- Color-coding your hangers for each family member is a good way to simply sorting once the clothes are ready to hang up.
Delicate Defense:
- Give your delicates the VIP treatment with a¿dedicated laundry bin or mesh bag.¿Mesh bags let your precious undergarments and sweaters float safely through the wash cycle,¿emerging pristine and protected.
- Don't let delicates languish in the dryer. Invest in a clothes drying rack or garment rack¿specifically for delicates, like our Sweater Drying Rack. It keeps air circulating gently,¿preventing shrinkage and preserving their shape.
Space-Saving Laundry Storage Solutions:
- If you have a small space with not enough room for sorting baskets, opt for a smaller laundry hamper. You can either choose a laundry cart on wheels or a collapsible hamper that's easy to carry, depending on your needs. A small hamper can be easily tucked away in a closet or mudroom.
- Make the most of that precious space between your washer and dryer with a¿slim storage cart or drawer unit. While narrow, many of them are still big enough to store detergent, stain sticks, laundry boosters, scrub brushes, and more.
- Laundry supplies often come in bulky or mismatched packaging.¿Decant them into uniform clear canisters for a cohesive,¿organized look. Plus,¿it frees up valuable shelf space and lets you see what you need at a glance.
- Not quite enough room for a full-size ironing board? Opt for a small countertop-friendly version that can be pulled out, used, and put away without taking up too much storage space.
- For full-size ironing boards, consider a board holder that is either wall-mounted or hangs on the back of a door. It's a great way to keep such a bulky item out of the way.
Remember, a well-organized laundry room is a happy laundry room! With these simple tips and The Container Store's extensive selection of laundry essentials, you can turn laundry day from a dreaded chore into a satisfying routine. So grab your hamper, embrace the power of organization, and conquer laundry day like the pro you are!
Shop all of our laundry room organization ideas and clothing care products here!