5 Bathroom Laundry Room Design Ideas: Small-space solutions and real-world tips for combining laundry and bathrooms

I once had a client who wanted the washer tucked into the shower niche “for efficiency” — I stopped them just in time and learned a valuable lesson about planning and waterproofing. That little scare pushed me to create smarter, safer combos, and I now keep a handy real project example real project example when I need quick inspiration. Small bathrooms force bold choices, and that’s where creativity shines.

1. Stackables behind a louvered door

I love using a stacked washer-dryer hidden behind a louvered door so the unit breathes and the space stays calm. It’s inexpensive to implement and preserves floor space, though you’ll need to accept a narrower appliance width and plan for service access.

save pin

2. Under-counter washer with folding station

Putting a front-load washer under a counter next to the sink gives you a real folding and prep surface. It feels almost custom and keeps laundry contained, but plumbing heights and dryer venting (or choosing a ventless dryer) must be sorted early.

save pin

3. Wet-zone strategy: shower + laundry separated by glass

I once designed a tiny wet room where a slim washer sat just outside the shower behind a glass partition; it looked sleek and handled moisture well. The advantage is a seamless wet zone aesthetic, while the challenge is ensuring good drainage and corrosion-resistant finishes — test your layout with a quick mockup and don’t skimp on waterproofing or seals, and if you want to visualize changes try a simple test your layout tool test your layout.

save pin

4. Pull-out drying and recessed racks

My favorite budget trick is a recessed drying rack above the tub or inside a tall cabinet — it disappears when not needed and dries clothes fast if you maximize airflow. It’s low cost and high convenience, although it needs planning for clearance and ventilation and works best with lighter loads rather than bulky blankets.

save pin

5. Concealed utility sink and multi-use counter

Combining a shallow utility sink with a folding counter creates a true laundry hub in one footprint; I specified this in an apartment where the tenant loved hand-washing delicates. It adds real functionality, but the sink plumbing and slope must be carefully detailed so the counter stays dry and usable.

save pin

FAQ

Q: Can I put a washer and dryer in my bathroom? Yes — many compact setups work well in bathrooms, especially front-load washers or stacked units. You must follow local codes for electrical safety and ensure proper ventilation and waterproofing.

Q: Do I need a vented dryer in a bathroom? A vented dryer is efficient but requires a duct to the exterior, which isn’t always possible in small apartments. Consider a high-quality ventless condenser or heat-pump dryer if exterior venting isn’t feasible.

Q: How do I prevent moisture problems? Good seals, water-resistant materials, and proper ventilation are key; install an exhaust fan sized for the combined bathroom/laundry area and use mildew-resistant finishes. Regularly check seals and consider a slightly raised platform for appliances in high-moisture zones.

Q: What electrical considerations are there? Dedicated circuits and properly rated outlets for washers and especially dryers are required; always hire a licensed electrician to meet code. Ground-fault protection is often required in wet locations.

Q: Are combined wet-room laundry designs a good idea? They can be very stylish and space-efficient if waterproofing and corrosion-resistant materials are prioritized. The risk is increased maintenance, so choose materials and finishes that handle humidity.

Q: How do I choose energy-efficient machines? Look for ENERGY STAR-rated washers and dryers for lower water and energy use; they save money over time and often perform better on gentle cycles. For reference, ENERGY STAR lists certified models and efficiency data at https://www.energystar.gov.

Q: How much will adding laundry to a bathroom cost? Costs vary widely: a simple stacked hookup with minor plumbing might be a few hundred dollars in labor and parts, while full relocations or vent installations can run into the thousands. I always budget a contingency for unexpected plumbing or electrical changes.

Q: Any quick tips for soundproofing? Place appliances on vibration pads, use a solid-faced cabinet door, and add insulation in shared walls to cut noise. Even small dampening measures make late-night laundry much less disruptive.

save pin