5 Brilliant Mudroom + Stacked Laundry Layouts: Creative, space-saving ideas for combining mudrooms with stacked laundry setups

One of my funniest design bloopers happened years ago when I tried to squeeze a mudroom and laundry into what was basically a hallway. The client could only open the washer door halfway before hitting the coat rack—it was ridiculous! Since then, I’ve realized that small spaces can push us to think smarter, not just bigger, and the mudroom-laundry combo is one of my favorite playgrounds for creativity. Let me walk you through 5 layout ideas I’ve fine-tuned over the years that actually work in real life.

1. The Corridor Layout

I once converted a narrow utility hall into a stacked washer-dryer hub on one side and open shelves plus hooks on the opposite wall. The trick is to keep it visually light—use white cabinetry and uniform baskets. In tight spaces, a detailed room planner makes all the difference, letting you map traffic flow before you even buy a shelf.

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2. Closet-Style Integration

Hide both the laundry stack and mudroom essentials inside tall closet doors. This keeps dust off jackets and muffles machine noise. The challenge is ventilation—always add a louvered panel or discreet vent fan to keep things fresh. Some clients love the ‘surprise reveal’ when they open those doors, others just enjoy the clean facade.

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3. Bench + Vertical Power

Place a storage bench beneath coat hooks with the stacked machines to one side; this creates a rhythm between seating and work zone. I’ve found adding cubbies under the bench is invaluable for boots and pet gear. When planning this, a free floor plan creator can help visualize proportion so the bench doesn’t feel dwarfed by the appliances.

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4. Corner Unit with Overhead Storage

If you’ve got a corner to spare, nestle the stacked laundry here and wrap overhead cabinets around it. The overhead space can hold detergents, seasonal gear, or even emergency supplies. Keep in mind, pulling appliances out for service can be tricky—so leave clearance and choose flexible plumbing connections.

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5. Sliding Door Flex Zone

My favorite for small urban apartments: tuck the laundry stack and mudroom storage behind wide sliding doors. You can open it up fully when working, then close it to hide any clutter instantly. Planning precise clearance for those doors is key, and a kitchen layout planner surprisingly works well to test such configurations.

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FAQ

Q1: What is the advantage of combining a mudroom with a stacked laundry setup?

A: It saves space, streamlines household chores, and centralizes mess control in one zone.

Q2: How much space do I need for a stacked laundry in a mudroom?

A: Most stacked sets need about 30" in width and 80–84" in height, plus clearance for ventilation.

Q3: Can I install a stacked washer and dryer without sacrificing mudroom storage?

A: Yes—use vertical storage solutions and multi-functional furniture like benches with cubbies.

Q4: Do I need special plumbing or electrical for a combined layout?

A: Generally yes; both appliances require water, drain, and 240V or 120V power, depending on the dryer type.

Q5: How can ventilation be addressed in enclosed designs?

A: Add louvered doors, vent fans, or passive grills to prevent moisture build-up.

Q6: Will a combo space affect home resale value?

A: Often positively—it’s seen as a smart use of space by many buyers, per NAHB surveys.

Q7: Are sliding doors practical around laundry equipment?

A: Yes, as long as there’s full clearance and easy access to service the machines.

Q8: Any budget tips for building such a space?

A: Repurpose existing cabinetry and opt for stack kits rather than buying separate pedestals.