5 Outside Laundry Room Ideas: Creative ways to design your outdoor laundry space with style and function

You know what’s funny? Years ago, during one kitchen renovation, my client casually said, “Oh, and just put the laundry out in the garden.” I laughed, thinking she was joking — but she wasn’t. Turns out, outside laundry rooms aren’t just a quirky request; they can be incredibly practical. In small homes, an outdoor laundry spot can unlock precious indoor space, and I’ve seen it spark more creative solutions than you’d imagine. Let’s dive into five outside laundry room ideas that have worked wonders for my clients.

1. Covered Patio Laundry Nook

I once transformed a forgotten corner of a covered patio into a laundry area. Waterproof cabinets and a ventilation plan made it resilient against rain and humidity. Sure, you’ll hear birds while folding clothes, but remember you may also hear your neighbor’s lawnmower. A planning tool like room planner can help you visualize the space before you commit.

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2. Backyard Shed Conversion

Old garden sheds are gold mines for laundry setups — sturdy walls, some shelter from wind, and privacy. Adding insulation and a skylight made my last shed project feel downright cozy. It’s not as convenient on a rainy night, but the charm is irresistible.

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3. Laundry Under a Pergola

For clients who want style with their washing machine, a pergola offers shade and a frame for climbing plants. I designed one where jasmine framed the laundry area like a living wall. With a smart layout from a free floor plan creator, we fit both machines, storage, and a drying rack seamlessly.

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4. Wall-Mounted Outdoor Cabinets

When floor space is tight, taking storage vertical changes the game. I’ve mounted weatherproof cabinets on an exterior wall, just above front-loading machines. Easy reach, minimal footprint, but beware — you’ll need sturdy fixings and regular checks for rust.

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5. Convertible Sunroom Laundry

A client once asked if her sunroom could double as a laundry and lounge. Challenge accepted. We used folding screens to hide the machines when guests came over, and retractable drying racks from the ceiling. Using a flexible design from a kitchen layout planner really helped balance utility and aesthetics.

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FAQ

1. Are outside laundry rooms safe for appliances? Yes, if you use proper weatherproofing, ventilation, and place them under cover to avoid direct rain.

2. Do I need special plumbing? Outdoor setups often require extended water lines and proper drainage to prevent flooding.

3. Can outside laundry areas increase home value? In some markets, yes, if they add functional space without compromising indoor convenience.

4. How do I protect machines from rust? Use corrosion-resistant materials and regular maintenance; check for moisture pooling.

5. What about electric safety outdoors? Always use outdoor-rated outlets and ensure appliances are connected to a GFCI system (per National Electrical Code).

6. Can I dry clothes naturally in an outdoor laundry? Absolutely — with clotheslines or drying racks, you can save energy and enjoy fresh-scented laundry.

7. How can I design for small space outdoors? Maximize vertical storage, choose compact appliances, and map the area using digital tools.

8. Do local regulations affect outdoor laundry installation? Yes. Check building codes or HOA rules before starting; some regions have restrictions on visible laundry setups.