5 Smart Mud Room & Laundry Room Layout Ideas: My Designer Secrets to Combine Mudroom & Laundry Spaces Without Losing Style

A few years ago, a client asked me to design a mudroom big enough for their golden retriever *and* a laundry area — but the budget was tight, and the space was barely 7 square meters. I almost said no. But small spaces have a way of pushing creativity to its limit, and I learned that clever layouts can do wonders. Today, I’m sharing five design ideas you can steal, even if your own mudroom-and-laundry combo feels impossible.

Tip 1: Stack and Tuck Appliances

When space is a premium, stacking your washer and dryer saves precious floor real estate. I’ve used this trick in narrow spaces where every centimeter counts — leaving room for a slim bench and hooks. Planning these vertical zones is easier with room planner tools, so you can visualize the traffic flow before committing.

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Tip 2: Create a Dual-Purpose Counter

Installing a countertop over your laundry machines adds instant folding space, and doubles as a drop zone for muddy boots or groceries. I once did this with oak veneer, which looked great but needed extra sealing against moisture — so choose your materials wisely.

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Tip 3: Zone with Flooring

In one project, I used patterned tile under the laundry side and waterproof vinyl on the mudroom side. This subtle visual division made the space feel “organized” without any walls. It’s a small design move, but if you combine it with storage planning in a free floor plan creator, you’ll avoid clutter overload.

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Tip 4: Go Vertical with Storage

Walls are free real estate. I’ve hung cabinets over the washer for detergents, and put open shelves high enough to fit baskets — perfect for off-season gear. The challenge? Make sure you don’t put everyday items too high, or you’ll regret it every laundry day.

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Tip 5: Integrate Seating

Even a small bench makes a combo mudroom-laundry more functional — a place to sit while pulling on boots, or to drop a laundry basket. In one renovation, I built a bench with hidden storage underneath, then planned the workflow using a kitchen layout planner because the principles of kitchen zoning work beautifully here too.

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FAQ

1. How do I combine a mudroom and laundry room in a small space?

Focus on vertical storage, stackable appliances, and multi-purpose surfaces to maximize functionality.

2. Can I put a laundry in my mudroom without moisture problems?

Yes, if you install proper ventilation and use moisture-resistant materials like sealed wood or tile.

3. What’s the best flooring for a mudroom-laundry combo?

Waterproof, easy-to-clean flooring such as ceramic tile or luxury vinyl is recommended per NAHB guidelines.

4. How much space do I need?

10–12 square meters is ideal, but creative layouts can work with as little as 6–7 square meters.

5. Can I add seating in a small mudroom-laundry?

Yes, consider a narrow bench with hidden storage to save space while adding function.

6. Is open shelving practical in combined spaces?

It’s practical for less-frequently used items, but keep daily essentials enclosed to prevent dust.

7. How do I keep the space organized?

Use labeled baskets, wall hooks, and regular decluttering — a monthly reset keeps chaos at bay.

8. Are there planning tools for mudroom-laundry layouts?

Yes, online planners like Coohom's visual tools can help map traffic flow and storage before you start.