5x10 Laundry Room Layout Ideas: Functional & Stylish Solutions

According to a 2025 NKBA report, 45% of U.S. laundry remodels fall within this size range, making it the most common choice for suburban homes

A 5 x 10 laundry room (50 sq ft) offers enough space for side-by-side appliances, folding areas, and even extra storage if planned well. It’s a common size in suburban homes and remodels because it balances function with compact efficiency.

Key Design Priorities for a 5 x 10 Laundry Room

(Average remodel cost: $4,000–$10,000; most common layouts: 65% side-by-side, 25% stacked units, 10% galley style)

1. Appliance Placement First – Decide between side-by-side or stacked washer and dryer to determine flow.
2. Maximize Vertical Storage – Use cabinets above appliances or full-height pantry-style storage.
3. Include a Folding Surface – A 30"–36" counter over appliances or along one wall is ideal.
4. Add Utility Sink if Possible – Compact 18" sinks work great for pre-wash tasks.
5. Ventilation & Lighting – Ensure a proper vent system and bright task lighting to keep the space functional.

Layout Idea 1: Side-by-Side with Folding Counter

(Recommended dimensions: 27" wide appliances, 30" deep counter; materials: quartz or laminate for durability)

Best For: Families with frequent laundry loads

1. Washer and dryer side by side on one long wall
2. Countertop above appliances for folding
3. Upper cabinets for detergent and cleaning supplies

Experience Insight: In a recent family remodel, this simple layout doubled as a mudroom with hooks above the counter.

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Layout Idea 2: Stacked Units with Storage Wall

Best For: Small households or condos

1. Stackable washer/dryer in one corner
2. Full-height storage or pull-out hampers on the opposite wall
3. Frees up central floor space

Experience Insight: A couple in a city apartment loved how this freed up space for a narrow bench and shoe storage.

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Layout Idea 3: Galley Style Laundry Room

Best For: Long, narrow rooms

1. Appliances on one wall, folding counter and sink on the other
2. Open shelving for easy access
3. Ideal for multi-tasking with a second prep or storage area

Experience Insight: I used this for a remodel where the laundry room doubled as a pantry; shelves above the counter stored bulk groceries.

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Layout Idea 4: Hidden Laundry Closet Style

Best For: Open-plan homes

1. Bi-fold or sliding doors conceal the 5 x 10 space
2. Stacked units with slim rolling carts
3. Perfect for small homes needing visual cleanliness

Experience Insight: A homeowner in a townhouse appreciated how this kept laundry out of sight while staying fully functional.

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(2025 Houzz data: 58% of laundry remodels in this size add built-in folding counters; typical remodel timeline: 1–2 weeks, average cost: $5,000–$8,000)

Designer Laura Chen transformed a dated 5 x 10 laundry into a sleek, efficient hub:

“We placed stacked units in the corner, added quartz counters, and recessed LED lights. The client said it felt like a high-end utility room.”

FAQs

Q: How can I save money on a 5 x 10 laundry room remodel?

A: Keep plumbing and venting in the same location, choose laminate counters, and use open shelving instead of custom cabinets.

Q: What are common mistakes to avoid?

A: Oversized appliances that block doorways, poor ventilation, and forgetting to leave enough counter space for folding.

Q: Can I fit a utility sink in a 5 x 10 room?

A: Yes, compact sinks (around 18") fit well, especially with stacked units.