How Big Does a Laundry Room Need to Be Understanding Laundry Room Receipts: Understanding Ideal Laundry Room Dimensions for Your SpaceEverything You Need to Know About Laundry

When considering how big a laundry room needs to be, homeowners and designers need to weigh several factors including available space, personal habits, and the scope of laundry-related tasks. At its core, the recommended minimum size for a single-machine laundry room starts around 35 square feet (3.25 square meters), which is enough space for a washer, dryer, and a little maneuvering room. For side-by-side machines, factoring in cabinets, countertops for folding, and perhaps a sink, the space should expand to around 50-70 square feet (4.6–6.5 square meters). 

The size required may also depend on whether the space is strictly functional, such as a closet-style laundry room tucked into a hallway, or a dedicated laundry area that doubles as a mudroom or storage solution. If you prioritize elements like drying racks, an ironing station, or extra cabinets for detergent and cleaning supplies, you’ll want to plan for at least 100 square feet (9.3 square meters) or more.

Understanding laundry room “receipts” essentially means recognizing the elements—a combination of appliances, storage, workflow pathways, and utility access—that contribute to an efficient space. Here, a designer’s approach shines: I always treat the laundry room as a task-based zone within the home. Thoughtful layout planning improves not only convenience but also atmosphere—ample natural or artificial lighting, designated sorting and folding zones, and ergonomic access to essentials all make a world of difference. Increasingly, I recommend clients use a room planner to visually organize their ideal laundry space before committing to cabinetry or built-ins, ensuring both aesthetics and function come together naturally for their everyday routines.

Tips 1:

Do not underestimate the power of vertical storage. Wall-mounted cabinets and shelving above appliances keep necessities close while maintaining a clean, uncluttered floor space. If space is tight, stacking your washer and dryer frees up valuable square footage that could be used for sorting bins or a pull-out ironing board.

FAQ

Q: How much space do I need for a side-by-side washer and dryer setup?

A: Typically, reserve at least 5–6 feet in width and 3–4 feet in depth for the machines, plus extra space for access and any cabinetry.

Q: What’s the minimum size for a functional laundry room?

A: A compact laundry closet can function at around 35 square feet, but more comfortable and efficient spaces usually start at 50 square feet and above.

Q: Should a laundry room have a sink?

A: While not required, a sink is recommended for rinsing delicate items and handling stains. If including a sink, account for an additional 24–30 inches of counter space.

Q: How do I make a small laundry room feel bigger?

A: Use open shelving, light color palettes, good lighting, and integrated storage solutions to enhance a sense of space.

Q: Why use a room planner for a laundry space?

A: It allows you to visualize your layout, test different storage configurations, and ensure that workflow and appliance access are optimized before making any permanent changes.