Laundry Room Cabinet Ideas — 5 Smart Picks: Practical cabinet ideas for laundry room that save space, hide clutter, and speed up chores

I once had a client ask for a cabinet that could fold clothes, steam them, and make coffee — I laughed, then designed a very practical compromise. Small laundry spaces force creativity, and I still turn to simple tricks I learned on that project for every job now. If you're tightening up a utility area, consider small-space solutions that actually work in real homes: small-space solutions are where great cabinet ideas start.

1. Tall slim pull-out cabinets

Tall, narrow pull-outs are my go-to when walls are skinny but you need storage. They tuck brooms, ironing boards, and spray bottles neatly, and the downside is you lose deep shelf space — but that tradeoff is worth it for visibility and easy access.

save pin

2. Over-the-washer shallow cabinets

Installing shallow cabinets above the washer and dryer creates visual calm and hides detergents. I often set the bottom shelf as an open ledge for frequently used items; it’s budget-friendly, though doors require precise hinge alignment to avoid slapping when machines vibrate.

save pin

3. Fold-down counter with hidden base cabinets

A fold-down folding counter saves precious square footage and gives you a work surface when you need it. Pair it with shallow base cabinets below for hampers and supplies — the challenge is reinforcing the fold hinge, but a simple support bracket solves that without costing much. For layouts where I want to preview the final look, I sometimes generate realistic 3D renders to test proportions: realistic 3D renders.

save pin

4. Open upper shelving + closed lower cabinets

This hybrid feels airy while keeping mess out of sight. I recommend open shelves for linens and decorative baskets, and closed lower cabinets for chemicals and bulk supplies. The only downside is dust on open shelves, so I suggest baskets with lids or glass-front doors if you want the best of both worlds.

save pin

5. Appliance garage and vertical sorting cabinets

An appliance garage-style cabinet hides the iron, steamer, and folding station on a roll-up door, and tall vertical cabinets with pull-out baskets make sorting laundry painless. These features take a bit more budget and planning, but they turn a chaotic laundry closet into an efficient work zone — consider modeling custom cabinet configurations early in the design so plumbing and outlets stay accessible: custom cabinet configurations.

save pin

FAQ

Q: What cabinet material holds up best in a laundry room?

A: Moisture-resistant MDF with a good lacquer finish or marine-grade plywood are reliable choices. Solid wood can warp over time unless properly sealed, so I usually avoid it near machines.

Q: How high should cabinets be above the washer and dryer?

A: Aim for at least 18 inches above the appliances to allow for loading and ventilation. If you use front-loading machines with tall detergent dispensers, increase that gap to avoid bangs when opening lids.

Q: Is it better to have open shelving or closed cabinets?

A: Open shelving looks lighter and speeds up grabbing items, but closed cabinets hide clutter and protect supplies from dust. I often combine both — open upper shelves for linens and closed lower storage for chemicals.

Q: Can I install cabinets myself on a weekend?

A: Basic wall cabinets are DIY-friendly if you have studs and the right anchors; however, tall or appliance-integrated cabinets may need a pro for secure mounting and utility coordination. If plumbing or electrical adjustments are needed, hire a licensed contractor.

Q: How do I budget for laundry room cabinetry?

A: Expect a wide range: stock cabinets are cost-effective, semi-custom give more fit and finish, and full custom is pricier but perfect for odd spaces. I tell clients to prioritize durable cabinet boxes and spend on visible finishes that matter most.

Q: What’s the best way to hide laundry supplies?

A: Use pull-out bins, opaque cabinet doors, or labeled baskets inside shallow cabinets. Rolling hampers inside base cabinets keep dirty clothes out of sight and streamline sorting.

Q: Are front-loading washers better for cabinet layout?

A: Front-loaders often free up top space for counters and cabinets and can be stacked to save floor area. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, front-loading washers typically use less water and energy than top-loading models (source: https://www.energy.gov).

Q: How can I make a small laundry room feel larger?

A: Keep cabinetry light in color, use glossy or semi-gloss finishes to reflect light, and favor open shelving at eye level. Mirrors or a glass cabinet door can also create the illusion of depth without sacrificing storage.

save pin