Laundry Room Open Shelving Ideas — 5 Designer Tips: Practical, stylish open shelving ideas for small laundry rooms from a pro designer

I once laid open shelves too low above a new washer and the client’s mischievous cat knocked a full bottle of detergent into the drum—lesson learned: open shelving needs strategy, not just pretty jars. That tiny fiasco pushed me to sketch smarter open shelving layouts before any demo starts, and I’ve been saving space (and laundry) ever since.

Slim vertical shelving for narrow laundry closets

When a laundry nook is only 24–30 inches wide, tall skinny shelves that use vertical space are a lifesaver. I like full-height cubbies for baskets and a narrow top shelf for infrequently used items—this keeps everyday supplies within reach but off the machine.

These feel affordable and clean, though you’ll sacrifice some deep-storage capacity. Tip: use labeled woven baskets so folded linens don’t look like chaos.

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Floating shelves above front-load washers

Floating shelves give an airy look and are easy to style—plants, jars for pods, and a tray for small tools make the space feel intentional. I often recommend solid-surface or sealed plywood to resist humidity and wipe clean easily.

They look modern but can sag if overloaded; add a thin metal bracket behind the front for reinforcement, especially over stacked or pedestal washers.

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Mix open shelving with closed cabinets

My favorite compromise is to hide chemicals and bulk items behind doors, then use a couple of open shelves for frequently used items and pretty storage. This combo reduces visual clutter while keeping the room functional—think: two doors below, two shelves above for baskets and glass jars.

There’s a bit more cost with hybrid systems, but the payoff is huge on usability. If you want to make decisions on placement, I often mock these combos in a simple planner so clients can see sightlines before committing—great for visualizing the shelving (visualizing the shelving).

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Baskets, labels, and sliding trays for practical access

Open shelves are perfect for baskets and slide-out trays. I use labeled baskets for socks, delicates, and cleaning rags; sliding trays beneath a shelf make heavy detergent jugs easy to grab without dislodging everything else.

This system is low-tech and highly budget-friendly, but remember labels and consistent sizes are what make it feel refined instead of chaotic.

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Decor-first shelving: style that makes laundry less of a chore

Yes, you can style a laundry shelf. A curated small plant, a simple artwork, and matching bottles for detergents make the room feel like a mini-boutique instead of a utility closet. Borrowing color cues from nearby rooms—think kitchen-style storage ideas—ties the laundry into the rest of the home (kitchen-style storage ideas).

Styling adds charm but requires maintenance: stay realistic about how much you’ll keep tidy. I always suggest one shelf as “functional” and one as “pretty” to balance practicality and aesthetics.

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FAQ

Q: Are open shelves suitable for small laundry rooms?

A: Absolutely—open shelves can maximize visual space and storage in small laundries. Keep shelves shallow (10–12 inches) and use baskets to hide clutter for the best results.

Q: What materials resist humidity best?

A: Sealed plywood, metal, or moisture-rated MDF are reliable choices for laundry areas. Finish with water-resistant paint or a clear sealer to extend lifespan.

Q: How high should I install shelves above the washer?

A: Aim for 12–18 inches above the machine’s tallest control or lid; for front-loaders, 18–24 inches gives room to access detergent and prevents bumping into knobs.

Q: How do I keep open shelves from looking cluttered?

A: Limit visible items to essentials, use matching containers, and group things into baskets or trays. A consistent label style and color palette make a big visual difference.

Q: Is it hygienic to store laundry items on open shelves?

A: Yes, provided you avoid storing damp items on shelves and clean spills promptly. For guidance on preventing mold and keeping laundry areas sanitary, see CDC recommendations on laundry hygiene (https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/bathing/laundry.html).

Q: Can I install open shelves above a stacked washer-dryer?

A: You can, but secure anchoring is critical and keep the first shelf 18–24 inches above the top unit so controls and vents remain accessible. Consider a shallow, reinforced shelf to prevent overload.

Q: What’s a budget-friendly way to add open shelving?

A: Floating plywood shelves on concealed brackets or prefabricated shelf brackets with pine boards are very economical. Paint or stain to match trim for a higher-end look without the cost.

Q: Any tips for child- and pet-proofing open laundry shelves?

A: Store chemicals on higher, closed shelves or in lockable bins, and avoid placing glass or fragile decor items where curious hands or paws can reach.

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