Laundry Room Shelves: 5 Smart Ideas: Small laundry, big storage — five shelf solutions I use in real projects

I once installed a set of open shelves above a washer only to have a client confess they were secretly storing their baking pans there — next thing I knew I was designing a shelf that could handle flour, detergent and the occasional mystery pan. Small laundry rooms force you to be creative, and that’s where the fun starts; if you want to visualize how a shelf layout fits into your space I often tell clients to visualize my laundry layout before buying brackets.

1. Floating shelves over the washer: minimal and flexible

I love floating shelves because they read light and don’t overwhelm a narrow laundry area. They’re great for detergent, plants, and a line of wicker baskets — but watch for vibration; mount into studs and use anti-vibration pads under the machines to keep things steady.

save pin

2. Full-height open shelving with pull-out hampers

Tall shelving units give you vertical storage for towels, cleaning supplies and three different baskets for sorting. It’s a storage powerhouse, though it can look bulky in very small rooms; I solve that by painting the unit the same color as the wall or using slim-profile open shelves that feel airy.

save pin

3. Over-door shelves and ceiling-high ledges

When floor space is non-existent, I turn to over-door shelves and a shallow ledge up high for seasonal items. I sketch these quickly on site — a quick floor sketch helps clients see head clearance and door swing before we commit to drilling — but remember to leave easy access for vents and dryer maintenance.

save pin

4. Corner shelves and pegboard combos

Don’t ignore corners: a set of angled wire shelves or a wooden corner unit paired with a painted pegboard can hold irons, spray bottles and a small folding board. It’s an affordable solution with great airflow, though it leans casual; a fresh coat of paint or a coordinated basket set makes it look purposeful.

save pin

5. Recessed niches or built-in shallow cabinets for a polished look

When a budget allows, I recommend recessed shelving or a slim built-in cabinet tiled to match a backsplash — it hides clutter and looks custom. For clients who want to preview finishes I show a realistic 3D view so they can approve tile, shelf depth and lighting before construction.

save pin

FAQ

How high should I install shelves above a washer? A safe rule is to leave at least 18–24 inches between the top of the washer and the bottom of the lowest shelf for loading and unloading. Check the appliance manual for specific clearance if you have a top-loader.

What shelving material holds up best in humid laundry rooms? Moisture-resistant plywood, PVC-faced shelving or wire shelving are good choices; solid wood needs proper sealing. Wire shelves ventilate better and reduce mildew risk, but plywood or MDF should be painted with a moisture-resistant finish.

Can I put open shelves above the dryer? Yes, open shelves are practical above a dryer for frequently used items, but avoid stacking heavy glass jars directly above appliances that vibrate. Secure shelving to studs and consider a lip or basket to prevent items sliding off during spin cycles.

Are baskets or bins better for laundry shelving? Baskets hide clutter and are easy to pull down, while clear bins make contents visible. I often mix both — woven baskets for linens and labeled clear bins for small supplies — balancing style and function.

How deep should laundry room shelves be? A shallow depth of 10–12 inches works well for detergent, sprays and small baskets; deeper shelves (14–16 inches) suit folded towels. Measure your most-common items first so shelves don’t become dead space.

How do I protect shelves from moisture and detergent spills? Use waterproof liners, removable trays, or tile the shelf back if it’s built-in; for wood, apply a marine or exterior grade varnish. Regularly check for drips and keep heavy liquid containers in trays to catch leaks.

Can I install shelves myself or should I hire a pro? Simple floating shelves or wire units are DIY-friendly if you can locate studs and use basic tools. For recessed niches, built-ins or work near plumbing and vents, hiring a contractor ensures proper sealing and code compliance.

Do shelves affect dryer ventilation or safety? Keep shelves a safe distance from dryer vents and avoid blocking airflow; lint buildup around shelving is a fire hazard. For guidance on dryer safety, refer to the EPA and manufacturer's recommendations (see EPA Indoor Air Quality resources at https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq).

save pin