5 Small Laundry Room Ideas with Sink: Practical, space-saving laundry sink ideas I’ve used in tiny homes

I once squeezed a sink into a closet-sized laundry nook because a client insisted on rinsing boots indoors — I still laugh thinking about the tiny miracle we pulled off with a compact layout and a lot of elbow grease.

Small spaces force you to be creative: every inch counts, and a sink changes the game. I’ll share five ideas I use in real projects to make small laundry rooms with sinks both beautiful and functional.

1. Corner sink with stacked washer

I often tuck a small triangular or rounded sink into a corner above a stacked washer-dryer. It frees wall space for hooks and keeps plumbing runs short, which saves money.

Pros: very space-efficient and tidy. Challenges: limited workspace around the sink — add a folding shelf to expand prep area when needed.

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2. Wall-mounted sink plus fold-down counter

Wall-mounted sinks are my go-to when floor space is precious. Pair it with a hinged counter that folds down for sorting or folding; when closed, it looks sleek and minimal.

Pros: keeps the floor clear for cleaning and can be very budget-friendly. Cons: you’ll need solid wall backing and good mounting to support weight — I always reinforce anchors during installation.

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3. Sink integrated into under-counter storage

For a more finished look, I integrate a shallow sink into a slim cabinet that sits beside a front-load washer. The cabinet hides plumbing and gives you drawers for detergents and rags.

If you want to test layouts before buying, I sketch a scaled floor sketch to check clearances — it saves so much back-and-forth in the selection phase. Budget tip: choose laminate tops to keep costs down while still getting a clean look.

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4. Waterproof wet zone with splash-proof materials

Sometimes the sink is more of a utility basin for messy jobs. In those cases I recommend waterproof panels, a simple tile backsplash, and a short backsplash lip on the countertop to protect adjacent appliances.

Pros: durable and low-maintenance. Minor downside: you’ll need to consider proper ventilation and floor drainage — a small raised threshold or waterproof flooring helps contain spills.

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5. Multi-use sink with folding station and visualization

Make the sink the hub: add a pull-out drying rack above it, a cutting board that fits over the basin, or a removable wringer. These dual-purpose touches make a tiny room feel like a full-service laundry.

Before finalizing finishes I often create a realistic 3D mockup to confirm sightlines and materials — seeing it in 3D prevents costly surprises. Expect added cost for custom pieces, but the payoff is usually worth it for function.

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FAQ

What sink size works best in a small laundry room?

I usually recommend a sink no wider than 18–20 inches for tight spaces; depth can be shallow (5–7 inches) if you need more clearance. Think about what you’ll actually use it for — soaking boots needs more depth than rinsing delicates.

Can I put a sink next to a stacked washer?

Yes, but keep plumbing runs compact and leave clearance for doors and access panels. A corner or wall-mounted sink often fits best beside stacked units.

Do small laundry sinks need a floor drain?

Not always, but a floor drain adds protection in very wet zones or basements. If you can’t add one, use waterproof flooring and a slightly raised washer base to reduce overflow risk.

How do I vent a laundry room with a sink?

Good ventilation is key: an exhaust fan and keeping the dryer vent properly installed will prevent moisture buildup. If your sink creates extra humidity, bump up the fan capacity by one step.

What faucet is best for a laundry sink?

Choose a single-handle faucet with a pull-out spray for versatility; stainless finishes hide wear well. Budget models serve fine, but pay attention to cartridge quality for long-term reliability.

Are compact washers energy-efficient?

Many modern compact and front-load washers are quite efficient. For specifics, check the U.S. Department of Energy guidance on appliance efficiency at energy.gov for model comparisons and tips.

Any tips for plumbing in a tiny laundry room?

Keep water supply and drain lines short, use flexible connections for easier installation, and plan an access panel for future maintenance. I also advise installing an undersink shutoff to isolate leaks quickly.

How do I plan the layout to include a sink?

Start by measuring door swings, appliance dimensions, and required clearances. Sketching or using a scaled plan helps — and a quick 3D view can show awkward spots before you buy anything.

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