5 Small Laundry Room Pantry Ideas: Space-saving pantry concepts for tiny laundry rooms — five practical inspirations from a pro

I once had a client insist their tiny laundry closet "needed a pantry for cereal"—right next to the dryer. I laughed, measured, and learned that tiny spaces force better decisions. If you can visualize the layout first, you avoid buying the wrong shelves and wrestling with returns.

1. Slim pull-out pantry beside the washer

I love a slim pull-out unit (8–12" wide) tucked between the washer and wall. It holds detergent, dryer sheets, and odd bottles without blocking access—easy to install but requires accurate gap measurement.

2. Overhead baskets and labeled bins

When floor space is scarce, think vertical: open metal baskets or clear bins above the machines keep things visible and ventilated. The downside is reaching up, so include a small stepping stool or place daily-use items lower.

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3. Sliding door with built-in shelves

A slim sliding or pocket door that hides shallow shelving creates a clean look while giving you pantry-style storage for snacks and supplies. It’s stylish and space-saving, though adding sliding hardware bumps budget a bit.

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4. Multipurpose wall system: pegboard + fold-down counter

Combine a pegboard, hooks, and a fold-down folding counter for a flexible zone—hang brooms, baskets, and fold clothes on the counter. It’s cheap and adaptable, but you need to plan where heavier items go so the wall anchors hold up.

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5. Stackable open shelving with a top pantry bin

Open, stackable shelving lets you create a mini-pantry above the machines; top with a lidded bin for occasional bulk goods and label everything. If you want to preview the final result, try a detailed floor plan before buying—saves time and returns.

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Tips 1:

Measure twice, buy once: check appliance clearances and door swings. Use breathable containers for laundry supplies to prevent moisture build-up and keep labels consistent so anyone in the house can find stuff fast.

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FAQ

Q1: What’s the minimum width to fit a pantry next to a washer?

A practical minimum is about 8 inches for a pull-out caddy; 12 inches gives more flexibility for shelving. Always measure the gap accounting for hoses and venting.

Q2: Can I store food in a laundry room pantry?

Yes, but choose airtight containers and keep food off the floor. Avoid storing perishable items if the room gets humid or subject to temperature swings.

Q3: How do I prevent mold in a combined laundry-pantry?

Ventilation is key—use exhaust fans or ensure the room has airflow. For more on mold prevention, see the CDC guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/mold/.

Q4: Are open shelves better than closed cabinets here?

Open shelves save visual space and make items easy to reach, while cabinets hide clutter and protect from dust. I often mix both: open for everyday items, closed for bulky or infrequent goods.

Q5: What materials hold up best near washers and dryers?

Moisture-resistant plywood or metal shelving resists warping; powder-coated steel is durable and easy to clean. Avoid untreated particleboard near humid areas.

Q6: How much should I budget for a simple pantry upgrade?

Expect $150–$600 for DIY shelving, baskets, and hardware; custom cabinetry or sliding doors pushes costs higher. I always recommend budgeting a contingency for unexpected fixes.

Q7: Can a laundry layout double as a pet food pantry?

Absolutely—an upper shelf for sealed pet food plus a lower bin for bowls works well. Just keep pet food sealed and elevated to avoid pests.

Q8: Any digital tools to preview my small laundry pantry?

I often use visualization tools to test layouts before buying—mocking up shelving heights and door swings avoids mistakes. If you want a quick realistic mockup, check a realistic 3D render to confirm sightlines and storage reach.

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