Small Space Laundry Room Shelving: 5 Clever Ideas: Smart shelving solutions and real-world tips to maximize a tiny laundry area from a senior interior designerUncommon Author NameOct 08, 2025Table of ContentsSlim Open ShelvesPull-Out Shelving Between AppliancesCeiling-Mounted Drying Racks with Overhead ShelvesCorner Shelves and Vertical TowersFold-Down Counter with Hidden ShelvesQuick Budget TipsTips 1:FAQTable of ContentsSlim Open ShelvesPull-Out Shelving Between AppliancesCeiling-Mounted Drying Racks with Overhead ShelvesCorner Shelves and Vertical TowersFold-Down Counter with Hidden ShelvesQuick Budget TipsTips 1FAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI once had a client insist their laundry room double as a plant nursery — humidifiers and philodendrons everywhere — which taught me fast that small spaces force you to get creative and practical at the same time. In that project I mocked up layouts and even used 3D render examples to help the client visualize shelves that could hold detergent, a drying rack, and a fern without looking chaotic.Slim Open ShelvesOpen shelves are my go-to when a laundry room feels claustrophobic. They make the wall recede visually and keep everyday items accessible, but you’ll need baskets or labels to avoid a messy look — I once recommended woven bins to hide mismatched cleaners, which saved the client hours of tidying.save pinPull-Out Shelving Between AppliancesThat thin gap between washer and dryer is wasted real estate. I designed pull-out shelves for cleaning sprays and clothespins that slide out when you need them. The challenge: measuring precisely and allowing clearance for hoses, but the payoff is a nearly-hidden storage lane.save pinCeiling-Mounted Drying Racks with Overhead ShelvesIn apartments where floor space is sacred, I love ceiling-mounted drying racks paired with shallow overhead shelves. You trade a tiny bit of headspace for huge functional gain — great for delicates and infrequent items. If you rent, consider a removable pulley rack so you don’t damage the ceiling.save pinCorner Shelves and Vertical TowersCorners are often wasted, so slim vertical towers or triangular corner shelves can hold folded towels and small bins. I used a vertical tower in a NYC closet-converted laundry room and it felt like adding a second closet; the minor downside is reaching the top shelf without a small step stool.save pinFold-Down Counter with Hidden ShelvesA fold-down counter gives you a temporary folding surface and hides supplies behind shallow shelving — a small investment that elevates both function and aesthetics. I like pairing it with labeled pull-out trays so everything has a place when you close the flap.save pinQuick Budget TipsIf you’re on a tight budget, paint open plywood shelving to match your wall for a custom look without the custom price. I’ve patched and painted shelves for clients who wanted the look of built-ins but with IKEA-level spending. Durable paint and simple hardware go a long way.save pinTips 1:Measure twice and think vertically: in small laundry rooms, 6–12 inches of vertical shelving can double usable space. If you want tech-assisted design previews or concept mockups, try some AI interior ideas to speed the process.save pinFAQ1. What shelving depth is best for a small laundry room?I recommend 10–12 inches for open shelves to store detergent and small baskets without crowding. Deeper shelves work for bulk items but can look cluttered.2. Are floating shelves sturdy enough for laundry supplies?Yes, with proper anchors and 2x10 or solid material, floating shelves can hold heavy detergent bottles; always follow weight ratings and stud locations.3. How high should I place shelves above the washer?Leave at least 18–24 inches above the appliance to open lids and access controls comfortably; front-loading machines may allow lower shelves.4. Can I install shelving in a rental?Yes — use removable shelving systems, tension rods, or damage-free brackets so you can take them when you leave or repaint without repairs.5. What materials resist humidity in laundry rooms?Powder-coated metal, sealed plywood, and marine-grade plywood resist moisture best; avoid untreated particleboard near damp areas.6. How do I keep open shelves from looking messy?Use uniform baskets, labels, and consistent color palettes; I advise clients to store everyday items front and center and rarely-used goods in closed bins.7. Can shelving improve laundry room energy efficiency?Indirectly — organized storage prevents overfilling machines and encourages efficient loads. For dryer energy facts, see ENERGY STAR guidance (https://www.energystar.gov) which explains efficient habits and appliance ratings.8. What are quick installation options for a weekend DIY?Pre-cut floating shelf kits, adjustable track shelving, or simple brackets with plywood are weekend-friendly. If you want integrated planning with layout ideas, consider looking at some kitchen layout ideas as inspiration for combining counters and shelves.save pinStart for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE