19 Laundry Room Shelving Ideas
Let’s be honest — the laundry room often gets the short end of the stick. It’s the one space in your home that’s both essential and easy to overlook.
You probably walk in, toss clothes in the washer, grab the detergent from an awkward corner shelf, and rush out. But what if this everyday chore zone could actually be… pleasant?
Good shelving can transform your laundry room from chaotic to calm, from a clutter trap to a clean and functional space.
Whether your laundry area is a roomy utility room or a closet-sized nook, the right shelving can make every inch count.
1. Floating Shelves for a Clean, Modern Look
Floating shelves are the secret to keeping things sleek and clutter-free. They give you open storage without bulky cabinets, letting you see and grab everything easily — from fabric softeners to spare towels.
Install two or three floating shelves above your washer and dryer. The trick is to use solid wood or MDF with strong brackets hidden inside the wall for that “floating” illusion. Paint or stain them to match your wall color for a seamless look.
Here’s a tip: place your most-used items on the lowest shelf and your decorative or backup supplies up high. You’ll instantly feel like you’ve walked into a design magazine spread — only it’s your laundry room.
2. Over-the-Machine Shelving Units
If you’re short on wall space, over-the-washer shelving is a game changer. These units sit right above your appliances and maximize that unused vertical area.
You can go for a freestanding shelf frame that straddles your washer and dryer or mount custom-built shelves right into the wall. Either way, it’s perfect for storing detergents, cleaning supplies, and baskets.
According to a 2024 Houzz home trend survey, 38% of homeowners prioritize vertical storage when renovating small spaces — and this setup delivers exactly that.
3. Built-In Shelves for a Custom Touch
If you’re renovating, built-in shelves are the holy grail of organized laundry rooms. They look intentional, timeless, and high-end.
You can create cubbies tailored to fit your baskets, cleaning products, and even a small ironing station. Built-ins also keep everything flush with the wall, which means no awkward protrusions or cluttered edges.
Think of it like giving your laundry room its own custom wardrobe — everything has its place, and nothing feels random.
4. Wire Shelving for Budget-Friendly Functionality
Wire shelving often gets a bad reputation for looking utilitarian, but it’s one of the most functional and affordable storage solutions you can install.
It’s lightweight, easy to mount, and allows airflow (great for damp laundry). Use it for baskets, bottles, and cleaning supplies. Add plastic or wood liners on top if you want a smoother surface.
This is a go-to for renters or anyone who wants a quick upgrade without heavy carpentry.
5. Adjustable Track Shelving Systems
If your storage needs change often, adjustable shelving systems are the ultimate flexible solution. These use vertical wall tracks with brackets that can be repositioned anytime.
It’s perfect for growing families — one month you’re storing diapers, and the next you’re stockpiling sports uniforms and detergent refills.
Brands like Elfa and ClosetMaid offer modular systems that can fit even the tightest corners. According to The Spruce, adjustable shelving can increase storage capacity by up to 25% compared to fixed shelves.
6. Open Wooden Shelving with Baskets
Here’s where form meets function beautifully. Open wood shelves paired with woven baskets can make your laundry room feel warm and inviting.
Use the baskets to hide the less attractive stuff — dryer sheets, cleaning cloths, and odds and ends. Then keep glass jars of detergent or softener out front for a Pinterest-worthy touch.
If you’re into rustic or farmhouse aesthetics, this setup nails that cozy, lived-in vibe while keeping things organized.
7. Industrial Pipe Shelving
For those who love a rugged, modern style, industrial pipe shelving is an excellent choice.
It combines metal piping with wooden boards, creating sturdy, eye-catching shelves. You can build these yourself with hardware store supplies or buy pre-made kits online.
Pair it with matte black brackets, exposed bulbs, and a simple color palette. You’ll have a space that feels more like a hip café than a laundry room — which might just make laundry day more bearable.
8. Corner Shelves to Maximize Space
Most laundry rooms have unused corners, and corner shelves are the perfect way to reclaim that real estate.
Install floating corner shelves or L-shaped units that wrap around the wall. Store small items like clothespins, sprays, or even plants.
It’s a small touch that can add 10–20% more usable space, especially in compact laundry nooks.
9. Shelving Above the Utility Sink
If your laundry room has a utility sink, don’t ignore the wall above it. That’s prime shelving space.
Add a few sturdy shelves to hold stain removers, brushes, and towels. Keep a small caddy for cleaning rags or sponges, so everything is within arm’s reach.
This setup keeps your washing station efficient — no more dripping across the room for supplies.
10. Pull-Out Shelves for Easy Access
Pull-out shelves aren’t just for kitchens. In laundry rooms, they’re a clever solution for tight spaces.
Use them inside cabinets or between appliances to store bottles, sprays, and folded linens. Slide them out when you need something, and push them back for a clean look.
You’ll love this idea if you hate rummaging through dark cabinet corners. It’s like having your very own butler who brings everything to you — minus the bow tie.
11. Rolling Shelving Carts
Got a gap between your washer and dryer? That’s the perfect spot for a slim rolling cart.
These compact carts fit in narrow spaces and can hold detergents, dryer sheets, and other essentials. Roll it out when you need it and tuck it away afterward.
A 2023 IKEA customer survey showed that rolling storage increased perceived space by up to 15% in small laundry areas. It’s functional, affordable, and renter-friendly.
12. Above-Door Shelving
The wall space above your laundry room door is often wasted — but it’s an ideal place for an extra shelf.
Install a long, sturdy board and use it to store infrequently used items like extra paper towels, bulk detergents, or seasonal cleaning supplies.
It’s one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” ideas that adds bonus storage without taking up any floor or wall space you actually use daily.
13. Pegboard Shelving Combos
Pegboards aren’t just for garages. A pegboard wall with small shelves is a dynamic and customizable system for your laundry room.
Use hooks for hanging brushes, bags, or hangers, and add mini shelves for jars or decor. You can rearrange them anytime to suit your needs.
This idea works great in compact laundry closets — it’s like having a Swiss Army knife for your wall.
14. Shelves Inside Cabinet Doors
For serious organization lovers, adding shallow shelves inside cabinet doors is a pro move.
Use them to store spray bottles, lint rollers, or stain sticks. It’s especially handy in small laundry rooms where every inch matters.
According to Apartment Therapy, this type of hidden storage can boost cabinet utility by up to 30%, making it one of the most efficient upgrades you can do without major renovation.
15. Multi-Level Shelving for Sorting
If you have a large household, multi-level shelving can help you keep laundry chaos in check.
Designate each shelf for a different category: towels, delicates, darks, and so on. Pair them with labeled baskets so everyone knows where things go.
It’s like giving every pile of laundry its own VIP section — no more digging through mountains of mismatched socks.
16. Fold-Down Shelf for Dual Function
A fold-down shelf gives you workspace when you need it and disappears when you don’t.
Mount it on the wall or above your washer and use it for folding clothes or treating stains. When you’re done, just fold it up flat.
It’s perfect for small laundry rooms, apartments, or even garage laundry setups. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.
17. Decorative Shelving to Add Style
Who says your laundry room has to look plain? Add decorative shelves with framed art, plants, or glass jars filled with clothespins.
A few design touches can completely change the vibe. According to Realtor.com, homes with aesthetically organized utility rooms can boost resale value perception by up to 3–5% — simply because they make the home feel “complete.”
Function is essential, but a little beauty doesn’t hurt either.
18. Overhead Cabinet Shelving Hybrids
If you like closed storage but still want display space, try a cabinet-shelf hybrid.
Install cabinets up top and leave a single open shelf underneath for frequently used items. It strikes the perfect balance between clean and accessible.
You can even add LED strip lighting under the cabinets to illuminate your workspace — both stylish and practical.
19. Repurposed Furniture Shelving
Don’t overlook what you already have. Old bookshelves, ladders, or console tables can be repurposed into functional laundry room shelving.
Paint them to match your décor, add baskets or bins, and suddenly you’ve created storage for almost nothing.
Not only does this save money, but it also gives your space a personal, creative touch. There’s something satisfying about breathing new life into old furniture — like your laundry room just got a second chance, too.
Conclusion on 19 Laundry Room Shelving Ideas
A well-organized laundry room doesn’t just look better — it saves you time, reduces stress, and boosts home efficiency. When every item has its own designated spot, you stop wasting minutes hunting for detergent or searching for missing socks.
Here’s the real secret: shelving isn’t just storage. It’s strategy. It’s what turns a mundane chore into a smoother daily rhythm. Whether you go for floating shelves, built-ins, or creative DIY solutions, each idea on this list can help you reclaim your space and sanity.
So take a look at your laundry room today. Picture where that empty wall, corner, or awkward gap could transform into smart, functional shelving. A few boards, some brackets, and a dose of creativity — and you’ll have a space that’s not just practical but a joy to use.
