Laundry Room Organization: Simple Tips to Tidy Up the Hardest-Working Room in Your Home

Let’s be honest—laundry rooms are often the most overlooked spaces in the house. They’re small, utilitarian, and sometimes downright chaotic. But with a few smart systems in place, your laundry room can become a space that works with you, not against you.

Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you create a functional, organized laundry room you won’t mind spending time in.

1. Declutter First

Before anything else, take stock of what’s actually in your laundry room. Old cleaning products, unmatched socks, half-used detergent bottles—it’s easy for clutter to pile up. Toss or recycle what you don’t use, and set aside anything that doesn’t belong there.

Tip: Keep a small “lost & found” bin for lone socks or random items that turn up in pockets.

2. Use Vertical Space

If your laundry room is tight on space, think up—not out. Install shelves or cabinets above the washer and dryer to hold detergents, fabric softeners, and stain removers. Wall-mounted baskets and hanging rods are also great for storing smaller items or drip-drying clothes.

Bonus: A pegboard can help organize tools, lint rollers, or cleaning brushes in a visually neat way.

3. Contain the Chaos

Use clear bins or labeled baskets to sort and store everything from dryer sheets to clothespins. This makes it easy to see what you have—and know when you’re running low.

Here are a few quick categories you might label:

• Stain Treatments

• Dryer Essentials

• Cleaning Rags

• Delicates/Lingerie Bags

Helpful Products to Try:

• Stackable Clear bins (with or without lids)

• Lazy Susans for easy access to bottles

• Label maker or pre-made laundry labels

• Woven or fabric baskets for a softer look

• Jars or dispensers for detergent and pods

Keeping your supplies neatly contained not only saves space but also makes your laundry room feel calmer and more intentional.

4. Add a Sorting System

A simple three-bin laundry sorter (lights, darks, delicates) can save you time on wash day and keep dirty clothes off the floor. If you’re tight on floor space, consider wall-mounted hampers or collapsible bins.

5. Folding Station, If Possible

If you have counter space—or can install a folding surface over front-load machines—use it. A dedicated spot to fold clothes means you’re more likely to do it right away instead of creating "clean laundry piles" that live on the couch.

Tip: Keep a small laundry basket for each family member. Fold directly into their basket for easy grab-and-go.

6. Use a Rolling Cart for Extras

A slim rolling cart fits between machines or in a closet and can hold detergent, spray bottles, or extra toilet paper if your laundry room doubles as storage. It’s especially handy if you need to move supplies around.

7. Make It a Pleasant Space

It doesn’t have to be just functional. A fresh coat of paint, a cute laundry sign, or a small plant can go a long way in making the space feel more inviting. You’re doing chores in there—might as well enjoy it a little.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a fancy or huge laundry room to keep things neat and efficient. With a little intention and some smart organization tools, you can turn this hardworking space into a streamlined, stress-free zone.

Remember: Small improvements can make a big difference—one basket, shelf, or label at a time.