21 Unique Laundry Room Shelves for DIY Enthusiasts
A well-organized laundry room can make chores feel less overwhelming. One of the easiest ways to improve functionality and style is by adding shelves for storage.
Whether you have a small room or a larger area, there are plenty of shelving options to maximize space and add charm.
In this blog, I’ll cover creative and practical ideas for laundry room shelves, from simple floating designs to unique DIY options, helping you find the perfect solution for your space.
Let’s get started on transforming your laundry room into an organized, stylish area!
Why Laundry Room Shelves Matter
Shelves are more than just storage solutions; they’re essential for turning a chaotic laundry room into a functional, organized space.
By adding laundry room shelves, you can keep fabric softeners and other essentials neatly stored, saving precious countertop space.
Proper shelving also brings order to your laundry area, allowing you to find what you need without digging through piles.
Plus, shelves add style, creating a space that’s not only practical but visually appealing.
When done right, laundry room shelves make your laundry chores feel a bit easier, helping you stay organized while improving the overall look of the room.
Shelf Creation and Installation Ideas for Your Laundry Room
Below are the top creative shelving ideas for your laundry room that will maximize space and add a stylish touch.
1. Floating Shelves for a Sleek Look
Floating shelves are perfect for creating a minimalist, modern look in your laundry room. They offer a solution for organizing detergents, towels, and small decorative items.
The lack of visible brackets makes the shelves appear sleek and unobtrusive, helping your room feel more spacious.
How to Craft and Mount:
- Select sturdy floating brackets that can support the weight of your items.
- Measure and mark the spots on the wall where the shelves will go, ensuring everything is level.
- Drill into the studs to secure the brackets tightly to the wall.
- Slide the shelves onto the brackets and secure them firmly with screws to create a floating effect.
2. Industrial Pipe Shelving for a Bold Statement
Industrial pipe shelving brings a bold, rustic charm to your laundry room. With its mix of steel pipes and wood planks, it’s both functional and eye-catching.
DIY enthusiasts love this look for its strength and modern appeal.
How to Build and Install:
- Start by measuring the wall and marking where the pipes and shelves will go.
- Attach flanges to the wall using screws, ensuring everything is level and aligned.
- Connect steel pipes to the flanges, then lay wooden planks on top to create the shelves.
- Secure the planks with screws to ensure a sturdy, stylish finish.
3. Corner Shelves to Maximize Space
Corner shelves are perfect for making the most of unused space in small laundry rooms. These shelves tuck neatly into corners, offering extra storage without taking up valuable wall space.
How to Create and Secure:
- Measure the corner area to determine the ideal shelf size, then cut your shelves to fit, or purchase pre-made corner shelves that suit your style.
- Install corner brackets on both walls, ensuring they’re level and properly aligned.
- Place the shelves on the brackets and secure them with screws to create a stable, functional storage solution.
4. Wooden Pallet Shelves for a Rustic Touch
Wooden pallet shelves add a rustic, eco-friendly touch to your laundry room. These repurposed pallets offer a functional yet stylish solution for storing laundry essentials.
Repurposing old pallets is a budget-friendly way to create unique, custom shelves with a rustic charm.
It’s a great option for DIY enthusiasts who want to add character while being eco-conscious.
How to Create and Install:
- Start by choosing an old wooden pallet and removing any nails or rough spots, and sand the pallet to smooth out any splinters or rough areas.
- Cut the pallet to the desired length for your shelf, or use it as-is.
- Attach brackets to the wall and secure the pallet onto them, ensuring it is level and stable.
5. Over-the-Washer Shelves for Compact Spaces
Maximize your laundry room’s vertical space by installing shelves above the washer and dryer. This smart shelving option keeps detergents, baskets, and other laundry supplies easily accessible yet out of the way.
Over-the-washer shelves are a perfect space-saving solution for compact laundry rooms.
How to Create and Install:
- Measure the space above your washer and dryer to determine the shelf size.
- Install sturdy brackets above the machines to ensure they can support the weight of your laundry supplies.
- Place a wooden or metal shelf on the brackets and secure it firmly with screws.
- Arrange your detergents and cleaning supplies neatly on the shelf.
6. Open Shelving with Baskets
Open laundry room shelves paired with baskets offer a practical and organized solution.
These shelves keep everything within reach and neatly tucked away in decorative baskets.
Open shelving with baskets keeps things simple and accessible.
It’s an easy-to-install solution that keeps your laundry room neat while providing plenty of storage space.
How to Create and Install:
- Choose open shelving that suits your laundry room’s style, whether wood, metal, or a combination of both.
- Install the shelves on sturdy wall brackets at a comfortable height.
- Use matching baskets to store linens, towels, and other laundry essentials, and label the baskets for easy identification and a more organized space.
7. Shaker Style Shelving for a Traditional Vibe
Shaker-style shelves bring a timeless, classic look to your laundry room. These shelves add a cozy, traditional vibe while providing ample storage space.
Shaker-style shelving is perfect for those who love a classic, clean look. It’s simple, sturdy, and functional, offering a traditional charm that complements a range of decor styles.
How to Create and Install:
- Measure your space and decide on the number of shelves needed.
- Choose wood for a warm, traditional feel and cut the shelves to fit.
- Install sturdy brackets, or mount the shelves directly to the wall with screws.
- For extra style, add trim along the edges to give it that classic Shaker look.
8. Built-In Shelves for a Custom Fit
Built-in shelves are a great solution for a laundry room that needs custom storage.
These shelves can be made to fit the exact measurements of your space, maximizing every inch of your room. With built-in shelving, you can create a seamless look that blends with the rest of your home’s decor.
They’re perfect for a more polished, professional feel in your laundry area.
How to Build and Install:
- Measure the space where you want the shelves to go, taking into account the height and width of your laundry room.
- Design the shelving units to fit within these measurements, and choose materials that complement your room’s style.
- Install the shelves by securing them to the wall studs, ensuring they are level and sturdy.
- Finish the shelves by adding trim or paint to match the room’s decor.
9. Wall-Mounted Shelves for a Space-Saving Solution
Wall-mounted shelves are perfect for saving valuable floor space while keeping your laundry room organized. These shelves keep laundry supplies within easy reach and are an ideal solution for smaller spaces.
They add practicality without sacrificing style, keeping everything off countertops and providing extra room to move around.
How to Build and Install:
- Choose lightweight materials, like wood or metal, for easy installation, and install wall brackets at the desired height, ensuring they are level and secure.
- Mount the shelves onto the brackets, then tighten the screws to keep them in place.
- Use the shelves to store cleaning supplies, detergents, or folded towels, making everything easily accessible.
10. Adjustable Shelves for Flexible Storage
Adjustable shelves provide flexibility in your laundry room storage.
As your needs change, you can easily modify the height of the shelves to accommodate different items. This adaptability ensures your shelving system grows with you, providing long-term functionality for various laundry essentials.
How to Create and Install:
- Install adjustable shelving brackets at a fixed height on the wall.
- Place shelves into the brackets, ensuring they are sturdy and level.
- Adjust the shelf height as needed by moving the brackets along the wall, providing flexibility for different items.
This system works well for growing storage needs, especially if you want to store larger items in the future.
11. Vintage Crates as Shelves
Vintage crates bring a rustic, charming element to your laundry room. These repurposed items not only offer storage but also serve as a statement piece in the room.
They are eco-friendly options that add character while keeping everything uniquely organized.
How to Create and Install:
- Find wooden crates, either old or new, and sand them down to remove any rough edges.
- Stack the crates or mount them on the wall with brackets to create a layered shelving unit.
- Secure the crates with screws to ensure stability.
- Use the crates to store detergent, cleaning supplies, or folded towels, while adding a vintage feel to the room.
12. Ladder Shelves for a Trendy Look
Ladder shelves offer a trendy, functional way to organize your laundry room.
The angled design not only maximizes storage but also adds a touch of beauty.
Perfect for DIY enthusiasts, these shelves add character while remaining practical for everyday use.
How to Create and Install:
- Find an old ladder or purchase a new one to fit your space and secure the ladder to the wall at an angle, ensuring it is sturdy and level.
- Add shelves across the rungs of the ladder, securing them with screws or brackets for support.
- Use the shelves to store towels, baskets, or detergents, adding a unique, stylish twist to the room.
13. Glass Shelves for a Modern Touch
Glass shelves offer a sleek, contemporary look to your laundry room. They are perfect for those who want a minimalist style while keeping their space light and airy.
Glass shelves provide a clean and modern look, helping you maintain a stylish room.
How to Create and Install:
- Choose tempered glass for durability and safety.
- Install glass shelf brackets on the wall at the desired height.
- Place the glass shelves on the brackets and secure them with the included hardware.
- For a modern touch, use the shelves to display decorative items, like jars or folded towels, while keeping the look clean.
14. Metal Wire Shelves for a Clean, Industrial Look
Metal wire shelves add a functional yet stylish touch to your laundry room. The industrial look is perfect for those who want a modern, durable shelving option.
These shelves are easy to install and can hold heavy-duty laundry supplies.
How to Create and Install:
- Measure the space for your wire shelves and select a size that fits your laundry room.
- Install wall brackets to secure the shelves in place, ensuring they are level, then place the wire shelves on top of the brackets and secure them with screws or clips.
- Use these shelves for organizing detergents, baskets, or cleaning products, adding a clean, industrial look to your laundry space.
15. Shelf and Hook Combination
Combining shelves and hooks in your laundry room offers a two-in-one solution for both storage and organization.
This functional design lets you store items like towels, bags, or coats while keeping them easily accessible.
How to Create and Install:
- Install a sturdy shelf above and attach hooks underneath for hanging items.
- Measure the desired heights of both the shelf and the hooks to ensure accessibility and balance.
- Secure the shelf with brackets, then add hooks beneath it, making sure they’re well fastened.
- Use the hooks for bags, coats, or towels, while the shelf holds your laundry supplies.
16. Tiered Shelves for Vertical Storage
Tiered shelves are a great way to make the most of vertical space in smaller laundry rooms.
These shelves allow you to store multiple items in a compact area, maximizing storage without taking up floor space.
How to Create and Install:
- Choose tiered shelving units that can be mounted on the wall or installed as freestanding units.
- Measure the space to ensure the shelves are installed with sufficient clearance for easy access, and mount the shelves securely to the wall, making sure each tier is level.
- Use each tier to organize folded laundry, cleaning supplies, or baskets, keeping your laundry area neat and accessible.
17. Custom Cabinet Shelves for a Seamless Fit
Custom cabinet shelves are perfect for those who want a sleek, tidy, and cohesive laundry room. These shelves fit perfectly into your space, offering a seamless design that blends with the room’s decor.
How to Create and Install:
- Measure the dimensions of the area where you want to install your custom shelves.
- Design your shelving units to match your space and preferred look.
- Install the cabinets by securing them to the wall studs, ensuring they are level and stable.
- Finish with doors or open shelves, depending on your needs, to add a neat, uniform look to your laundry room.
18. Repurposed Wooden Boards for a DIY Feel
Repurposing old wooden boards to create laundry room shelves offers a rustic, budget-friendly way to beautify your space. This DIY project adds character while providing functional storage.
How to Create and Install:
- Find old wooden boards and sand them down to remove rough edges and splinters.
- Cut the boards to the desired shelf length to ensure they fit your space.
- Install sturdy brackets onto the wall and secure the boards on top, ensuring they are level and stable.
19. Sliding Shelves for Easy Access
Sliding shelves are a brilliant storage solution, especially for deep or hard-to-reach spaces.
The way it lets you easily access items stored at the back of your laundry room shelves makes organization easier.
How to Create and Install:
- Install sliding rails into the shelving unit or under the countertop for smooth operation.
- Measure the space to ensure the sliding shelf fits without obstructing other areas.
- Secure the rails to the shelf and mount them.
- Use the sliding shelves to store bulky items or products you need quick access to, keeping your laundry area organized.
20. Pegboard Shelves for Easy Organization
Pegboard shelves are perfect for customizing your laundry room storage. The ability to add pegs, hooks, and baskets makes it easy to organize and access all your laundry essentials.
How to Create and Install:
- Attach a pegboard to the wall, ensuring it’s level and secure, then choose pegs and hooks that can hold laundry essentials, like baskets, bottles, and brushes.
- Install additional shelves on the pegboard or hang storage containers for a personalized storage solution.
- Use the flexibility of the pegboard to create an organized space where you can access everything with ease.
21. Shelves with Integrated Lighting
Adding shelves with integrated LED lighting is a great way to combine storage with style in your laundry room.
The lighting creates a modern ambiance while highlighting your neatly stored items.
How to Create and Install:
- Install floating shelf brackets on the wall at the desired height.
- Secure a shelf onto the brackets, ensuring it’s level.
- Add LED strip lights underneath the shelf and secure them with adhesive strips or clips.
- Connect the lights to a power source, and enjoy the modern, stylish, and functional addition to your laundry room.
How to Choose the Perfect Shelving Idea for Your Laundry Space
When selecting the ideal shelving solution for your laundry room, consider factors such as space size, style, and functionality.
When looking for more storage, more style, or both, understanding your needs will help you choose the perfect shelving option.
| Factor | Considerations | Recommended Shelving Options |
|---|---|---|
| Space Availability | Smaller laundry rooms require efficient use of space, especially in tight areas. Vertical space is often underutilized. | Floating Shelves, Corner Shelves, Wall-Mounted Shelves, Over-the-Washer Shelves |
| Style Preferences | The style of your laundry room will influence your shelving choice. Whether you want a modern, rustic, or traditional look, select shelves that complement your room’s design. | Shaker Style Shelves, Industrial Pipe Shelving, Wooden Pallet Shelves, Ladder Shelves |
| Storage Needs | If you need to store a lot of laundry supplies, towels, or cleaning products, make sure the shelving solution offers ample storage while keeping things organized. | Adjustable Shelves, Built-In Shelves, Tiered Shelves, Pegboard Shelves |
| DIY Skills | If you’re looking for a project, repurposing materials or creating custom shelves yourself can be rewarding and cost-effective. | Repurposed Wooden Boards, Vintage Crates, Wooden Pallet Shelves, Ladder Shelves |
| Budget | If you have a limited budget, focus on affordable options that still offer functional storage. Look for inexpensive materials or repurposed items. | Vintage Crates, Repurposed Wooden Boards, Floating Shelves, Corner Shelves |
Conclusion
Choosing the right laundry room shelves is all about blending functionality with style. Whether you’re maximizing a small space or adding character to a large room, the right shelving can make a big difference.
From DIY projects using vintage crates to sleek, floating designs, there are endless options to suit your needs. With careful planning, you can change your laundry room into a well-organized, stylish space.
Now, it’s time to decide which shelving idea works best for you, and start creating a laundry room that’s both practical and pleasing.