Whether your laundry area is part of a modern mudroom, or stuck in the dark recesses of your basement, it’s probably the messiest, most neglected part of your home. But its winter, and there’s no better time to pay a little attention to your overlooked utility rooms. Here are five great ways to help take your laundry room from disorganized to delightful:
1. Get organized
If the laundry area is multipurpose, such as a mudroom or storage area, define the space for each use and organize shelving, baskets, or boxes for each. Install a closet rod for air drying or hanging up clothes as soon as they are done in the dryer, and use a fold-away table for folding and sorting clothes that can be stored away when not in use.
2. If it ain’t quaint, paint!
If your laundry room is dark and depressing, paint the walls a traditional light colour or add a fresh coat to the trim. If you have a window which lets in natural light, select a paint in sunshine yellow, or this year’s “in” colour: orange. Alternatively, choose blackboard paint for use on a section of a wall and when you run out of detergent or dryer sheets, just add it to your list on the blackboard.
3. Texturize and accessorize
Bamboo blinds and linen-lined rattan laundry hampers will help establish a softer, relaxed mood. Mirrors are a great way to make smaller space appear bigger while adding a touch of sophistication. And don’t forget, the laundry room is a great place for indoor plants, as they improve air quality and may absorb cleaning detergent scents.
4. Don’t be left in the dark
The laundry is likely the last place you’d spend a lot on a great-looking light fixture, but that doesn’t mean you have to go without! An elegant overhead light fixture adds a functional and decorative touch. Use a small chandelier with good light coverage for beauty or add a practical ceiling fan to circulate air while providing a little decorative interest.
5. Add your personality
Once you have your laundry room organized, don’t be afraid to decorate. Use colours that you love, put up family photos, kids artwork, your special collection of snow globes, anything that makes you smile.
Happy laundering!