How to Create an Attractive and Efficient Laundry Room

Who says doing the laundry has to be a boring and time consuming job? In fact, you could create a laundry room that you actually enjoy spending time in. And yet, you'll be spending less time there because you've organized it. All it takes is a little inspiration. Here's a few suggestions and ideas to get you started.

If your laundry room is in the basement, you may have exposed pipes. Take advantage of covering them by using pegboard instead of drywall or paneling. Pegboard is easy to remove and also allows you to put shelf brackets, hooks and even wire basket on the wall. Paint any solid walls and the pegboard walls all the same color for a more pleasing appearance.

Of course, you could install cabinets if you want to keep all your supplies out of sight. Cabinets will give the room a more finished look.

If there is not a ceiling, consider installing a drop ceiling in the room. Drop ceiling is relatively easy to install and fairly cheap. If, however, that's more time than you want to put into the room, you could purchase a couple of flat sheets and staple them over the ceiling. White will look more natural than colors or patterns. If you have any overhead lights, be sure to keep the material away from them as well as any heat vents.

The floor is the last major canvas to decorate. You could install tile in either ceramic or vinyl or laminate for a clean and easy to maintain floor. Top it off with a plush throw rug to stand on while doing the laundry or ironing.

Again, if a cheaper and faster solution for the concrete floor is what you want, then simply paint it. Choose a paint in a color that compliments the walls. You could get creative and paint a checkerboard pattern or some type of design on it. Be sure to use a paint recommended for concrete floors. And don't forget that plush throw rug. It will offer relief for your feet and legs.

Now that you have the basics, it's time to start the organizing and yes, the decorating stage of your laundry room makeover.

For organizing your space, take advantage of the pegboard and install some shelving and hooks for storing and hanging needed supplies. Keep items you use often on the lower shelves or in a wire basket, such as detergents, bleach, fabric softener, etc. Install a shelf higher up for storage of less used items such as silver or brass cleaners, or any other items you want to store there such as light bulbs or filters.

Install a hanging rod over the dryer high enough to hang shirts and pants. Keep it stocked with hangers and hang your clothes as you remove them from the dryer. This will save you from ironing wrinkled clothes or re-drying them to remove wrinkles.

Speaking of ironing, everyone needs an ironing board or table. No matter how well intentioned or organized you are, some things just needing ironing. If you have room you could build you an ironing station or purchase a wall mount station. Give this a little thought before you invest the time and money. If you very seldom iron, you might be just as satisfied with a simple hook and hanger for the ironing board and iron.

If you do a lot of ironing and want an actual ironing station, purchase a comfortable stool with a back before you begin installing your station. Sit down and lean back. You want to install your ironing station at a height where you will not be bending over. A station built into the wall that opens and the ironing board folds down will allow you to sit at it like a desk. If you choose to build one, allow space underneath for your legs. The station should be close to the hanging bar or install a second bar next to it for the finished product.

Since this is a laundry room, you need a laundry sorting area. You could build a laundry bin yourself or simply purchase one. Ideally, you will want one with sections so that clothes can be separated as they are tossed into the bin. You know, one for towels, one for whites. You get the idea. Towels especially need to be kept separate from other clothes, and should be in a vented hamper. If you don't have room in your laundry room for a clothes bin, keep it outside the door or choose a closet close to the laundry room to hide it in.

To personalize the area, add some framed photos, a few magazines and books, and maybe a plant. Okay, you can use a fake plant if you want. Just keep it dusted.

Last, just because it is a laundry room, doesn't mean you can't be entertained while working there. Keep your I-Pod handy, or add a shelf at eye level with the ironing station for a portable DVD player or even a small flat screen tv. Hey, if you're going to be spending time here, you might as well enjoy it. Who knows, this might just become your hideaway space. And you won't have to worry about anyone bothering you. It is, after all, the laundry room.