There are a variety of things to consider when you decide where to put your laundry room. Some families prefer the convenience of having the washer and dryer right in the master suite, often tucked into the closet or in another convenient area. With it close by, getting laundry done is easier than ever! Other families prefer to tuck their washer and dryer away in the basement, where there's less likelihood that carpeting or flooring will be damaged in a room that's used every day.
The most common desire for a laundry room, however, is an entire utility room devoted entirely to the purpose of washing and drying clothes. While a luxury, this has several advantages.
Wherever you decide to put your laundry room, make sure you ask yourself a few key questions.
Your washer needs a hot water line, a cold water line, and a drain. These three items are critical to installing and running your washer. Each line will need a washing machine cutoff valve, which run between $10 and $30 each. In addition to these vital parts, however, there are other water concerns that may dictate what you're able to do in your laundry room.
Your Utility Sink
Installing a utility sink is a great way to make more out of your space. A utility sink is perfect for:
If you install a utility sink, you have several options that range from around $50 to $200 and up. If you want function alone, the $50 sink will suffice. A more elegant approach, on the other hand, will require a more expensive sink. The utility sink will also need its own plumbing hookups.
Leak-Stopping Extras
Leaks in and around the washing machine account for a huge number of home floods each year. By installing a few additional pieces to help prevent leaks, however, you can make it less likely that your washing machine will end up causing damage to the floors, walls, and other areas of your home. You need:
With these items, even if your washing machine does spring a leak mid-cycle, damage should be minimal.
Return to TopInstalling a washer and dryer isn't as simple as plugging them into existing outlets. If you're using an electric dryer, you'll need a dedicated 30 Amp 4-Wire Circuit for plugging in your dryer. Make sure that you check your existing dryer plug before deciding what you need: some dryers are 3-prong, while others are 4-prong. Changing out the outlet is an option if yours doesn't fit.
There are also several other key areas of electrical importance when it comes to your laundry room.
Other Outlets
If you're taking care of all of your processes inside the laundry room, you need to make sure that you have adequate outlets for your needs. You need an outlet for your iron and one that will allow you to plug in your vacuum cleaner in case of spills.
Lighting
Old-fashioned laundry rooms might have been lit by a single bare bulb, but that's not what you're looking for in your room! Choose bright lighting that will enable you to see any stains or other issues with your clothing.
Return to TopWhen choosing your washer and dryer, there are several considerations you'll need to think about up front. First, check your available space. If you're moving your laundry room, you want to make sure that your existing appliances fit! Next, take a look at your budget. When it comes to your washer and dryer, you have plenty of choices in a variety of prices.
Washer and Dryer Prices
Other Appliance Considerations
Before you decide on the washer and dryer that are perfect for you, make sure you ask yourself a few key questions about the design and function of your machine. For example:
Your laundry room is the perfect place to store a variety of items. Depending on the size, you may have many options for putting in additional storage.
Fold-Out Tables
If you want to be able to fold clothes on a convenient table, but don't want the table out, taking up space all the time, a fold-out table is the perfect option. Folding tables run an average of $140-$200.
Cabinets
Adding wall cabinets or a pantry to your laundry room is a great way to maximize storage space. Cabinets have a wide range of prices, with small, basic models running about $150-$200 and larger, fancier constructions costing as much as $1,000 or more.
Shelf Space
If you aren't concerned with shutting away the clutter behind cabinet doors, adding shelves to your laundry room is a great way to keep items close at hand, yet tidy and out of the way. Shelves above the washer and dryer can start as low as $15, depending on your needs.
Return to TopWhat do you want your laundry room to look like? The more you're able to visualize your ideal room in your head, the more likely you are to choose the pieces that most fit with your goals. Some of these ideas might help you get a great start!
No matter what design you're considering for your laundry room, there are plenty of options out there. Many ideas are designed to allow for plenty of function in a very small space, allowing you to make the most of every inch of space within your room.
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Get a idea on costs to move washer and dryer upstairs in a closet so we don't have to go to the basement gas dryer large washer
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This site gave me some places to call that had very good reviews. I am adding a laundry room and did not know where to start. Thank You for all your help. Hope to be able to write you back with the finished project.
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