You may have given some thought to updating your laundry room, but you’re not quite sure where to begin. Doing the laundry requires a fair amount of our time, so having a pleasant space to do it in can be beneficial. Whether you have a dedicated room or just a corner in the basement, there are a few ways homeowners can give this space a helpful makeover. Here are some things to consider:

Decide How the Space Will Be Used

It’s common for laundry rooms to be dual-function—most frequently it can double as storage space. Maybe you store extra linens, off-season clothes, or other household items, for example, and it can be helpful to clarify exactly how you intend to use the area before you get started with any renovations. Deciding on a plan in advance will help you maximize the space and make sure it’s set up to meet all of your needs.

Add Some Lights

We don’t often pay attention to design and aesthetics when it comes to the laundry room, but an inexpensive and relatively fast way to improve the space is to add some brighter lighting. This makes spotting stains on clothing easier, and it also makes the space a bit more appealing to work in. If you’re going to spend time doing your ironing and folding in this space, you may consider a fresh coat of paint and a piece of artwork to make it feel consistent with the rest of the house.

Create a System

Is the entire family using the space, or just you? If you want lights and darks separated or want dirty and clean clothes in specific places, for example, get your family on board with the system. Having baskets allotted for distinct purposes can make it easy for everyone to pitch in. Even if you’re the one in charge of laundry, creating a clear-cut system for yourself can help you do your work more efficiently.

Get Organized

Getting— and staying— organized is key here. If you choose to use the space for storage as well as laundry, consider some clear, labeled bins. Laundry rooms often become the default storage area for the things we just don’t know what to do with. If you’re upgrading the space, it’s a fine time to go through what you have in there and see if there are some things you can get rid of. A good decluttering can make the space feel more orderly.

Consider Going Green

A laundry room update is the perfect reason to transition to more eco-friendly products. Have a look at your detergents and other products, and think about both their ingredients and the packaging they come in. Switching to natural options with less chemicals and dyes could be a healthy upgrade, as well as opting for brands that offer plastic-free packaging.

If you have any additional questions, or if you’re planning something more extensive and need a referral for a local handyman, I’d be happy to help.