Thursday, January 31, 2013

Fully Loaded


Since we do more than 35 billion loads of laundry each year, it is time to bring the laundry room out of the basement.   While new home owners can plan for a multi-functioning laundry room, remodelers need not be left out.  Careful planning and design can bring a fully loaded laundry command center to you, too.

Location

Washers and dryers can be placed anywhere…in their own room, in a closet, in a bath, and even in the kitchen depending on the space you have.  With many homeowners downsizing, interesting nooks are being found in all parts of the house to accommodate a washer and dryer. Considerations of noise, possible leaks, and humidity need to be taken, but proper planning can make a clean break from any dirty worries.






















Make your closet your laundry room. Tossing in the dirty clothes could never be easier, and when they come out, hanging them up is a snap.






















Adding a stackable washer and dryer to the master bath keeps water lines together and the humidity in one room. Plus, doing a load of towels could never be easier.


Carving out a space in the kitchen allows the laundry to be done in the center of the hub of activity.  Whites can be soaking while pasta is boiling with no unnecessary steps in between - the ultimate design for multi-tasking.
Once you decide on where your washer and dryer will be, now all you need to determine is what features will make the space most efficient for you.
















Counters – A long, uninterrupted counter gives plenty of space for sorting and folding.  A window keeps the space nice and bright.



Drying rack – A designated space for hang-to-dry items keeps door frames and shower bars free from hanging items.


















Ironing board – For such a small item, the ironing board creates big dilemmas.  Having a drop down design keeps the ironing board in the laundry room, and putting it away just takes a second.























Dog bath – If you have the space, and the dog, a wash station may save money and headache in the long run. Dirty paws are easily washed in this raised space.

 

Laundry sink – If you find yourself doing a lot of hand washing or soaking, then adding a sink may be just the feature for you.



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