A small laundry room feels instantly bigger when you treat the window as the main feature instead of an afterthought.
Try a Stacked Setup and Keep the Window Clear
When floor space is brutal, I’ve used a stacked washer and dryer near a window so the room still feels bright and open. That extra wall space let me add shelving without crowding the window area.
These products might be useful:
- Stacking Kit for Laundry Appliances: Secure your dryer on top of your washer to safely maximize vertical space in tight utility rooms.
- Woven Laundry Basket: Use a natural wicker or woven hamper to store linens while adding a warm, organic touch.
- Slim Storage Cabinet: Add a narrow cabinet beside your appliances to organize detergents and supplies without blocking the window.
Put Machines Directly Under the Window
In my tiniest apartment, placing the washer and dryer under the window made the whole room feel less boxed-in because I wasn’t staring at a blank wall. It also gave me the best “work view” while I sorted and pre-treated stains.
A few choices to try:
- Compact Front-Load Washer and Dryer Set: Maximize your limited space by choosing compact appliances that fit neatly beneath standard window heights.
- Anti-Vibration Pads for Washing Machines: Protect your floors and reduce noise near your windows with these stabilizing rubber pads.
- Window Privacy Film or Blinds: Maintain privacy while enjoying natural light in your laundry area with easy-to-apply frosted window film.
Add a Countertop Across the Machines
I swear by a countertop under the window because it turns that awkward little zone into a real folding station. I’ve used simple, wipeable surfaces and instantly stopped piling clean laundry on the bed.
Some ideas to consider:
- Butcher Block Countertop: Transform your laundry space by adding a sturdy, warm wooden surface perfect for sorting and folding clothes.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Keep supplies organized and add texture to your counter with these stylish, natural woven storage bins.
- Glass Spray Bottles: Swap plastic detergent containers for elegant amber glass bottles to create a cohesive, spa-like laundry aesthetic.
Build Cabinets Around, Not Over, the Window
When I helped a client with a narrow laundry nook, we “bookended” the window with tall cabinets so the room got storage and still stayed bright. I’ve learned the hard way that preserving that strip of natural light keeps a small space from feeling tight.
Useful items to consider:
- Tall Narrow Storage Cabinet: Maximize vertical space in tight corners by adding a slim, freestanding pantry cabinet for organized laundry essentials.
- Heavy Duty Cabinet Pulls: Upgrade your existing cabinetry or new built-ins with sleek, gold-tone hardware for a modern, custom look.
- Woven Storage Basket: Keep countertops clutter-free and add texture by using a natural woven basket for loose items or linens.
Tuck Hampers Under the Window Counter
My favorite small-space trick is leaving open cubbies under the window countertop for sorting bins or hampers. I did this in my own setup, and it stopped the “laundry basket obstacle course” problem overnight.
A few helpful options:
- Woven Seagrass or Hyacinth Laundry Hamper: Add natural texture to your laundry nook while keeping clothes organized with a stylish woven basket.
- Decorative Turkish Cotton Hand Towel: Hang a soft, lightweight towel nearby for drying hands or treating quick spills on your countertop.
- Small Cement Planter for Greenery: Brighten up your folding station by adding a touch of life with a simple potted plant.
Bounce Light With a Bright Opposite Wall
In one dark laundry hallway, I painted the wall across from the window a soft, bright tone and it noticeably boosted the natural light. It’s a simple change I’ve repeated because it makes folding and stain-spotting so much easier.
A few relevant products:
- Arched Wood Framed Floor Mirror: Reflect natural light instantly with this stylish statement piece to brighten your functional laundry work areas.
- Bright White Eggshell Interior Paint: Refresh dark walls with high-reflectivity paint to maximize the bounce of daylight throughout your small room.
- Woven Wicker Laundry Basket: Add warmth and texture against bright walls while keeping your laundry organized and easily accessible daily.
Use Frosted Film for Privacy Without Losing Light
In a ground-level apartment, I used frosted window film so I could keep the window uncovered and still feel comfortable. It’s one of my favorite renter-friendly ways to get privacy while keeping that bright, airy vibe.
Try these:
- Static Cling Frosted Window Film: Apply this adhesive-free film for instant privacy while allowing ample natural light to brighten your workspace.
- Window Film Application Kit: Ensure a bubble-free finish with these essential tools, making your DIY window film installation smooth and professional.
- Glass Cleaner Spray: Prep your window surface thoroughly before application to help the film adhere securely and last longer.
Make the Window the “Folding Station” Spotlight
I’ve added a small wall sconce or slim ceiling light aimed toward the window-side countertop so the workspace stays bright even after sunset. It sounds extra for a laundry spot, but in my experience it makes the whole routine feel more put-together.
Might be a good match:
- Brass Wall Scone with Wire Shade: Instantly add warmth and functional task lighting to your countertop workspace with a vintage-inspired brass wall fixture.
- Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Keep freshly folded towels or laundry essentials organized and within reach using a textured, natural woven basket.
- Small Faux Potted Greenery: Bring a touch of life to your folding station without the maintenance by styling a realistic potted plant.
