Last Updated on July 17, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford
The laundry room may not be the most glamorous space in your home, but it certainly is one of the most functional. It’s a workhorse, handling loads of laundry week after week, and often doubling as a storage or utility space. But for all its hard work, the laundry room needs to be well-planned and properly dimensioned.
Understanding the right dimensions for your laundry room can make a world of difference in how effectively and efficiently you use this space. Too cramped, and you may find yourself constantly frustrated by the lack of space to move around or sort clothes. Too large, and you risk wasting valuable square footage that could be better utilized elsewhere in your home.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on laundry room dimensions. Our aim is to help you understand what factors you need to consider when planning your laundry room, from the size of your appliances to the layout of the room itself.
So whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, you’ll have all the information you need to create a laundry room that’s perfectly suited to your needs.
Standard Sizes of Washing Machines and Dryers
When planning your laundry room, one of the first things you need to consider is the size of your washing machine and dryer. These appliances are often the largest items in the room, and they will significantly influence how much space you need.
Standard washing machines and dryers are generally 27 inches wide, 39 inches tall, and 32 to 34 inches deep for front load units. Top load washers and dryers have similar widths and heights, but their depths can vary significantly depending on the model.
Compact washing machines, often used in apartments or smaller homes, usually measure around 24 inches wide, with heights varying from 33 to 36 inches and depths ranging from 24 to 26 inches.
Remember, these dimensions represent the size of the appliances themselves. You’ll also need to account for additional space for doors or lids to open, hoses and vents at the back of the machines, and room to move around for loading and unloading laundry.
If you’re looking to save space, you might consider stackable washers and dryers. These units typically have the same width and depth as standard machines, but when stacked, their combined height can reach up to 70 to 78 inches.
It’s also important to note that the internal capacity of washers and dryers is measured in cubic feet. For a family of four, a washing machine with a capacity of 4 to 4.5 cubic feet is usually sufficient. This size can handle up to 16 to 20 pounds of laundry, which should be enough for most households.
Common Laundry Room Layouts
The layout of your laundry room can greatly impact its functionality. Here are some common layouts you might consider:
1. Side-by-Side Layout:
This is the most traditional layout where the washer and dryer sit next to each other. This layout requires a minimum of 60 inches in width for standard-sized appliances.
The advantage of this layout is that it often provides space for a countertop above the appliances, which can be used for folding clothes or storing laundry products.
2. Stacked Layout:
If floor space is at a premium, stacking the washer and dryer can be a great solution. This layout cuts the required width in half, but it does require more vertical space. Also, keep in mind that not all washers and dryers are stackable, so be sure to check before going with this option.
3. L-Shaped Layout:
In larger laundry rooms, an L-shaped layout can be an effective use of space. This usually involves placing the washer and dryer on one leg of the ‘L’ and using the other leg for a sink, ironing board, or storage cabinets.
4. U-Shaped Layout:
This layout surrounds the user with countertops and appliances on three sides, which can be very efficient. However, it requires a larger laundry room to implement successfully.
5. Laundry Closet:
For homes with limited space, converting a closet into a laundry area can be a smart solution. This layout typically involves stacking the washer and dryer to save space.
6. Laundry Room with Island:
If you have a large laundry room, you might consider adding an island in the middle of the room for folding and sorting clothes.
Additional Elements in Laundry Room Planning
Beyond the washing machine and dryer, there are several additional elements to consider when planning your laundry room. These elements can enhance the functionality of the space and make doing laundry a more comfortable task.
1. Countertops:
A countertop provides a surface for sorting and folding clothes. If you’re opting for a side-by-side layout, you might consider installing a countertop above the appliances. You’ll need at least 24 inches of depth for a usable countertop.
2. Sinks:
A sink in the laundry room is useful for hand-washing delicate items and treating stains before washing. Depending on the size of the sink, you should plan for at least 15-25 inches of width and about 25 inches of depth.
3. Storage:
Cabinets or shelves above your appliances or sink can provide storage for detergent, fabric softener, and other laundry supplies. If you’re planning for upper cabinets, they should be 18 inches above the countertop, with at least 12 inches of depth.
4. Ironing Boards:
An ironing board requires around 14 inches of width when folded up. If you have room, consider a built-in ironing board cabinet that stows away when not in use. If space is tight, a wall-mounted or over-the-door ironing board can be a good solution.
5. Drying Rack:
A drying rack is handy for air-drying delicate items. Retractable wall-mounted drying racks don’t take up floor space and can be folded away when not in use.
6. Bins and Hampers:
Plan for space to sort dirty laundry and store clean laundry. This could be as simple as a couple of baskets on the floor, or as elaborate as built-in hampers in a cabinet.
How to Measure Your Laundry Room
Proper measurements are crucial for planning your laundry room. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to accurately measure your space:
Step 1: Empty the Room
Start with an empty room, if possible. This will give you a clear view of the space and make measuring easier.
Step 2: Measure the Width
Using a tape measure, measure the width of the room from one wall to the opposite wall. Record this measurement.
Step 3: Measure the Length
Next, measure the length of the room from one wall to the opposite wall. Record this measurement as well.
Step 4: Measure the Height
Measure the height of the room from the floor to the ceiling. If you’re planning to stack your washer and dryer, this measurement is especially important.
Step 5: Note Obstacles
Take note of any obstacles in the room such as windows, doors, radiators, pipes, or vents. Measure the distance from these obstacles to the floor, ceiling, and nearest walls. This information will be helpful when deciding where to place appliances and other elements.
Step 6: Measure Doorways and Pathways
Don’t forget to measure the size of the doorway leading into your laundry room and any other pathways you’ll need to navigate when bringing in your appliances.
Tips for Planning Around Obstacles or Unique Features:
1. Utilize Vertical Space: If your laundry room is small, consider using the vertical space. Stackable washers and dryers, wall-mounted cabinets, and hanging drying racks are all great space savers.
2. Work with Windows: If you have a window in your laundry room, don’t cover it with appliances or tall cabinets. Natural light can make the room more enjoyable to work in.
3. Consider Door Swing: Remember to account for the swing of doors (both on appliances and the room itself). You don’t want to plan for a layout that leaves you unable to fully open the door of your washer, dryer, or laundry room.
4. Be Creative with Unusual Spaces: If your laundry room has an unusual shape or awkward features, get creative. For example, a narrow shelf or storage rack might fit perfectly in an otherwise unused corner.
Remember, accurate measurements and careful planning are key to creating a functional and efficient laundry room.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laundry Room Dimensions
1. Q: What is the minimum size for a laundry room?
A: The minimum size for a laundry room depends on the size of your appliances and the layout you choose. For a small laundry closet with stacked appliances, you may be able to get by with a space that’s 3 feet wide by 3 feet deep. However, for more comfort and functionality, a larger space of at least 9 feet by 11 feet is often recommended.
2. Q: Can I put my washer and dryer in a bathroom or kitchen?
A: Yes, it’s possible to put a washer and dryer in a bathroom or kitchen, as long as there’s enough space and the appropriate plumbing and electrical outlets are available. However, keep in mind that this may not be ideal from a noise or convenience perspective.
3. Q: How much clearance do I need around my washer and dryer?
A: As a general rule, you should aim for at least 1 inch of clearance on either side of each appliance and 4 to 6 inches of clearance at the rear for venting and hoses.
4. Q: Do I need a sink in my laundry room?
A: While not a necessity, a sink can be a useful addition to a laundry room for hand-washing delicate items and treating stains. If you have the space and budget, it might be worth considering.
5. Q: How can I make the most of a small laundry room?
A: With a small laundry room, efficiency is key. Consider stackable appliances to save floor space, utilize wall-mounted storage, and use doors for hanging items like ironing boards or drying racks.
Conclusion
Planning the dimensions of your laundry room is a critical step in ensuring you have a functional and efficient space. From understanding the standard sizes of washing machines and dryers to considering additional elements like sinks, countertops, and storage, every detail matters.
We’ve explored common laundry room layouts such as side-by-side, stacked, L-shaped, U-shaped, and laundry closets. Each layout has its own advantages and space requirements, so it’s important to choose one that best fits your home and lifestyle.
Taking accurate measurements of your laundry room is crucial not only for fitting your appliances but also for planning around obstacles and unique room features. Remember to measure the width, length, height, and any potential obstructions in the room.
Lastly, we addressed some frequently asked questions about laundry room dimensions, providing expert advice and tips to help homeowners in their planning process.
In conclusion, a well-planned laundry room can make the chore of washing clothes much more pleasant and efficient. By taking the time to properly plan your laundry room dimensions, you can create a space that meets your needs and makes the most of what you have. Whether you’re working with a small closet or a large dedicated room, every laundry room can be a functional space with the right planning.
