How to create a laundry area in your garage

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Introduction

If you’re short on space inside your home, the garage can be an excellent place to set up a laundry area. With the right planning, you can turn an unused corner into a functional, organized laundry zone that makes washing, drying, and folding clothes more convenient. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a laundry area in your garage—from planning the layout to making it comfortable and efficient.

Why Creating a Laundry Area in Your Garage Makes Sense

Turning part of your garage into a laundry area offers several advantages:

  • Frees up indoor space for other uses.
  • Keeps noise and heat from appliances out of the main living areas.
  • Provides plenty of room for storage and folding stations.
  • Allows easy upgrades like large appliances, drying racks, or utility sinks.
  • Can increase home functionality without major renovations.

Whether your garage is attached or detached, a laundry setup can be both practical and stylish with the right design choices.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Laundry Area in Your Garage

1. Plan the Layout

Start by deciding where your laundry zone will go:

  • Choose an area near existing plumbing if possible (to save on installation costs).
  • Leave enough clearance for washer and dryer doors to open fully.
  • Consider space for storage cabinets, a folding table, and a laundry sink if desired.

Pro Tip: Position the appliances along a wall to maximize floor space and make routing water and electrical lines easier.

2. Check Utilities and Connections

A functional laundry area needs:

  • Water supply lines for the washer.
  • Drainage for wastewater.
  • Electrical outlets (110–120V for washers and gas dryers, 240V for electric dryers).
  • Gas line (if using a gas dryer).
  • Ventilation for dryers to exhaust air outside.

If these utilities aren’t in place, you’ll need to hire a plumber or electrician to install them according to local building codes.

3. Prepare the Space

Before moving in appliances:

  • Clean the area thoroughly, removing dust, debris, or stored items.
  • Repair or paint walls to give the space a fresh look.
  • Seal concrete floors or add washable mats to protect from water damage.
  • Install adequate lighting so you can work comfortably at any time.

4. Install the Washer and Dryer

  1. Place the washer and dryer in position, leaving a few inches of clearance behind for hoses and cords.
  2. Connect the washer to hot and cold water supply lines using braided stainless steel hoses.
  3. Attach the washer drain hose securely to the standpipe or sink.
  4. Plug the washer into a grounded outlet.
  5. For the dryer:
    • Electric: Plug into a 240V outlet.
    • Gas: Connect to the gas line and plug into a 110–120V outlet.
  6. Attach and secure the vent hose, ensuring it exhausts outside.

5. Add Storage Solutions

An organized laundry area makes the process much easier:

  • Wall cabinets or shelves for detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning supplies.
  • Overhead racks for hanging clothes.
  • Pull-out hampers to sort laundry by color or fabric type.
  • Pegboards for organizing small tools like lint rollers and clothespins.

6. Create a Folding and Sorting Station

If space allows, add:

  • A countertop over front-loading appliances.
  • A dedicated folding table.
  • Rolling carts for moving laundry to and from other areas.

These additions make laundry day faster and more efficient.

7. Improve Comfort and Safety

Garages can be cold in winter and hot in summer. Improve comfort with:

  • Insulation in walls and doors.
  • Weatherstripping around the garage door to reduce drafts.
  • Portable heater or fan to regulate temperature.

Also, ensure:

  • GFCI outlets are used for safety near water sources.
  • Slip-resistant mats are placed in front of appliances.

8. Add Decorative Touches

Just because it’s in the garage doesn’t mean it can’t look nice:

  • Paint the walls a bright color to make the space feel inviting.
  • Hang laundry-themed art or signage.
  • Use matching storage bins for a cohesive look.

9. Maintain Your Laundry Area

Regular upkeep will keep it efficient and safe:

  • Clean dryer lint traps after every load.
  • Inspect water hoses for wear every 6 months.
  • Wipe down surfaces to prevent detergent build-up.
  • Sweep or mop the floor regularly to avoid dirt transfer to clothes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Skipping Ventilation for the Dryer
    • Problem: Moisture buildup and mold.
    • Solution: Always vent dryers outside the garage.
  2. Overlooking GFCI Protection
    • Problem: Increased risk of electrical shock.
    • Solution: Install GFCI outlets for all laundry equipment.
  3. Not Allowing Enough Clearance
    • Problem: Hoses and cords may be bent or damaged.
    • Solution: Leave space behind appliances for proper connections.
  4. Placing Laundry Too Close to Stored Chemicals
    • Problem: Risk of spills damaging clothes or appliances.
    • Solution: Keep laundry area separate from hazardous materials.
  5. Neglecting Temperature Control
    • Problem: Extreme hot or cold can affect appliance performance.
    • Solution: Insulate and seal the garage for year-round use.

Extra Garage Tips & Hacks

  • Add a Utility Sink: Perfect for pre-soaking clothes or cleaning up after messy projects.
  • Use Stackable Units: Saves floor space for smaller garages.
  • Install Task Lighting: Makes spotting stains and sorting laundry easier.
  • Related Tip: See our guide on how to create a dedicated hobby space in your garage if you want to combine laundry with other functions.

Conclusion

Learning how to create a laundry area in your garage gives you the flexibility to expand your home’s functionality without major renovations. With proper planning, utilities, and organization, you can enjoy a comfortable, efficient laundry space that keeps chores out of your main living areas.

Bookmark this guide to transform unused garage space into a stylish, productive laundry zone you’ll actually enjoy using.