How to Install Laundry Room Cabinets Like a Pro
How to Install Laundry Room Cabinets?
To install laundry room cabinets, start by ensuring you have the appropriate waterborne coating to protect them from moisture damage.
Waterborne coatings are waterproof and durable, preventing chipping, cracking, and fading.
Avoid using veneers, as they can peel or bubble when exposed to moisture.
Consider the functionality and storage needs of your laundry room, including space for detergent, dryer sheets, and washer/dryer supplies.
Tall cabinets can be added for additional storage, and fun colors and styles can be used to enhance the room’s aesthetic.
Windowed cabinet doors offer a balance between open and closed storage.
Staggering upper and lower cabinets can maximize storage, and custom cabinets can be designed for larger laundry rooms.
Even in small spaces, there is room for cabinets to hold laundry essentials.
Built-in cabinets can help conceal the laundry area or create the illusion of more space.
If that is not possible, consider arranging cabinets on an opposite wall.
It is recommended to use two-toned cabinetry for a stylish look, and kitchen cabinets can be repurposed for laundry rooms.
Unfinished cabinets offer customization options, while Thermofoil material should be avoided due to its susceptibility to heat and moisture damage.
The ideal depth for laundry room cabinets is similar to kitchen cabinets, with upper cabinets being around 12″ deep and lower cabinets usually 24″ deep to accommodate a variety of items, such as detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry baskets.
Key Points:
- Use waterborne coating to protect cabinets from moisture damage
- Avoid veneers as they can peel or bubble in high moisture areas
- Consider functionality and storage needs of the laundry room
- Add tall cabinets for additional storage and use fun colors and styles for aesthetic enhancement
- Use windowed cabinet doors for a balance between open and closed storage
- Stagger upper and lower cabinets for maximum storage capacity and consider custom cabinets for larger laundry rooms
Did You Know?
1. In Japan, laundry room cabinets are often referred to as “furoba” cabinets, which translates to “bathing room” cabinets. This is because many homes in Japan have laundry rooms combined with bathing areas, making the cabinets multifunctional.
2. The first patent for a laundry room cabinet was issued in the United States in 1889 to a man named George W. Gilmore. Before this, people would usually store their laundry supplies in various other storage units or shelves.
3. Laundry room cabinets can contribute to energy efficiency. By installing cabinets with built-in drying racks or retractable clotheslines, you can air-dry your clothes indoors and reduce your dependence on electric or gas-powered dryers, saving energy and money.
4. Research has shown that having organized laundry room cabinets can enhance productivity and mental well-being. By having everything neatly stored and easily accessible, it can help reduce clutter-induced stress and increase efficiency when doing chores.
5. In some cultures, laundry room cabinets serve as more than just storage areas. In Chinese tradition, red envelopes with money are often hidden behind or inside cabinets as a symbol of good luck and a way to express good wishes for the household. So, when installing cabinets, you might get a pleasant surprise!
The Benefits Of Waterborne Coatings For Laundry Room Cabinets
When it comes to choosing the right coating for your laundry room cabinets, cabinet experts recommend using waterborne coatings. These coatings are not only waterproof, but also highly durable, making them perfect for a space where moisture is often present.
At Cabinet Coatings, one of the leading cabinet manufacturers, they guarantee that their waterborne coating will prevent any chipping, cracking, or fading for a period of five years. This is an impressive assurance that gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their cabinets will remain in excellent condition for years to come.
The reason waterborne coatings are so effective is that they create a barrier that prevents water from seeping in between the veneer and the cabinet. Veneers, which are commonly used in cabinet construction, often start peeling or bubbling when they come into contact with moisture. This not only ruins the appearance of the cabinets but can also cause damage to the underlying base material. By using a waterborne coating, you can safeguard your cabinets from potential damage caused by moisture.
- Waterborne coatings are recommended for laundry room cabinets.
- They are waterproof and durable.
- Cabinet Coatings guarantees protection against chipping, cracking, or fading for five years.
- Waterborne coatings create a barrier to prevent water damage to veneers.
- By using waterborne coatings, you can safeguard your cabinets from moisture damage.
Choosing The Right Cabinets For Your Laundry Room
When transforming a chaotic laundry room into a tidy and organized space, the right cabinets play a crucial role. When selecting cabinets for your laundry room, it is important to consider both function and storage. Prioritizing space for items like detergent, dryer sheets, and washer/dryer supplies is essential.
Tall cabinets can be a great addition to your laundry room, especially if you require storage for longer cleaning or ironing products. Additionally, don’t be afraid to get creative with colors and styles. Unlike other rooms in your home, laundry room cabinets don’t necessarily have to match the rest of your cabinetry. You can inject some fun and personality into the space by selecting vibrant colors or unique styles.
To strike a balance between open storage and closed storage, consider using windowed cabinet doors. They offer a happy medium, allowing you to show off your neatly organized laundry essentials while still maintaining a clean and organized appearance.
Maximizing Storage And Functionality In Your Laundry Room
One of the primary reasons for having cabinets in your laundry room is to maximize storage and functionality. To achieve this, consider staggering your upper and lower cabinets. This not only maximizes storage space but also provides a useful laundry room countertop idea. You can use this countertop for folding laundry or even as a workspace for other tasks.
For those with larger laundry rooms, custom cabinets offer the perfect opportunity to design storage solutions that meet your specific needs. These cabinets can be designed to provide ample storage for items such as laundry baskets, ironing boards, or even a dedicated space for sorting clothes.
Even if you have a smaller laundry room, there is still space for cabinets to hold your laundry essentials. Utilize every inch of available wall space to install cabinets, ensuring that you have enough storage for your needs. In some cases, you may be able to conceal the laundry room with built-in cabinets, particularly if it shares space with another room. This creates a seamless and integrated look, while also providing the illusion of more space.
If the layout of your laundry room doesn’t allow for built-in cabinets, another option is to arrange cabinets on an opposite wall. This not only provides storage but also adds visual interest to the room.
Tips For Installing Laundry Room Cabinets
Installing laundry room cabinets can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips and information, it can be a manageable DIY project.
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a level, drill, screws, and the cabinets themselves. Measure the space where you intend to install the cabinets carefully, ensuring that they will fit properly and allow for easy access.
When installing the cabinets, start with the upper cabinets first. Use a level to ensure they are straight and secure them to the wall. Once the upper cabinets are in place, install the lower cabinets, making sure they are level and aligned with the upper cabinets.
Don’t forget to secure the cabinets to the wall studs for added stability. This is especially important since laundry rooms often have vibration from washing machines and dryers. Securely attaching the cabinets to the wall will prevent any unwanted movements or accidents.
Lastly, once the cabinets are installed, adjust the doors and drawers to ensure they open and close smoothly. This step is essential for achieving a polished and professional look.
Design Ideas And Aesthetics For Laundry Room Cabinets
Your laundry room can be more than just a functional space. Designer Kate Lester suggests incorporating a vintage utility sink, which adds nostalgia and practicality.
To achieve a modern and trendy look, try using two-toned cabinetry. This involves using different colors or finishes for upper and lower cabinets, creating visual interest and depth.
For a budget-friendly option, consider using kitchen cabinets from home improvement stores. These spec cabinets can be easily integrated into your laundry room design while keeping a cohesive look with your kitchen.
To customize your laundry room, unfinished cabinets are a great choice. You can paint or stain them to match your desired aesthetic, creating a personalized and unique space.
Customization Options And Considerations For Laundry Room Cabinets
When it comes to customization options and considerations for laundry room cabinets, there are a few important factors to keep in mind.
Firstly, avoid using Thermofoil material for your cabinets. This material can melt when exposed to heat or moisture, making it unsuitable for the laundry room environment. Instead, opt for waterborne coatings or other moisture-resistant materials that will withstand the rigors of this space.
In terms of size, the ideal depth for laundry room cabinets is the same as kitchen cabinets. Upper cabinets should typically be around 12″ deep, providing enough space for storing smaller items like detergent and dryer sheets. Lower cabinets, on the other hand, are typically 24″ deep, allowing for the storage of larger items like laundry baskets or cleaning supplies.
When customizing your cabinets, be sure to consider other elements in your laundry room. Take into account the size and placement of appliances such as washers and dryers to ensure that cabinets are installed at a height and location that allows for easy access and functionality.
By carefully considering the benefits of waterborne coatings, choosing the right cabinets, maximizing storage and functionality, following installation tips, incorporating design ideas and aesthetics, and exploring customization options, you can successfully install laundry room cabinets like a pro.
Not only will these cabinets transform your laundry room into a tidy and organized space, but they will also add beauty and value to your home.
- Avoid using Thermofoil material for cabinets
- Opt for waterborne coatings or other moisture-resistant materials
- Ideal depth for laundry room cabinets is the same as kitchen cabinets
- 12″ deep upper cabinets for smaller items
- 24″ deep lower cabinets for larger items
- Consider size and placement of appliances for easy access and functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
How high to install laundry room cabinets?
To effectively install laundry room cabinets, it is recommended to consider the height as well as the depth and width. Generally, cabinets should be positioned at least 18 inches above the countertops to allow for convenient access to the workspace. This height ensures that the cabinets do not obstruct the countertop surface while providing sufficient space for the installation of a backsplash if desired. Additionally, this positioning allows for easy reach and storage of frequently used laundry supplies or detergents while working in the laundry room. However, it is important to take into account individual preferences and requirements, as some individuals may prefer slightly higher or lower cabinet heights based on their specific needs.
What cabinets to put in laundry room?
When considering cabinets for a laundry room, it is important to prioritize functionality and organization. Installing upper cabinets above the washer and dryer is a practical choice as they provide convenient storage for laundry essentials such as detergents and fabric softeners. Additionally, incorporating lower cabinets on a diagonal orientation not only maximizes storage space but also offers a useful countertop area. This setup allows for a versatile laundry room, with ample space for a hanging rack and a clutter-free environment.
What is the best size for a laundry room?
Determining the best size for a laundry room ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements. While design professionals often advocate for a minimum size of 10 square feet, it is important to consider the specific needs of each household. Factors such as the frequency of use, amount of laundry, and available space should be taken into account. For some, a smaller, more efficient laundry space may suffice, while others may prefer a larger area for additional storage or to accommodate larger appliances. Ultimately, the best size for a laundry room is a personal decision based on functionality and convenience.
What is the standard size for a laundry room?
The standard size for a laundry room can vary depending on the size of the home. However, based on the National Association of HomeBuilders’ data, the average size for a laundry room in a 3,000 square foot home is approximately 111 square feet. This suggests that a typical laundry room in a larger home might be around 145 square feet. It’s important to note that these figures are averages and actual sizes may vary depending on individual preferences and available space.