How to design storage for large laundry appliances? (Laundry Room | Cabinetry, Storage, Appliances & Fixtures)

Designing storage for large laundry appliances is a critical component of creating a functional, organised, and efficient Sydney laundry room. Large appliances, such as full-sized washers, dryers, and combination washer-dryers, are common in family homes across the North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Mosman, and other residential areas. While these appliances offer the capacity to handle larger laundry loads, they also present unique challenges in terms of space, accessibility, and storage organisation. Properly designed storage ensures that laundry essentials are easily accessible, workflow is streamlined, and the overall space remains neat, safe, and visually appealing.

1. Understanding Large Laundry Appliances

Large laundry appliances typically include:

• Full-Sized Washing Machines: These machines handle higher capacity loads, which is essential for families in Sydney with children or frequent laundry needs.

• Full-Sized Dryers: Often placed adjacent to washers or in stackable arrangements, these appliances require sufficient surrounding space for heat dissipation and accessibility.

• Combination Washer-Dryers: These versatile units combine washing and drying functions, freeing up space for additional storage or folding areas.

• Commercial-Style or Heavy-Duty Machines: Some larger homes may even incorporate commercial-grade appliances for high-volume laundry.

Understanding the size, function, and operational requirements of these appliances is crucial for designing storage that complements them.

2. Cabinet Layout and Placement

Efficient placement of cabinets around large laundry appliances maximises space utilisation:

• Under-Bench Cabinets: Where a folding or workbench is incorporated next to appliances, under-bench storage provides convenient access to detergents, pods, cleaning supplies, and laundry accessories.

• Tall Vertical Cabinets: Perfect for homes with high ceilings, tall cabinets can store extra laundry baskets, linen, and bulk supplies, keeping them organised and out of the way. Adjustable shelving allows flexibility for large towels, bed linens, and other bulky items.

• Wall-Mounted Cabinets: Installed above washers and dryers, these cabinets store frequently used items within reach while preserving floor space. Open shelving can also be used for items that need to be accessed quickly, such as stain removers or everyday detergents.

• Adjacent Cabinets: Placing storage units alongside large appliances allows for a seamless workflow from washing to drying to folding.

Proper placement ensures that large appliances and storage coexist efficiently without crowding the laundry space, particularly in Sydney’s family homes.

3. Shelving and Drawer Design

The design of internal shelves and drawers is essential for organising items around large appliances:

• Adjustable Shelves: Accommodate items of varying sizes, from bulk detergent bottles to folded towels and linens. Adjustable shelving ensures adaptability for changing household needs.

• Pull-Out Shelves: Ideal for deep cabinets, these allow easy access to items at the back without the need for bending or reaching.

• Drawer Systems: Shallow drawers are perfect for small accessories such as detergent pods, dryer sheets, clothespins, and stain pens, while deeper drawers can store large laundry products or folded items.

• Dividers: Organise drawers efficiently, preventing items from mixing and making them easy to retrieve.

Thoughtful shelving and drawer design ensures that storage is both accessible and organised, enhancing the usability of large appliances.

4. Vertical and Overhead Storage

Maximising vertical space around large appliances increases storage capacity:

• Tall Cabinets: Provide space for items that are not used daily, such as extra linen, laundry baskets, or seasonal items.

• Overhead Cabinets: Positioned above appliances, these cabinets store detergents, stain removers, and other frequently used items. Proper installation ensures cabinets are secure and do not obstruct appliance access.

• Open Shelving: Can be combined with cabinets to provide quick access to everyday items while maintaining a clean and organised appearance.

Vertical and overhead storage ensures large appliances have sufficient operational space while maintaining easy access to laundry essentials.

5. Workflow and Accessibility

Storage around large laundry appliances should support an efficient workflow:

1. Sorting: Place pull-out hampers or baskets nearby for easy sorting of dirty laundry.

2. Washing: Keep detergents, pods, and stain removers within arm’s reach in under-bench or adjacent cabinets.

3. Drying: Store dryer sheets, fragrance beads, or laundry balls in cabinets close to the dryer.

4. Folding and Storage: Allocate a dedicated folding bench with under-bench drawers or shelves to sort and store freshly folded items.

An optimised workflow reduces the time and effort required for laundry tasks, which is particularly valuable for busy Sydney households.

6. Material Selection

Sydney’s climate, especially in coastal suburbs like Bondi, Manly, or Mosman, requires moisture-resistant and durable materials for cabinets around large appliances:

• Moisture-Resistant MDF: Ideal for under-bench and wall cabinets, preventing warping due to humidity.

• PVC or Thermofoil Panels: Provide excellent water resistance and are suitable for compact or high-use laundry spaces.

• High-Quality Laminates: Easy to clean and available in finishes that suit modern or traditional laundry aesthetics.

• Sealed Timber or Solid Timber: Offers a premium look for North Shore or Eastern Suburbs homes, with proper sealing to prevent moisture damage.

• Metal Frames: Stainless steel or powder-coated frames for pull-out drawers provide additional strength and durability.

Choosing durable materials ensures that storage solutions withstand frequent use, moisture, and heat generated by large appliances.

7. Ergonomics and Safety

Ergonomics are critical when designing storage around large appliances:

• Height Considerations: Place frequently used items at waist or shoulder height to reduce bending and stretching.

• Full-Extension Slides: Allow easy access to drawers and shelves, particularly in deep cabinets.

• Soft-Close Mechanisms: Protect cabinet contents and prevent damage from frequent opening and closing.

• Clear Appliance Access: Ensure cabinets do not obstruct washing machine and dryer doors, controls, or ventilation.

Proper ergonomics ensures comfort, accessibility, and safety in the laundry space.

8. Aesthetic Integration

Storage should complement the overall design of the Sydney laundry:

• Neutral Colour Schemes: Whites, greys, or timber tones create a sense of openness and cohesiveness.

• Handleless Designs or Push-to-Open Cabinets: Maintain a sleek, modern look without compromising functionality.

• Coordinated Cabinetry: Ensure under-bench, tall, and overhead cabinets integrate seamlessly with appliances and surrounding furniture.

• Organised Accessories: Use baskets, bins, and dividers to maintain a tidy, visually appealing space.

Well-designed aesthetics enhance both functionality and visual appeal, making the laundry a pleasant and efficient space.

9. Sydney-Specific Considerations

Sydney homes present unique storage challenges for large laundry appliances:

• Space Constraints: Even in larger homes, laundry areas may be narrow, requiring vertical, modular, or custom storage solutions.

• High Humidity and Coastal Climate: Properties near Sydney’s beaches require moisture-resistant cabinetry to prevent warping, mildew, or corrosion.

• Family Households: Homes in the North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, and Mosman often need multiple drawers, pull-out shelves, and adjacent folding areas to handle high laundry volumes.

• Frequent Use: Busy family homes or multi-person households demand durable, easy-to-clean storage systems that withstand daily use.

Customised storage solutions address these challenges while maintaining practicality, efficiency, and longevity.

10. Professional Design and Installation

Engaging a licensed Sydney renovator ensures storage around large laundry appliances is functional, durable, and stylish:

• Custom sizing to fit irregular or tight spaces

• Integration of pull-out trays, adjustable shelving, and under-bench storage

• Use of moisture- and heat-resistant materials suitable for Sydney’s climate

• Seamless workflow integration with washers, dryers, folding benches, and other cabinetry

Professional design guarantees that storage solutions remain long-lasting, ergonomic, and visually cohesive.

11. Maintenance Tips

Maintaining storage around large appliances is straightforward but essential:

• Regularly wipe down shelves, drawers, and cabinet surfaces to prevent detergent residue or dust buildup

• Inspect pull-out mechanisms and soft-close slides for smooth operation

• Ensure the surrounding area remains dry to prevent moisture damage

• Replace worn dividers, baskets, or drawer inserts to maintain organisation

Routine maintenance preserves the functionality, appearance, and longevity of storage solutions.

Summary

Designing storage for large laundry appliances is key to creating a functional, organised, and visually appealing Sydney laundry room. Proper placement of under-bench, tall, adjacent, and overhead cabinets ensures accessibility, efficient workflow, and optimal use of available space. Features such as pull-out drawers, adjustable shelving, labelled compartments, and ergonomic layouts support busy households, particularly in family homes across the North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Mosman, and other Sydney suburbs. Durable, moisture-resistant materials and coordinated aesthetics enhance usability, protect against wear, and maintain a stylish and efficient laundry space.

For expert guidance on designing storage for large laundry appliances, cabinetry, and other Sydney laundry renovations, visit www.mb9.com.au to explore professional services, high-quality materials, and tailored solutions that transform your laundry into a practical and visually appealing space.