How to plan storage for pet washing or cleaning stations? (Laundry Room | Cabinetry, Storage, Appliances & Fixtures)

Pet owners in Sydney know that managing washing, cleaning, and grooming for dogs, cats, or other small animals can quickly overwhelm a laundry if there’s no proper planning. Whether you live in a compact apartment in Surry Hills or Zetland, a terrace house in Newtown, or a family home in Mosman or Turramurra, integrating a pet washing station into your laundry requires careful consideration of workflow, cabinetry, storage, and safety.

A well-designed pet washing station not only keeps your laundry organised but also makes cleaning your pets stress-free, efficient, and hygienic. This guide covers strategies, layout ideas, and storage solutions for multi-functional pet-friendly laundry spaces.

1. Assess Your Pet Washing and Cleaning Needs

Before designing a station, consider:

• Type and size of pets: Large dogs need higher tubs or walk-in washing solutions, while small dogs or cats can use smaller basins or portable tubs.

• Frequency of washing: Daily cleaning for active dogs versus occasional grooming.

• Pet supplies: Shampoos, brushes, towels, dryers, leashes, and pet-safe cleaning products.

• Household size: Multi-pet households require more storage space and multiple cleaning tools.

In compact apartments in Zetland or Redfern, small foldable tubs and wall-mounted storage can accommodate one or two pets efficiently. In family homes in Mosman, Lane Cove, or North Shore suburbs, larger integrated pet washing stations with dedicated storage zones are ideal.

2. Choose the Right Washing Station Design

The washing station layout is key for small and large laundries:

A. Built-In Pet Bath

• Integrated into cabinetry with waterproof panels.

• Can include a pull-out step for smaller pets.

• Keeps water contained and reduces mess in surrounding areas.

• Ideal for homes in Mosman or Turramurra, where space permits larger built-in tubs.

B. Foldable or Portable Tubs

• Perfect for apartments in Surry Hills or Redfern, where space is limited.

• Can be folded or stored in a dedicated cabinet when not in use.

• Allows flexibility in smaller laundry rooms without sacrificing workflow.

C. Pull-Out Tubs

• Slide-out basin installed under a counter for occasional pet washing.

• Can double as a utility sink for other cleaning tasks.

• Works well in Newtown terraces or compact apartments.

3. Plan Storage for Pet Cleaning Supplies

Efficient storage keeps cleaning products and tools accessible while maintaining tidiness and safety:

• Cabinetry: Moisture-resistant cabinets for shampoos, sprays, and grooming products.

• Pull-out drawers: Store brushes, combs, nail clippers, and small towels.

• Vertical shelving: Maximise wall height for storing bulk supplies like pet food or extra towels.

• Hooks or rods: Hang leashes, towels, and grooming accessories.

In high-density apartments in Zetland and Waterloo, vertical and pull-out storage is critical for keeping everything organised in limited space.

4. Workflow Considerations

Design your laundry to reduce movement and mess during pet washing:

1. Deposit area: Have a nearby mat or towel basket for wet pets exiting the washing station.

2. Washing zone: Keep the tub or basin within arm’s reach of cleaning products.

3. Drying zone: Include a counter or cabinet to hold towels, dryers, or pet grooming equipment.

4. Storage zone: Dedicate shelves, drawers, or pull-out trays for grooming and cleaning supplies.

For family homes in Mosman, Lane Cove, or North Shore, having a clear workflow allows multiple pets or family members to use the laundry efficiently.

5. Use Durable, Waterproof Materials

Pet washing areas are exposed to water and moisture daily, so durability is key:

• Cabinetry: Moisture-resistant MDF, marine-grade plywood, or laminated timber.

• Countertops: Stone, quartz, or sealed laminate surfaces for easy cleaning.

• Backsplash: Tiled or waterproof panels to protect walls.

• Hardware: Stainless steel handles and hinges that resist corrosion.

In Turramurra and Ryde family homes, investing in durable materials ensures long-lasting performance even with frequent use.

6. Incorporate Multi-Purpose Storage Solutions

Pet washing stations can double as utility areas to maximise small laundry spaces:

• Pull-out trays or drawers: Store towels, small appliances, or cleaning tools.

• Cabinet above the tub: For shampoos, sprays, and grooming products.

• Under-counter storage: Use baskets or bins for larger items like pet carriers or towels.

• Hooks or wall racks: Hang drying towels or leashes out of the way.

In compact apartments in Surry Hills or Zetland, multi-purpose storage ensures no inch of space is wasted while keeping pet supplies accessible.

7. Safety and Accessibility Considerations

Safety is paramount for both pets and family members:

• Keep sharp tools (nail clippers, scissors) out of children’s reach.

• Ensure tubs or basins are at a comfortable height to reduce strain during washing.

• Install non-slip mats or textured surfaces inside the tub to prevent slips.

• Proper ventilation prevents dampness and reduces unpleasant odors.

In family homes across Mosman, Vaucluse, or Lane Cove, safety features are critical when multiple pets or children are present in the laundry.

8. Style and Aesthetic Integration

Even a functional pet washing station can look stylish:

• Matching cabinetry: Create a seamless look with the rest of the laundry.

• Concealed storage: Hide pet products behind cabinet doors for a clean appearance.

• Colour coordination: Use neutral or complementary tones to blend with appliances and cabinetry.

In Mosman, North Shore, or Vaucluse homes, a well-styled laundry can accommodate pets without compromising on design.

9. Maximise Small Space Efficiency

In apartments or small homes:

• Wall-mounted foldable tubs: Save floor space.

• Vertical shelving: Keeps products off counters.

• Pull-out trays: For temporary workspace or drying pets.

• Under-counter bins: Hide towels and grooming tools.

In Zetland, Waterloo, or Redfern apartments, these strategies allow a small laundry to function as a multi-purpose pet-friendly hub.

10. When to Hire a Professional Renovator

Installing a pet washing station in a small or compact laundry can be challenging:

• Improper layout can cause water damage or clutter.

• Professionals can design custom cabinetry, pull-out tubs, vertical storage, and ergonomic layouts.

• MB9 Australia Pty Ltd specialises in laundry, kitchen, bathroom, and full-home renovations, providing tailored solutions for Sydney homes of all sizes.

A professional ensures your pet washing station is efficient, safe, and visually integrated with the rest of your laundry.

11. Local Inspiration for Sydney Homes

• Redfern & Surry Hills apartments: Foldable tubs, pull-out trays, and wall-mounted storage for small pets.

• Zetland & Waterloo: Vertical shelving and multi-purpose pull-out drawers for compact multi-functional spaces.

• Mosman & Lane Cove: Built-in pet washing stations with under-counter storage and ergonomic workflow zones.

• Turramurra & Ryde: Spacious family laundries with dedicated pet washing and cleaning stations integrated with folding and drying zones.

Local layout, lifestyle, and household needs influence the most effective design for a pet-friendly laundry.

Conclusion

Planning storage for pet washing and cleaning stations transforms a Sydney laundry into a functional, organised, and pet-friendly space. By integrating built-in or foldable tubs, pull-out cabinetry, vertical shelving, durable materials, and ergonomic workflows, even small laundries can handle pet care efficiently while remaining stylish and clutter-free.

Whether your home is a compact Surry Hills apartment, a Newtown terrace, or a family home in Mosman or Turramurra, professional design ensures your laundry space is safe, functional, and visually appealing for pets and humans alike.

For more information about laundry, kitchen, bathroom, and house renovation services in Sydney, visit www.mb9.com.au to explore how MB9 Australia Pty Ltd can transform your home.