A well-designed laundry room should be both functional and stylish, with shelves and cabinets playing a crucial role in keeping the space organized.
In our recent laundry room renovation in Toronto, we focused on adding custom cabinetry and floating shelves to maximize storage space while enhancing the overall design.
Whether you have a small laundry room or a dedicated laundry space, the right combination of shelves and cabinets can make everyday tasks more convenient.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the benefits, selection process, and installation tips for laundry room storage solutions.
1. Why Laundry Room Shelves and Cabinets Matter
Cabinets and shelves serve both practical and aesthetic purposes in a laundry area:
- Storage space – Keep detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning supplies organized.
- Clutter-free look – Conceal clutter with upper cabinets and open shelving.
- Easy access – Frequently used items can be stored on floating shelves for quick retrieval.
- Enhanced design – A combination of white oak base cabinets, painted MDF upper cabinets, and antique brass hardware creates a sophisticated look.
For this renovation, we focused on a balanced mix of closed cabinetry for hidden storage and open shelves for decorative elements.
2. Choosing the Right Cabinets and Shelves
During our project with Ayesha, we explored different options to find the best fit for her laundry space. Here’s what we considered:
Key Factors in Selecting Laundry Room Shelves and Cabinets:
✔️ Cabinet Material: We opted for painted MDF upper cabinets for a modern, clean finish and white oak base cabinets for warmth and durability.
✔️ Open vs. Closed Storage: Floating shelves were added above the wall-mounted sink to keep everyday items accessible.
✔️ Hardware Finish: Antique brass hardware provided a timeless touch that complemented the overall aesthetic.
✔️ Space Optimization: Taller upper cabinets were installed to take advantage of vertical space.
✔️ Coordination with Other Elements: The shelving and cabinetry worked seamlessly with the checkerboard vinyl flooring, wall-mounted faucet, and laundry room wallpaper.
We used mood boards and 3D renderings to ensure the design would flow well before finalizing selections.
3. Installation Process: Step by Step
Once we finalized the design, we moved forward with the installation. Here’s how we did it:
Step 1: Preparing the Space
- Removed outdated shelving and builder-grade cabinetry.
- Marked the wall for proper cabinet and shelf placement.
Step 2: Installing the Cabinets
- Secured white oak base cabinets to provide storage space for bulkier items.
- Mounted painted MDF upper cabinets to create a streamlined look.
- Installed soft-close hinges for ease of use.
Step 3: Installing Floating Shelves
- Anchored floating shelves above the wall-mounted sink for accessibility.
- Used brass brackets to tie in with the antique brass hardware.
- Styled the shelves with cleaning supplies, baskets, and decorative items.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Aligned all elements with the laundry room wallpaper and lighting fixture.
- Ensured even spacing between shelves for a clean, symmetrical design.
This installation took two business days, resulting in a functional and aesthetically pleasing laundry space.
4. Client Feedback and Transformation
The end result was a beautifully organized laundry room with ample storage space. Ayesha was thrilled with how everything came together:
“I love how practical and stylish my laundry room looks now! The cabinets keep everything neat, and the shelves make the space feel open and inviting.”
By combining floating shelves with closed cabinetry, we created a balanced, organized space that was both efficient and visually appealing.
5. Tips for Choosing Laundry Room Shelves and Cabinets
✔️ Use a mix of open and closed storage – Upper cabinets keep essentials hidden, while floating shelves add decor.
✔️ Optimize vertical space – Tall cabinets and floating shelves make the most of every inch.
✔️ Choose durable materials – White oak and painted MDF offer both longevity and beauty.
✔️ Consider hardware finishes – Antique brass, matte black, or stainless steel can enhance your design.
✔️ Plan ahead with 3D renderings – Visualizing the space before installation ensures a cohesive design.
Interested in optimizing your own laundry space? Explore our custom cabinetry solutions for small spaces.
6. Conclusion
Installing the right laundry room shelves and cabinets can transform any laundry space into a functional and stylish area.
Whether you’re working with a small laundry room or have a larger space, a well-planned combination of storage solutions can enhance both usability and design.
📩 Thinking about upgrading your laundry room storage? Contact us today for a free quote and expert advice! 📲 Follow us on social media and check out our latest Instagram stories for more inspiration!
See the Stunning Before & After Photos of This Laundry Room Transformation!
FAQ: Common Questions About Laundry Room Shelves and Cabinets
1. What is the best material for laundry room cabinets?
Painted MDF for upper cabinets and white oak for base cabinets provide a durable and stylish combination.
2. How do I maximize storage space in a small laundry room?
Using tall cabinets, floating shelves, and wall-mounted storage helps optimize every inch of your laundry space.
3. Should I install open shelves or closed cabinets in my laundry room?
A mix of both works best—closed cabinets conceal clutter, while floating shelves offer easy access and decorative opportunities.
4. What hardware finish works well with laundry cabinets?
Antique brass, Polish Chrome, or brushed nickel can complement different cabinet colors and finishes.
5. Where should I install floating shelves in my laundry room?
Above the wall-mounted sink, beside cabinets, or near the washing machine for accessibility and design balance.
6. Can I install cabinets above my washing machine?
Yes! Upper cabinets above the washer and dryer provide additional storage without taking up extra space.
7. What are the benefits of using white oak for cabinets?
White oak is durable, moisture-resistant, and adds warmth to the overall design of a laundry room.
8. How do I style floating shelves in my laundry room?
Use decorative baskets, glass jars for detergents, plants, and framed art for a functional yet stylish look.
9. What type of shelving brackets should I use?
Antique Brass can add a decorative element while ensuring support.
10. Should I match my laundry room cabinets with kitchen cabinets?
It depends on your home’s style, but coordinating hardware finishes and materials can create a cohesive look.
What kind of cabinets to use in a laundry room?
Durable and moisture-resistant materials work best. We recommend painted MDF for uppers (easy to clean, smooth finish) and white oak or laminate for base cabinets (strong and water-resistant). Custom cabinets let you tailor the size and storage exactly to your needs.
Does IKEA have a laundry room planner?
Yes, IKEA offers an online planner tool you can use to design laundry room layouts with their cabinets. It’s a great place to start if you’re DIYing. But if you want a built-in, high-end look that fits your space perfectly, custom cabinetry is the way to go.
What do you put on a shelf in a laundry room?
Open shelves are great for storing:
- Laundry detergent and supplies
- Baskets for sorting clothes
- Extra towels or cleaning products
- Small plants or decor to soften the space
Just make sure it’s functional and not too cluttered.
Should cabinets go to the ceiling in a laundry room?
Yes—tall cabinets make the most of your space, especially in smaller rooms. They give you more storage and reduce dust build-up on top. We always try to take cabinets to the ceiling for a clean, built-in look and maximum functionality.
