15 Easy Laundry Room Storage Ideas for Small Homes on a Budget

I took on this Laundry Room Storage project knowing it wouldn’t be easy, especially with limited space to work with. Making do with a split-level basement forced me to think vertically and stay intentional about every inch. This Laundry Room Storage setup instantly changed how the room feels. Instead of clutter piling up, everything finally has a place, and that alone made the space feel calmer and more usable.

What surprised me most about this Laundry Room Storage update is how small details made such a big difference. Adding a sink turned out to be a game-changer for everyday tasks, and narrow organizers helped solve awkward gaps that were previously wasted space. The room feels balanced now, similar to how my earlier Laundry Area Makeover focused on making function feel natural rather than forced. I actually enjoy being in here, which is something I never expected to say about a laundry room.

This Laundry Room Storage refresh completely changed my routine. I used to dread laundry and let it pile up, but now the clean layout and organized zones make the process feel manageable and even satisfying. Everything is visible, easy to reach, and visually calm, proving that smart Laundry Room Storage isn’t just about shelves and cabinets, it’s about creating a space that supports how you live every day.

Why you need to choose these Laundry Room Storage Ideas

Creating an organized laundry room not only makes daily chores more efficient but also transforms the space into a functional and pleasant area of your home. With smart storage solutions, you can keep detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry baskets neatly arranged, reduce clutter, and even free up extra space for folding or ironing, making laundry tasks feel less like a chore and more manageable.

Some helpful tips to consider

When planning your laundry room storage, focus on maximizing vertical space with shelves or cabinets, using baskets or bins to group similar items, and keeping frequently used products within easy reach. Incorporating hooks for hanging and clear labeling can further streamline your routine, while maintaining a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment that makes the room both practical and inviting.

15. Over-the-Door Organizers

Using over-the-door organizers is a fantastic way to maximize space in small homes. These handy solutions turn unused door space into storage for detergents, dryer sheets, or cleaning supplies. With a simple installation, you can keep everything within easy reach while keeping your laundry room tidy. Over-the-door organizers are budget-friendly and versatile, making them perfect for small homes on a budget. You can find options with pockets, hooks, or even adjustable shelves, allowing you to customize storage based on your laundry room needs.

I’ve used over-the-door organizers that cost anywhere from $15–$45, and for the price, they’re hard to beat. I usually repurpose a shoe organizer before buying something new, which saves money and works just as well. My biggest tip is to only store lightweight items—dryer sheets, microfiber cloths, small sprays—so the door doesn’t strain over time. Personally, I prefer neutral fabric versions over plastic because they look less cluttered. The mistake I made early on was overstuffing every pocket, which made the door bulky and hard to close.

14. Floating Shelves

Floating shelves provide stylish, practical storage without taking up floor space. Installing a few shelves above your washer and dryer creates spots for baskets, detergent bottles, and decorative items. These shelves make your laundry room look organized while staying on budget. In small homes, floating shelves are particularly helpful because they free up cabinets for other essentials. They’re easy to install and can be painted or stained to match your room’s decor. Adding floating shelves is a simple upgrade that maximizes storage in a laundry room for small homes on a budget.
Floating shelves typically cost me around $40–$150 depending on wood type and brackets, but installing them myself keeps the total down. I’ve learned to buy simple lumber and stain it instead of splurging on pre-finished pieces. If you want to save, check for leftover wood cuts at hardware stores. I strongly recommend anchoring into studs—skipping that step is a common mistake that leads to sagging shelves. I also think fewer, well-styled shelves look far better than cramming the wall with too many.

13. Stackable Bins

Stackable bins are a clever way to keep laundry supplies neat and compact. These bins can hold cleaning products, laundry pods, or even kids’ items and can be stacked to save precious floor space. In small homes on a budget, using stackable bins allows you to customize storage according to your room size. Clear bins make it easy to see what’s inside, while labeled options help maintain order. You can place them on shelves, in cabinets, or beside your washer and dryer. Stackable bins are a flexible, cost-effective solution for any laundry room storage in small homes.

I usually budget $25–$80 for stackable bins, depending on size and quality. Clear plastic is the most affordable option, and buying multi-packs saves more than purchasing individually. I personally like labeling the front instead of the lid so I can see everything at a glance. My advice is to measure shelf height before buying—bins that are too tall waste vertical space. One mistake I’ve made is choosing flimsy bins that crack after a year; sturdier plastic is worth the small extra cost.

12. Wall-Mounted Drying Racks

Wall-mounted drying racks are ideal for small homes that lack a dedicated drying space. These racks fold against the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. They’re perfect for air-drying delicates or small loads without needing a bulky drying stand. For laundry room storage in small homes on a budget, wall-mounted racks also provide a dual function as an organizational tool, keeping items off counters and floors. They are easy to install and can support multiple items at once, making them an efficient, practical addition to your laundry area.

A good wall-mounted drying rack runs about $40–$130, and it has saved me money by reducing dryer use. I installed mine myself, which avoided labor costs and kept the project affordable. If you’re trying to stay under budget, go with a simple wood design instead of decorative metal. I recommend mounting it where airflow is decent to prevent damp smells. The mistake I see most often is installing it too low, which makes longer items drag or wrinkle.

11. Pegboards

Pegboards are a versatile solution for creating vertical storage. You can hang baskets, hooks, and small shelves to hold laundry tools, cleaning products, or ironing supplies. In small homes on a budget, pegboards help utilize wall space efficiently while keeping items visible and accessible. They can be painted to match your laundry room’s style and rearranged whenever your storage needs change. Using a pegboard ensures that even the tiniest laundry rooms feel organized without spending a lot. This smart and flexible solution is perfect for optimizing storage in small homes on a budget.
My pegboard setup cost roughly $30–$100 including hooks and paint, and it’s one of the most flexible systems I’ve used. Buying hook assortments online saved me quite a bit compared to hardware store pricing. I always sketch out the layout first to avoid unnecessary holes. Personally, I prefer painting the pegboard the same color as the wall for a cleaner look. A common mistake is cluttering it with too many tiny tools, which makes it look busier than it needs to be.

10. Rolling Carts

Rolling carts offer portable storage that can move wherever you need it. They are great for holding detergents, dryer sheets, and folded laundry. In small homes on a budget, rolling carts help keep items contained and organized while remaining accessible. You can tuck a slim cart between your washer and dryer or in a corner when not in use. Many carts have multiple tiers, giving you extra storage space without sacrificing floor room. Their mobility makes them an easy, budget-friendly addition to any laundry room storage plan for small homes.

I’ve purchased rolling carts in the $25–$70 range, and they’re perfect when I don’t want permanent fixtures. I recommend looking for metal frames—they’re sturdier and last longer. To save money, I often upgrade basic carts with better baskets instead of buying premium versions. I personally keep heavier items on the bottom tier for stability. One mistake people make is not measuring narrow gaps carefully, which leads to carts that don’t quite fit.

9. Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets add both charm and functionality to your laundry room. Mount them on walls or ceilings to store lightweight items like laundry pods, clothespins, or small towels. In small homes on a budget, hanging baskets free up countertop and cabinet space, making your laundry room feel larger and more organized. They come in various materials like wire, wicker, or fabric, offering flexibility in style and storage. Installing hanging baskets is simple, inexpensive, and creates a visually appealing solution for laundry room storage in small homes.

Hanging baskets usually cost me between $20–$75 depending on material, and I love the visual texture they add. I’ve found that lightweight wire options are the most budget-friendly and easiest to install. If you’re watching spending, buy them in sets instead of individually. I recommend limiting them to lightweight items to avoid stress on anchors. The mistake I’ve seen is hanging them too low, which interferes with headroom in tighter spaces.

8. Magnetic Storage Solutions

Magnetic storage options are clever ways to utilize metal surfaces in your laundry room. Attach magnetic bins or containers to the side of your washer, dryer, or metal shelves to hold small items like pins, clips, or brushes. In small homes on a budget, magnetic storage keeps essentials within reach without cluttering counters. This space-saving idea is inexpensive and can easily be rearranged as your storage needs change. Magnetic solutions are perfect for keeping a laundry room tidy, organized, and efficient, even in the smallest of homes.

This upgrade can be as little as $10–$40, and it’s one of the easiest ways to use wasted space. I prefer magnetic containers over adhesive ones because they’re removable and stronger. Cleaning the surface before attaching anything makes a big difference in how long it holds. Personally, I keep only small, frequently used tools there so it doesn’t look cluttered. A common mistake is trusting weak magnets with heavier objects, which almost always fall eventually.

7. Hanging Rods

Installing a hanging rod provides a convenient place to hang clothes straight from the washer, reducing wrinkles and keeping items off surfaces. In small homes on a budget, a simple rod above your washer and dryer can double as storage for hangers or frequently worn clothes. Hanging rods are easy to install and use vertical space that would otherwise go unused. They’re perfect for small laundry rooms, helping to maintain organization and efficiency. A hanging rod is an essential and inexpensive addition to any laundry room storage plan in small homes.
Installing a hanging rod usually costs $15–$60, and it instantly improves workflow. I tested placement with a temporary tension rod before drilling permanent brackets, which saved me from patching mistakes. If you’re trying to cut costs, basic metal rods work just as well as decorative ones. I recommend placing it directly near the dryer for convenience. The mistake I’ve seen is installing a rod that can’t support wet garments, causing it to bow in the middle.

6. Fold-Down Ironing Boards

Fold-down ironing boards save both space and money. These boards attach to the wall and fold up when not in use, freeing up floor space in small laundry rooms. In small homes on a budget, this solution is perfect for maintaining a clean, organized laundry area without sacrificing function. Many fold-down boards include storage shelves or compartments for ironing supplies, combining two purposes in one. Installing a fold-down ironing board is simple and adds practical value, making it a smart investment for maximizing laundry room storage in small homes.

Fold-down ironing boards range from $70–$200, but I’ve seen simpler versions closer to the lower end that work perfectly. Installing it myself saved a surprising amount in labor fees. If you’re budgeting tightly, choose one without built-in cabinetry and add small shelves separately. I personally think wall-mounted versions look cleaner than bulky freestanding boards. The common mistake is mounting it without considering swing clearance, which can make it awkward to use.

5. Multi-Purpose Cabinets

Multi-purpose cabinets provide closed storage for detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry accessories. In small homes on a budget, these cabinets help hide clutter while keeping items organized. You can choose slim or corner cabinets to fit tight spaces, making the most of limited square footage. Some cabinets even come with built-in shelves or pull-out drawers for added convenience. Multi-purpose cabinets are an excellent investment for laundry room storage in small homes, offering style, functionality, and a tidy appearance without breaking the budget.

A slim cabinet can cost anywhere from $90–$300 depending on quality, and I’ve found mid-range options give the best balance. I saved money by swapping out basic knobs for more stylish hardware instead of buying a high-end unit. My advice is to measure depth carefully—too deep and it crowds the room. I personally prefer adjustable shelves for flexibility over fixed ones. The mistake I made once was choosing a cabinet that visually overpowered the space.

4. Under-Sink Storage

If your laundry room has a sink, under-sink storage is a hidden gem. Adding a small cabinet, basket, or shelf under the sink creates a convenient spot for detergents, brushes, and cleaning supplies. In small homes on a budget, this space is often underutilized, making it perfect for discreet storage. Organizing under the sink reduces countertop clutter and keeps essentials within easy reach. With a few inexpensive containers or racks, under-sink storage can dramatically improve your laundry room storage in small homes while staying stylish and functional.

Under-sink organizers usually cost me around $20–$75 depending on configuration. I like using stackable pull-out bins instead of custom cabinetry to keep costs low. If you want to save money, tension rods and small baskets can create sections without buying specialty systems. I recommend using moisture-resistant materials since leaks can happen. A mistake I’ve seen is ignoring plumbing clearance, which makes certain organizers impossible to fit.

3. Wire Baskets

Wire baskets are inexpensive, versatile storage options for laundry rooms. They can hold towels, clothes, or cleaning supplies, keeping everything accessible yet organized. In small homes on a budget, wire baskets can be stacked, mounted on walls, or placed in cabinets, offering flexibility in tight spaces. Their open design makes it easy to see the contents, which reduces the time spent searching for items. Wire baskets add a rustic, modern touch to your laundry room while serving as a functional and affordable storage solution in small homes.

Wire baskets typically run $15–$60, and they’re one of my favorite affordable storage pieces. Buying them in sets or during seasonal sales keeps costs manageable. I personally line them with simple fabric if I’m storing smaller items so nothing falls through. I recommend sticking to one finish—mixing too many metals can look chaotic. The mistake people make is overcrowding them, which makes even open storage look messy.

2. Slim Rolling Hampers

Slim rolling hampers are perfect for small laundry rooms, offering mobile storage without taking up much space. You can roll them between rooms or tuck them into corners when not in use. In small homes on a budget, these hampers help organize dirty laundry efficiently while keeping the area neat. Many models have multiple compartments for sorting whites, colors, and delicates. Their compact size and mobility make them a smart, practical addition to any laundry room storage setup in small homes.

Slim rolling hampers cost about $30–$100 depending on compartments, and I think they’re worth it for organization alone. I saved money by choosing a basic frame and adding labeled laundry bags myself. I highly recommend wheels that lock so it doesn’t shift around unexpectedly. Personally, I prefer divided hampers to avoid sorting later. A common mistake is buying one that’s too tall, which can block cabinets or shelving.

1. DIY Crate Shelves

DIY crate shelves are a fun, budget-friendly way to add storage to your laundry room. Wooden crates can be stacked, mounted, or combined to create custom shelving for detergents, towels, or baskets. In small homes on a budget, this DIY approach maximizes vertical space while giving your laundry room a rustic, personalized look. Crate shelves are easy to assemble, versatile, and customizable to fit your specific storage needs. With minimal investment, DIY crate shelves provide a stylish, functional solution for laundry room storage in small homes.

DIY crate shelves can cost as little as $40–$120 depending on wood and finish, and building them myself saved hundreds compared to custom shelving. I often look for secondhand wooden crates or unfinished ones I can stain. My tip is to secure them firmly to the wall—stacking alone isn’t enough for safety. I personally love the warmth wood adds compared to plain laminate. The mistake I see most is skipping sanding and sealing, which leaves them looking rough and unfinished over time.

Conclusion

Optimizing laundry room storage in small homes on a budget is all about smart, creative solutions. From over-the-door organizers to DIY crate shelves, each idea helps maximize space while keeping your laundry area organized and functional. By incorporating these tips, you can create a stylish, practical laundry room without overspending. Keep experimenting with storage ideas that suit your space, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more tips and inspiration on laundry room storage for small homes on a budget!