Stone Benchtops Direct

Space-Saving Ideas When Adding a Laundry Bench

Jul 15, 2024 | laundry

The laundry room is evolving from a purely functional space into an area where style meets efficiency. With urban living becoming more prevalent and dwellings getting smaller, maximising every square inch of your laundry area is crucial.

At Stone Benchtops Direct, we understand that adding a laundry bench can revolutionise your utility room, making it more practical and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some innovative, space-saving ideas for incorporating a laundry bench into your home.

The Fold-Down Laundry Bench

The fold-down laundry bench is one of the most ingenious solutions for small spaces. This type of bench can be mounted on the wall, and when not in use, it can be folded up, freeing up valuable floor space. It’s perfect for small flats or homes with a compact laundry area.

Opt for a durable material like stone to ensure longevity and ease of cleaning. When installing a fold-down bench, ensure the wall is strong enough to support the bench and any items placed on it. Use high-quality hinges and supports to handle the weight, and consider a sleek, minimalist design to blend seamlessly with your laundry room decor.

Multi-Level Benchtops for Laundry

A multi-level benchtop for laundry can provide various work surfaces at different heights, catering to different tasks. For instance, a higher surface for folding clothes and a lower one for sorting laundry. This setup makes your workflow more efficient and maximises vertical space.

For added visual interest, use contrasting colours or materials for each level. Integrate storage solutions within the different levels to keep essentials like detergents and fabric softeners close at hand, and consider rounded edges to avoid accidents in a bustling laundry room.

Incorporate Storage Solutions

Adding a laundry bench is an excellent opportunity to incorporate additional storage solutions. Built-in cabinets, drawers, and shelves under the bench make your laundry room look organised and free up space for other activities.

Deep drawers are ideal for storing bulky items like detergent containers and laundry baskets, while shallow drawers can hold smaller items such as clothespins and dryer sheets. Open shelving can be used for frequently used items or decorative elements to add a personal touch to your laundry space.

Utilise Corners and Nooks

Often, corners and nooks in a laundry room go underutilised. Installing a custom-shaped laundry bench to fit these spaces can make a significant difference. Corner benches can be used for folding, sorting, or even as a mini workspace.

To ensure the bench fits perfectly, measure the space accurately. Use lighter colours or reflective materials to brighten the corner, and consider installing a corner sink to maximise functionality.

Add a Rolling Cart

A rolling cart can serve as an extension of your laundry bench. It can be easily tucked away under the bench when not in use and pulled out when you need additional workspace or storage. Choose a cart with locking wheels for stability.

Look for carts with multiple shelves for organising laundry supplies and a sturdy, flat surface for folding clothes or placing laundry baskets. Hooks or bars on the sides can be used for hanging items like cleaning brushes or towels.

Install Overhead Cabinets

Consider installing overhead cabinets above your laundry bench to free up counter space. These cabinets can store less frequently used items, keeping them out of sight but still accessible, thus leaving your laundry benchtop clear for daily tasks.

For a more spacious feel, use glass doors to give the illusion of more space and make it easy to see the contents. Install under-cabinet lighting to illuminate the workspace on your bench, and consider pull-down shelves for easier access to higher cabinets.

Sliding Countertops

A sliding laundry countertop can cover your washer and dryer when not in use, providing an expansive work surface. When you need access to the machines, simply slide the countertop back. This idea works particularly well in narrow spaces.

Ensure the sliding mechanism is smooth and easy to operate, use a lightweight but durable material for the countertop, and consider a seamless design to maintain a clean and polished look.

Integrated Ironing Board

An integrated ironing board within your laundry bench can save a lot of space. The board can be designed to fold out from the bench and retract when not in use, keeping your laundry area tidy and eliminating the need for a separate ironing station.

Use heat-resistant materials around the integrated ironing board area, ensure the ironing board is sturdy and stable when extended, and include a small drawer or compartment for storing the iron and other accessories.

Wall-Mounted Drying Racks

Wall-mounted drying racks can be installed above or beside your laundry bench. These racks can be folded flat against the wall when not in use, saving space and keeping the room uncluttered. They are perfect for air-drying delicate items without taking up floor space.

Choose racks with adjustable heights to accommodate different clothing items, install multiple racks at staggered heights for maximum drying space, and opt for rust-resistant materials, especially if the racks will be exposed to moisture.

Compact Sink Integration

A compact sink integrated into your laundry bench can make pre-treating stains and hand-washing delicate items a breeze. Even if you have a small laundry room, a cleverly designed sink can add functionality without taking up too much space.

Use an under-mount sink to maintain a sleek look and maximise counter space. Install a pull-out faucet for added convenience and flexibility, and consider adding a built-in soap dispenser to keep the area tidy.

Update Your Laundry Bench Today

Adding a laundry bench to your laundry room is a practical and stylish way to enhance the space. At Stone Benchtops Direct, we specialise in creating customised stone benchtops that meet your functional needs and elevate your home’s aesthetic appeal. By incorporating these space-saving ideas, you can transform your laundry room into an efficient and beautiful area where you’ll enjoy spending time.

If you’re ready to upgrade your laundry space, contact us at Stone Benchtops Direct, and let’s discuss how we can help you create the perfect laundry bench solution tailored to your home.