Free Standing Closet Systems & DIY Closet Organizers
The Easy Way to Install Shelves Over Washer and Dryer
Do you want to add storage area above your washing machine or clothes dryer? This simple, budget-friendly kit lets you add shelves over a washer and dryer in under 1 hour. Plus, it includes a hanging rod for garments.
1. You don’t have to get out any power tools or drill holes into the walls either. This DIY free standing shelf unit is simple to put together, and the width adjusts to the size you need.
2. As a result, it will fit around any appliance up to 36″ wide. Plus, it works for top-load washers. Use it above your washing machine, your dryer or both for double the storage capacity.
3. Set it up in a laundry room, a closet or in a garage. No matter where your washer and dryer are, this 3-tier organizer will most likely work. It’s easy to install and easily removable, since it only weighs 12 pounds.
Is This Storage Rack Stable? This freestanding unit does not come with wall anchors, and it’s made partially of plastic. However, the frame is metal, and legs extend out at the base to make the structure more secure. Plus, when you weigh down the shelves with laundry items, the organizer gets more stable.
No more hanging wet clothes on the door frame and blocking the walkway. Or having to convert your shower to a temporary clothes-drying area.
Plus, the hooks give you a convenient spot to hang brushes, scrubbers, towels, etc.. They are within easy reach and won’t get lost between bottles, baskets and containers on the shelves.
Will Shelves Obstruct Access to the Washer & Dryer?
This storage rack is designed to allow easy access to a top load washer or dryer. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about clearance for standard-size appliances. In addition, each shelf is conveniently adjustable, so you can maximize your storage area.
Freestanding Storage Rack VS Built-in Shelves or Cabinets: What’s Better?
Should you install an adjustable storage rack above your washer and dryer or build wall mounted cabinets instead? Here’s a breakdown of their pros, cons and cost comparisons:
Freestanding Adjustable Storage Rack:
Pros:
Affordability: At about $90, this laundry room storage option is generally more budget-friendly compared to built-in cabinets or shelves, making it a cost-effective storage solution.
Customizable: The adjustable shelves and hanging bar provide flexibility in organizing and storing various laundry supplies and garments.
Ease of Assembly: Assembling the rack yourself offers a straightforward setup without the need for professional installation.
Cons:
Stability and Durability: Some lower-cost freestanding racks may lack stability or durability compared to wall-attached cabinets or shelves.
Limited Aesthetics: The appearance might not match the design of the laundry area as seamlessly as more custom options.
Cost Comparison: The low-cost freestanding storage rack is considerably more affordable than built-in cabinets or shelves. Built-in cabinetry can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on materials, customization and professional installation costs.
Built-in Cabinets or Shelves:
Pros:
Customization and Design: Built-in options offer tailored solutions to fit the space perfectly and can enhance the overall aesthetic of the laundry area.
Durability and Longevity: High-quality wall cabinets or shelves tend to be more durable and long-lasting than some freestanding racks.
Increased Home Value: Well-designed built-in storage can potentially increase the resale value of a home.
Cons:
Higher Cost: Wall-hung cabinets or shelves generally come with a higher price tag due to materials, customization, and installation expenses.
Installation Complexity: Professional installation might be necessary, adding to the overall cost and time required.
Cost Comparison: Built-in laundry cabinets or shelves can vary widely in cost based on materials and customization. A basic installation might start at a few hundred dollars, while more elaborate setups with high-end materials can cost several thousand dollars.
Considerations:
Do you have a tight budget or a temporary solution. Then, the freestanding rack can offer immediate and affordable laundry room storage options.
Are longevity, customization and seamless integration with the space your priorities? Then, investing in built-in cabinets or shelves might be more suitable, albeit pricier.
What to Put on Laundry Room Shelves:
The shelves provide lots of storage space for laundry detergent, dryer sheets, bleach, stain remover, lint basket and more. However, if you don’t have much in the way of laundry soap, you can use this area for other items.
For example, you can stack extra toilet paper, paper towels, linens, cleaning supplies, etc.. In other words, it works as a “catch-all” area for things you stock up on, but the shelves keep you organized too.
Note: The shelves are built with open metal bars so you can find things easily (more functional than cabinets). However, smaller brushes and bottles may slip through the gaps.
Therefore, the manufacturer included transparent plastic sheets so that this problem doesn’t happen. You can still see through them and easily remove them to clean if necessary.
10 Ways to Maximize Laundry Room Storage:
To optimize storage above the washing machine in your laundry room, take advantage of these organization strategies to maximize space without overcrowding:
Categorize Items: Group laundry supplies, detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning agents by category. Place similar items together to create a systematic arrangement.
Utilize Bins or Baskets: Use baskets or bins to contain smaller items like dryer sheets, stain removers or loose accessories. This keeps clutter at bay and makes it easier to access items without overcrowding the shelves.
Vertical Space: Utilize the vertical space efficiently. Place taller items or items used less frequently on the top shelf. As a result, they don’t obstruct the view or accessibility of frequently used items on lower shelves.
Adjust Shelf Heights: If the shelving rack allows, adjust shelf heights to accommodate different-sized items. For instance, raise or lower shelves to fit taller detergent bottles or smaller containers.
Consider Hooks or Hanging Organizers: Utilize the sides or back of the rack by installing hooks or hanging organizers. For example, they can hold spray bottles, brushes, or small garments, thus maximizing otherwise wasted space.
Rotate Inventory: Regularly check and rotate stock to ensure older items are used first, preventing a buildup of unused products that take up unnecessary space.
Keep Frequently Used Items Accessible: Place frequently used items within easy reach on the middle shelf for convenience. Thus, you can avoid constant shifting of items and maintain an organized setup.
Labeling: Consider using labels or tags to identify contents in baskets or bins. This not only helps you find items quickly but also maintains the organization over time.
Empty and Repurpose Packaging: Consider transferring liquids or powders into smaller, stackable containers. Consequently, you can save space and reduce clutter caused by bulky packaging.
Opt for Stackable Solutions: Choose stackable storage solutions for items like laundry pods or dryer sheets to maximize vertical space while keeping items accessible.
More Storage Ideas for Laundry Room Shelving Above Washer/Dryer:
Of course, you can adjust the width of the shelving unit to fix the exact measurements of your washing machine or dryer. However, if you have extra space, you can widen the frame and fit a rolling storage cart next to your appliances. (See the photo below.)
The Spacekeeper Mobile Cart can provide more valuable shelves in an area that might otherwise be wasted. Plus, you can roll the carts out for easy access to laundry detergents, scrub brushes, dryer sheets and more.
You can find these handy carts in 4-tier and 3-tier versions, depending on how many shelves you want and how much money you want to spend. They also are useful organizers for bathrooms or pantries.
There are many sizes and colors to choose from, so you can match your cart to the shelving frame. Not to mention, these slim carts don’t cost much money (between $30 and $50). They’re a good deal for the shelf space you gain.
And if you have a large laundry room, you may even prefer using free standing closet systems that provide more space. You get drawers, shelves and hanging rods at a variety of different heights.
In summary, a freestanding adjustable storage rack presents an economical and flexible storage solution that is also non-permanent. However, built-in cabinets or shelves offer greater durability, customization and potentially increased home value but come with a higher price tag. The choice ultimately depends on your budget, long-term plans and aesthetic preferences.
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