I used to think my laundry room would always be a boring, cluttered space that I just had to live with.
However, one day, I decided it was time for a change, without spending a lot of money.
With a few simple updates, some paint, and smart storage ideas, I gave my laundry room a whole new look. It’s now a place I actually enjoy using!
If you’ve been wanting to makeover your laundry room but worry it’ll cost too much, don’t stress.
In this blog, I’ll show you how to give your space a fresh, clean, and stylish feel on a small budget.
From shelves to peel-and-stick wallpaper, these ideas are easy, affordable, and totally doable, even if you’re not super handy.
Let’s go over some simple ways to turn your laundry room into a space you’ll love.
Planning Your DIY Laundry Room Makeover on a Budget
Before you grab a paintbrush or start shopping, it’s a good idea to make a simple plan. A little prep can save you time, money, and stress later on.
Start by looking around your laundry room. What do you like? What feels messy, outdated, or hard to use? Make a list of what you want to change and what you can keep.
Next, set a budget. Even $100–$300 can go a long way with smart choices.
Think about what matters most to you, maybe it’s better lighting, more storage, or just a cleaner look. Then, look online or at local stores to get an idea of prices.
Try to reuse or repurpose things you already have, like baskets, jars, or old shelves. Planning ahead helps you stay focused and keeps your makeover fun, not frustrating.
Budget-Friendly DIY Laundry Room Makeover Ideas
You don’t need a huge budget to give your laundry room a fresh new look. These easy and affordable ideas can help you make the most of your space.
1. Paint the Walls a Fresh Color
A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to makeover a room.
Soft colors like white, light gray, sage green, or pale blue can make the room feel brighter and more open.
Darker colors like navy or forest green can add depth and drama if you want a bold look. You can even try a color-block or two-tone design to give the walls a fun touch.
Just make sure to use paint that’s easy to clean in case of splashes or smudges.
2. Add Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great way to give your walls a stylish look without the mess of glue or paste.
It comes in so many patterns, from farmhouse wood to floral prints, and can be cut to fit any space.
It’s especially useful behind machines or above shelves where you want to create a cute accent wall.
If you ever get tired of the design, you can peel it right off without damaging the wall.
3. Hang Floating Shelves for Storage
Floating shelves are perfect for holding jars, baskets, or even folded towels.
You can install them above the washer and dryer, next to the sink, or anywhere you have empty wall space.
They’re easy to build or buy, and you don’t need fancy tools to hang them. Choose wood for a rustic look or white shelves for a clean, simple feel.
Adding a few plants or framed prints on the shelves can make the space feel cozy and styled.
4. Use Baskets to Organize Supplies
Laundry detergent, dryer sheets, and cleaning sprays can easily get messy. Using baskets helps keep everything in its place.
Wicker, wire, or plastic bins work great, and you can find them cheap at most stores. Label each one so you know what’s inside.
I keep my stain remover, softener, and brushes in separate baskets. It makes the whole room feel neater, and I don’t waste time looking for things.
5. Create a Countertop Over the Machines
If you have a front-loading washer and dryer, building a simple wood counter over them gives you a flat surface to fold clothes or store laundry supplies.
You just need a sturdy board and some support brackets. Stain or paint the wood to match your room.
This quick DIY gives you more usable space without making any big changes to your machines.
6. Install a Hanging Rod or Drying Rack
Adding a rod or wall-mounted drying rack makes it easy to hang clothes that can’t go in the dryer. You can hang it above the machines or between cabinets.
Foldable or pull-out racks work well in tight spaces. This is also great for air-drying clothes indoors, especially during rainy or cold seasons.
7. Add a Rug or Mat for Comfort
A soft rug or anti-fatigue mat adds comfort when you’re standing in the laundry room for a while. Choose something easy to clean and water-resistant.
Rugs also bring in color or pattern, helping the space feel more styled and less like a utility room.
I added a striped mat under my feet, and it made the whole room feel warmer and more inviting.
8. Frame and Hang Laundry-Themed Art
Art doesn’t have to be expensive. Print out fun quotes, vintage ads, or black-and-white laundry signs and frame them.
Hang them above shelves or next to the machines for a cheerful vibe.
You can even DIY your own signs using wood boards, stencils, and paint. It’s a creative way to add personality without spending much.
9. Replace Old Light Fixtures
Good lighting makes a big difference. Swap out that plain ceiling light with a brighter or more stylish fixture.
A small chandelier, pendant light, or even a modern flush-mount can instantly update the room’s look. Choose warm white bulbs to keep the space cozy and welcoming.
10. Paint or Cover the Cabinets
If your laundry room has cabinets, give them new life with paint or peel-and-stick paper. A fresh color like navy, mint, or gray can bring style to the space.
Change the knobs or handles for a quick hardware upgrade. You’ll be amazed how new they’ll look with just a few small changes.
11. Hide the Machines with Curtains
If your washer and dryer are in a closet or open nook, you can hide them with a simple curtain. Use a tension rod and fabric that matches your décor.
This trick helps the space feel tidy and can even add a pop of color or pattern to the room.
12. Create a Folding Station with a Table
If you don’t have space for a built-in counter, bring in a small table to use as a folding station. A basic desk or even a kitchen cart can work.
Add a basket underneath for socks or towels, and use the tabletop for folding clothes fresh out of the dryer.
You can even store detergent or stain remover on a small shelf above it for easy access.
This keeps you from piling laundry all over the house and turns a simple corner into a useful workspace.
13. Use Clear Jars for Detergents
Pouring detergent, pods, or softener into glass or plastic jars not only looks nice but also helps you see how much you have left.
You can buy inexpensive jars or reuse old containers. Add labels for a clean, organized look. I’ve found this keeps my shelves neater and easier to clean.
14. Hang a Chalkboard or Whiteboard
Use a chalkboard or whiteboard to jot down laundry reminders, lost sock notes, or care tips for clothes.
You can hang it on a cabinet door or wall where it’s easy to see while working.
Add fun doodles, schedules, or even a stain guide for quick help. It adds a little fun to the space and helps keep your laundry routine on track.
Plus, it’s a simple way to involve the whole family in keeping things organized.
15. Add a Slide-Out Storage Cart Between Machines
If there’s a small gap between your washer and dryer, use that space with a slim, slide-out storage cart.
These carts are perfect for holding detergent, dryer sheets, cleaning supplies, or extra towels.
You can buy one or build your own using narrow wood boards and small wheels. It’s a smart way to add storage without taking up extra room.
Plus, everything stays hidden until you slide it out, keeping the space neat and clutter-free.
16. Add a Small Trash Can
A tiny trash can makes it easy to toss lint, used dryer sheets, or clothing tags. Choose a design that fits your style: metal, plastic, or woven.
Place it near the dryer so it’s right where you need it every time. You can even label it or pick one with a lid to keep things tidy.
It may seem small, but it’s one of the best hacks for keeping your laundry area clean and mess-free.
17. Hang a Mirror to Reflect Light
Mirrors help small rooms feel bigger and brighter. Hang one across from a window or near the doorway to reflect light.
You can find stylish mirrors for cheap at thrift stores or discount shops. This trick works especially well in tight or windowless laundry rooms.
18. Stencil the Floor for a New Look
If you have a plain concrete or vinyl floor, try painting it with stencils. Choose a fun pattern like a tile look or farmhouse design.
Floor paint is tough and meant to handle wear and tear. This is a great way to refresh the floor without spending money on new tiles.
19. Install Hooks or a Coat Rack
Hooks are perfect for hanging bags, laundry baskets, or even a broom. Mount a few along an empty wall or behind the door.
They’re simple to add and super useful in a small laundry area. I hung mine next to the machines to hold canvas bags and hang-dry clothes.
20. Decorate with Plants
Adding a plant or two brings life into the room. Choose low-light plants like pothos or snake plants that are easy to care for.
You can also use fake plants if there’s no window. Place them on a shelf, counter, or wall-mounted pot to give the space a fresh and cozy feel.
These simple ideas helped me see how much potential even a small laundry room has. You don’t need to spend a lot to make it look and feel brand new.
Try a few of these tips and enjoy a space that works better for you!
Pro Tips for a DIY Laundry Room Makeover on a Budget
These quick tips can help your DIY laundry room makeover stay budget-friendly and stress-free.
- Use leftover paint from other rooms: It saves money and keeps your home’s color scheme consistent.
- Shop your house first: Repurpose items like baskets, jars, or small tables before buying anything new.
- Stick to one theme: A clear color or style makes even cheap updates look pulled together.
- Choose peel-and-stick options: Wallpaper, flooring, and tiles are cheaper and easier to install.
- Use command hooks and strips: They’re renter-friendly and don’t damage walls.
- Plan your DIY laundry room makeover in steps: Tackle one update at a time to stay on budget.
Smart planning and small upgrades go a long way in creating a laundry space you’ll actually enjoy.
Conclusion
A DIY laundry room makeover doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming.
With a little creativity and some budget-friendly ideas, you can turn even the smallest space into something more useful and inviting.
From adding shelves and wallpaper to organizing supplies with baskets, small changes really do make a big difference.
It’s all about working with what you have and adding touches that fit your style.
Whether you paint the walls, lay down a new rug, or just tidy up with labeled bins, every step brings more order and charm to the room.
I found that starting with one small project made the rest of the tasks feel easier and more enjoyable.
So take your time, stick to your budget, and enjoy the process. You’ll be surprised at how much better laundry feels in a room that looks good and works for you.