Why Everyone’s Moving Their Laundry Room Upstairs (And Why You Should Too)

Have you ever wished you didn’t have to lug heavy laundry baskets up and down the stairs? I know I have! While our current home doesn’t have space for an upstairs laundry room, we did have one in our previous house, and it was so much easier. There was no juggling loads of clothes while navigating stairs, and putting clean clothes away was a breeze. If I had the option, I’d definitely choose to have one again.

Having the washing machine and dryer right near the bedrooms where all the laundry piles up is an obvious choice really when you think about it, and it seems I’m not the only one who thinks so. The trend for upstairs laundry rooms is on the rise. And honestly, it’s a shift that just makes so much sense for modern living.

Here’s why this trend is taking off and how you can make it work in your home.

Traditionally, utility rooms have been relegated to downstairs areas, often cramped and tucked away near the kitchen or back door. But this setup is evolving. An upstairs laundry room repositions washing machines, dryers, and other laundry essentials closer to where dirty clothes are generated and clean clothes are stored—near bedrooms and bathrooms.

Sinead Trainor, Kitchen Category Manager at LochAnna Kitchens, explains:

“Relocating the laundry space upstairs can alleviate the inconvenience of unnecessary trips with laundry baskets up and down stairs, saving both time and effort. It also eliminates the need for unsightly bedroom hampers, freeing up additional floor space.”

Why Are Upstairs Laundry Rooms Gaining Popularity?

The growing interest in upstairs utility rooms is driven by several factors:

• Convenience: Laundry spaces located near bedrooms and bathrooms drastically reduce the need for hauling heavy baskets up and down stairs.
• Space Optimisation: Many homeowners are repurposing underused en-suites, box rooms, or large bathrooms to create compact and functional laundry zones.
• Seamless Design: With careful planning, upstairs laundry rooms can integrate beautifully into a home’s aesthetic, sharing plumbing with nearby bathrooms for easy installation.

Key Considerations for Installing a Laundry Room Upstairs

If you’re thinking of joining the upstairs laundry room trend, there are a few practical factors to consider:

1. Plumbing: Positioning the laundry room near existing bathroom or en-suite plumbing can simplify installation and reduce costs.
2. Soundproofing: Washing machines and dryers can be noisy, so invest in soundproof insulation or choose quieter appliances.
3. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup. Installing a vented dryer or a dehumidifier is key.
4. Safety: Ensure the area is equipped with water leak detectors and raised appliances to minimize potential water damage.
5. Accessibility: Make sure the space is easy to navigate, with adequate shelving and storage for detergent, ironing boards, and laundry essentials.

The Pros and Cons of an Upstairs Laundry Room

Pros

• Time-Saving: Reduces trips to carry laundry up and down stairs.
• Space Efficiency: Utilises previously underused areas, such as box rooms or unused en-suites.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Eliminates the need for laundry baskets in bedrooms, creating a cleaner, more organised look.
• Convenience: Having laundry facilities near bedrooms streamlines sorting, washing, and putting away clothes.

Cons

• Noise Concerns: Washing machines and dryers may create disturbances if located near bedrooms, especially during the night.
• Cost of Renovation: Moving laundry appliances upstairs requires additional plumbing, wiring, and potential structural changes.
• Moisture Risks: Without proper ventilation, dampness can accumulate, posing a risk to walls and floors.
• Limited Space: Upstairs areas often have smaller footprints, requiring clever design solutions to make the space work effectively.

How to Design an Upstairs Laundry Room

Creating a functional and stylish upstairs laundry room is all about smart planning. Consider these expert tips:

1. Stack Appliances: Opt for stackable washer-dryer units to save floor space.
2. Incorporate Storage: Include cabinets or shelving for detergents, cleaning supplies, and laundry baskets.
3. Choose Durable Flooring: Water-resistant options like tile or vinyl are best to protect against potential leaks.
4. Use an Anti-Vibration Mat: Washing machines can create significant noise and vibrations, especially on upper floors. Adding an anti-vibration mat under your washing machine helps dampen noise, reduces vibrations, and protects your flooring.
5. Add a Folding Station: A small countertop can double as a folding station for added convenience.
6. Lighting Matters: Bright, focused lighting can make a small laundry room feel more spacious and functional.

Is an Upstairs Laundry Room Right for You?

If you’re tired of lugging laundry up and down stairs and have an underused room to repurpose, this trend could be the perfect solution. However, noise concerns or renovation costs may make sticking to a traditional utility room more practical for some.

The rise of upstairs laundry rooms reflects a broader shift in home design—prioritising convenience and practicality while making the best use of available space. Whether you’re inspired to reimagine an unused en-suite or create a dedicated laundry zone next to your bedrooms, this trend has the potential to transform your home and simplify your daily routines.