laundryultimate planning guide room

bright ideasFOr a better

LaUNdrY rOOM

get a FUNctiON-packed LaUNdrY rOOM sMart space pLaNNiNgget OrgaNized,stOre MOreappLiaNce-bUYiNg tipstricks FOr tackLiNg tOUgh staiNs

Even your family’s worst stains are no match for GE’s most advanced wash system ever. With top of the line technology and intelligence, the new GE Top Load Washer protects clothes from would-be fashion fatalities with the touch of a button. So go ahead, get messy. GE makes clean simple.

The two Smart Dispense reservoirs

hold about 2 months worth of

detergent and fabric softener at a

time, automatically dispensing the

right amount for each individual load.

The indicator conveniently shows you

when it’s time to refill the detergent,

saving you time and energy, as well

as your clothes!

Steam Assist is GE’s industry

exclusive feature that lets you add

water to the cycle, creating a swirling

vortex of steam inside. This extra

boost of cleaning power penetrates

fabrics to loosen and remove

unrelenting stains, odors and germs,

leaving your clothes pristine!

GE’s HE Top Load Washer is so intelligent

that it has a built-in Stain Removal Guide

to combat the many different stains your

family manages to pick up throughout the

day. Once you choose your cycle, select

from four common stains: tomato, oil, grass

and dirt. The machine is pre-programmed

with the ideal wash settings for each!

Watch your stains disappear in no time.

ADVERTORIAL

Get Messy!

thanks to GE’s HE Top Load Washer’s advanced system and easy to use settings. Get as messy as you’d like, and let GE do the clean-up. Visit www.geappliances.com/appliances/washer/top-load-washer-dryer/ to get more information and explore all its features.

Laundry has never been less of a chore,

Large rooms: muLtiPurPose PotentiaLPossibilities increase with square footage. Utilizing three walls for laundry operations, right, allows you to fit the sink and appliances along one wall, install built-in cabinets topped with a countertop for folding on another, and add an air-drying, ironing, and sewing center on the third. Consider including an island to enhance utility and provide space for potting plants, wrapping gifts, and crafting.

PLanning tHe sPaCe

LaUNdrY rOOMConfigurationsThoughtful planning results in efficient layouts that maximize space to provide ample storage and work areas that accommodate cleaning supplies, laundry-day chores, and more. Take inspiration from these hardworking laundry rooms that capitalize on every inch of space.

smaLL sPaCes stretCHed to CaPaCityConsider an L-shape arrangement, left, that places a sink, washer, and dryer along one long wall and sets a folding table or countertop on the short leg of the L. Hang shelves or cabinets above the sink and appliances, suspend a clothes rod on the wall opposite the folding table, and slip incoming and outgoing laundry baskets on the floor below the table.

Basement PLaCementBasements provide plenty of usable space for strategically positioning laundry equipment, above; their lower-level location ensures laundry-day noise, humidity, and accidental water overflow are contained away from living areas. Basement laundry room configurations will depend on electric or gas and plumbing connections, available space, and your budget, but generally basement layouts group a washing machine, dryer, and sink on one wall or on two adjacent walls.

in and near tHe KitCHen Placing your laundry room in or near the kitchen encourages multitasking, above. You can throw in a load of laundry, treat stains at the kitchen sink, start spaghetti sauce, transfer the load to the dryer, and clean up food-prep messes without taking too many steps. Install a front-loading washer and dryer alongside your kitchen’s base cabinets. Leave the appliances exposed or set them behind cabinet doors that can close to hide the machines when they’re not in use; use the countertop above as a laundry-folding area. Tuck a washer and dryer into an under used kitchen closet or pantry or into a mudroom or breezeway that connects the kitchen to the garage or outdoors.

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BeHind CLoset doorsClosets can house either a stackable

washer-dryer unit or appliances

set side-by-side along a closet’s back

wall, right. When planning closet configurations, choose the appliance setup that leaves the most space open for adding easily accessed storage and tucking in folding tables, drying racks, and/or ironing boards.

Install a countertop above a pair of front-loading appliances to handle folding tasks

and keep laundry-day essentials in sight

and at hand.

PLanning tHe sPaCe

What tO iNcLUde iN Your LaundrY room Make any size oflaundry room work harder than its dimensions by including systems and furnishings that help you manage your workload. Here’s a look at what you’ll need to make laundry days run smoothly.

aPProPriate aPPLianCesChoose a washer and a dryer with the capacity and design that best suits your space, budget, style preferences, and the way you do laundry. (See pages 6 and 7 to learn more about what to look for when buying laundry room appliances.)

designated WorK ZonesGroup the washing machine, sink, and incoming laundry baskets to create a wet zone that handles dirty laundry. Create a dry zone that clusters the dryer, air-drying racks, folding tables, clothes rods, and ironing board together to care for and organize outgoing clean and pressed items.

WeLL-organiZed storageInclude wall-hung shelves, freestanding cupboards, built-in cabinets, rolling carts, and specialty organizers, right, to conveniently stow laundry-day supplies; garment-care necessities, such as clothes hangers, sewing kits, and lint rollers; and miscellaneous household gear in need of a home.

FLat surFaCesAdd a countertop, below, worktable, or a chest of drawers that can double as a laundry-folding center and a holding area for arriving and departing laundry baskets. Folding surfaces should be about 36 inches high to ensure you can work comfortably without too much bending.

Hangers and HooKsInstall a clothes rod, wheel in a garment rack, or mount coat hooks or retractable valets on a door or wall so that you can keep clothing wrinkle-free by hanging each item on a hanger as it comes out of the dryer.

drying raCKsGive hand washables and delicates suitable landing places within the confines of your laundry room. Foldable wood, plastic, and metal drying racks move in and out as needed. Flat stackable drying racks can be set on appliances or countertops for laying out dry-flat sweaters.

CatCHaLLs and trasH CansBy their very nature, laundry rooms should be tidy spaces that emit spick-and-span vibes. Banish clutter and ease cleanup by including good-looking containers that corral pocket valuables and lone socks for later pairing with mates. Add garbage and recycling bins for gathering not-so-worthy pocket contents, dryer-trap lint, used fabric softener sheets, and empty detergent and bleach containers.

CorreCt LigHtingAs in every work area, properly directed illumination is essential to work-flow efficiency. Opt for natural light when you can get it; windows that draw in sunbeams and frame backyard views diminish workday blues. In addition to overhead lights, install task lights that brighten work surfaces and the interiors of your washer and dryer.

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expanded operationsDesigning a new laundry room allows you to customize a space that eases your laundering labors and lets you centralize garment-related tasks and tools that inconveniently reside elsewhere in your house. Here are a few extra laundry-room amenities worth considering.

service siNks. Small sinks let you rinse delicates and treat stains, but if space and budget permit, opt for a deep utility sink, left that also allows you to wash the dog, soak painting tools, and scrub grubby items that you don’t want in your kitchen sink.

bUiLt-iN bONUses. Ironing boards, left, that drop down from cabinets mounted to the wall are the ultimate space- and time-saver when it comes to clothing care. Don’t want to invest in a cabinet? Look for fold-up versions that mount to a door or wall.

WeLL-eqUipped cabiNets. Any built-in is a welcome addition, but cabinets with pullouts, such as desktops for folding clothes and spots designed for baskets, hampers, and laundry baskets, left, improve laundry room’s function even more.

stretCHing sPaCeHere are some tricks for packing utility into the tiniest laundry rooms.

taP underused sPaCe. Hang a pair of kitchen cabinets or long shelves above or next to your appliances. Mount wire racks, organizer pockets, a collapsible valet, an expandable drying rack, and/or a drop-down table to a wall or door. Install retractable clotheslines or coat hooks for hanging garments. Use an over-the-door rack to handle your ironing board and iron.

tHinK tHin. Move in tall, narrow storage towers. Slip a 9-inch-wide rolling cart or rolling laundry caddy between appliances or between an appliance and a wall to hold supplies.

Pay attention to tHe smaLL stuFF. Shop for racks, hangers, caddies, below, and stackable boxes that you can use to contain numerous objects within a limited space.

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PLanning tHe sPaCe

hOW tO MaxiMize Your LaundrY room When space is short, use these three tricks for making the most of your laundry room.

go onlineGet more ideas for making the most of your laundry room:

BHG.com/LaundryDesign: See how a small sliver of space can function as a mudroom, home office, and a laundry room.

BHG.com/SmallLaundry: Outfit every inch of a petite laundry room for optimal function.

Cut tHe CLutter

stOrage & organiZationA well-organized laundry room, with a place for everything and everything in its place, is truly a thing of beauty. Here are some ideas for putting your laundry room in perfect order.

4 Ways to amPLiFy storage

1) ConsoLidate FunCtionsTurn a wall-hung cabinet, freestanding utility cupboard, or a combination of storage components into a one-stop workshop that places supplies and tools in plain view and within easy reach. Put kitchen racks, over-the-door hooks, and closet organizers to work holding everything from stain sticks to ironing boards. Add a pegboard to support miscellaneous items and a magnetic board for posting to-do notes, fabric-care instructions, and stain-removal charts.

2) go moduLarUse track shelving systems designed for closets and laundry rooms to create a storage-rich framework that perfectly fits your space and your storage requirements. Choose systems equipped with adjustable ventilated shelves, shelf baskets, hanging drawers, and clothes rods to optimize available wall and floor space. Look for systems with add-on components so you can update as your storage needs change.

3) Create ingenious ConstruCtionsFrame your appliances with matching bookcases or kitchen cabinets that measure at least 1/2 inch taller than your appliances to support a readymade tabletop or laminate countertop that works as a folding surface. Or, cap a rolling hamper cart with a cut-to-fit folding board or padded ironing board.

4) CaPture air sPaCeUse walls above appliances, base cabinets, and folding tables for open shelves or a line of cabinets. Add a countertop across the tops of front-loading appliances and install a clothing rod above to hold hanging clothes. Place shelves close to eye-level height so you can see and reach things stowed at the back of the shelf. Keep higher and deep shelves tidy by using easy-grab labeled bins to roundup smaller items.

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Cut tHe CLutter

LaUNdrY rOOM storage must-HavesTake some of the chore out of laundry with a well-appointed storage system. Implement these five essential storage elements to keep clutter at bay and your laundry room organized.

storage essentiaLs With frameworks in place, it’s time to bring in pretty trays, miscellaneous racks, fabric bins, wire baskets, and collectible containers to manage laundry-day supplies and equipment. Here’s a look at how you can put must-have organizers to good use.

1) grouP By PurPose. Gather supplies used for a specific garment-care task, such as ironing or stain removal, and store them in a shallow basket or a vintage tray that’s appropriately labeled.

2) sort and store. Prevent dirty clothes from piling up on floors by creating a sorting center for incoming laundry. Opt for a cart that’s outfitted with multiple hampers or just line up hampers or baskets that are labeled by type of wash load. Include baskets or hampers to catch clothes that require hand-washing or dry-cleaning so they don’t inadvertently go through the washer.

3) imProve outLooKs. Fill style-apt glass canisters with cleaning agents, stain fighters, and fabric softeners to create a view free of boxes and plastic jugs. Use old-timey trays, bowls, crocks, and turntables for vintage appeal while keeping modern essentials near at hand.

4) CoLorFuLLy ControL CHaos. Look for patterned boxes, vividly hued bins, and chromatic baskets that supply ample storage while introducing playful vibes that make laundry day feel less like a chore. Prefer more calming work spaces? Bring in natural woven baskets, galvanized-steel tubs, or canvas bins to corral supplies.

5) stretCH tHe Limits. Oftentimes the laundry area functions as a home’s utility room. If that’s the case at your house, save space for household necessities and emergency supplies sorted into suitably sized containers; use tags or shelf labels to identify each container’s contents.

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aPPLianCes

Washers & drYersLaundry days will never be fun, but workloads lighten when you use a washer and dryer that perfectly suits your lifestyle and laundering needs. Here’s what you need to know when purchasing new laundry room appliances.

tyPes oF modeLs you’LL Find

traditionaL toP-Loading WasHers Traditional top loading washers are equipped with a central agitator that keeps clothes moving around the drum during the wash cycle. They offer a variety of cycle and temperature options and tub capacities from 3.4 to 3.9 cubic feet. They remain popular for their classic looks, for their large capacities, and because they can be loaded from the top with no kneeling or stooping required.

HigH-eFFiCienCy toP-Loading WasHers Modern technology drives these high-efficiency top-loading models that clean without the use of an agitator. These machines, with tub capacities ranging from 3.6 to 4.7 cubic feet, boast systems that gently move clothing through wash cycles; higher-speed spin cycles remove more water than traditional machines, which results in shorter drying times

Front-Loading WasHersFront-loading washers, above right, are hardworking, energy-efficient, and very quiet cleaning machines that partially fill with water, remove dirt by lifting and dropping clothing within the tub, and quickly spin to remove more moisture than traditional washers. Interior capacities vary widely, ranging from 2 to 5 cubic feet. Many models are fully loaded with a range of popular features from load monitoring to steam cycles.

CLassiC dryersAvailable as gas or electric models, these dryers are designed to partner with traditional top-loading washers and look much like the ones used by our mothers and grandmothers. The most inexpensive dryers, front-loading models are available in white and bisque finishes; equipped with standard tubs, spin speeds, and tumbling action; and offer various temperature settings and drying cycles.

ContemPorary dryersAlso available in gas or electric models, these dryers are designed to work with and complement high-efficiency top-loading and front-loading washers. They take a modern turn with progressive profiles, shapely glass doors, and a wealth of up-to-the-minute technology. These mid- to upper-end appliances might be equipped with steam cycles, moisture sensors, and customizable settings.

ComPaCt WasHer and dryer ComBinationsIf you’re short on space, you might want to consider compact apartment-size appliances that measure less than 24 inches wide; stackable washer and dryer units, right, or all-in-one units that function as both a washer and a dryer.

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aPPLianCes

Washers & drYers fresH featuresToday’s washers and dryers do more than simply wash and dry. From stain removal to system monitoring, models on the appliance market offer plenty of features that help make laundry day easier than ever before.

tHe Latest innovations in Laundry CareAppliance manufacturers continue to design washers and dryers that work harder and perform better, which means you’ll labor less when it’s time to do laundry. Look for the following high-tech features when shopping for washersand dryers.

Better CommuniCationsSeveral brands offer technology that allows you sync your appliances with your smartphone, which allows you to monitor your washer and dryer remotely from a smart TV or smartphone. Apps bring troubleshooting information right to your phone and can help you diagnose washer or dryer problems.

stain-removaL systemsThese advanced wash systems easily and effectively erase common stains. Some are programmed with the proper wash settings for tackling stains, such as tomato, oil, dirt, and grass.

Load monitoringWashers intuitively determine the amount of water needed based on the weight of laundry piled in the tub.

steam systems Many new washers and dryers have harnessed the power of steam to deliver innovations in laundry. In washers, steam loosens dirt and erases stains; in dryers, steam cycles refresh stale clothing and remove wrinkles.

imProved CLeaningAutomatic dispensers, some designed to hold two months worth of detergent and fabric softeners, release the right amount of detergent and softener at the right time to better clean clothes; powerful wave systems move water in ways that optimize cleaning action.

sanitiZing systemsInternal water heaters raise water temperatures to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to kill off germs and bacteria.

PresetsSpecialty cycles let you pick a certain garment, fabric, or item type and the washer automatically sets appropriate water temperatures, spin speeds, and other wash programs.

dryer moisture sensorsSensors discern the moisture level in drying clothes and shut off the dryer when clothes are dry.

shop smart Keep in mind the following considerations when purchasing a new washer and/or dryer.

kNOW YOUr Needs. How many loads of laundry do you do each week? Do you regularly wash and dry bulky bedcovers? Does your wardrobe require special care? If you process many loads, some of which harbor hefty items, consider large-capacity appliances that efficiently handle weightier loads, allowing you to do fewer loads. Choose appliances that feature cycles, such as sanitization, steam, and stain-treatment capabilities, that supply solutions to your household’s clothing-care problems.

cONteMpLate pLaceMeNt. Consider the location of your laundry room when choosing appliances. Is there a gas hookup or will you need an electric dryer? If your laundry room adjoins living or sleeping areas, you might want to buy models that feature noise-reduction technology.

be ecO-FrieNdLY. Check on how much water a washer uses because usage impacts your wallet and the environment. Look for washers that have water-saving options and that are Energy Star qualified, which means they meet federal standards for energy savings.

cOMpare iNteriOrs. Washing machine and dryer tubs made of porcelain or stainless steel are more durable than those made of plastic, which might show wear over time.

cONsider cONveNieNces. Choose a washing machines equipped with delayed start options and programmable memories that allow you to throw in a load and set a specific start time. This helps ensure that you’ll be around when it’s time to unload, which in turns means fewer wrinkled clothes.

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Laundry made easy

tried-&-trUe LaundrY strategiesPut these time-saving and clothing-care tactics into play to lighten your workload and keep your wardrobe looking like new.

10 Ways to maKe Laundry easier Spend less time doing laundry and more time doing the things you love. Here are 10 ways to make your laundry routine easier.

1. CustomiZe your Laundry sCHeduLe Pick the days that work best for you and share your laundry-day schedule with other family members. Schedule different loads on specific days to help everyone remember when it’s time to change bed linens and switch out bath towels.

2. Presort LaundryStreamline sorting tasks by setting labeled hampers, baskets, or laundry bags near bedrooms or bathrooms so you and your crew can deposit dirty clothes and wet towels in the appropriate containers before the soiled laundry ends up moldering on the floor.

3. re-sort CareFuLLySort clothes into categories by color, soil level, and fabric content, noting which items need to be mended or pretreated for stains. Use these suggested sorting categories: Whites and light colors; bright colors (e.g. reds, pinks, oranges); dark colors; extra-dirty garments; lint-producing items (e.g. terry cloth towels); heavyweight clothes (e.g. denim jeans, sweatshirts); lightweight clothes; and permanent-press clothes.

4. avoid Laundry misHaPsEmpty pockets before washing garments to rescue valuable items and prevent damage to your washer and dryer. Reduce fading in dark clothing by turning the garments inside out before washing in cool water. Use mesh garment bags for washing delicate items such as lingerie, pantyhose, and tights to protect them from being roughed-up by other items in a load.

5. Limit Wear and tearEnsure that clothing and linens endure. Follow label instructions and be proactive when it comes to minimizing wear and tear on clothing and linens. Protect pillows with washable zip-on covers. Wash sheets and towels in warm water, using color-safe bleach when needed. Wash all-cotton bedcovers in cold water to avoid shrinkage. Rotate bed and bath linens to lengthen their lives; always place fresh-washed items at the bottom of stacks.

6. maKe your dryer more eFFiCientCheck and empty the lint trap before adding a new load. A full lint trap reduces dryer efficiency and becomes a fire hazard. Do a load of lightweight, quick-drying items first; placing these items in a cold dryer reduces the risk of

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more laundry tipsGo to BHG.com for more laundry tips:

BHG.com/LaundryWoes: Get solutions for nine common laundry problems.

BHG.com/LaundryEssentials: Discover the must-have laundry products to stock up on.

BHG.com/LaundrySecrets: Laundry day can be easier! Try one or more of our favorite tips.

tackling stainsUse these stain-fighting strategies to keep clothing and linens looking spotless.

kNOW What’s What.Tack up a stain-removal chart, like the one found at BHG.com/StainGuide on a laundry room wall, cabinet, or bulletin board so you can refer to it as you are treating stains.

BE prEpArED. Keep these products on hand to combat stains: prewash spot remover; white vinegar; nonsudsing household ammonia; chlorine bleach and color-safe bleach; commercial stain remover; dry-cleaning fluid or petroleum-based pretreatment solvent; and color, paint, and rust removers.

prE-TrEAT prOpErLy. Before treating stains, read each garment’s care label, identify the stain’s source as best as you can, and check the stain-removal chart for the best treatment. Blot don’t rub stains. Blotting draws stains out, while rubbing pushes them into the fabric and can damage fibers.

KICK-STArT THE prOCESS. Soil-encrusted togs and sweaty work clothes might require special pretreatment. Soak very dirty and exceptionally stinky clothes for 20-30 minutes in soapy water before washing.

BE qUICK ABOUT IT. If a fabric is marked “dry-clean only,” blot the stain and take the item to a dry cleaner as soon as possible. If the fabric is washable, treat the stain before it has a chance to set.

DO A TrIAL rUn. Test a stain-removal treatment on an inconspicuous part of the garment to ensure the cleaning method won’t damage the fabric.

CHECK AfTEr WASHInG. Always examine a wet garment to see if the stain is gone before putting it in the dryer. The heat of the dryer can set the stain and make it permanent.

BAnISH yELLOWInG. Increase the amount of detergent in your wash load, or use a product with a detergent booster or fabric-safe bleach. If you like, try both methods at once.

Laundry made easy

tried-&-trUe LaundrY strategiesContinued from Page 8

shrinkage while preheating the dryer for subsequent heavier loads. Avoid wrinkling by doing several small loads rather than one large, jam-packed load.

7. give aPPLianCes a restTake advantage of sunny, breezy days to line-dry freshly washed clothing, bedsheets, slipcovers, and area rugs or to just refresh pillows, comforters, and duvets the natural way. Since manufacturers of down-filled items recommend dry-cleaning rather than washing, air-freshening will limit expensive trips to the dry cleaner.

8. deLegate Laundry CHoresFree up your time by assigning tasks to children based on their ages. Most preschoolers can put away clean already-folded clothes. Grade-schoolers can do the folding and storing of their own clean clothes. Middle-school and high-school kids and adults can handle all the responsibilities related to their laundry, so assign each person a hamper and tell him or her to have at it!

9. deCLutter your CLosetCleaning out closets lightens the load. Removing unwanted garments allows air to circulate and gives the remaining clothes more room to breathe, which results in fewer wrinkled clothes that might need refreshing in the washing machine and dryer.

10. CLean your WasHer and dryerPrevent your washing machine and dryer from dirtying up in-process laundry loads with monthly cleanings. Wipe down exterior and interior surfaces with a damp cloth; rinse and wipe washers’ filters and dispensers and dryers’ lint traps. Add one cup of bleach or two cups of white vinegar to an empty washer and run the machine through a hot-water cycle to expel odors.

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