DIY Guide: Freestanding Over the Washer and Dryer Shelves
Freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves is a great way to add extra storage space to a laundry room. These shelves allow you to keep all your laundry detergent and essentials organized and within reach while also freeing up valuable floor space. While there are many pre-made options available for purchase, building your own DIY freestanding shelves for your washing machine can be a fun and cost-effective alternative.
One of the biggest advantages of building your own freestanding shelves is the ability to customize them to fit your specific needs. You can choose the size, shape, and number of shelves based on the items you need to store. Additionally, DIY shelving units can be made to match the style of your laundry room, making them a seamless addition to the space.
There are many different DIY freestanding over-the-washer and dryer shelf plans available online, ranging from simple and straightforward to more complex designs. Whether you are a seasoned DIYer or new to the world of woodworking, there is a plan out there that will fit your skill level and budget. With a little time and effort, you can create a functional and stylish storage solution that will make your laundry routine a breeze.
Understanding Your Laundry Room Space
Before building any shelves and doing a laundry room makeover, it is important to understand the space in your laundry room. Laundry rooms come in all shapes and sizes, so it is important to take measurements and assess the space you have available.
One of the most important measurements to take is the gap between your washer and dryer. This gap will determine the width of the shelf you can install. If you have a front-load washer and dryer, the gap between them will be smaller than if you have a top-load washer and dryer.
Another consideration is the amount of storage space you need. If you have a lot of laundry supplies, you may need more shelves than if you only have a few items to store. It is also important to consider the type of items you will be storing. For example, if you have large bottles of detergent or bleach, you will need taller laundry room shelves than if you only have small boxes of dryer sheets.
If you have a closet or laundry closet, you may need to consider the dimensions of the space when building your shelves. It is important to make sure your open shelves fit within the space without being too cramped.
Finally, it is important to consider the plumbing in your laundry room. You will need to make sure your shelves do not interfere with any plumbing or electrical outlets.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that your shelves fit your laundry room space and provide the storage you need.
Planning Your DIY Shelf Project
When it comes to organizing a laundry room, installing a freestanding shelf over your washer and dryer is a great DIY project to consider. With a little planning, you can create a functional space that also adds style to your laundry room. Here are a few things to consider when planning your DIY shelf project.
Determine the Type of Shelf
There are various types of shelves you can install over your washer and dryer, including DIY floating shelves and freestanding shelves. Floating shelves are mounted directly to the wall, while freestanding shelves stand on their own without any wall support. Consider your skill level and the type of shelf that would work best for your space.
Measure Your Space
Before you start building or purchasing materials, measure the space above your washer and dryer to ensure your shelf will fit properly. Consider the height and width of your appliances, as well as any obstructions like cabinets or light fixtures that may affect the placement of your shelf.
Choose Your Materials
When choosing materials for your DIY shelf project, consider the style and functionality you want to achieve. For a rustic look, consider using reclaimed wood or metal brackets. If you prefer a modern look, opt for sleek, minimalist designs. Additionally, consider the weight capacity of your shelf and choose materials that can support the weight of your laundry supplies.
Plan Your Installation
Whether you’re installing a floating shelf or a freestanding shelf, it’s important to plan your installation carefully. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and hardware, and follow the instructions carefully. If you’re installing a freestanding shelf, ensure that it’s level and stable before placing any items on it.
By taking the time to plan your DIY shelf project, you can create a functional and stylish addition to your laundry room. With the right materials, tools, and installation, you can enjoy a more organized and efficient space.
Choosing Materials for Your Shelves
When it comes to choosing materials for your over-the-wash and dryer shelves, there are several options available. The choice of material can affect the overall look and feel of your laundry room, as well as the durability and cost of the shelves. Here are some of the most common materials used for DIY freestanding shelves:
Plywood
Plywood is a popular choice for DIY shelves because it is affordable, easy to work with, and comes in a variety of finishes. It is also lightweight, making it easy to install and move around if needed. However, plywood is not as strong as some other materials and may not be suitable for heavy items.
Pine
Pine is another affordable option for DIY shelves. It is a softwood that is easy to work with and can be stained or painted to match your decor. Pine is also lightweight and easy to install. However, it may not be as durable as some other materials and can dent or scratch easily.
Oak and Walnut
Oak and walnut are hardwoods that are more expensive than pine or plywood. However, they are also more durable and can support heavier items. They also have a natural beauty that can add a touch of elegance to your laundry room. Oak and walnut can be stained or painted to match your decor.
Steel
Steel is a strong and durable material that can support heavy items. It is also easy to clean and maintain. However, steel shelves can be more expensive than other materials and may not be as easy to install.
Painted or Stained
You can paint or stain your shelves to match your decor. Painted shelves can add a pop of color to your laundry room, while stained shelves can bring out the natural beauty of the wood. Keep in mind that painted or stained shelves may require more maintenance than unfinished shelves.
Overall, the choice of material for your over-the-washer and dryer shelves will depend on your budget, style preferences, and the weight of the items you plan to store. Consider the pros and cons of each material before making your final decision.
Tools Required for Shelf Construction
When it comes to crafting freestanding shelves above a washer and dryer, it’s crucial to have the appropriate tools at your disposal. Here’s a list of tools necessary for creating your DIY shelf unit:
1. Kreg Jig
A Kreg Jig is a handy tool that makes it easy to create pocket holes for screws. This tool is great for creating strong and secure joints, which is important when building a shelf unit.
2. Miter Saw
A miter saw is a must-have tool for cutting wood at precise angles. This tool will come in handy when cutting the wood pieces for your shelf unit.
3. Brad Nailer
A brad nailer is a tool that shoots small brads into the wood to hold them in place. This tool is great for attaching trim pieces to your shelf unit.
4. Stud Finder
A stud finder is a tool that helps you locate the studs on your wall. This tool will come in handy when you need to attach your shelf unit to the wall.
5. Level
A level is a tool that helps you ensure that your shelf unit is straight and level. This tool is essential for ensuring that your shelf unit looks professional and is functional.
6. Sandpaper
Sandpaper is a tool that helps you smooth out rough edges and surfaces. This tool will come in handy when you need to sand down any rough spots on your shelf unit.
7. Screws and Pocket Hole Screws
Screws and pocket hole screws are essential for attaching the wood pieces of your shelf unit together. Make sure to use screws that are the appropriate length and thickness for your project.
8. Brackets
Brackets are metal supports that can be attached to the wall to support your shelf unit. Make sure to use brackets that are strong enough to hold the weight of your shelf unit and its contents.
Overall, having the right tools is essential for building a freestanding shelf unit over a washer and dryer. Make sure to have all of the necessary tools on hand before you begin your project to ensure that it goes smoothly.
Building the Shelves
When building freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure stability and durability. First, it is important to determine the size needed for the shelves to fit over the washer and dryer. This can be done by measuring the width and depth of the appliances and adding a few inches on each side for clearance.
Next, the shelves can be constructed using a combination of L brackets, wood glue, and pocket holes. L brackets can be used to attach the shelves to the wall cleats, which are attached to the wall. Wood glue can be applied to the joints to provide extra stability and pocket holes can be drilled into the front piece of the shelves to attach them to the legs.
When constructing the shelves, it is important to use high-quality materials that are strong and durable. This can include hardwoods such as oak maple, or plywood that is at least 3/4 inch thick. It is also important to use screws that are long enough to provide a stronghold, but not so long that they risk splitting the wood.
One important consideration when building freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves is whether to make them wall-to-wall or freestanding. Wall-to-wall shelves can provide extra stability but may be more difficult to install. Freestanding shelves can be easier to install, but may not be as stable.
Overall, building freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps and using high-quality materials, it is possible to create shelves that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Adding Functional Elements
When designing a laundry room, it is important to consider the functional elements that will make the space more efficient. Adding storage and organization solutions can help keep laundry supplies and tools in one place, making it easier to complete the task at hand. Here are some functional elements that can be added with freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves DIY:
Baskets
Baskets are a great way to store and organize laundry supplies. They can be used to hold detergent, fabric softener, stain remover, and other items. By placing baskets over the washer and dryer shelves, the supplies are easily accessible and can be quickly grabbed when needed.
Drying Rack
A drying rack is a must-have in any laundry room. It provides a place to hang clothes to dry, which can help prevent shrinkage and damage caused by the dryer. A freestanding drying rack can be placed on the floor or on top of over the washer and dryer shelves.
Laundry Shelf
A laundry shelf is a great way to add storage to a small laundry room. It can be used to hold laundry baskets, towels, and other items. A shelf over the washer and dryer is a great option for adding storage without taking up valuable floor space.
Folding Table
A folding table is a great addition to a laundry room. It provides a place to fold clothes and can also be used as a workspace for other tasks. A freestanding folding table can be placed next to the washer and dryer or on top of over the washer and dryer shelves.
Hanging Rack
A hanging rack is a great option for drying clothes that cannot be placed in the dryer. It can be used to hang clothes, towels, and other items. A freestanding hanging rack can be placed on the floor or on top of over the washer and dryer shelves.
Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are a great way to add storage to a laundry room without taking up valuable floor space. They can be used to hold laundry baskets, towels, and other items. Floating shelves can be placed above the washer and dryer or on any available wall space.
By adding functional elements to a laundry room with freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves DIY, the space can be made more efficient and organized. These solutions can help keep laundry supplies and tools in one place, making it easier to complete the task at hand.
Decorating and Finishing Touches
Once the freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves have been installed, it’s time to add some decorative and finishing touches to the laundry room. These touches can help make the space beautiful and functional, and can also add a personal touch to the room.
One easy way to decorate the shelves is to add some decorative items such as vases, plants, or framed photos. These items can add color and personality to the room, and can also help to tie the space together with the rest of the home decor. Additionally, using decorative storage containers for items such as dryer sheets and cleaning supplies can help to keep the space organized and visually appealing.
Another way to add some finishing touches to the laundry room is to incorporate some of the latest laundry room shelving ideas. For example, using removable wallpaper to line the back of the shelves can add a pop of color and pattern to the space, while also making it easy to switch up the look of the room.
Additionally, sealing the shelves with a clear coat of polyurethane can help to protect the wood and give it a polished, finished look.
For those looking to add some functional touches to the space, the Home Depot offers a variety of laundry room organization products such as hampers, ironing boards, and drying racks. These items can help to keep the space tidy and organized, while also providing additional functionality to the room.
Overall, decorating and finishing touches are an important part of any freestanding over-the-washer and dryer shelves DIY project. By incorporating some of the latest laundry room shelving ideas and adding personal touches to the space, homeowners can create a beautiful and functional laundry room that they will love to use.
Ensuring Safety and Stability
When it comes to installing freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves DIY, safety and stability are of utmost importance. It is essential to ensure that the shelves are securely installed to prevent any accidents or damage to the appliances.
One crucial aspect to consider is the level of the shelves. The shelves must be leveled to prevent any items from falling off or the shelves from tipping over. It is recommended to use a level tool to ensure that the shelves are installed evenly.
Another factor that affects the stability of the shelves is the weight that they can support. It is important to know the weight limit of the shelves and to avoid overloading them. This can cause the shelves to collapse and damage the appliances or cause injury.
When installing the shelves, it is recommended to find the studs in the wall to ensure that the shelves are attached to a sturdy base. Using a stud finder can help locate the studs, which provide a secure anchor for the shelves.
Additionally, using a kit specifically designed for freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves DIY can ensure that the shelves are installed safely and securely. These kits often include all the necessary hardware and instructions for installation.
Finally, it is important to use appropriate nails or screws to attach the shelves to the wall or appliances. Using nails or screws that are too short or too long can compromise the stability of the shelves.
By following these guidelines, one can ensure that the freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves DIY are installed safely and securely.
Maintaining Your Shelves
Once you have installed your freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves, it’s important to maintain them to keep them looking great and functioning properly. Here are some tips for keeping your shelves in top condition:
Regular Cleaning
Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on your shelves over time, so it’s important to clean them regularly. Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel to wipe down the shelves, and avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. If you need to use a cleaning solution, opt for a mild detergent mixed with warm water.
Stain Remover
If you accidentally spill something on your shelves, it’s important to act quickly to prevent staining. Use a stain remover that is safe for the type of material your shelves are made of. Always test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the finish.
Sanding
If your shelves are made of wood, they may need to be sanded from time to time to remove scratches or other damage. Use fine-grit sandpaper and sand in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the wood. Once you have sanded the shelves, wipe them down with a damp cloth and allow them to dry completely before applying any finish.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your freestanding over the washer and dryer shelves looking great and functioning properly for years to come.