Laundry may not be everyone’s favorite activity, but it’s an unavoidable part of life. Having a well-stocked and organized laundry room can make this chore feel less like a burden and more like a breeze. By keeping certain items on hand, you can tackle any laundry issue that comes your way, from stubborn stains to missing socks.
In this post, I’ll be sharing the 9 essentials that I always keep in my laundry room. These items not only help me stay on top of my laundry game but also make the entire process more efficient and enjoyable.
1. Quality Laundry Detergent
Having a quality laundry detergent on hand is a must. I prefer using a liquid detergent because it dissolves more quickly and it’s easier to spot-treat stains. Choose a detergent that’s gentle on your clothes but tough on stains.
For those with sensitive skin, look for a detergent that is free of dyes and perfumes. Some detergents are also designed for specific types of clothing, such as whites, darks, or delicates. Consider these factors when choosing your laundry detergent.
2. Fabric Softener
Fabric softener is another laundry essential. It not only makes your clothes feel softer but also helps to reduce static and wrinkles.
You can add fabric softener to your wash cycle, or use dryer sheets during the drying cycle. Some people prefer one over the other, but I like to use both for the best results. Again, if you have sensitive skin, look for a fabric softener that is dye and perfume free.
3. Stain Remover
No matter how careful you are, stains happen. That’s why I always keep a stain remover in my laundry room.
There are many types of stain removers on the market, from sprays to sticks to pens. Choose one that works best for you and your family’s needs. For tough or set-in stains, pre-treat the area with your stain remover and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
4. Laundry Baskets
Laundry baskets are essential for keeping your laundry room organized. I like to have a few different baskets for sorting clothes – one for whites, one for darks, and one for delicates.
By sorting your clothes before you wash them, you can prevent colors from bleeding onto each other and keep your clothes looking their best. Plus, having separate baskets makes it easier to tackle one load at a time.
5. Drying Rack
Not all clothes are dryer friendly. Delicate items like sweaters, lingerie, and swimwear should be air-dried to maintain their shape and prevent damage.
That’s why I always keep a drying rack in my laundry room. It’s a space-saving solution that allows me to air-dry multiple items at once. Plus, it’s gentler on your clothes and more energy-efficient than using a dryer.
6. Iron and Ironing Board
While many clothes are wrinkle-resistant these days, there are still some items that require ironing. Having an iron and ironing board in your laundry room makes it easy to smooth out wrinkles and keep your clothes looking their best.
Choose an iron that has adjustable heat settings to suit different types of fabrics. And for those of us who aren’t ironing pros, look for an iron with an auto-off feature for safety.
7. Lint Roller
A lint roller is a handy tool for removing pet hair, lint, and other small particles from your clothes. It’s especially useful for dark clothing and items that attract a lot of lint.
I like to keep a lint roller in my laundry room so I can give my clothes a quick once-over before I leave the house. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your appearance.
8. Sewing Kit
Buttons fall off. Hems come undone. A small tear can turn into a big hole. That’s why I always keep a sewing kit in my laundry room.
With a few basic sewing skills, you can make minor repairs to your clothes and extend their lifespan. Your sewing kit should include needles, thread in various colors, and spare buttons.
9. Trash Bin
Finally, a small trash bin is a must-have in any laundry room. It’s handy for disposing of lint, dryer sheets, and other small trash items.
Having a trash bin in your laundry room keeps the space tidy and makes your laundry routine more efficient. No more trekking to the kitchen or bathroom to throw away lint or empty detergent bottles.
