Appliances make homeowners' lives easier in many ways, but their bulky designs can also lead to frustration. Far too often, a large washer and dryer take up an excessive amount of valuable space that could be used for other purposes. On Season 11, Episode 13 of HGTV's “Love It or List It,” designer Hilary Farr revealed how she solved this problem with an appliance design technique she trusts for its space-saving benefits. Farr simply stacks laundry equipment to maximize floor space.
The HGTV star used this technique in the episode by placing a couple's washer and dryer in their home. The extra closet space allowed Farr to declutter the laundry room and keep the couple's oven inside and out of sight. You can use this tip in your own home to create more space for additional storage, additional furniture, or anything else that will make your home more functional. If you have limited space to work with, it's a good idea to choose a stackable washer and dryer set for your laundry room.
Consider stacking devices to save space
You'll find stackable washers and dryers on most home appliances, so you can easily use Farr's space-saving layout to create a more functional laundry room. Many of the well-known washing machine and dryer brands offer devices in this design. Remember, you should assess your specific appliance needs to determine which stackable washer and dryer set is right for you. Do you need to tackle stubborn stains, wash and dry clothes quickly or do you simply need the most compact solution to save as much space as possible? Asking yourself these questions will help you make the right choice.
It's also important to make sure you install your stackable washer and dryer properly, especially for those who want to tackle this challenge themselves. Measure the installation area and select devices that will fit there properly. Choosing an oversized set eliminates the space-saving benefits. You will need to leave 50 to 80 millimeters of additional space around the washer and dryer to allow room for air circulation and cables. Another important step when installing stackable equipment is making sure nothing falls over. To avoid this, use a level to ensure both components are level. If not, adjust the feet on the bottom of the devices to level them for better balance.