How to Transform a Closet into a Laundry Chute

In bi-level houses, transporting soiled laundry downstairs wastes considerable effort. A simple solution is to transform a closet into a laundry chute. There's no need to give up an entire closet; a small addition against one wall can be an effective laundry chute. Read on to learn how to transform a closet into a laundry chute.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Measure where you want the drop point. An ideal spot is next to the wall, away from outlets, near the closet door. Check and re-check your measurements. Be sure the closet you intend to use is directly overhead of the point you want laundry to drop.

2. Ask a friend to help you with positioning. After your measurements are complete, have the person sit on the closet floor while you go downstairs. Find the drop point you've measured on the ceiling, and tap firmly and repeatedly on it.

3. Have the helper feel the flooring for vibrations to ensure all measurements line up perfectly. When you're positive you have correct placement, drill a hole through the basement ceiling, between the floor joists, in the center of your access panel location.

4. Draw the access hole. It can be rectangular or square, but must be at least 12 inches at the narrowest point and not interfere with the floor joists. If a floor joist is in the way, you'll have to alter the access point location. If interference isn't a problem, return upstairs.

5. Repeat Step 4 on the closet floor. Cut the access hole into the floor. Cover the edges of the access hole with aluminum flashing to keep it from snagging clothing and to prevent wet items from eroding the area over time.

6. Using well sanded 2-by-4s, build a frame from the laundry chute access hole at least 36 inches high--this prevents small children from falling in accidentally. Build the sides of 1-inch, sanded plywood and attach to the wall. Insert aluminum flashing as a cabinet lining if desired. The flashing works as an easy-clean surface that won't snag clothing or mildew.

7. Add a hinged lid to the top of the laundry chute to keep items from falling in the chute by mistake.

Tips & Warnings

• If aluminum flashing isn't used, coating the wood with high gloss paint before assembly can also protect clothing and prolong the life of the laundry chute.
• A similar method involves building laundry chutes within walls. However, inner wall chutes must avoid plumbing and electrical wiring and are trickier to unclog. A novice builder should build a laundry chute next to, rather than within, closet walls.
• Never leave an open laundry chute access hole in the floor. Take the extra steps to enclose it. An open hole in the floor may seem convenient, but a simple misstep could cause serious injury.