How to Add Shelves in the Laundry Area

Organize the laundry room by adding shelves above the washer and dryer.

Adding shelves in the laundry area provides extra storage space and reduces clutter. Options for adding shelves run from simple to complex; the easiest and cheapest method is to create simple single-layer shelves. Particle board is the most cost-effective wood to use, although plywood, hardwood and pine wood can also be used for shelving. Simple shelving in the laundry room is effective for storage and utilizes the empty space above the washer and dryer.

Things You'll Need

• Particle board
• Shelf mounting brackets, heavy-duty,12-inch
• Screws, 1/2-inch and 2-inch
• Circular saw or hand saw
• Drill or screwdriver

Instructions

1. Locate and mark the wall studs above the washer and dryer. To find the studs, knock on the wall and listen for where the studs are located; areas with studs will sound solid whereas other areas will sound hollow. Measure the distance between two studs and add 12 inches to the total to determine the length of particle board you will need. To make longer shelves, measure the distance across three studs; the center stud will be at the middle of the shelf.

2. Buy particle board, 3/4-inch thick and 12-inch wide, that's been cut to the length you need. If your length isn't available, buy longer than what you need and cut the particle board with a hand saw or circular saw. Particle board is available in different sizes and finishes at most home improvement warehouses.

3. Place one bracket 6 inches in from the end of the particle board, with the shortest end of the bracket up against the particle board. Line up the back of the bracket with the edge of the wood; the long end of the bracket will rest flush against the wall. Screw the bracket in place using three 1/2-inch screws. Repeat on the other end of the board with a second bracket.

4. Position the shelf to the wall so the brackets are in line with the two studs. Have another person hold the shelf level and screw the brackets into the stud using three 2-inch screws for each bracket.

5. For longer shelves, screw a third bracket in the center of the shelf at the center stud after the shelf is secured to the wall. Install additional shelves above or below the original for multiple shelves. Determine the vertical space between multiple shelves based on the intended use, available space and personal preference.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't attempt to install the shelf without the aid of a second person. Balancing the shelf yourself while trying to screw it into the wall is dangerous and could result in injury.

• The brackets must be screwed into the wall stud in order to hold the shelf securely. Screwing the shelf into drywall alone will cause the screws to strip and the shelf to fall if too much weight is put on it.

References

• "Ultimate Guide to Home Repair and Improvement"; Creative Homeowner; 2006