Julie and Janis tackle the often-neglected laundry room, transforming it from the "Bermuda Triangle of the home" into a clean, functional space. They break down the cleaning process into manageable steps that work whether you have a dedicated room, stacked units, or just a basement corner.
Why Your Laundry Room Matters
- A cluttered laundry room makes an already unpopular chore even more stressful
- Organization reduces time spent hunting for supplies and dealing with spills
- Regular cleaning prevents mold, mildew, and musty odors
- A functional space makes the whole laundry process smoother
The 6-Step Laundry Room Refresh
Step 1: Declutter First
- Remove items that don't belong (tools, shoes, sports equipment)
- Check expiration dates on cleaning products
- Consolidate duplicate detergents
- Deal with orphan socks (if they've waited more than a few months, let them go)
- Make decisions about clothes that have been sitting there forever
Step 2: Clean Your Machines
- Wipe down the rubber seal on front-load washers (mold magnet!)
- Run a cleaning cycle with white vinegar
- Scrub the detergent dispenser drawer
- Clean the lint trap housing with a vacuum
- Check and clean dryer vent hose (fire hazard if neglected)
- Rinse dryer sheet residue off lint trap screen
Step 3: Tackle Surfaces and Storage
- Wipe down counters and folding surfaces
- Clean shelves one at a time
- Use bins or clear containers to organize small items
- Store frequently-used items at eye level
- Group supplies by category (detergents together, stain treatments together)
Step 4: Floors and Walls
- Pull out machines and clean behind them if possible
- Sweep or vacuum thoroughly, especially corners
- Mop hard surface floors
- Scrub grout if needed (humidity causes mildew)
- Wipe down walls for splatters and marks
- Clean the door and handle
Step 5: Organize the Chaos
- Create a sorting system for dirty laundry (darks, lights, delicates)
- Add a hanging rod or collapsible wall rack for air-drying
- Use mesh laundry bags for delicates (and remember: never put them in the dryer!)
- Keep a small trash can for lint and empty bottles
- Create a "stain station" with all your stain-fighting supplies
- Maintain a "lost sock basket" for reuniting separated pairs
Step 6: Maintenance Habits
- After every load: Wipe spills, leave washer door open, clean lint trap
- Weekly: Quick tidy, restock supplies, wipe folding surface
- Monthly: Run washer cleaning cycle, check behind machines
- Every 3-6 months: Deep clean dryer vent system
Bonus Tips
- Keep a basket for items needing special care
- Address moisture issues with a dehumidifier if needed
- Clean your iron and wash the ironing board cover
- Use collected lint as camping fire starters (store in empty toilet paper rolls!)
Key Takeaway
You don't have to do everything at once! Tackle this project in chunks if needed. Progress over perfection, always.
Join the conversation: Share your before and after photos in the Declutter with the JJ's community at www.abcdeclutter.com
Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!
