When it comes to designing a functional laundry room, one often overlooked upgrade could make a world of difference—raising your washer and dryer. If you’ve ever struggled to load and unload laundry, especially when your appliances are set too low, you might be wondering whether raising them is a good investment. As someone who’s 6’4″ and prone to a sore back, I found myself wishing I had thought about this feature earlier. Here’s why a raised platform might just be the perfect solution for you too.
What Are the Benefits of Raising Your Washer and Dryer?
The primary reason many people opt to raise their washer and dryer is to improve ergonomics. According to interior designer Whittney Parkinson, raising these appliances helps to avoid awkward bending over, especially with front-loading machines. The result? A more comfortable, user-friendly laundry experience. Beyond comfort, raising your appliances can also offer some functional perks. Interior designer Becky Shea points out that it can add extra storage space and even provide a folding surface. This setup is ideal for anyone who does several loads of laundry each week—small design changes like this can make an otherwise mundane chore more enjoyable.
How to Raise Your Washer and Dryer on a Budget
If you’re not quite ready for a custom-built pedestal, don’t worry—you can still achieve this feature without breaking the bank. Many stores offer pre-made laundry pedestals that provide a similar function, such as those available at Home Depot or BestBuy. These may not have the aesthetic of a high-end custom piece, but they do provide a cost-effective, practical solution. Additionally, you can tackle this as a weekend DIY project. Just make sure that whatever pedestal you use is sturdy enough to support the weight of your appliances and is securely anchored to the floor—particularly important for a dryer during its spin cycle.
Is It Worth the Extra Effort to Build a Laundry Pedestal?
Raising your washer and dryer does require a bit more effort and, in some cases, a little more investment. Custom cabinetry is ideal if you’re after a sleek, tailored look. However, as Becky Shea suggests, there are affordable options that still provide functional storage while elevating your machines. While these off-the-shelf pedestals may not be as visually striking, they offer great utility. And, if you have some DIY skills, you could easily build a platform that fits your specific space.
Should You Stack Your Washer and Dryer Instead?
If you’re limited on space, stacking your washer and dryer could seem like a sensible alternative. While this is a great space-saver in compact rooms, it doesn’t address the ergonomic issue. In fact, when stacked, the washer is often still positioned too low, making it difficult to reach. Stacking may be a space-efficient solution, but it doesn’t provide the same comfort and convenience as a raised pedestal.
Final Thoughts: Should You Raise Your Washer and Dryer?
Raising your washer and dryer could transform the functionality of your laundry room. Not only does it offer a more comfortable loading and unloading experience, but it can also help you organize your space better. Whether you opt for a custom-built pedestal or a more affordable pre-made option, it’s a simple change that makes a big difference in the overall ease of your laundry routine. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time in the laundry room, this upgrade might just be worth considering.
This content has, in part, been generated with the aid of an artificial intelligence language model. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. We recommend independently verifying the content and consulting with professionals for specific advice or information. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the use or interpretation of this content.