There’s something about a well-designed laundry room that just makes everyday life feel a little softer. This space doesn’t need to be complicated, just thoughtful.

I’m really drawn to a stone tile floor laid in that classic diamond checker pattern. It feels timeless and adds just enough interest without being loud. Pair that with brass knobs and either oak cabinets or even a rich dark walnut, and you instantly get that warm, elevated look that still feels cozy and lived in.

For paint, I would keep everything light and soft. Some of my favorites:

Benjamin Moore Pale Oak

Sherwin Williams Alabaster

Sherwin Williams Shoji White

They all give that creamy, calm feel without going too stark or too yellow. It keeps the space feeling clean but still warm. A lime wash paint would also be such a beautiful option here. It adds that soft, textured, almost European feel that makes the space feel a little more custom and lived in.

Lighting is another place where simple is best. A clean glass ceiling fixture or something slim and minimal is perfect. You don’t want anything pulling too much attention. Let the textures and tones of the room do the work.

If I could design my dream laundry room, it would open right out to the backyard or side yard. I love the idea of it being connected to a mudroom in a really effortless, open way. Somewhere that feels functional but also calm.

I can picture coming inside after gardening, still a little muddy, kicking off my rain boots in the mudroom and walking straight into the laundry room to clean up. Or having my child run in after playing outside, and instead of tracking everything through the house, we can just pause there, rinse off, reset, and then move into the rest of the home. It makes everyday moments feel easier, cleaner, and honestly a little more peaceful.

Simple Details That Make the Space

It’s the little things that really bring a laundry room together:

    •    Glass jars for laundry essentials and decor

    •    Dryer balls (a must for a cleaner swap)

    •    Brass knobs for that warm, elevated touch

    •    A simple light fixture that doesn’t overpower the space

    •    A small framed picture to soften the room

    •    A woven laundry basket for texture

    •    A drying rack for those everyday pieces

The Swap That Actually Matters

And then there’s the part people don’t always think about.

There’s nothing like homemade laundry detergent and dryer balls. It’s honestly easier than people think, and it’s so much better for our hormones.

We’re exposed to harsh chemicals every single day, and most of the time we don’t even question what we’re putting on our skin or surrounding ourselves with at home. Laundry is a big one.

Making a simple swap like your own detergent is such an easy place to start if you’re trying to live a little cleaner. And let’s be real for a second, it’s also cheaper than buying name brands that are probably not telling you the full truth anyway.

Homemade Laundry Detergent + Scent Booster

This is one of the easiest swaps you can make, and it truly makes a difference. It’s simple, cleaner for your home, and so much more cost effective.

What you’ll need (detergent):

    •    1 cup Sal Suds (Dr. Bronner’s)

    •    4 cups water

    •    Essential oils (optional)

What you’ll need (scent booster):

    •    2 cups Epsom salt

    •    20 drops essential oils

For scents, I personally love bergamot or apple. They give everything that fresh, clean smell without being overpowering. You can also mix them or switch it up depending on your mood.

How to make the detergent:

In a large jar or container, combine the Sal Suds and water. Add a few drops of essential oils if you’d like and gently mix.

How to make the scent booster:

Add the Epsom salt to a jar, drop in your essential oils, and mix well so the scent is evenly distributed.

How to use:

    •    Use a small amount of detergent per load (a little goes a long way)

    •    Add a scoop of the scent booster directly into the washer

Extra tip:

If you’d like to brighten your whites, throw in a little baking soda. It’s such a simple trick and works really well without adding anything harsh.