Looking for a practical solution to your laundry room woes? This ingenious pull-out laundry basket shelf and drying rack project was designed and created by Alicia Albretson from the Pneumatic Addict channel.
It’s perfect for anyone looking to maximize space in a stacked washer and dryer setup.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 3/4 inch thick plywood
- Walnut wood veneer
- 1×2 lumber
- 1×6 walnut boards
- Wood glue
- Contact cement
- Wood screws
- Steel tubing (5/8 inch diameter)
- Solid steel rod
- Shellac and polyurethane finish
- Angle grinder
- Circular saw
- Miter saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Speed square
- Pencil
- Sandpaper
- Dry lubricant
- Epoxy
Step 1: Build the Box Frame
Start by cutting a 28 inch by 32 inch piece of plywood using a circular saw. This piece will serve as the base of your pull-out shelf.
Step 2: Apply Walnut Veneer
To match your laundry room decor, apply walnut veneer to the top panel of the drawer box. Ensure the veneer is oversized, allowing you to trim off the excess after the contact cement has cured.
Step 3: Create Side Supports
Use 1×2 lumber to create the side supports for the pull-out shelf box. Cut these pieces to the appropriate lengths based on your plywood panel size.
Step 4: Assemble the Box Frame
Drill holes in the side supports for screws and apply wood glue. Use a combination of wood glue and CA glue for a quick hold while the wood glue cures. Secure the 1x2s to the plywood using wood screws.
Step 5: Create the Pull-Out Shelf Mechanism
For the sliding mechanism, cut steel tubing and solid steel rods to the required lengths. Assemble them into the pre-drilled holes of the internal support.
Step 6: Final Assembly and Finishing Touches
After sanding the entire shelf assembly, apply two coats of shellac and two coats of matte polyurethane to match your existing cabinetry. Then, assemble the sliding shelf using epoxy to secure the rods into place.
Step 7: Install the Shelf Assembly
Mount the shelf assembly between the washer and dryer, ensuring it is securely attached to the wall studs. Adjust the height as necessary for optimal functionality.
Step 8: Enjoy Your New Laundry Basket Shelf
Now you can easily pull out the shelf to place your laundry basket while unloading the dryer. This shelf also doubles as a drying rack, making it an invaluable addition to your laundry room.
