Okay, we’ve all been there, so let’s just say it out loud: laundry rooms are basically the forgotten corners of our homes. They’re small, they’re often tucked away, and unless you’re one of those rare unicorns who loves doing laundry, you probably don’t spend more time in there than absolutely necessary. But here’s the thing: just because a space is tiny and mostly functional doesn’t mean it has to feel like a dark, neglected cave.
Why Color Choice Matters in a Small Laundry Room
Light and Airy
Ever walked into a bright, fresh-feeling room and immediately felt a little happier? That’s the magic of color. Small laundry rooms especially benefit from lighter hues because they can trick the eye into seeing more space than actually exists. Soft blues, warm whites, and gentle greens can make your laundry room feel breezy instead of boxy.
And we all know – anything that makes laundry feel slightly less like a chore is a win, right?
The Mood Booster Effect
Ever tried folding towels under the glow of a harsh, dim yellow light while surrounded by dark, dreary walls? It’s basically the laundry equivalent of being stuck in a gloomy dungeon. Not exactly motivating. But swap that for a soft, uplifting color, and suddenly, laundry becomes almost enjoyable. (I said almost – let’s not get carried away.)
Colors like Solitude by Benjamin Moore or Upward by Sherwin-Williams have that calming, spa-like quality, while something a little warmer like Polite White can make the space feel cozy without closing it in. Well, consider thinking of it as dressing your walls in their Sunday best – makes the whole experience just a little more pleasant.
Functionality, but Make It Pretty
Practicality matters in a laundry room. A well-chosen color can make the space feel cleaner and more organized – because it’s true enough, a tiny laundry room with piles of clothes everywhere already has enough chaos. A soft neutral like Accessible Beige or Mizzle by Farrow & Ball can help disguise scuffs and splashes while still keeping things light and fresh. Plus, if you want to add shelves, baskets, or even a cute patterned wallpaper accent, a good base color makes everything else pop.
The Bottom Line
You’re already stuck doing laundry – you might as well do it in a space that feels good. The right color can make your laundry room feel brighter, bigger, and (dare I say?) even a little bit cozy. So go ahead, give those walls a refresh.
Alright, now that we’ve established that your laundry room deserves a little love, let’s talk colors. The right shade can take your space from “mundane utility closet” to “Pinterest-worthy laundry haven.” Whether you want light and airy, moody and sophisticated, or something with a little personality, I’ve got you covered.
Below is a list of 20 fabulous paint colors that will make your laundry room feel bigger, brighter, and (almost) make you enjoy sorting socks. Let’s dive in!
Smoke – Benjamin Moore
Soft, subtle, and oh-so-sophisticated, Smoke is a light blue-gray that brings a fresh, airy feel to even the tiniest laundry rooms. It’s perfect if you want a hint of color without overwhelming the space. Pair it with crisp white shelving, woven baskets, and matte black or brass hardware for a clean yet cozy vibe. Bonus: It hides lint better than stark white walls!
Via: Jillian Harris
Blue Danube 2062-30 – Benjamin Moore
If you want a laundry room with a little drama (in a good way), Blue Danube is your bold, bright best friend. This deep blue can add richness and depth – making a small space feel parlor-like rather than cramped. Contrast it with white cabinets and light wood accents or go all in with gold fixtures for a luxe feel. Just make sure you’ve got good lighting – dark colors need it to shine!
Via: Benjamin Moore
Solitude AF-545 – Benjamin Moore
The name says it all – Solitude is the color equivalent of a deep breath. This soft blue with gray undertones is peaceful and calming, perfect for making laundry day feel less like a chore. It works beautifully with soft whites, natural wood tones, and woven textures. Want a little extra? Add a botanical print or a vintage rug to complete the serene look.
Via: Benjamin Moore
Portsmouth (SW 9644) – Sherwin-Williams
A rich blue-gray with a touch of warmth, Portsmouth strikes the perfect balance between cozy and contemporary. It’s great for adding depth without making a space feel too dark. Try pairing it with warm wood tones, rattan baskets, and brushed brass hardware for a sophisticated yet functional space. Pro tip: A pop of white (like a subway tile backsplash) keeps it feeling fresh!
Via: laurahodgesstudio
1578 Iced Marble – Benjamin Moore
If you love a barely-there color, Iced Marble is a dreamy, cool-toned off-white with the faintest whisper of gray-green. It reflects light beautifully, making small laundry rooms feel open and airy. Pair it with soft pastels, muted blues, or warm natural textures for a space that’s effortlessly elegant. Plus, it’s neutral enough to complement any decor updates down the road!
Via: thelakeloft
Angel’s Trumpet 278 + Cream Silk OC-115 – Benjamin Moore
If your laundry room is feeling a little meh, this warm, elegant combo will bring it to life. Angel’s Trumpet is a rich, golden hue that adds a touch of sunshine, while Cream Silk keeps things soft and balanced. Together, they create a cozy, inviting space – because if you have to fold laundry, you might as well do it somewhere that feels warm and happy. Pair with natural wood accents, rattan baskets, and vintage-style lighting for a cheerful, rustic look.
Via: Benjamin Moore
Polite White – Sherwin-Williams (Satin Finish)
Don’t let the name fool you – Polite White isn’t just another plain white. It’s got a warm undertone that makes it feel soft and inviting rather than stark and clinical. The satin finish is chef’s kiss for a laundry room, as it’s easy to clean (because you know, detergent splashes will happen). Keep it classic with black or brass fixtures, or layer in soft blues and grays for a fresh, coastal feel.
Via: laurendayinteriors
Dead Salmon – Farrow & Ball
The name? Questionable. The color? Surprisingly stunning. Dead Salmon is a sophisticated pinky-brown that adds a cozy, vintage charm to a laundry room. It’s warm, a little moody, and pairs beautifully with deep greens, warm neutrals, or antique brass accents. If you love an old-world, lived-in aesthetic (or just want to pretend you do laundry in a charming English cottage), this is the shade for you.
Via: amandabockdesign
Accessible Beige – Benjamin Moore
A modern classic, Accessible Beige is the perfect warm neutral – it’s got just enough gray to keep it from feeling too brown, but enough warmth to make a small laundry room feel inviting. It plays well with just about any decor, from crisp whites to soft blues and even deep greens. Add woven textures, open shelving, and some greenery for a light and airy laundry nook that’s as cute as it is practical.
Intellectual Gray – Sherwin-Williams
If your laundry room needs a little smartening up, Intellectual Gray is here to deliver. This warm gray-green is effortlessly chic, striking that perfect balance between neutral and statement-making. It works beautifully with crisp white trim, natural wood tones, and matte black hardware for a modern, sophisticated look. Bonus: It hides scuffs and smudges like a pro – because laundry rooms do see their fair share of messes.
Via: remedydesignfirm
Upward – Sherwin-Williams
Light, breezy, and just a little dreamy, Upward is the soft blue that makes a small laundry room feel open and airy. It’s got just enough gray to keep it from looking too pastel, making it a perfect choice if you want something fresh but subtle. Pair it with white cabinetry, woven baskets, and maybe even a cute striped runner for a relaxed, coastal-inspired vibe.
Via: DearLIllie
Mizzle – Farrow & Ball
Somewhere between green and gray, Mizzle is that perfect moody-yet-soft shade that brings instant character to a small laundry space. It’s sophisticated without trying too hard, and it works beautifully with vintage-style fixtures, warm wood tones, and classic white trim. If you love an effortlessly elegant, slightly cottagecore aesthetic, Mizzle is calling your name.
Via: Paul & Jane | Home Renovations
Hardwick White – Farrow & Ball
Spoiler alert: Hardwick White isn’t actually white. It’s a gorgeous, muted gray with warm undertones, making it a perfect choice for a laundry room that feels cozy yet refined. It plays well with soft greens, earthy beiges, and brass or iron hardware. If you want your laundry room to feel timeless and tailored, this is a no-fail choice.
Via: Oakhomeinteriors
India Yellow – Farrow & Ball
Bold, rich, and unapologetically warm, India Yellow is the perfect way to bring some sunshine into your laundry room. This deep golden hue adds instant depth and character, making even the smallest space feel vibrant and cheery. Pair it with crisp white trim, warm wood shelving, and a few black accents to keep it feeling balanced and modern. It’s a bold choice – but hey, laundry could use a little happy, right?
Via: jodimortondesign
Spaulding Gray – Sherwin-Williams
For a laundry room that feels both modern and cozy, Spaulding Gray is a fantastic pick. This rich, soft gray has just a touch of warmth, making it perfect for creating a welcoming space without overwhelming it. Pair it with crisp white trim and matte black fixtures to add contrast, or opt for natural wood accents for a more rustic vibe. It’s the kind of color that lets your decor shine while still giving the room a calm, grounded feel.
Display – Magnolia
Display is the unexpected hero in the world of laundry room colors. This deep, warm blue has a slight green undertone that brings both depth and energy to the space. It’s ideal if you want to make a bold statement but still keep it feeling homey. To keep things grounded, pair it with white or light gray cabinetry and a few brass or wood accents. It’s the kind of color that makes you look forward to folding towels – well, almost.
Via: farmhouseishblog
Elephant’s Breath – Farrow & Ball
Don’t let the quirky name fool you – Elephant’s Breath is the perfect soft, warm neutral for your laundry room. This understated, earthy gray has just enough warmth to make a small space feel inviting without feeling too heavy. It pairs beautifully with whites, blues, and rich wood tones, giving you the flexibility to play with various decor styles. Add some greenery or woven textures to complete the look, and your laundry room will feel like a calming retreat.
Via: 1920shousetohome
Green Trance – Benjamin Moore
Green Trance is the color equivalent of a breath of fresh air. This soft, muted green is calming and tranquil, perfect for creating a serene environment in your laundry room. Pair it with white or soft wood shelving to keep it light and airy, or add some gold accents for a hint of glamour. It’s subtle, soothing, and ideal for making laundry day just a little more zen.
White Tie – Farrow & Ball
If you love the idea of a classic white laundry room but want something a bit more special, White Tie is your new best friend. This warm, creamy white adds an elegant, timeless vibe to any laundry space. It works beautifully with black and brass accents or even soft, pastel accessories for a more playful look. The warm undertones will give the room a welcoming glow – making it feel more like a cozy laundry lounge than a functional necessity.
Via: Holly Oak House
And it’s a wrap. The beauty of a small laundry room is that it’s the perfect spot to get a little creative with color. Since it’s a more intimate, low-pressure space, you can experiment with hues that might feel too bold or risky in larger rooms.
Whether you want to create a cozy, calming atmosphere or a bright and cheery vibe, your laundry room is the ideal canvas to try out new shades without committing to an entire house overhaul. Plus, it’s a great place to have some fun and express your personality!
And keep an eye out, because I’ll soon be following this up with some dark and moody paint color suggestions. If you think small spaces can’t handle deep, rich tones, think again! We’re about to show you how to bring that sultry, dramatic vibe into your laundry room, and it’s going to be amazing.
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