It’s estimated that the average UK household gets through 270 loads of laundry a year. However, this total could be closer to 470 loads of laundry for a family of four according to The Independent. 

With the various tasks involved in doing the laundry often requiring repetitive bending, twisting or lifting movements comes the need to improve ergonomics.

When the laundry is easier to complete, this not only reduces the chance of injury but can also support those with physical impairments to continue to live independently.

Choosing The Correct Height For Built-In Cabinets

The notion of the ideal working height is something we’re familiar with in the workplace, though it can be just as beneficial when designing residential properties. Where possible, choose laundry cabinets that allow any appliances to be raised off the floor. Ideally, this will bring the drum of the washing machine or dryer closer to waist height to prevent the need for bending down or leaning awkwardly.

Explore Different Configurations

Beyond raising any machines off the floor, it’s also possible to stack your washer and dryer on top of each other or place them side by side. Your choice of configuration should consider not only the available space but also what works best for you in terms of your physical ability. In particular, stacking your appliances can make it easier to move clothes between the washer and dryer due to the simplified movements.

Opt For Wall Based Storage

It makes sense for wheelchair users to keep their laundry detergent stored at a lower height. However, for most people, having cabinets close to the ground can also create the same musculoskeletal issues as appliances that are too low down. Similar to raising the washing machine and dryer off the ground, opting for wall based storage for any laundry accessories can help prevent poor posture.

Consider Moving The Laundry Room Upstairs

Another thing to move up is the laundry room itself, if you have the necessary connections and ventilation in place upstairs. Unless you live in a single storey home, doing the laundry can result in endless trips up and down the stairs. Keeping your laundry on the same floor as your wardrobe means everything will be closer together. As a result, your body will be subject to less strain and overall exertion each time you wash and put away your clothes.

Add The Right Accessories

Even when the washing machine and dryer consider the user’s height, a lack of accessories needed to sort, wash, fold and store the laundry can soon create other issues. The likes of a pull-out tray underneath the machine, and having nearby drawers to store detergent are all ideas which can simplify the laundry. For someone who suffers from chronic pain especially, a seamless experience when transitioning between each task can make all the difference.

Remember: Ergonomic Can Still Mean Stylish

Improving ergonomics can often mean a trade-off for aesthetics. However, in recent years the idea of making everyday chores more comfortable has become far more commonplace. As well as exploring various layouts and designs, you can also find ergonomic laundry cabinets in different colours. For instance, if you have a black washing machine, it makes sense to swap out the traditional white cabinetry for black laundry room cabinets instead. A black storage cabinet looks especially great when paired with more moody tones or jewel colour paint schemes. Switching up the cabinet colour also allows you to achieve a customised laundry room without having to compromise on user-friendliness.