Skip to main content
Bunnings

How to build laundry storage

laundry cart in a laundry room with washing machine on the left

Build a mobile laundry storage cabinet

Build a custom cart on castors for streamlined storage on the go. Made with wallet-friendly plywood, this laundry storage unit holds three washing baskets but can be scaled up or down to suit. It’s a versatile piece that can go in the laundry, garage or anywhere. It makes great toy storage, too, to control clutter in the kids’ bedroom or living spaces.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Cutting list

    From 12mm plywood: 

    • Sides 1060mm x 420mm (2)
    • Top and base 610mm x 420mm (2)
    • Rails 420mm x 50mm (6)

    From 3mm plywood: 

    • Back 1084mm x 610mm (1)
  2. 2

    Cut and sand the plywood

    Following the cutting list, measure and mark the components on both sheets of plywood and cut out using a circular saw with straightedge. Or, have the 12mm plywood cut to size in store and use a sharp handsaw to cut the 3mm sheet. Sand cut edges using 180-grit abrasive paper; wipe away dust.

    The pieces of plywood rest on the work surface while a hand is shown using sandpaper and a sanding block to smooth the cut edges
  3. 3

    Attach the rails and paint

    From the base of the sides, measure upwards and mark lines at 300mm, 600mm and 900mm. Apply woodworking adhesive to the rails and attach to the sides at the marked locations; clamp until set. Apply primer and two coats of paint to all components, leaving to dry after each coat. 

    A hand using a paint roller to apply primer to cut pieces of plywood
  4. 4

    Build the box

    On the top and base, mark 5mm in from sides and 10mm in from edges, then predrill with an 8G countersinking bit. Apply adhesive to sides, position between top and base, then secure with 35mm screws; clamp until set. Fill all screw holes with timber filler, allow to dry, then sand smooth (touch up paint if needed). 

    A drill is used to secure the top panel to a side panel with screws
  5. 5

    Add the back and castors

    Lay the box face down, position the back and clamp. Starting from the top, hammer nails at even intervals (about 120mm) around the edges to secure. Stand box upside down, mark the castor holes in each corner of the base and secure with 15mm screws. Stand right way up and insert the baskets on the rails.

    A drill is used to attach the castors to the base of the laundry cart using screws
  6. 6

    Keep in mind…

    • When using power tools and cutting and sanding timber, work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask, ear and eye protection.
    • Keep all paint and adhesives out of reach of children and pets. 
    • The cart is designed to hold lightweight items only – do not climb, ride, stand or sit on it.
    • Paint colours may vary on application. 
    • Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information. 
     
  7. 7

    Looking for more space-saving solutions?

    Check out our storage ideas and advice.

     

    Photo Credit: James Moffatt, Samantha Pointon

Logo - Workshop - Bunnings Branded - Transparent
Icon - Website - Workshop lightbulbGet InspiredQuestionsAsk QuestionsSpeech bubblesShare Projects
Bunnings Workshop is an online community for D.I.Y. and gardening discussion, advice and inspiration.
link-outJoin the discussion

Get inspired by projects from the Bunnings Workshop community

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.