Do Laundry in Your Bathtub: 8 Fast Fixes for a More Finished Space

There is a unique challenge that comes with living in city apartments or historic homes where modern conveniences were an afterthought. Sometimes, you simply have to do laundry in the bathtub. Whether you are hand-washing delicates, managing a soaking station for stained linens, or living without a washer entirely, this dual-function space often feels chaotic and damp.

From an Evidence-Based Design (EBD) perspective, clutter and visual disorganization directly correlate with elevated cortisol levels. If your bathroom looks like a permanent laundromat, it is impossible for your brain to switch into “relaxation mode” when you actually want to take a bath. The goal is to create a system that functions rigorously for work but tucks away seamlessly for rest.

I have spent years designing small-footprint spaces that need to work twice as hard as a standard room. For plenty of visual inspiration on how to style these functional spaces, be sure to scroll down to the Picture Gallery at the end of this blog post. Let’s look at eight specific, actionable fixes to elevate your bathroom laundry setup.

1. Vertical Drying Infrastructure: The Retractable Solution

The biggest visual offender in a laundry-bathroom combo is the drying rack. Traditional folding “accordion” racks take up valuable floor space and create trip hazards. In a small bathroom, floor space is premium real estate that must be kept clear for circulation.

Fix 1: Install a heavy-duty retractable clothesline.

I recommend installing a high-quality, retractable line about 72 to 78 inches off the floor. This height clears the head of the average person while keeping long items like trousers off the rim of the tub. Look for a stainless steel braided line rather than nylon; nylon tends to sag under the weight of wet denim or heavy towels.

Fix 2: Use a tension-mounted drying pole system.

If you cannot drill into the tile (common for renters), use a floor-to-ceiling tension pole with adjustable arms. Place this in the “dead corner” of the tub—usually the back corner opposite the showerhead. This keeps dripping water contained within the tub footprint, preventing slip hazards on the tile floor.

Designer’s Note: The Weight Ratio

Most cheap tension rods fail because people overestimate their weight capacity. A wet pair of jeans can weigh upwards of 2 to 3 pounds. If you are hanging a full load, ensure your hardware is rated for at least 30 pounds of static weight. In my projects, I specify commercial-grade tension systems intended for retail displays because they are robust enough to handle wet wool and denim.

2. Decanting and Waterproof Storage

Nothing ruins a spa aesthetic faster than bright orange detergent jugs and plastic stain-remover spray bottles. Visual noise creates mental fatigue. To make the space feel “finished,” you must control the color palette of your supplies.

Fix 3: Decant liquids into uniform glass or PET plastic bottles.

Transfer your detergents and softeners into clear or amber bottles with distinct typography labels. If you have pets or children, opt for high-quality, thick-walled PET plastic instead of glass to prevent shattering if dropped on ceramic tile. Select pump dispensers for detergents; it is much cleaner than pouring from a heavy jug and prevents sticky rings on your shelves.

Fix 4: Utilize water-resistant floating shelves.

Install two floating shelves above the toilet or on a dry wall near the tub. Position the lowest shelf at least 24 inches above the tank to allow for maintenance access. Use materials like Teak or powder-coated aluminum. Avoid MDF or standard particle board, as the humidity from drying clothes will cause them to swell and peel within six months.

Common Mistakes + Fixes

Mistake: Storing laundry powder in open baskets.

Fix: High humidity causes powders to clump and lose efficacy. Always use air-tight glass jars with rubber gaskets (like a canning jar mechanism) to keep chemicals stable.

3. Ergonomics and The “Wash Station” Setup

If you are physically washing clothes in the tub, you are engaging in strenuous, repetitive motion. Bending over a standard bathtub rim (usually 14 to 20 inches high) puts significant torque on the lower lumbar spine. We need to address the ergonomics to prevent injury and discomfort.

Fix 5: Acquire a dedicated kneeling cushion.

Borrowing from gardening design, use a high-density foam kneeling pad. However, for an interior, avoid the neon green foam pads. Look for a kneeling pad covered in quick-dry neoprene or a waterproof marine-grade fabric in a neutral tone like charcoal or navy. It can be hung on a hook behind the door when not in use.

Fix 6: The over-the-tub work board.

This is a game-changer for hand-washing. Use a solid wood (sealed) or heavy plastic board that spans the width of your tub. This creates a surface where you can place a wash basin at a higher, more ergonomic level, or use it to scrub stains without hunching all the way down to the tub floor. When the laundry is done, this board can double as a luxury bath tray for a book and a candle.

What I’d Do in a Real Project

• Measure the tub width: I would measure the interior and exterior width of the tub.
• Source the board: I would source a customized slat board made of Hinoki wood (naturally rot-resistant and antimicrobial).
• Add non-slip grips: I would apply silicone bumpers to the underside of the board so it doesn’t slide against the porcelain tub rim while scrubbing.

4. Managing Humidity and Air Quality

When you dry laundry indoors without a dryer, you are introducing liters of water into the air. This increases the relative humidity, which can lead to mold growth and that dreaded “damp towel” smell. A finished space appeals to all senses, including smell.

Fix 7: Upgrade your exhaust capability.

If you cannot replace the fan, clean the existing grille thoroughly. Dust buildup can reduce airflow efficiency by over 40%. Run the fan for at least 30 minutes after you finish washing. If you lack a fan, use a small dehumidifier. Place it on the counter or floor during the drying process. From an evidence-based design standpoint, maintaining humidity between 40-60% is critical for respiratory health and preventing dust mite proliferation.

Pet-Friendly Design Considerations

If this bathroom is also a pet-wash station or if the litter box is present, humidity control is doubly important. Damp air traps odors. Furthermore, ensure all laundry detergents, especially concentrated pods and bleach, are stored in those high, latched cabinets mentioned earlier. I always advise clients to switch to pet-safe, hypoallergenic detergents for any bedding the animal sleeps on, as their skin is highly absorbent.

5. Concealment and Textile Coordination

The final step in making the room feel “designed” rather than “utilized” is how you handle dirty laundry storage. A pile of clothes on the floor immediately degrades the aesthetic value of the room.

Fix 8: The tilt-out hamper or wheeled canvas cart.

If space allows (even a narrow 12-inch gap), use a rolling heavy-duty canvas cart. The wheels allow you to move it to the tub for loading and tuck it away later. If you are really tight on space, hang a canvas laundry bag on the back of the door. The key is that it must be opaque. Seeing dirty laundry increases cognitive load. Hiding it creates visual calm.

Coordinate your textiles. If your laundry supplies are out, your shower curtain becomes the main focal point that can hide the drying line behind it. Choose a shower curtain with a weighted hem. When drying clothes, you can pull the curtain closed to hide the hanging items, but the weighted hem ensures good airflow underneath so clothes actually dry.

Designer’s Note: Lighting Temperature

Lighting changes how we perceive cleanliness. For a laundry zone, you need high CRI (Color Rendering Index) light to spot stains. I recommend bulbs with a CRI of 90+ and a color temperature of 3000K (bright white, but not blue). However, for a relaxing bath, this is too harsh. Install a dimmer switch. It is the single cheapest electrical upgrade with the highest impact on mood.

Finish & Styling Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you have covered both the functional and aesthetic sides of your tub-laundry conversion.

• Safety First: Are all glass jars swapped for PET plastic or acrylic?
• Weight Check: Is the tension rod or retractable line rated for heavy wet wool?
• Ergonomics: Do you have a kneeler or a stool to save your back?
• Ventilation: Is the exhaust fan cleaned or a dehumidifier present?
• Visuals: Are detergents decanted into matching vessels with labels?
• Concealment: Is there a specific, opaque place for dirty clothes?
• Flooring: Is the bath mat quick-drying (like diatomaceous earth or teak) to handle the drips?
• Airflow: Is there at least 4 inches of space between hanging garments?

FAQs

Can I wash heavy items like rugs in the bathtub?

Yes, but proceed with caution. Wet rugs are incredibly heavy. An average cotton bath mat can weigh 10-15 lbs when saturated. Ensure you are not dragging this weight over the rubber seal of the drain, as it can damage it. I recommend stepping on the rug to squeeze out water rather than wringing it by hand to protect your wrists.

How do I prevent the “damp smell” when drying indoors?

Air circulation is the enemy of mold. If you don’t have a window, use an oscillating fan directed at the hanging clothes. Also, switch to a quick-dry microfiber towel to roll your clothes in before hanging them. This “burrito method” removes 50% of the moisture upfront, cutting drying time significantly.

Is it sanitary to wash clothes where I bathe?

Absolutely, provided you clean the tub between uses. I recommend a quick spray of a vinegar-water solution or a mild bathroom cleaner after laundry day. Evidence-based studies show that soap scum retains bacteria, so rinsing the tub thoroughly after the laundry cycle is the most important step.

What is the best material for a drying rack in a humid bathroom?

Stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum are the gold standards. Avoid untreated wood (mildew risk) and chrome-plated steel (often rusts quickly in high humidity). If you prefer the wood look, ensure it is Bamboo or Teak and sealed with a marine-grade finish.

Conclusion

Doing laundry in your bathtub does not mean your bathroom has to look like a utility closet. By applying these eight fixes, you are addressing the functional pain points—ergonomics, humidity, and storage—while layering in the aesthetic principles of concealment and unity.

Remember, good design is not just about expensive fixtures; it is about solving problems elegantly. By controlling the visual clutter through decanting, implementing proper drying infrastructure, and respecting the ergonomics of the task, you create a space that respects you. You can have a high-functioning laundry station that transforms back into a serene sanctuary the moment the clothes are dry.

Picture Gallery