So here are some tips:
Choose a smart layout. Don't position washers, dryers, ironing boards, and other things behind doors or in awkward corners.
If you purchase front-loading washers and dryers, consider pedestals to raise them up and make access easier.
When choosing flooring, avoid wood or ceramic tile and go for something durable like porcelain tile (unglazed to prevent slipping when wet).
Evaluate how much washing you're doing these days. If you're not using the most efficient machines for your needs, new ones may actually save you money.
When buying new machines, always investigate how much electricity they will use in a year. Other design features that help save energy include water-level controls, moisture sensors, and spin-cycle adjustments.
If you can afford it, built-in cabinets and shelves are smart (and can even add to a home's value), but there are plenty of inexpensive free-standing or between-the-washer-and-dryer caddies, cabinets, organizers and bins.
Consider a foldout or hideaway ironing board. Having an ironing board set up all the time takes up a lot of space. There are a lot of models that are meant to hide behind the door or fold up on the wall when not in use.
Designate baskets for darks, lights, and dry-cleaning so everyone can help sort clothes. Have canvas-lined baskets embroidered, or label them with a fabric marker. Discount and specialty stores sell rolling carts with divided bins. Use adhesive felt letters to label each one, so everyone knows what goes where.
Question: I have a high-efficiency gas furnace in the basement with one exhaust pipe to the outside to vent the steam/exhaust gases.
