Let’s Face It: Washing Machine Taps Aren’t Exactly Eye Candy
You know the scene. You’re staring at your laundry space trying to spot something charming, but your washing machine taps insist on cramping the style. Those ugly valves and taps lurking behind your appliance? Yeah, they’re the unwanted guests nobody invited to your laundry party.
But fear not, because with a sprinkle of creativity (and maybe a bit of DIY elbow grease), you can hide those taps like a magician hiding their best trick—cleverly and without losing access. Let’s break down some savvy ways to give those washing machine taps a much-needed makeover in the “out of sight but not out of mind” department.
Why Bother Hiding Washing Machine Taps?
Aside from aesthetics, hiding washing machine taps also tidies up your laundry space dramatically. Nobody wants to look at tangled hoses or grimy valves stealing the show in their home’s cleanest corner. On top of that, smartly hiding taps can prevent accidental bumps that might cause water leaks or damage.
But remember, these taps aren’t just for show—they need to remain accessible in case you need to shut off water in a hurry (let’s be real, nobody wants a surprise indoor pool). So the trick is hiding them without locking them away forever.
Step 1: Prep Time—Measure, Measure, Measure
Before jumping into crafting covers or hanging curtains, grab your tape measure and note the exact dimensions of the tap area, including space for hoses and valves. Accurate measuring ensures your cover fits snugly without crushing hoses or blocking access.
Hint: If you want to put together a simple template first, cut out cardboard or cardstock shaped like your planned cover to test the fit. This DIY hack comes from a trusty method shared by The Homes I Have Made.
Step 2: Choose Your Hiding Weapon—Cover, Curtain, or Panel?
The Removable Cover Box
Craft a lightweight box or frame using thin wood panels or sturdy foam board that you can place or mount over the taps. You don’t need to be Bob Vila here—simple construction keeps it renter-friendly and easy to remove for maintenance.
Attach it with removable mounting options like command strips or hinges if you want a fancy flip-open style. Bonus: Paint it, wallpaper it, or add a plant resting spot on top for a touch of charm.
Fabric Curtains on a Tension Rod
If building’s not your vibe, hang a small curtain on a tension rod across the washing machine area. Pick a fabric that matches your laundry’s vibe—floral for fun, sleek black for mister-clean vibes.
The curtain solution is an ultra-simple way to hide plumbing eyesores without any damage to walls or complicated installs. It gets thumbs up from the pros here.
Decorative Slatted or Beadboard Panels
Love a rustic or vintage aesthetic? Slatted wood panels or beadboard make excellent semi-permanent covers. They let air flow, preserve access, and bring texture to the space. Use screws or easy-to-remove fasteners to keep things flexible.
This style doubles as a cool design upgrade, as you can coordinate the panel color with your laundry room walls or trim to make the taps vanish like magic.
Step 3: Install Smartly—Accessibility Is Key
Whatever method you choose, don’t enclose the taps permanently behind drywall or sealed cabinetry. Your washing machine taps need to be available at a moment’s notice to turn off water, fix leaks, or replace hoses. Accessibility is health and safety 101.
If you’re tempted to go full remodel, a plumber can relocate taps inside cabinets or under countertops as shared in this laundry renovation advice. But keep in mind, that requires time, money, and professional skills.
Step 4: Bonus Styling Tips to Upgrade Your Laundry Space
- Paint your cover or panel in a color that blends or contrasts stylishly with the room (paint ideas for covers).
- Add faux shiplap or beadboard for rustic charm and functional ventilation.
- Place a small ledge or top shelf on removable covers to hold laundry essentials or décor items.
- Use peel-and-stick wallpaper patterns for quick, renter-safe flair.
- Plant lovers rejoice: top your cover with a small succulent or air plant for fresh vibes.
What About Renter-Friendly Solutions?
If you’re bouncing from place to place or don’t want to mess with permanent modifications, the curtain or removable box methods are your best friends. They involve no drilling, no mess, and get the job done with style and speed.
For those who hustle hard in laundry-room upkeep, you might also enjoy our tips on how to handle automatic washing machines like a pro or getting stains off washing machines—because, why stop at just hiding taps, right?
Need Tools or Materials to Get Started?
You might be wondering where to grab those DIY essentials. Whether you’re in India or sipping chai somewhere else, check out the handy toolkit offers below — they’ll get you ready to hide those taps like a laundry ninja.
Wrap-Up: Hide Those Taps Without Hiding Your Worry
In the grand laundry battle between function and fashion, your washing machine taps don’t have to lose. Use removable covers, curtains, or decorative panels to keep your washing nook tidy and chic without sacrificing quick access for emergencies. Whether you’re DIY inclined or want to call in a pro for a tap relocation, there’s a solution that fits your budget and style.
Now get out there, measure twice, cut once, and turn your laundry eyesore into a neat little nook that even your most judgmental guest would admire. Your taps deserve a break from the spotlight—give ‘em a stylish hiding place that’s all about balance.