That Drawer Under Your Washer Is There For A Reason — Here’s What It Is
I think many of us have looked at those laundry machines in the showroom and wondered about the big drawer underneath them. It looks like part of the washer but it is usually sold as a separate piece. For a long time I just assumed it was a way for the store to charge me extra money for a matching accessory. But once I actually used one I realized that this simple metal box is actually a game changer for your laundry routine.
A Height Boost
The main reason these drawers exist is actually not for storage at all. It is all about ergonomics and saving your lower back from unnecessary strain. If you have a front loading washer you know the pain of crouching down to pull heavy wet towels out of the back of the drum. It is an awkward movement that gets harder as we get older. By placing the machine on this pedestal, you raise the door to a comfortable height so you can reach in without pain.
Extra Storage Space
While the added height is the main health benefit, storage is a wonderful bonus. These drawers are surprisingly deep and sturdy. They are designed specifically to hold those giant heavy jugs of laundry detergent that never seem to fit on a normal shelf. It keeps your workspace clear and stops those sticky blue drips from getting all over your counters or floor. You can tuck away all the ugly plastic bottles and keep your laundry room looking peaceful and organized without trying too hard.
A Home For Little Items
Beyond just the soap storage, I find these drawers are perfect for all those little laundry accessories we usually lose. Think about where you currently keep your mesh delicates bags or that random stain remover stick. They usually end up floating around on top of the dryer or falling behind the machine. The pedestal drawer gives you a dedicated home for the manuals and the spare parts and even the lonely socks that are waiting for their partners to return from wherever spare socks go to hide.
It Is Not A Step Stool
There is one big misconception that I need to clear up because it is actually a safety issue. Because these pedestals look like big sturdy metal boxes, people often think they can stand on them to reach high cabinets. Please do not do this. They are built to hold the weight of a washing machine but they are not designed for the focused pressure of human feet. You could easily dent the metal or slip and fall so keep a real step stool nearby instead.
They Help With Noise Too
A lot of people do not realize that these pedestals can actually help your machine run a little quieter. When a front loader spins at high speed, it creates a lot of force that shakes the floor. A high quality pedestal adds mass and stability to the unit which can dampen that vibration. It lifts the machine off the floor and can reduce that thumping sound that shakes the whole house during the spin cycle. It is a nice little perk for a calmer space.
Is The Price Tag Worth It?
We have to be honest about the cost because these things aren’t always included with the machine. You usually have to buy them separately and they can be surprisingly expensive for a metal box. If you are tall or have back issues, I think they are worth every single penny for the comfort alone. But if you are tight on budget or have low cabinets above your washer, you might want to skip them. It is a luxury upgrade rather than a necessity.
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It is funny how much a few inches of height can change your day. It turns a chore that hurts your knees into something you can do in a comfortable position. If you are tired of bending over or just want to hide the clutter it might be time to look into getting a pedestal. Your back will thank you the next time you have to tackle a mountain of towels.
Bliss Donahue-Power
