How to Hide Exposed Pipes in Your Laundry Room (Easy Fixes!)

Let’s be honest—laundry rooms are functional, but they rarely win design awards. If your space is cluttered with exposed pipes, you’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle with unsightly plumbing that makes the room feel unfinished or industrial. The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to fix it. In this guide, we’ll show you practical, stylish, and affordable ways to hide exposed pipes in your laundry room plumbing—without sacrificing accessibility or breaking the bank.

Why Should You Hide Exposed Pipes in the Laundry Room?

Beyond aesthetics, hiding pipes can:

• Increase your home’s resale value (78% of buyers prefer finished utility spaces—National Association of Realtors, 2023)
• Reduce dust buildup on pipes
• Prevent accidental bumps or damage
• Create a cleaner backdrop for storage or decor

While exposed pipes are common in basements or older homes, they don’t have to stay visible. With a few clever tricks, you can transform your laundry nook into a tidy, cohesive part of your home.

1. Can You Paint Exposed Pipes to Make Them Disappear?

Yes—and it’s one of the easiest fixes. Painting pipes to match your wall color creates visual continuity, making them “blend in” rather than stand out.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off water supply and let pipes dry completely.
2. Clean pipes with TSP (trisodium phosphate) or vinegar to remove grease and grime.
3. Sand lightly with 120-grit sandpaper for better paint adhesion.
4. Apply metal primer (e.g., Rust-Oleum Clean Metal Primer).
5. Paint with high-quality enamel in your wall color (use a small foam roller or brush for even coverage).
6. Let dry 24 hours before turning water back on.

💡 Pro Tip: Use semi-gloss or satin finish—it’s more durable and easier to wipe clean than flat paint.

This method costs under $20 and takes just a few hours. While it doesn’t “hide” pipes physically, it minimizes their visual impact dramatically.

2. What Are the Best Enclosures for Laundry Room Plumbing?

For full coverage, pipe enclosures (also called pipe boxing or soffits) offer a clean, built-in look.

Popular Enclosure Options:

Best for most homeowners: PVC panels or pre-fab pipe covers from brands like WallPops or SimpleSolutions. They snap together, resist moisture, and require no tools.

📌 Note: Always leave access panels (e.g., magnetic or hinged doors) near shutoff valves or connections for maintenance—required by most plumbing codes.

3. Can You Use Furniture or Shelving to Conceal Pipes?

Absolutely! Strategic furniture placement is a renter-friendly, non-permanent solution.

Try these ideas:

• Floating shelves mounted above or beside pipes to draw the eye upward.
• A slim utility cabinet (12–18 inches deep) placed in front of vertical pipes.
• Stackable laundry baskets on a rolling cart that slides in front of low pipes.

According to This Old House, 62% of DIYers prefer “functional concealment”—using storage that serves dual purposes. For example, an IKEA METOD cabinet can hide pipes while storing detergent, dryer sheets, and cleaning supplies.

Just ensure at least 3 inches of clearance around hot water pipes to prevent heat buildup.

4. Are There Decorative Ways to Hide Pipes Without Building Anything?

Yes! Turn a flaw into a feature with creative styling.

• Wrap pipes in jute rope or sisal for a rustic look (secure with hot glue every 6 inches).
• Install peel-and-stick wallpaper directly onto clean, dry pipes (use vinyl-safe adhesive).
• Add string lights or LED strip lighting along the pipe route—this distracts the eye and adds ambiance.

⚠️ Avoid flammable materials near water heaters or gas lines. Stick to non-combustible wraps in those zones.

For inspiration, Pinterest trends show a 200% increase in “industrial chic laundry rooms” since 2021—proving that sometimes, styling beats hiding.

5. When Should You Call a Professional?

While most pipe-covering projects are DIY-friendly, consult a plumber if:

• Pipes are leaking, corroded, or making unusual noises
• You need to reroute plumbing (e.g., for a new washer location)
• Your home has galvanized steel pipes (common in pre-1980s homes), which may contain lead or be prone to failure

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency , older plumbing materials can pose health risks. If in doubt, get an inspection before enclosing pipes permanently.

FAQ: Exposed Pipes & Laundry Room Plumbing

Q: Can I completely seal off pipes in my laundry room?

A: No—plumbing codes require access to shutoff valves and connections. Always include a removable panel (e.g., 12″x12″ access door) for emergencies or maintenance.

Q: Will hiding pipes cause moisture or mold issues?

A: Only if airflow is blocked. Use breathable materials (like wood with ventilation gaps) or moisture-resistant PVC. Avoid sealing pipes in airtight boxes in humid climates.

Q: How much does it cost to hide laundry room pipes?

A: DIY methods range from $15 (curtains) to $300 (custom cabinetry). Professional enclosure installation averages $500–$1,200.

Q: Can I hide pipes behind a mirror or artwork?

A: Yes, but only if it’s easily removable. A framed mirror with French cleats or a lightweight canvas on hooks works well for temporary coverage.

Q: Do I need permits to build a pipe enclosure?

A: Generally, no—decorative enclosures don’t require permits. But if you’re altering walls or plumbing, check local building codes first.

Q: What’s the fastest way to hide pipes before guests arrive?

A: Drape a neutral-toned fabric panel or hang a tension rod with a shower curtain in front of the pipes. Takes 10 minutes and looks intentional!

Conclusion

You don’t need a contractor—or a huge budget—to tackle exposed pipes in your laundry room plumbing. Whether you paint them to blend in, build a sleek enclosure, or style them with decorative wraps, there’s a solution that fits your skill level, space, and aesthetic.

Not only will your laundry room look more polished, but you’ll also enjoy a more functional and inviting utility space. And if you’ve tried one of these tricks, share your before-and-after on Instagram or Pinterest—tag #LaundryRoomMakeover to inspire others!

Ready to upgrade more than just your pipes? Check out our guide on “10 Laundry Room Hacks That Save 5+ Hours a Week” next!