I'm sick of cheap junk! How I made my own washer/dryer pedestal.

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[@cgriesemer]

Oh man, oh man. Having you reference the parts specifically from the plans (C1/D1; C2/D2) is SO helpful. I wish all tutorial videos did this, this is fabulous.

[@donaldp9259]

Execellent. I had found similar plans for one in last winters Family Handyman, but this ones looks simpler and sturdier if my memory serves. This is the one I will be building this spring. I will happily pay the $3 for the plans. THANKS!

[@HandlebarWorkshops]

If I ever get front loading machines, I planned on doing just this. But the addition of the wheels was a great idea. However, I'd probably use appliance casters (like on the bottom of your fridge). They're made to work with the real heavy loads.

[@hablewitz]

Great design. Just what I was looking for. I bought the plans. One important modification I will need to make when I build it is the pedestals need to be 2 separate units. Most laundry rooms or laundry closets are barely as wide as the machines are side-by-side, so pulling them out together as a single unit you still can't get in behind them unless you climb over the top of them. I need to be able to roll one out at a time. This also means there will be 4 wheels supporting each unit instead of just 6 total. That will make it sturdier. @Stumpy, I should be able to figure it out on my own, but it would be cool if you could publish plans to create these as two separate 27" x 27" units (especially the pattern for cutting the pieces). It should just need an additional D1, D2, and K1. And A will need to be cut in half and wider by 1.5" to account for the additional 3/4" thickness of the additional D1 and D2 (OR B1, B2, B3, B4, E, G1, G2, H1, H2, and I will need to be shortened by 3/4" so the overall width of the units remains the same.) Or something like that. I'll figure it out. Anyway, it would be nice to have plans for making these as 2 separate units.

[@ChristianLappinOFFICIAL]

This is awesome as I am someone getting into woodworking that does not have a shop but starting to collect tools. Just got the Bora system so I can have a portable workspace and added the saw plate as that just makes things amazing. Great content and excited to start building. Thanks for such a clear cut easy to follow channel. Super excited to dig into all this content.

[@themonkeydrunken]

I feel like I learn something cool every time you post. Thanks!

[@1barron]

Ok I confess so did I

[@mmcfreds]

Wow this is good stuff! I’ve been eyeing the store-bought pedestals but that price, wow. Thanks a lot for making these videos!

[@glennRNL]

Very nice - simple, yet, functional. Always enjoy your videos. May need to make this build. Thanks

[@ballsdeep9648]

I bought plans and built this. Make sure if you are going to use 4 inch casters that you adjust the undercarriage of the pedestal to accommodate such sized wheels. At this point I’m probably just going to have to go without wheels because I’m not rebuilding this.

[@917Stefano]

Very nice project. Also, I really like how you landscaped your back yard. It looks great!

[@LycanSoldier7]

It is a great idea perfect I was planning on making one. Now I have this information. Thank you

[@61mhall]

OMG! What a WONDERFUL video!!!! You explained it all so well. You are my new hero!!! I’ve subscribed and I’m looking forward to seeing all of your old AND new videos. THANK YOU !

[@hannahmarshall5742]

I really appreciate this video - clear instructions, including plans, and really good tips earned from experience. Thank you for taking the time to make this channel.

[@TowMater]

I loved the video. Very clear in your explanations of what you were doing. Thank you.

[@MrMarkpeggy]

Thanks for sharing this excellent project with us James!

[@Pilski]

Well, James...just may have one-upped you on this one! First, the tallest practical detergent containers were measured to determine drawer height. Then I made slide-out shelves, installed above the drawers for the laundry basket/sorting, etc.. All this puts both machines at a height that all but eliminates bending when loading/unloading. Also deep, high drawers provide space for not only ALL laundry supplies but much more.. Using separate platforms facilitates access to the rear much better; they're on a tiled floor. All it took was one look at the flimsy, cheaply made but costly thin metal mounts at the store to convince me to make my own.

[@billonthehill9984]

Great tips here btw. You created a most beautiful as well as functional stand ( pedestal ) for your washer/dryer units... I built my stand about 18 years ago out of scrap 2 x 6's & 5/8" plywood, all screwed together with primer coated deck screws for my at that time new Maytag Neptune front loading washer, which died after (12) years of light use. In 2014 I purchased a Electrolux front loader washer & it also sits on the stand I built back in '01 or '02 I think. My appliances are in the b/ment & I wasn't particularly concerned with it's looks. Still functions as designed after all these years... Thank you for the tips & ideas on this presentation as I enjoyed it very much... Bill on the Hill... :~)

[@stevecuthbert8856]

This project is exactly what I was describing to my wife about a year ago because we didn't want to buy the store bought junk that cost a fortune. Thanks so much James. Here's my $3.

[@GrahamOrm]

You rascal, I've been planning this for ages and have never seen anyone else do it. I guess I should have got on with it! I also plan on a slide out shelf above the drawer to rest laundry baskets on. Wheels are a good idea but will make it tricky when putting the washer on the thing.

[@lynnpoole7830]

Thanks buddy, just what I was looking for. You do good work!

[@geoffs.2756]

Just finished up this project and my gf absolutely loves it!

[@pastorlarrypotts8289]

Awesome!! I have been wanting to do this and now have great drawings! Thank you!!!

[@davidknudson6071]

Just made this over this past week. Haven't worked with a wood project like this in over 30 years. was nice to get the hands active again. Because of this project, i will likely now be making a cabinet for our Kitchen to go between a door frame we don't use Will likely have to design that one, but based on how this turned out, i should be able to use what i learned here to make that happen. Thanks for the plans for this and the video. it helped a lot in how to make it all work. The only suggestion for the future would be to help understand how the top actually went on. i winged it, but more direction would have been helpful. Nice work, nice plans.

[@temtagesson5274]

Great video! Easy assembly and seems very sturdy.

[@joescharbrough3120]

Great video. Your construction techniques are perfect for the DIY crowd. Keep this up and you are going to move into a higher tax bracket. Good work as always. I like how you doubled up to carry the extra weight of a washer and dryer.

[@josephgreco1373]

Love all your projects. This one is great. Hope you had a good birthday the other day.

[@AJPHATKAYDKAPONE]

Clean lines. Nicely done. Thank you!

[@tsuchang1]

Thanks James. You are an amazing guy.

[@Dan__W]

Nice project! Thank you.

[@dylan-nguyen]

I just built this but made it frameless and cut my doors to the size at the end so far it's pretty sturdy. I used some rubber door stoppers to ensure the cart doesn't roll by itself I did notice the washing machine can vibrate the doors open. I think I will try and install a magnetic catch to help that Or next time try using soft close drawer slides (those only have 100 lb weight capacity though) since they require a bit of force to open at first

[@davidcrawford6505]

Very well made and instructions.

[@1barron]

I built my own some years ago however they were in a laundry closet. and I tiled it to match the tile on the floor. Two hints to anyone designing a laundry closet. Make it bigger that you think you will need I did not and maintenance is possible but difficult. And the casters will be invaluable. Thanks for the video I wish it had been eight years ago.

[@goldwinger5434]

What's going to keep the washer from walking off your pedestals? I see three options: a raised edge, holes for the feet to drop into, or somehow utilizing the appliances' pedestal attaching points.

[@Al_Z.Heimer]

Looks like we are on our own on that problem with no answer in 2 years. I agree with your options. I'd probably go with the raised edge/lip.

[@lsmythe007]

I learned a lot about this. Thank you.

[@temtagesson5274]

Great job showing.

[@zeomax88]

THANK YOU!!! i've needed this for too long

[@scottlouis7785]

I`ve always wondered why you would buy those stands when you can build it yourself at the hgt that fit yourself

[@charlessullivan8861]

Great vid as always James

[@ToolMetrix]

Great video, James!

[@blakegriffin3372]

Great instructions.

[@martinwoodworking]

I like his you glossed over putting the inner divider in upside down at 4:42 lol

[@jondeaux336]

What a great video. Thank you. Subscribed!

[@richardspencer742]

Commenting mainly to help you out Stumpy! As a more experienced wood worker it's fun to watch you create more beginner friendly projects and how you explain them. I over complicate all my own projects. Best tip in the video though is the "less expensive track saw option" Thanks again for you entertaining videos!!!

[@williamchase3500]

Good stuff! We always cut on the back side of sheet goods to leave a crisp splinter free edge.

[@lesliem.lengyel7648]

love the project...

[@TonatiuhMellado]

Nice garden 👍🏻😁

[@Dwilli9013]

Great plans Stumpy. Just wish you would have include a link to the drawer slides so I could support your site even further. Keep up the great work.

[@StumpyNubs]

Full extension, ball bearing drawer slides: amzn.to/2GgPWhk Thanks! :)

[@boydmerriman]

I have always thought those bins they "upsell" to you were cheap looking and way too expensive! Nice work!

[@dav1099]

Great Idea, the factory ones are pure junk, and your way a secret spot id cool. thanks for posting

[@joeframer9642]

Love the channel ..great build..2 things..double drawer slides for the weight.. And a laundry pan,goes under both machines, its a standard pan you can order with a drain in the center that feeds into your washer drain ..in case of leaks...otherwise solid build

[@StumpyNubs]

Those drawer slides are plenty. I could fill the drawer with bricks if I wanted.

[@KCostelloe]

Love it!!

[@robertkarpeal5673]

i kept saying "turn that center divider over". and then you did. nice build thanks for sharing.

[@StumpyNubs]

Yes, I made that mistake at first, and didn't get any new footage when it was corrected. I was hoping nobody would notice :)

[@kamkam3493]

nice touch on the Wings.

[@kamkam3493]

Great Video! Very informative. I will use this design and your guide on tools was great! I don't want the drawer option rather I want the space below for laundry baskets. It would appear there is plenty of room for this and may need to confirm the space. Any concern of washer walking a bit during spin cycle. I have the pedestals from manufacture however it seemed to make the spin function worse due to added height. Thanks

[@JustBuildItCanada]

Great video, 🔥👍🔥👍

[@michaelparker5761]

Lots of great info and a great weekend project. thanks!!

[@annettehauler1033]

You have no idea how timely this is.

[@arinks13]

Great plans! Just got them, and modified them to give me a little more length and add a small pullout sheet above the drawer for the laundry basket to rest on. I’m going to put mine in the garage on a slight slope so I can’t imagine the casters being a good choice. Do you think putting the 2x4 on the 4” side down and then hiding them much the same way with plywood would work? I love the casters idea but couldn’t figure out a way to have it locked in place

[@pcicchin]

If it's going in the basement or garage, I'd recommend using treated plywood and even putting sillseal underneath where the plywood sits in the concrete. Another paint that would work really well is Behr ultra plus premium exterior (exterior, because we WILL spill soap & /or water on it.).

[@jimk5307]

Paul Cicchinelli it won’t be on the concrete if you install wheels like he did. 😀

[@flyby8049]

This is awesome I may make it but my washer and dryer are in a closet on second floor with bi-folding doors so not sure one big unit like this is best for me or two separate pedestals would be best. I need to have a drain pan to prevent possible washer leak damage, any suggest??

[@nevermindthebull0cks]

I built a bunch of stuff for the house with a skillsaw and a 9ft chunk of channel iron for a straightedge. Now I have a way too much wrapped up in tools.

[@TheRockeye007]

haveing worked on appliances for more than 30 years i can tell you that this set up will out last several sets of laundry! if you have an older set folks, keep it as long as you can. trust me!

[@blueribb99]

The $250 factory made ones have leveling legs that lock and a locking mechanism on top for the front load washer. Both are important, especially if installing on the 2nd floor of a home.

[@StumpyNubs]

You can level any legs. And you can put a lip around the edge if you're afraid of the washer vibrating off.

[@mikeeaton9822]

Awesome thanks

[@michaelmilton4427]

Love your videos. My first real woodworking project was a washer and dryer pedestal I made a some plans and got started, that is what got me into woodworking. Question I have been thinking about the bora track system you used in this video also the kreg track system as in the guide for my circular saw. I'm undecided any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Mike

[@StumpyNubs]

Both have their own merits. I like the Bora system because it is less expensive and you can attach a router to it.

[@UnfortunateDesert]

I work with appliances everyday, and I have to chime in about how much more confidence you should have in pedestals built to this plan versus what the manufacturers sell... Keep up the great work!...

[@davidsierra3166]

Thanks

[@francineinsogna2103]

Thank you!!!

[@littlehome-mo1hw]

Complimenti per le spiegazioni sei veramente bravo!! Mi piacerebbe molto avere una pialla filo e spessore ma qui in Italia costano troppo...Quanto costano mediamente negli States?

[@brandonortega572]

So quick question before I attempt this lol. My washer and dryer measure 55 1/2 touching side by side. So besides adding 1 1/2 inches to “A” what other pieces would I add to in order to have the correct width. This is my first wood project I’m trying and really don’t want to mess it up🤦🏻‍♂️🤣 I paid for the plans on your page and would really appreciate it if you could help me out before I build something too small😳🤦🏻‍♂️🤣

[@mindyabrams4337]

thanks for this!!!! how much can the washer/dryer weigh? mine are big and heavy?

[@tonylatham5915]

Stump: Thanks for doing the video and plans. I'm headed to the lumberyard. BTW, what are those screws you use? (Not the pocket hole screws.)

[@Matt8643]

I bought the plans for and plan on building this in a few weeks. Has anyone built this from the plans yet and if so did having wheels on the bottom make the pedestal move at all while the washer or dryer were operating? Just wondering because the wheels are great but I keep imagining my washer wandering into my kitchen on wheels during the spin cycle- LOL!

[@christopherwalker1359]

Stumpy - Check that power lead which entered the Makita circular saw looks a bit "iffy" on the video.

[@DuncanEdwards.]

Nice

[@Yawles]

Very nicely done! I do ask would the 2x4 supports under the cabinet provide more support if turned so they ran similar to floor joists with the 4" dimensions running vertical?

[@richardspencer742]

They most certainly would. Stumpy laid them sideways for the casters. If you're not putting it on wheels then yes turning them as you inquired about would make more sense.

[@StumpyNubs]

Sure. But they are plenty strong as is.

[@sugakunoneko]

I'm considering getting a nailer, which one are you using? I saw it's a Freeman, but which model and which nails? There are so many options!

[@jimw544]

Oh Wow!! I had a new front loader washer & dryer delivered Friday, with 2 pedestals. And would you believe the soap jug is too tall!! I wonder if I can return the pedestals???

[@befmx31]

Mine are the same way!

[@MaxBloomfield]

I think the design in the plans (which I bought; cheap at $3) was updated since you filmed the construction, because I don't see you installing the cross pieces labeled B1-B4. Would you install those via pocket holes into the side panels just before adding the top? Do you then glue or screw upward through them into the top panel?

[@ragincanadiangmail]

I would have liked to have known if that guide could compensate for a base plate that is slightly askew from the blade. I'll check out your tools videos and links but if you showed me how to square that jig to my blade I would be both impressed and probably buy it immediately.

[@StumpyNubs]

When you mount your saw to the base plate, you adjust it so the blade is parallel to the track that the edge guide runs in.

[@srmofoable]

@Stumpy Nubs Maybe I missed it, but what are the overall dimensions of the finished unit?

[@scratchypants1]

The plans assume that your 3/4" material is actually 3/4" - which is quite unlikely around me (23/32"). Be sure to accommodate for this or you will be pulling things in all kinds of directions.

[@luvpostrock69]

I like the information in your video and would like to build this platform. However, I've tried to use your link to find the plans for this project and have had no luck finding it. Help?

[@scottyb4260]

I've been using the plans along with the video and following along and noticed that you added the B braces under the top piece but don't use them in the video, so I installed and had to remove the top to put them in. Other than that, great project!

[@1busybee562]

since you've built this can you inform what the finished height of this unit is? (not incl the casters)

[@BlaiserAid]

@@1busybee562 20", perhaps a bit more with castors. I just got the plans and haven't yet really looked at them, but the plans say that is the "Finished Height"

[@1busybee562]

@@BlaiserAid thank you so much!!

[@billk.7889]

I like the beefy design. Did you consider adding laminate to the top instead of paint? I suspect it would hold up to wear better, allow to slide your washer and dryer on the platform more easily, as well as provide a more water resistant finish.

[@StumpyNubs]

You don't want the washer sliding around up there. Besides, good Sherwin Williams paint will hold up well.

[@Journeyintowoodworking]

Great video. Question: can the plan be easily adjusted to have a height that is 3 inches shorter?

[@hansberndorff3297]

Great project and excellent video. I will be building one myself. Do you think locking casters would be helpful to keep the cabinet from rolling when the machines are running?

[@StumpyNubs]

It would be difficult to get your foot behind to lock them.

[@jofike1]

Put the pedestal in place, take the drawers out, lock the casters. Repeat when you need to move.

[@HeyitsmeKB4321]

I can’t find the plans we have to build these before Saturday! 😳

[@jimk5307]

AND, you can build this to whatever height works for your space.

[@killroy123]

Love the projects and the series! Do you plan on doing a project like a built in wardrobe with sliding doors? Or is that too much for a beginner to try?

[@StumpyNubs]

The next project is a storage bench with built-in coat rack, etc. I haven't thought beyond that one yet :)

[@killroy123]

@@StumpyNubs Cool! Can't wait to see it. If you plan to do a built in wardrobe, I'd be very keen to see it.

[@we3ernes]

Exactly what I've been looking for! I try to pull my dryer out twice a year to thoroughly clean the vent, but it is SUCH a hassle that we continually put it off. A quick question, do you have any issues with your washer "walking" on the wood? I know that the pedestals have a recess for the washer and dryer feet to prevent that issue.

[@AddictOfLearning]

Can you update the description in your plans to show the dimensions of the finished product? I dont know how tall it is.

[@jeffstanley4593]

The Bora system provides a guide for cutting a straight line, it does not address tear out like the splinter guard on the Festool product. For those who say so what, the Festool leaves a finished edge with no tear out and no need to sand. Perhaps your saw mount took that into account but the Bora tool alone does not. I have the Bora straight edge guide.

[@StumpyNubs]

With a proper blade, I get zero tear-out with the Bora guide. You can see closeups in the video.

[@1busybee562]

What is the overall finished height on this unit (less casters?) Installing a dryer in garage requires it to be 18" above finished floor & most pedestals are only 13-15"H.

[@BW-xz6ol]

Can you tell me which slides you used?

[@Squrl0885]

Any tips on getting square cuts using that track? I can never seem to get a perfect 90.

[@StumpyNubs]

If you set it at 90, it will cut at 90.

[@1034Mtk]

Great video, once again! A couple of questions, though... Could you explain why you mounted the 2x4s in the orientation (flat side taking the weight) shown in the video? It doesn't seem like they would support much weight at all, and would tend to bow and want to pull out the screws used to mount them. I would have thought more of a torsion box construction technique would be better suited to that load. Also, I took a look at the Bora products on Amazon, but they get quite a few negative reviews. The ones that bother me in particular mention issues with the clamping mechanism, and with flex in the bar when using the 110 inch configuration. Would you still recommend the product? Like you did in the video, I'd be using this to break down sheet goods to approximate size, then doing the final cuts on the table saw. Thanks!

[@StumpyNubs]

1-1/2" of pine is plenty strong, and that orientation makes it easier to mount the wheels. I don't put a lot of stock in Amazon reviews. Too many bots out there posting so-called "verified purchase" reviews. All I can say is I am very happy with mine. I do know that they have made some improvements over earlier models. Maybe that accounts for some of the reviews. But the footage in these videos speaks for itself, I believe.

[@1034Mtk]

@@StumpyNubs Thanks!

[@frankbruno9993]

Hi I ordered prints for this project and I have received

[@frankbruno9993]

Not received it sorry

[@glencrandall7051]

This is a great idea. But there is one thing you didn't cover. How do you get the washer and dryer up on top? No way I can lift either one of them and help is sparse around here. Great tip on the track saw. I think I can use that one. Thank you for sharing.

[@frameriteairdrie578]

Yes. They dryer is ok, but I lifted my washing machine once (while unpacking) and it bloody near KILLED me!

[@StumpyNubs]

Tip the washer backward so you can get the back feet on top, then get someone to help lift the other side up. My wife helped, it wasn't that difficult.

[@glencrandall7051]

I live alone. Would your wife mind coming over? VBG

[@worstuserever]

You can "step" the appliance up. Place a wooden board along the front of the cabinet, rock the washer towards you, then walk it back onto the board. Have another board ready by your feet, rock the washer backwards onto the first board so the front lifts off the ground and place the second board underneath. Keep wedging like this until level then walk the appliance onto the unit. Always keep the weight balanced towards the side you're lifting so it doesn't fall away from you. Raise in small increments, say 2 - 5 cm (1 - 2 inchs) so you can always rest the appliance safely.

[@justmydeals]

I don’t know if I’d describe manufacturer pedestals as “junk” since I know many people who’ve had theirs for 5+ years with no issues, BUT this is awesome for its customization (I.e., the ability to build it to the right height for YOU). Well done.

[@GeekboyNC]

I'd probably use lockable casters if I was to build this unit. Our washer sometimes rocks the local seismometers. I'd see it walking down the hallway when we wash the dog bed. I would probably build two separate units since our laundry area is pretty tight.

[@Brando022009]

May I ask how much the material cost?

[@kennethkolman7367]

Could you use Baltic Birch plywood for this project?

[@StumpyNubs]

You could if you want to spend a lot more money than you have to.