How to create a wooden laundry cart with pull-out baskets

Creating a wooden laundry cart with pull-out baskets is a practical and rewarding woodworking project. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make your own. You will need some basic woodworking tools and materials for this project.

Materials:

• Plywood (for the cart’s structure and shelves)
• Hardwood (for the frame)
• Wooden dowels or screws (for assembly)
• Drawer slides (for pull-out baskets)
• Four wheels (for mobility)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Wood finish or paint (optional)
• Pull-out baskets (can be purchased or made from wire or wood)

Tools:

• Saw (circular saw or table saw)
• Drill with bits (for screws or dowels)
• Screwdriver
• Wood clamps
• Measuring tape
• Square tool
• Sander or sandpaper
• Paintbrush (if finishing)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Plan and Measure

First, determine the size of your laundry cart based on the available space and how large you want the pull-out baskets. A typical cart might be around 24 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 30 inches tall. The baskets should be sized to fit into the cart structure and allow easy sliding.

Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces

Using your measurements, cut the plywood or hardwood for the frame and shelves:

• Two side panels (height and depth of the cart)
• Top and bottom panels (width and depth)
• Back panel (optional, depending on design)
• Shelf dividers (optional if you want more compartments)

Step 3: Assemble the Frame

Start by assembling the frame of the cart:

1. Attach the top and bottom panels to the side panels using wood glue and screws. Use clamps to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries.
2. If you’re adding a back panel, attach it to the frame using screws or nails. This will add stability to the cart.

Step 4: Install the Drawer Slides

To make the pull-out baskets functional, install drawer slides on both sides of the cart’s interior:

1. Measure and mark where the drawer slides will go on the inside of the cart frame.
2. Attach the fixed part of the drawer slides to the interior side panels. Make sure they are level and aligned.
3. Attach the moving parts of the slides to the pull-out baskets. Ensure the slides are properly aligned to ensure smooth movement when sliding in and out.

Step 5: Build or Prepare the Baskets

You can either buy pre-made pull-out baskets or create custom ones using wood or wire. For wooden baskets:

1. Cut the wood for the sides, front, and back of the baskets. The size should fit the frame and drawer slides.
2. Attach the sides to the front and back using wood glue and screws.
3. Optionally, add a bottom panel to the basket to provide support and hold laundry.

For wire baskets:

1. If using wire baskets, measure the dimensions of the cart’s interior to make sure the baskets fit well.
2. You can use pre-made wire baskets that fit or make a frame from wire mesh and attach it using a staple gun.

Step 6: Install the Baskets

Once your baskets are ready, slide them into the cart’s interior on the drawer slides. Make sure they slide smoothly and are secure.

Step 7: Add Wheels for Mobility

To make the laundry cart mobile, install four wheels (two with locks for stability when stationary). Attach the wheels to the bottom of the cart using screws. Ensure they are aligned properly to prevent the cart from wobbling.

Step 8: Sand and Finish the Cart

Once the assembly is complete, sand all edges and surfaces of the cart to remove any rough spots. This will give the cart a clean, smooth appearance and prevent splinters.

Apply a wood finish or paint if desired. A protective finish will help prolong the life of the cart, especially if you plan to use it in a damp area like a laundry room.

Step 9: Test the Cart

Once the finish has dried, test the cart by loading the baskets with laundry items. Ensure that the pull-out baskets slide in and out smoothly and that the cart moves easily on the wheels.

Final Tips:

• If you prefer, you can customize your laundry cart by adding extra compartments or adjustable shelves.
• Make sure to measure and cut carefully to ensure all pieces fit snugly together.
• If you’re using heavy-duty baskets, you may want to opt for stronger drawer slides to accommodate the weight.

By following these steps, you can create a functional and stylish wooden laundry cart with pull-out baskets, making laundry day much more organized and efficient!

For more woodworking inspiration, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course here.