Small spaces can be challenging when it comes to having adequate storage. For small bathrooms especially, it can feel like there aren’t enough places to store items like towels and washcloths, toilet paper, toiletries, hair and makeup products, personal hygiene products, styling tools, extra toothbrushes… you get the idea. However, with a little creativity and smart planning, you can capitalize on every inch of your bathroom to keep it organized and functional.
1. Utilize Vertical Space
One of the best ways to increase storage in a small bathroom is to take advantage of vertical space.
- Wall-Mounted Cabinets and Shelves: Install wall-mounted cabinets and shelves to store toiletries, towels, and other essentials. Floating shelves above the toilet or beside the mirror can add extra storage without taking up floor space.
- Over-the-Door Storage: Use over-the-door hooks or racks to hang towels, robes, or baskets for toiletries. This often-overlooked space can provide additional storage without crowding your bathroom.
- Tall Storage Units: Tall, slim storage units can fit into tight spaces and provide a surprising amount of storage.
2. Optimize Under-Sink Storage
The area under the sink is often underutilized or disorganized, with items piled on top of each other without any rhyme or reason. Here are a few ways you can maximize this space:
- Vanity with Built-In Storage: If you’re in the market for a new vanity, choose one with built-in drawers or shelves to keep your items organized. Drawers with dividers can help separate toiletries and small items.
- Under-Sink Organizers: Use stackable bins, sliding drawers, or tiered organizers to make the most of the space under your sink. Clear bins can help you see what’s inside, making it easier to find what you need.
- Hooks: Install hooks inside cabinet doors to hang cleaning supplies or hair tools.
3. Use Multi-Functional Furniture
Furniture that serves multiple purposes can save space and add storage.
- Mirrored Cabinets: Install a mirrored cabinet above the sink for a dual-purpose solution. It provides a mirror and hidden storage for daily essentials.
- Over-the-Toilet Storage: Over-the-toilet furniture can add shelves or cabinets above the toilet, utilizing space that would otherwise go unused. This is a great option for renters who are unable to install wall shelves.
4. Think Outside the Box
Get creative with unconventional storage solutions to maximize your space.
- Open Shelving with Baskets: Place baskets on open shelves to store smaller items and keep them out of sight. This method keeps your bathroom looking tidy and organized.
- Shower Caddies: Use a shower head or corner caddy in the shower to hold shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other shower essentials.
- Rotating Storage: A lazy Susan or rotating storage unit can be placed on countertops or inside cabinets to make it easier to access items.
- Stackable Containers: Use stackable containers to store items vertically in cabinets or on shelves, making the most of the available space.
- Counter trays: Keep essential items organized on the counter by giving them a dedicated place on a counter tray. Counter trays help keep everything within reach while making it look intentional and separate from the rest of the counter.
Maximizing storage in a small bathroom requires a combination of planning, creativity, and elbow grease. With these clever storage solutions, you can create a clutter-free, organized bathroom that feels more spacious and functional—and has room for all your stuff!