27 Best Small Bathroom Storage Hacks: Clever Ways to Maximize Space

Ashley

Home And Garden Tips.

Updated

If you’re anything like me, you know the struggle of trying to fit all your bathroom essentials into a tiny space.

It can be frustrating and overwhelming, but fear not!

I’ve compiled a list of the 27 best small bathroom storage hacks to help you maximize your space and keep everything organized.

Add a curved shelving unit to a pedestal sink

Pedestal sinks, while undeniably sleek and space-saving, can leave you yearning for a bit more storage.

Here’s where a curved shelving unit swoops in like a superhero.

These handy units are designed to hug the pedestal base, following its contours to create usable shelves without sacrificing that precious floor space.

Imagine! No more precarious towers of toiletries teetering on the edge of the sink.

Curved shelves come in various materials, from chrome to glass, to match your bathroom’s décor.

They’re surprisingly sturdy and can hold a surprising amount of stuff, keeping your essentials organized and within easy reach.

So, don’t let the lack of a built-in vanity hold you back. Embrace the curve and maximize your storage potential!

Assign drawer organizers

Bathroom toiletries scattered around haphazardly?

Enter drawer organizers – your ticket to a tidy, functional small bathroom.

These largely underrated tools can truly transform an unorganized, chaotic space into one of grace and efficiency.

Drawer organizers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, lending themselves flawlessly to holding items of all dimensions.

From cosmetics to toothpaste, and combs to skincare spectacles, the list is endless.

The beauty of compartmentalized storage within easy reach simply cannot be overstated.

Plus, with drawer organizers, no more wasted time rummaging through your things.

Your morning routines will be a cinch, whispering the promise of a great day ahead.

So, don’t think twice.

Assign, arrange, and admire the harmony that drawer organizers bring to your small bathroom.

Bring cabinet organizers onto the counters

A daring yet incredibly practical game-changer is to bring cabinet organizers onto your counters.

When a cabinet is too crammed or shelves seem out of reach, this method offers an efficient solution.

Cabinet organizers may sound traditional, but nesting them on your counter might surprise you with its potential.

Designed to organize, they serve to clear up the clutter and reduce the mess, making everything comfortably accessible.

From durable plastic ones to exquisite wooden ones, cabinet organizers can also add a dash of style to your bathroom decor.

Use them as a home for your hand soaps, face towels, or assorted hygiene essentials. Bringing cabinet organizers onto your counters isn’t just about storage;

it’s about reinventing the space you already have and transforming your small bathroom experience for the better.

The result?

Your countertops breathe with newfound openness while looking charmingly chic – a win-win indeed.

Buy or build shelves around a pedestal sink

Pedestal sinks undeniably add a vintage charm to your bathroom, but they do leave you struggling for storage space.

But worry not, a stellar space-saving trick is to buy or build shelves around them.

These inventive lifesavers can be visually pleasing while giving your bathroom a ton of functionality.

Choose a chic over-the-sink shelf that bridges the gap above the pedestal, or go for a customized wrap-around shelf that hugs the sink’s sides artistically.

Maybe even try floating shelves which make the area airy.

Incorporating these shelves will help to declutter, and all your essentials will be within an arm’s reach right where you need them.

Adorn them with fragrance candles, floral arrangements, or stack your must-have toiletries.

Not only does this smart hack solve for space, but it also presents a chance to showcase your style.

So go ahead, buy or build the shelves around your pedestal sink, and let your small bathroom bloom with a blend of creativity and utility.

Choose a tech-friendly medicine cabinet

In this digital era, why stop at bringing technology into every room of your house except the bathroom?

A tech-friendly medicine cabinet is an excellent way to join style, convenience, and smart living together in your bathroom.

These cutting-edge cabinets come packed with features like integrated lights, anti-fog mirrors, and even touch screen controls.

Some models entail USB ports and built-in speakers, making your morning jam session a breeze.

You can choose from a standard wall-mounted to a recessed style, depending on the space and setup of your bathroom.

With a tech-friendly medicine cabinet, you can charge your devices, listen to music or news while in the shower, and boost your bathroom lighting.

Just ensure to consider the power requirements and the water resistance factor before making a final decision.

Blending technology and utility, such a medicine cabinet will not only provide safe storage for your medications but also elevate your small bathroom’s style quotient, taking it several notches higher.

Hang bins and baskets on towel rods

What an utterly delightfully smart and space-efficient idea for a small bathroom!

Hanging bins and baskets on towel rods is an incredible way to create additional storage while also adding a rustic charm to your bathroom aesthetic.

From storing extra towels and laundry to accommodating your collection of bath products, these baskets can handle it all.

Opt for sturdy metal baskets for a sleek, modern look or woven ones for a warm, cozy feel.

Make sure to choose bins and baskets that match the length of your towel rods to keep the look cohesive.

It’s important not to overload them, for safety and aesthetic reasons alike.

Try to group similar items together, such as skin care products in one basket and hair care products in another, to keep things tidy and easy to find.

In this way, these versatile bins and baskets will declutter your bathroom while adding an array of visual interest, making this small space pop.

Hang plastic baskets on the inside of cabinet

Hanging plastic baskets on the inside of your cabinet doors is an absolute game-changer for small bathroom storage.

Not only do they create hidden storage for items you need easy access to, but they also maximize your cabinet space.

They’re perfect for storing light items like labelling hairbrushes, toiletries, makeup, hygiene products or cleaning supplies.

Choose baskets that have a flat back so they lay comfortably against the door, with a size that can fit the door without hindering its closing.

Use heavy-duty adhesive hooks or mount it directly using screws to ensure the basket stays put.

It’s important to ensure that the items in the basket don’t exceed the weight your setup can withstand.

This way, these plastic baskets will not only declutter your space but also provide a clever hiding spot for all those ill-looking bathroom essentials, adding overall cleanliness and organization.

A bathroom may be the smallest room of your house, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be one of the most organized.

Incorporate a tray to unify small essentials

Absolutely, using a tray to unify small essentials can work wonders in stylizing and organizing a smaller space, especially in a bathroom.

This is an effortless method of giving those essentials a unified, neat, and sophisticated look.

You can keep your daily use items like toothpaste, toothbrush, soap dispenser, and skincare products on the tray arranged in a neat yet easily accessible manner.

For a chic and elegant aesthetic, you could opt for a mirrored or metallic tray. For a more rustic or natural look, bamboo or wooden trays work perfectly.

You could even use a ceramic or marble tray for a minimalist, contemporary aesthetic.

Additionally, trays with built-in compartments or organizers could further help in keeping your essentials sorted and avoiding clutter.

The key is to keep the tray looking as neat as possible. Also, make sure to consider the size of the tray so it fits nicely on your countertop or wherever you plan to put it.

Incorporating a tray not only simplifies your routine by having everything in one place but also boosts your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal.

Install a floating shelf

The installation of a floating shelf is a wonderful way to create space, enhance your decor, and add personal style to any room, be it your living room or bathroom.

If you are thinking of installing one in your bathroom, it can serve as the perfect spot for stashing your bathroom accessories like towels, toiletries and ornamental plants.

To get started, you need to purchase a floating shelf kit from your local home improvement store.

Find a suitable spot on your wall, ensuring it is up high enough so people won’t hit their heads but still within easy reach.

Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs and mark their locations. Drill holes into the wall according to the instructions provided with the floating shelf kit.

Then, insert the wall anchors and screw the bracket into the wall. Finally, slide your shelf onto the bracket and secure it with the provided screws or as per the instructions.

Remember to ensure that the shelf and the items that you plan to put on it do not exceed the recommended weight limit.

Also, it’s a good idea to put less frequently used items up top, and reserve the easy-to-reach spots for daily necessities.

Ultimately, a floating shelf can turn an unused wall space into a functional, visually pleasing storage area.

Do remember to keep the shelf orderly and cohesive looking for the most desirable effect!

Install a funtional cabinet

Imagine this: stepping into your small bathroom and every item has its own designated space.

Sounds blissful, doesn’t it?

This is exactly what a functional cabinet can achieve for you.

A well-chosen cabinet, one that fits beautifully against your bathroom wall or neatly slides into a corner, can work wonders.

Not only does it provide ample space for your toiletries, makeup items, and towels, but it also adds a visual appeal by reducing clutter.

Opt for a design with multiple compartments or shelves, so you can categorize items. Remember, functionality should never compromise on style.

In fact, the cabinet can be a standout feature, embracing a sleek or vintage look, maybe in a deep mahogany finish or a fresh white tone to keep with the light and airy feel often aimed for in a bathroom.

This is more than just a storage hack, it’s an opportunity to transform your small bathroom into a soothing and organized sanctuary you’ll love spending time in.

Make the most of your radiator

Your bathroom radiator, while crucial for those chilly winter months, occupies a considerable amount of space, especially in a smaller bathroom.

But what if you could use this necessity to your advantage?

Enter the wondrous world of radiator shelves – a small but impactful bathroom storage hack.

Here’s the magic of a radiator shelf: It allows you to hang towels, store your skin and hair products, or even show off pretty knick-knacks while not taking up any additional floor space.

Whether it’s minimalist metal or warm wood, a radiator shelf complements your bathroom decor while helping you achieve your storage goals.

Remember, safety is important.

Make sure your radiator shelf does not sit too close to the heat, or use heat-resistant materials.

With a little creativity, this ‘warm’ storage hack can change your bathroom experience, proving once again that the best solutions are often right in front of us.

Maximize storage space with a hanging basket

A hanging basket is a small bathroom’s secret weapon.

Often overlooked, this simple storage solution can provide significant additional room, transforming even the most cramped bathrooms into paradises of organization.

Picture this: slim wire baskets dangling in harmony from the ceiling or adorning a blank wall, each holding an array of bathroom essentials, from soaps and shampoos to lotions and loofahs.

Hanging baskets inject personality and character into your room. Choose a uniform look or mix and match different sizes for an whimsical, eclectic feel.

And don’t just stick to conventional materials like wire or wicker.

You can experiment with fabric baskets for softer aesthetics or metallic ones for a more modern and chic vibe.

The beauty of these baskets lies not only in their function but also in their flexibility.

You can hang them at any height, freeing up floor and counter space.

The often-underutilized vertical space in your small bathroom suddenly becomes an innovative storage area.

Hang these little charmers and watch your bathroom storage – and style – significantly elevated.

Mount a towel bar with swing arms

Ah, the towel bar with swing arms, a true godsend for small bathrooms.

Not only does this fixture provide a compact, wall-mounted home for your fluffy towels, but the swinging arms also allow for a good air circulation, ensuring your towels dry quickly and stay fresh for longer.

The style and finish of your swing arm towel bar should complement the rest of your bathroom decor.

Sleek chrome, warm bronze, or even boho wooden bars can help add a touch of personality.

The best part about these bars?

You’re not limited to towels.

You could also use them for hanging your bathrobe, hair dryer, or even small baskets holding toiletries.

When installing the bar, pick a spot that’s at a comfortable height and in a convenient location.

Consider placing it near the shower, bathroom vanity, or the bath.

Focus on keeping it easily accessible when you need to grab a towel but ensure it does not obstruct the path.

So, roll up those towels or hang them up neatly, and voila, the everyday bathroom suddenly feels like a day at the spa – stylish and highly functional.

Roll up washcloths and store them in an upright file

An upright file organizer for washcloths? Absolutely! It adds a streamlined touch to your bathroom while making it easy to find and grab exactly what you need.

Start by rolling your washcloths neatly – this not only optimizes space, it also makes each cloth easily accessible.

Once you have them rolled up, half the job is done.

Now for the file organizer.

You have a plethora of material options – metal, plastic, or even heavy-duty cardboard.

Choose one that matches your bathroom aesthetics. Look for an organizer with ample divisions for each washcloth roll.

Place your rolled washcloths vertically in each slot. If you own washcloths in different colors, create a pattern or sort them by hue for added visual impact.

This upright storage solution can be placed on a countertop, shelf, or under the sink, depending on your preference and space constraints.

Watch your bathroom transition from mundane to magazine-worthy with this simple yet effective tip.

Enjoy the feeling of inner satisfaction every time you reach out for that perfectly rolled washcloth.

Screw in shelves over the door

Persistent nudges of forgotten toiletry items on the bathroom floor can be such an irritation.

But what if you could invest that vertical space over the door which so often goes unnoticed?

This is where screw-in shelves come in!

Elevate your bathroom’s storage capacity while adding a hint of elegance to the room.

Installing screw-in shelves over the door is nothing short of a storage hack genius.

This allows you to have additional room for the myriad line-up of cosmetics and toiletries, without cluttering the bathroom floor or sink countertop.

Imagine all your beauty elixirs gracing over-the-door shelves like a beauty goddess in her apothecary; completely accessible yet totally out of the way.

They even add architectural interest to your personal sanctuary!

Remember to strategize your shelving heights to cater to both shorter and taller folks.

Appealingly organized and effortlessly reachable, these new housing spots for your hairbrushes, lotions and potions, not to mention towels, toilet paper and other essentials, will transform your small bathroom into a miraculous oasis of order and serenity.

In the realm of small bathroom storage hacks, over-the-door screw-in shelves are undoubtedly a game-changer.

Perfectly convenient, invariably stylish and a fantastic utilization of overlooked space.

Swap towel bars

Towel bars are an integral element in any bathroom set-up, but when square footage is limited, they can seem like they’re more in the way than helpful.

In comes the idea of a ‘swap’ – this involves replacing these traditional, bulky towel bars with ring-style or hook-style racks.

These alternatives take up significantly less space, yet provide just as much functionality.

Imagine walking into your bathroom after a calming shower and having your fluffy towel easily accessible on a chic, space-saving towel ring.

Even more interesting, this simple swap can add a touch of modernity to your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal!

Implement different finishes of towel rings or hooks to match your bathroom design, adding a personal touch that caters to your unique taste.

Moreover, for families or shared bathrooms, assigning a different style or color of towel hook to each individual is a fun, practical organizational hack.

The ‘swap towel bars’ idea is proof that functionality and style can indeed go hand in hand, saving you crucial space while keeping your bathroom effortlessly tidy and delightfully contemporary.

Take advantage of under sink space

The space under the bathroom sink often slips away unnoticed in our quest for additional storage. However, it can be one of the most valuable areas for keeping everything in order.

Transform the under sink space into a well-organized storage area with the help of baskets, drawers or even stacked bins.

This approach not only tidies up the area considerably but also easily segregates different toiletries and essentials making them accessible in a jiffy when you rush through your morning routine.

There’s something liberating about sliding open a compact basket and finding fresh towels neatly folded, or your favorite skincare essentials tucked away in dedicated compartments.

This also frees up valuable countertop space that would otherwise suffer the unending clutter of random items.

In smaller households or guest bathrooms, where a variety of items might not be needed, simple, under-the-sink open shelving could be the perfect solution.

Leave your spare soaps, shampoos, and other supplies neatly arranged, and you’ll never have to deal with items falling from overpacked cabinets or vanities again.

So, perhaps it’s time we pay a little attention to the quiet, spacious accommodation that sits subtly beneath our sinks.

Undoubtedly, unearthing the potential of this underutilized spot catapults it into a small bathroom storage superstar.

It’s about creating extra space in places you might never have thought to use, and trust me, you won’t regret embracing this ingenious storage hack!

Use a free-standing wardrobe or hutch to instead of a built-in closet 

Free-standing wardrobes or hutches can indeed be a real game-changer when it comes to storage solutions.

Opting for these freestanding options allows you to take advantage of vertical space, offering you room to store your clothing, linens, and other belongings neatly.

They can be more versatile than built-in closets as they can be moved around for cleaning purposes or when redecorating.

For small or awkward spaces, they can also serve as a focal point of a room, adding a bit of charm and elegance while providing practical storage space.

You can show off your antique china collection in a hutch in the dining room or store your plentiful book collection in a wardrobe-turned-bookcase in your home office.

The possibilities are endless with these versatile pieces of furniture.

Given the seemingly never-ending design options for wardrobes and hutches, you’re bound to find one that suits your household’s taste and needs.

Whether it’s a rustic wooden hutch for a countryside feel, a sleek and contemporary wardrobe for modern city living, or even a charmingly distressed vintage piece that adds contrast to a minimalist room, the choices are boundless.

Free-standing wardrobes or hutches are certainly worthy considerations when seeking a mix of style and functionality in home storage solutions.

Use containers to hide toiletries housed on open shelf

Introducing containers into your small bathroom can be a real game-changer.

It’s easy for open shelves to quickly become cluttered with various toiletries, from daily essentials like toothbrushes and soap to those seldom-used products that seem to proliferate over time.

The solution?

Stylish but practical containers.

These not only serve to keep your shelves looking tidy but they cleverly hide toiletries from view.

They also add a dash of decor to the space, transforming mundane items into neat visual treats.

Plus, the fact that containers can be easily moved allows for a flexible storage system.

It’s efficient, beneficial, and accessible; truly a trifecta of organization!

So, get creative, let your personality shine through and roll up your sleeves; your little bathroom is about to get a big upgrade.

Use wall space to hang towels

Embracing verticality can vouch for a tremendous ability to optimise space in a small bathroom.

With square footage at a premium, making the most of your wall space to hang towels can be a transformative approach.

It’s as simple as installing a few additional towel bars or hooks.

If conventional towel bars feel monotonous, consider decorative hooks, ladder-style racks, or even wall-mounted baskets for an injection of charm to your petite bathroom.

They’ll not only deliver ample space to dry and store your towels but also add a dash of creativity and personality to your space.

And the best part?

You don’t have to scuffle around looking for place to stash damp towels anymore.

It’s a practical, aesthetically pleasing, and dynamic solution that ensures usability meets style.

About the author

Hi, I'm Ashley. I am a homemaker and a mother of two children. I am passionate about keeping my home well-organized.

Here, I share all the tips on creating a warm and inviting household.

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