19 Above Toilet Storage Ideas to Maximize Your Bathroom Space
If you have a small bathroom, finding the right balance between practicality and style can be a challenge. Limited space often means cluttered countertops and not enough storage for essential items like towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies.
But there’s one area in your bathroom that’s often overlooked—the space above your toilet. By utilizing this area, you can create functional storage that enhances your bathroom’s aesthetics.
Either you’re looking for budget-friendly DIY solutions or ready-to-buy options, these 19 above-toilet storage ideas will inspire you to transform your bathroom into an organized, efficient, and stylish haven.
19 above toilet storage ideas
1. Repurpose a Bookcase
Who said bookcases are just for books? A narrow bookcase that fits over your toilet can be an affordable and attractive storage solution. Choose one in a material and color that complements your bathroom. Use it to hold neatly folded towels, toiletries, or potted plants for a touch of greenery.
2. Over-the-Toilet Ladder Shelf
A ladder shelf offers a sleek, modern design that’s easy to install and perfect for small spaces. Available in materials like wood or metal, ladder shelves provide multiple levels where you can store items like baskets, candles, and decorative jars.
3. Compact Cabinet
Compact cabinets are designed specifically for over-toilet installation. With a mix of open shelves and closed compartments, they provide a stylish and practical way to neatly store toiletries, spare toilet paper, or cleaning products.
4. Hanging Baskets
Attach wicker, metal, or plastic baskets to the wall above your toilet for an inexpensive and visually appealing solution. Use sturdy wall hooks or screws to secure the baskets, and arrange them in vertical rows to maximize available space.
5. DIY Wooden Crates
If you’re into DIY, wooden crates can be a rustic and versatile alternative. Paint them in colors that match your bathroom and mount them on the wall as floating shelves. This is a charming way to display neatly rolled towels or small plants.
6. Towel Bars with Hooks
Mount a towel bar above the toilet and add small hooks to hang washcloths, loofahs, or even decorative elements. This simple addition is practical for tight bathrooms, keeping essential items easily accessible.
7. Reclaimed Wood Shelves
For a rustic, cozy vibe, install reclaimed wood shelves above your toilet. These shelves not only look charming but also work well for holding glass jars, potted plants, or neatly stacked bathroom essentials.
8. Over-the-Toilet Etagere
An etagere is a multi-level shelving unit designed specifically for the space above the toilet. With its lightweight yet durable build, it provides ample storage for towels, bathroom products, or decorative items while maintaining an airy, open feel.
9. Modular Storage Units
Modular units offer flexibility for customizing your over-toilet storage. You can mix and match shelves, cubbies, and drawers to create a unit that fits perfectly into your space.
10. Corner Shelves
Utilize that awkward corner space next to the toilet with corner shelves. They’re ideal for making the most of tight areas and can elevate your bathroom by adding candles or small decorative items.
11. Industrial Pipe Shelving
For an industrial-chic aesthetic, combine metal pipes and wooden shelves for storage above the toilet. This design is particularly popular in modern and loft-style bathrooms, providing sturdy storage that doubles as a statement piece.
12. Over-the-Toilet Organizer with Doors
Prefer a clutter-free look? Opt for a closed organizer with doors. This helps hide toiletries and other necessities while keeping them easily within reach. Choose sleek, minimal designs for a clean and tidy appearance.
13. Wall-Mounted Baskets
Mount baskets directly onto the wall to create instant storage. Organize items by category—one basket for toiletries, another for hair tools—to keep everything neat and easy to access.
14. Pull-Out Drawers
For a highly functional option, install pull-out drawers in the space above your toilet. These allow you to store smaller items like skincare bottles, which you can easily access without rummaging through clutter.
15. Magnetic Strips for Metal Items
Attach magnetic strips above your toilet and use them to store small metal objects like nail clippers, tweezers, or scissors. This clever solution is both space-efficient and highly functional.
16. Decorative Boxes
Add a touch of elegance by stacking decorative boxes on a shelf above the toilet. Label boxes to keep track of their contents—for example, one for first-aid supplies and another for toiletries.
17. Add Contrast
Use the above-toilet space as a design element by painting or decorating it with bold colors or patterns. Contrasting shelves or vibrant wall art can create visual interest and make your bathroom feel more personalized.
18. Build Custom Storage
If you have specific needs, consider building custom storage above your toilet. This approach lets you create precisely the type of functionality and style your bathroom requires, whether it’s compact shelves or a mix of cabinets and cubbies.
19. Cube Shelving
Cube shelves are a simple yet effective storage solution. Use each cube to house specific items, such as rolled towels, baskets, or decorative pieces like candles or small sculptures.
FAQs
What can you store in a cabinet above the toilet?
Common items include toiletries, extra toilet paper rolls, cleaning products, and even small decor such as scented candles and plants.
How much does above-toilet storage cost?
The cost can range from $20 for basic shelves or baskets to $200+ for high-end custom cabinetry or etageres.
How can you save money on custom above-toilet storage?
DIY options like repurposing crates, installing affordable shelves, or combining budget-friendly materials like pipes and wood can significantly cut costs.
Conclusion
Above-toilet storage is a practical and stylish way to keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free. With options ranging from DIY crafts to stylish organizers, you’re sure to find a solution that fits both your space and your style.
Start exploring these ideas, and transform your bathroom into a functional and visually pleasing space today!