It always felt like my small bathroom was in a constant state of disarray. No matter how often I tidied up, the limited counter space and cramped quarters seemed to conspire against me. Toothbrushes, lotions, and spare towels always seemed to be vying for precious real estate, creating a cluttered and frankly, stressful environment. I knew I needed a change, a way to maximize every inch without breaking the bank or undertaking a major renovation. So, I embarked on a journey of discovery, exploring the wonderful possibilities of do-it-yourself small bathroom storage ideas. What I found was a treasure trove of clever and creative solutions that have truly revolutionized my daily routine and brought a sense of calm to what was once a chaotic space.
Vertical Thinking for Tight Spaces
One of the first things I realized was the importance of looking up. Walls, often overlooked, present a wealth of untapped storage potential in a small bathroom. I started by installing narrow shelves above the toilet, perfect for holding extra toilet paper rolls, air fresheners, and even a small plant to add a touch of freshness. This simple addition instantly freed up valuable space around the sink. I also decided to utilize the back of the bathroom door. An over-the-door organizer with multiple pockets now neatly houses my hair styling tools, keeping cords tangle-free and easily accessible. It’s amazing how much clutter disappears just by utilizing vertical space.
Another clever trick I discovered involved repurposing a tiered serving stand. While typically used for displaying food, its various levels make it ideal for organizing toiletries on the countertop. I now have designated tiers for my skincare products, makeup, and everyday essentials, preventing them from piling up haphazardly. This not only looks more organized but also makes it much easier to find what I need in a hurry. Furthermore, I added a small magnetic strip to the wall near the sink. This simple addition keeps my tweezers, nail clippers, and other small metal items neatly in place and prevents them from getting lost in drawers.
Finally, I considered the often-neglected space above the bathroom door. I installed a long, shallow shelf there, which is perfect for storing less frequently used items like extra hand towels or travel-sized toiletries. Since it’s out of immediate sight, it doesn’t contribute to visual clutter, yet it provides valuable storage for things I don’t need every day. This approach of maximizing vertical space, from the back of the door to the area above it, has made a significant difference in how spacious and organized my small bathroom now feels.
Smart Use of Drawer Dividers and Organizers
The drawers in my bathroom vanity used to be a black hole of jumbled items. Finding anything felt like a treasure hunt, and I often ended up creating even more mess in the process. Investing in a set of drawer dividers was a game-changer. These adjustable compartments allowed me to create specific zones for different categories of items, such as makeup brushes, cotton swabs, and hair accessories. Now, everything has its designated place, and I can quickly locate what I need without rummaging through a chaotic pile.
I also found that utilizing small containers and trays within the drawers further enhanced organization. Shallow trays are perfect for keeping small items like lipsticks and eye shadows neatly arranged, preventing them from rolling around. Clear acrylic containers allow me to easily see what’s inside, so I don’t have to open multiple containers to find a specific item. This layered approach to drawer organization has maximized the usable space and made it much more efficient.
Beyond the vanity drawers, I also applied this principle to a small rolling cart I keep in the bathroom. By using various-sized bins and containers on each shelf, I created a mobile storage unit for things like cleaning supplies and extra toiletries. The ability to easily move this cart around is incredibly convenient, especially when I need to access items in different parts of the bathroom. These simple additions of dividers and organizers have brought a sense of order and calm to what were once the most cluttered areas of my small bathroom.
Creative Repurposing of Household Items
I’ve always enjoyed finding new uses for everyday objects, and my small bathroom provided the perfect opportunity for some creative repurposing. For instance, I transformed a set of mason jars into charming storage containers for cotton balls, Q-tips, and hair ties. I simply added decorative lids and placed them on a small tray on the counter. They look stylish and keep these small essentials neatly contained.
Another clever idea I came across was using a spice rack to organize nail polish bottles. The tiered shelves provide a perfect display and prevent the bottles from tipping over. I mounted a small spice rack on the wall next to my mirror, making it easy to select the color I want. Similarly, I repurposed a decorative mug tree to hang hand towels. It adds a touch of whimsy and keeps the towels neatly off the counter.
I even found a use for old picture frames. By removing the glass and backing, I created shallow trays that I mounted on the wall. These are perfect for holding small decorative items or even acting as a temporary spot to place jewelry while I’m getting ready. These examples demonstrate how looking at ordinary household items with a fresh perspective can unlock surprising storage solutions for a small bathroom.
Floating Shelves for Flexible Storage
Floating shelves have become my best friends in my small bathroom. Their clean lines and ability to be mounted at any height make them incredibly versatile. I installed a narrow floating shelf above the sink to hold my everyday toiletries, keeping the countertop clear and uncluttered. The open design allows me to easily see and access what I need.
I also utilized a corner of my bathroom by installing a set of small, corner floating shelves. These are perfect for displaying small decorative items, like candles or small plants, adding a touch of personality without taking up valuable floor or counter space. The staggered arrangement creates visual interest and maximizes the use of an otherwise awkward corner.
Furthermore, I added a longer floating shelf above the bathtub. This provides a convenient spot to place bath products, a book, or even a small speaker, creating a more relaxing and functional bathing experience. The beauty of floating shelves lies in their adaptability; they can be customized to fit any space and serve a variety of storage needs, making them an essential element in my small bathroom organization strategy.
Utilizing the Space Under the Sink Effectively
The cabinet under the sink often becomes a dumping ground for cleaning supplies and various odds and ends. I decided to tackle this area with a few simple but effective solutions. First, I installed a small tension rod across the width of the cabinet, creating a hanging space for spray bottles. This keeps them upright and prevents them from cluttering the bottom of the cabinet.
I also invested in a set of stackable drawers that fit neatly under the sink. These drawers allow me to categorize items like extra sponges, cleaning cloths, and trash bags, making them easily accessible. The stackable design maximizes the vertical space within the cabinet. Additionally, I added a small turntable or lazy Susan to one of the shelves. This is particularly useful for storing smaller items that can easily get lost in the back of the cabinet, allowing me to access everything with a simple spin.
Finally, I attached small hooks to the inside of the cabinet doors. These are perfect for hanging cleaning brushes or small caddies containing sponges and scrubbers. By utilizing both the horizontal and vertical space within the under-sink cabinet and employing organizers like tension rods, stackable drawers, and turntables, I transformed it from a chaotic mess into a well-organized and functional storage area.
DIY Storage Solutions with Style
Beyond functionality, I also wanted my storage solutions to complement the overall aesthetic of my bathroom. One simple DIY project I undertook was creating decorative rope baskets. I purchased inexpensive plastic storage bins and wrapped them with natural fiber rope, securing it with hot glue. This gave them a stylish, textured look that fits perfectly with my bathroom’s décor while providing practical storage for towels and other bulky items.
Another project involved upcycling old wooden crates. I sanded and painted them to match my bathroom’s color scheme and then mounted them on the wall as rustic-chic shelves. These are perfect for displaying rolled-up towels or storing magazines. The project was inexpensive and added a unique, personal touch to the space.
I also created a simple jewelry organizer by attaching small decorative knobs to a piece of reclaimed wood. This provides a charming way to hang necklaces and bracelets, keeping them tangle-free and adding a decorative element to the wall. These DIY projects not only provided much-needed storage but also allowed me to infuse my personality into the bathroom’s design, proving that practical storage can also be stylish.
I have very limited counter space in my small bathroom. What are some ways I can maximize it for storage?
One effective strategy for maximizing limited counter space is to utilize vertical storage solutions. Consider installing narrow shelves above the toilet or sink to hold toiletries and decorative items. Over-the-door organizers can also free up counter space by providing storage for hair tools or other essentials. Repurposing tiered serving stands can create organized levels for your daily skincare and makeup items, keeping them contained and easily accessible. Additionally, wall-mounted organizers or magnetic strips can keep small items off the counter and within reach, contributing to a less cluttered and more functional space.
My under-sink cabinet is always a mess. How can I better organize this awkward space?
Organizing the under-sink cabinet requires a strategic approach to maximize its usability. Start by installing a tension rod to hang spray bottles, freeing up shelf space. Utilize stackable drawers or bins to categorize and contain different items like cleaning supplies and extra toiletries. A small turntable or lazy Susan can make it easier to access items stored in the back of the cabinet. Don’t forget the inside of the cabinet doors – hooks or small caddies can be attached to hold sponges, brushes, or other small cleaning tools, making the most of all available space.
I rent my apartment and can’t make permanent changes like drilling holes for shelves. Are there any storage solutions for small bathrooms that don’t require drilling?
Absolutely! There are several renter-friendly storage options for small bathrooms. Over-the-door organizers are a fantastic solution for adding instant storage without any drilling. Adhesive hooks and strips can be used to hang lightweight shelves or baskets for toiletries. Freestanding storage units, like slim rolling carts or tiered shelves, can provide ample storage without requiring any installation. Consider using suction cup organizers for shower walls or mirrors for storing shampoos and soaps. The key is to look for solutions that utilize existing structures without causing damage to the walls or tiles.
I want to add some decorative storage to my small bathroom. Do you have any DIY ideas?
Creating decorative storage can add both functionality and personality to your small bathroom. Consider repurposing mason jars as stylish containers for cotton balls, Q-tips, or hair ties. Wrapping inexpensive plastic bins with natural rope can instantly elevate their look and provide storage for towels or other items. Old wooden crates can be sanded, painted, and mounted on the wall as rustic shelves. Even something as simple as attaching decorative knobs to a piece of reclaimed wood can create a charming jewelry organizer, blending storage with aesthetic appeal.
How can I utilize the often-overlooked spaces in my small bathroom for storage?
Several areas in a small bathroom often go unnoticed as potential storage spaces. The back of the bathroom door is an excellent spot for an over-the-door organizer. The wall space above the toilet or even above the door itself can be utilized by installing narrow shelves for less frequently used items. Corners can be maximized with corner shelves, providing display or storage space. Even the space around the sink faucet can be used for a small caddy to hold sponges or soap, ensuring every nook and cranny is considered for its storage potential.
I have a very narrow space between my sink and the wall. Are there any storage solutions that would fit in such a tight area?
Narrow spaces can still offer valuable storage opportunities. Look for slim rolling carts that are specifically designed to fit into tight gaps. These can provide surprisingly ample storage for toiletries or cleaning supplies and can be easily moved when needed. Wall-mounted organizers or narrow shelves with a shallow depth are also ideal for these spaces. Consider using vertical storage units that are tall but have a small footprint. Even a series of hooks mounted vertically can utilize this narrow space for hanging small items or hand towels, making the most of every available inch.
Best Bathroom Organization Ideas – DIY Bathroom Storage Organizers
DIY Small bathroom organization and storage ideas
Best Bathroom Organization Ideas – DIY Bathroom Storage Organizers
Best DIY Bathroom Storage and Organizing Ideas
Creative and Practical DIY Bathroom Storage Ideas
Related Posts: