25 Small Bathroom Storage Ideas That Actually Work

Is your tiny bathroom a chaotic mess of half-empty shampoo bottles and rogue bobby pins? Do you play a dangerous game of Jenga every time you reach for your toothbrush? I have been there. My last apartment’s bathroom was so small I am pretty sure it was a converted closet. The struggle is real.

But here is the good news: you do not need a massive bathroom to have a beautifully organized space. With a little creativity and maybe a touch of genius, you can turn that cluttered shoebox into a functional, stylish sanctuary.

25 Clever Storage Ideas for Your Tiny Bathroom

So, I am sharing 25 clever small bathroom storage ideas that will help you reclaim your space and, just maybe, your sanity.

1. Over-the-Toilet Shelving

An over-the-toilet shelving unit is a classic for a reason. It uses that awkward, empty wall space above your toilet to give you extra surfaces for towels, toiletries, or even a cute plant. It’s an instant vertical upgrade without drilling a single hole.

Styling Tips:

Choose a unit that matches your bathroom’s vibe—black metal for an industrial look, bamboo for a spa feel.
Roll up your towels and stack them in a pyramid.
Use small decorative baskets to hide less-attractive items like extra toilet paper.

Pro Tip: Look for a unit with adjustable shelves. That way, you can customize it to fit taller items, like that giant bottle of hairspray you bought on a whim.

2. Floating Shelves Above the Doorway

The space above your bathroom door is probably the most neglected real estate in the room. A simple floating shelf here is perfect for storing things you don’t need every day, like extra towels or back-stock toiletries.

Styling Tips:

Paint the shelf the same color as the wall to make it blend in seamlessly.
Use matching storage bins to create a clean, uniform look.
Don’t overstuff it! Keep it tidy, as it’s still visible.

Pro Tip: This is the perfect spot for seasonal items. Store your sunscreen and after-sun lotion here in the winter, and swap them out for heavy moisturizers in the summer.

3. Wall-Mounted Baskets

Forget cluttering your counter. Attach some wire or woven baskets directly to the wall to hold everything from hand towels to hair tools. They add texture and storage all at once. What’s not to love?

Styling Tips:

Mix and match different sizes for visual interest.
Woven baskets add a warm, bohemian touch, while wire baskets feel more modern and industrial.
Line them with a cute fabric that complements your shower curtain or towels.

Pro Tip: Mount a basket near your vanity specifically for your hairdryer and straightener. This keeps them off the counter but still within easy reach.

4. Slim Rolling Carts

A slim rolling cart is a game-changer. You can slide it into that weird gap between your toilet and the wall or next to the vanity. It’s perfect for holding makeup, skincare, or cleaning supplies, and you can roll it out whenever you need access.

Styling Tips:

Get one in a fun color—like mint green or blush pink—to add a pop of personality.
Use clear acrylic organizers on each tier to keep small items contained.
Dedicate each level to a different category: top for daily skincare, middle for makeup, bottom for hair products.

Pro Tip: Find a cart with a top that can double as a small tray. It’s perfect for holding your phone or a cup of coffee while you get ready.

5. Corner Floating Shelves

Corners are notoriously awkward, but corner floating shelves turn them into a storage powerhouse. They’re perfect for displaying decorative items like candles and small plants, or for holding your daily skincare essentials.

Styling Tips:

Choose shelves made from glass to create a more open, airy feel.
Stagger the shelves at different heights to create a dynamic look.
Stick to a theme—all-white ceramics, for example—to keep it from looking cluttered.

Pro Tip: Install a corner shelf inside your shower for extra shampoo and soap storage. Just make sure it’s made from a waterproof material!

6. Behind-the-Door Storage Racks

The back of your bathroom door is prime storage space. An over-the-door rack with multiple baskets or shelves can hold a surprising amount of stuff, from cleaning supplies to spare toiletries.

Styling Tips:

Opt for a rack that matches the finish of your door handle for a cohesive look.
Use the top baskets for less-frequently used items and the bottom ones for daily essentials.
Label the baskets so you can find what you need without rummaging.

Pro Tip: If you’re a renter, an over-the-door rack is a lifesaver. No drilling, no damage, just instant storage.

7. Tiered Organizers

A two or three-tiered organizer is like a mini skyscraper for your countertop. It lets you stack your skincare, makeup, and perfumes vertically, freeing up precious counter space while keeping everything visible.

Styling Tips:

A marble or gold tiered tray adds a touch of glam.
Arrange your prettiest perfume bottles and skincare jars on the top tier.
Keep cotton pads and Q-tips in small, stylish containers on the bottom tier.

Pro Tip: Place a tiered organizer on your toilet tank for extra storage if you have a flat-topped toilet. It’s an unexpected but super effective hack.

8. Magnetic Strips

Got a million bobby pins, tweezers, and nail clippers floating around? Mount a magnetic strip on the wall or inside a cabinet door. It’s a seriously satisfying way to organize all those tiny metal tools.

Styling Tips:

You can buy magnetic knife strips from any kitchen store—they work perfectly.
Install it near your vanity mirror for easy access while you’re getting ready.
For a sleeker look, you can paint the magnetic strip to match your wall color.

Pro Tip: Use a magnetic strip to hold your makeup brushes! Just glue small, strong magnets to the ends of your brushes.

9. Ladder Shelves

A ladder shelf leans against the wall, giving you several rungs of storage without taking up much floor space. It has a relaxed, rustic vibe and is perfect for holding towels, baskets, and decorative items.

Styling Tips:

Drape your prettiest towels over the rungs.
Use S-hooks to hang small wire baskets for holding soaps or bath bombs.
Place a trailing plant like an ivy on one of the shelves to add some greenery.

Pro Tip: Find a ladder shelf with a built-in basket or a wider bottom shelf. It provides a great spot for a small laundry hamper.

10. Built-In Recessed Shelves

If you’re up for a little DIY or renovation, recessed shelves (also called niches) are the ultimate space-saver. They’re built into the wall between the studs, so they don’t jut out into the room at all. They’re especially amazing in showers.

Styling Tips:

Line the back of the niche with a fun accent tile to make it a focal point.
Install LED strip lighting inside the niche for a high-end, spa-like glow.
Keep the items on the shelf minimal and curated.

Pro Tip: A recessed shelf next to the toilet is the perfect discreet spot to store a few extra rolls of toilet paper.

11. Over-the-Sink Cabinets

An over-the-sink cabinet or medicine cabinet with a mirrored door is a classic for a reason. It hides your clutter while also giving you a mirror. Look for modern, slim-profile versions that don’t feel bulky.

Styling Tips:

Choose a cabinet with a simple, frameless mirror to make the space feel larger.
Opt for one with open shelving on the side for displaying a few pretty items.
Make sure it’s installed at the right height for everyone who uses the bathroom.

Pro Tip: Get a medicine cabinet with a built-in electrical outlet inside. You can charge your electric toothbrush or shaver out of sight.

12. Narrow Pull-Out Cabinets

These are brilliant for using those strange, narrow spaces you find in bathrooms. A pull-out cabinet, similar to a spice rack in a kitchen, can slide into a 6-inch gap and hold a ton of bottles and jars.

Styling Tips:

Match the cabinet front to your existing vanity for a seamless, custom look.
Organize items by height, with taller bottles at the back.
Use clear containers inside so you can easily see what you have.

Pro Tip: If you have a freestanding sink, you might be able to add a narrow pull-out cabinet on either side to create a vanity-like feel.

13. Hooks on the Back of the Door

Never underestimate the power of a simple hook. Instead of a bulky towel bar, install a row of hooks on the back of your door for towels, robes, and even a hanging toiletry bag.

Styling Tips:

Choose stylish hooks—like matte black or brushed brass—that feel like a design choice, not an afterthought.
Install them at different heights so towels don’t overlap too much and can dry properly.
Assign a hook to each person in the household.

Pro Tip: Use command hooks if you’re a renter or don’t want to drill holes. They’re surprisingly strong and come in lots of different styles.

14. Clear Stackable Bins

For under-the-sink chaos, clear stackable bins are your best friend. You can see exactly what’s inside without having to pull everything out, and they let you use the full height of your cabinet.

Styling Tips:

Look for bins with lids so you can stack them securely.
Label the front of each bin (e.g., “First Aid,” “Hair Care,” “Cleaning”).
Group similar items together in each bin to make things easy to find.

Pro Tip: Some stackable bins come with drawers, which is even better. You can access the bottom bin without unstacking everything.

15. Lazy Susans Inside Cabinets

A Lazy Susan is pure magic for deep or corner cabinets. No more losing bottles in the dark abyss under your sink! Just spin it around to bring everything from the back to the front.

Styling Tips:

Get a Lazy Susan with a raised edge to prevent items from flying off when you spin it.
Use one for your skincare and another for cleaning supplies to keep things separate.
A clear acrylic or simple white one will look cleanest.

Pro Tip: Use a small Lazy Susan on your countertop for your daily perfumes and lotions. It looks chic and is super functional.

16. Storage-Friendly Vanity Mirrors

Some mirrors are more than just mirrors. Look for vanity mirrors with a small built-in shelf at the bottom or a hidden cabinet behind them. It’s storage that’s hiding in plain sight.

Styling Tips:

A round mirror with a small shelf can soften the look of a very angular bathroom.
Use the shelf for small, beautiful items like a succulent or your favorite lipstick.
If it has a cabinet, make sure the door opens in a direction that’s convenient for you.

Pro Tip: Some modern vanity mirrors even come with built-in Bluetooth speakers and anti-fog features. Talk about multitasking!

17. Towel Bars with Shelves

Why have a simple towel bar when you can have a towel bar with a shelf on top? It’s a two-in-one solution that gives you a place to hang your wet towel and a spot to stack clean, dry ones.

Styling Tips:

Fold your clean towels neatly on the shelf.
Add a small basket to the shelf for washcloths or guest soaps.
Choose a finish that matches your faucet and other fixtures.

Pro Tip: Hang S-hooks from the bar to hold things like a loofah or a body brush.

18. Hanging Wire Baskets

These are great for adding storage without taking up any counter or floor space. Hang a multi-tiered wire basket from a hook on the ceiling or wall. They’re perfect for holding toilet paper, small towels, or even fruit if you’re feeling quirky.

Styling Tips:

A black or copper wire basket adds a modern, farmhouse touch.
Place a small plant in the top basket to draw the eye upward.
Roll up washcloths and place them in one of the tiers.

Pro Tip: Hang one near the tub or shower to hold bath bombs, bubble bath, and sponges.

19. Freestanding Shelving Towers

If you have a bit of floor space, a tall, narrow shelving tower can provide a huge amount of storage. It’s like a bookcase for your bathroom.

Styling Tips:

Mix functional storage with decorative items to keep it from looking too utilitarian.
Use a combination of folded towels, baskets, and pretty jars.
Anchor it to the wall for safety, especially if you have kids or pets.

Pro Tip: Find a unit that’s designed for bathrooms so it will be resistant to moisture and humidity.

20. Pegboards

A pegboard is the ultimate flexible storage solution. You can customize it with shelves, hooks, and small baskets to hold literally anything. It’s perfect for organizing makeup, jewelry, and grooming tools.

Styling Tips:

Paint the pegboard a fun color to make it a statement piece.
Arrange your items in an aesthetically pleasing way. Think of it as functional art.
Use small cups or containers that can hang from the pegs to hold makeup brushes or toothbrushes.

Pro Tip: Install a small mirror on the pegboard to create a mini vanity station.

21. Drawer Organizers

If your vanity has drawers, don’t just throw everything in there. Use drawer organizers to create designated spots for makeup, toiletries, and hair accessories. It will change your life.

Styling Tips:

Clear, interlocking organizers are great because you can customize the layout to fit your drawer.
Bamboo organizers add a warm, spa-like feel.
Line the bottom of the drawers with a pretty patterned paper before putting the organizers in.

Pro Tip: Use small museum wax or putty on the bottom of the organizers to keep them from sliding around every time you open and close the drawer.

22. Small Hampers That Slide Under Counters

A bulky laundry hamper can eat up a ton of floor space. Find a slim, short hamper that can slide neatly under a floating vanity or into a corner.

Styling Tips:

A woven or cloth hamper looks much nicer than a plastic one.
Look for one with a lid to keep your dirty laundry out of sight.
If you have the space, get two small ones: one for whites and one for colors.

Pro Tip: Some rolling carts come with a built-in canvas hamper on the bottom tier, giving you storage and a laundry solution in one.

23. Slim Tall Cabinets for Corners

A tall, skinny cabinet designed for a corner can add a surprising amount of hidden storage. It’s perfect for stashing away cleaning supplies, extra toilet paper, and all the things you don’t want on display.

Styling Tips:

Choose a cabinet that matches your vanity or has a mirrored front to make the space feel bigger.
Look for one with a combination of open shelves and closed cabinets.
Place it in the corner furthest from the door to keep it from feeling obtrusive.

Pro Tip: Use the top of the cabinet to display a nice vase or a piece of art.

24. Shower Caddies with Multiple Tiers

Your shower is a major clutter zone. A good shower caddy is non-negotiable. Look for one that hangs over the showerhead or uses tension rods, and make sure it has multiple tiers and hooks.

Styling Tips:

A stainless steel or bronze caddy will resist rust and look classier than plastic.
Decant your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash into matching pump bottles for a cohesive, hotel-like feel.
Make sure there are holes for storing bottles upside down when they’re running low.

Pro Tip: Before you buy a hanging caddy, check to make sure it will fit your showerhead and won’t slide down. Some have rubber grips to help them stay in place.

25. Woven Baskets for Open Shelving

If you have open shelving, woven baskets are your secret weapon for hiding clutter while adding style. They bring warmth and texture to the space and can hold anything from toilet paper to hair tools.

Styling Tips:

Use baskets of the same style but different sizes for a coordinated but not-too-perfect look.
Attach cute labels or tags so you know what’s in each one.
Choose baskets with lids if you want to completely hide the contents.

Pro Tip: Place a basket on the back of your toilet tank. It’s a great spot to hold a couple of rolls of toilet paper and a room spray.

Guide to Maximizing Your Space

Feeling overwhelmed? Just remember these four golden rules for small bathroom storage.

Go Vertical: Your walls are your best friends. Use shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, and over-the-door racks to draw the eye upward and free up floor space.
Use Multipurpose Furniture: Think storage mirrors, towel bars with shelves, and rolling carts that double as extra counter space. Every piece should work hard.
Don’t Overlook Awkward Corners: Those weird nooks and crannies are begging for some love. Use corner shelves or a slim cabinet to make them useful.
Keep It Minimal: This is probably the most important rule. The less stuff you have, the less you have to store. Be ruthless and declutter regularly.

FAQs

How do I add storage without drilling?

You have tons of options! Over-the-toilet units, leaning ladder shelves, tension rod shelving (great for showers!), and over-the-door racks are all drill-free. Don’t forget adhesive hooks and strips, which are stronger than ever.

What’s the best way to hide bathroom clutter?

Baskets, bins, and cabinets are your best bet. Use woven baskets on open shelves, clear stackable bins under the sink, and a medicine cabinet with a mirrored door. The goal is to contain the chaos in a way that looks intentional and stylish.

Can baskets really make a difference in small bathrooms?

Absolutely! They are one of the most versatile small bathroom storage ideas. They hide unsightly items (hello, extra toilet paper rolls), add texture and warmth, and make your shelves look instantly more organized and curated.

My countertop is tiny. What can I do?

Focus on getting things off the counter. Use wall-mounted organizers, a tiered tray to build vertically, or a small rolling cart next to the vanity. The only things on your counter should be a soap dispenser and maybe one or two daily essentials in a pretty tray.

Is it okay to store towels in the bathroom?

It’s a hot debate, IMO. Bathrooms are humid, which can make towels a bit musty and can breed mildew. If you have to store them in there, make sure the room is well-ventilated. Roll them tightly and store them on an open shelf rather than in a closed cabinet.

Your Turn to Transform Your Space

See? A small bathroom doesn’t have to mean a cluttered one. With these small bathroom storage ideas, you can create a space that’s organized, beautiful, and feels twice as big.

Now, it’s time to take action. Pick one—just one!—of these hacks and try it out this weekend. You’ll be surprised at what a difference a single change can make.

Mindy Medford

I am Mindy Medford, a home décor, paint, and design specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience transforming ordinary spaces into cozy, personality-packed havens. Since 2013, I have been helping homeowners discover the art of beautiful yet practical design. I share my love for color, texture, and layout—making stylish interiors & exteriors feel achievable for everyone. Whether it’s picking the perfect paint shade or reimagining a small space, I’m here to guide and inspire.