Living in Los Angeles, I’m familiar with small spaces. With real estate at a premium, compact homes are common. And when space is limited, storage quickly becomes an issue, especially in bathrooms – the smallest rooms that need to house the most stuff!
As a landscaper and home decor enthusiast, I’m passionate about creating stylish, sustainable spaces regardless of size. I’ve picked up tips for maximizing every inch. Here are my 8 favorite space-saving hacks to transform tiny bathrooms into functional havens.
The Struggle is Real! Small Bathroom Storage Woes
Before we discuss solutions, it’s important to acknowledge why storage is a challenge in small bathrooms. They lack space for essentials like towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, along with the sink, toilet, and shower.
Vertical real estate is underutilized. With limited cabinets and counter area, tiny bathrooms rarely take advantage of vertical storage. It’s common to see floors cluttered with items that could be stored on walls, behind doors or above toilets.
Many bathrooms lack creative multi-purpose solutions. A smart stool or vanity can double as storage. Mirrors can conceal shelves instead of just reflecting light. With creative thinking, even small bathrooms can be storage superstars.
Lofty Shelves for Instant Space Gains
My top tip for maximizing space is to use vertical real estate. Install floating shelves on available wall space. Above the toilet is prime territory for extra toilet paper, air fresheners, or decor. Mount slim shelves inside or above cabinets for storage.
In narrow bathrooms with limited floor space, wall shelving flanking sinks and toilets can be a game changer. Store washcloths, soaps, and other frequently used items on shelves instead of cluttering up counter space.
Squeeze In Storage with Slim Carts
I adore slim rolling carts. Sleeker than bulky cabinets, these narrow carts squeeze into tight spaces to provide movable storage. I’m obsessed with this rose gold one from Target!
Use slim bath carts to organize extra towels, toilet paper and cleaning supplies. The wheels allow easy mobility and hiding clutter when guests arrive.
Magnetic Magic of Mirrors
Here’s a clever hack that uses a bathroom mirror to conceal amagnetized storage strip. Secure a magnetic strip to the wall behind the mirror. It remains hidden when the mirror is closed but flipping it open reveals a vertical storage spot!
Magnetic strips are great for holding small metal items like bobby pins, tweezers, small makeup brushes and spray bottles. No more searching through drawers! The secret storage keeps them accessible while maintaining a clean, minimalist look.
DIY Bathroom Organizers
I believe purpose-built bathroom organizers aren’t necessary for organization success. I prefer DIY storage solutions using household items creatively.
Repurpose an old ladder – the rungs become towel bars while the sides store items like spray bottles and hair dryers. Use planters as holders for extra toilet paper rolls. Get creative with on-hand items before buying expensive organizers.
Swap out clunky fixtures.
Old-fashioned bathroom fixtures like towel racks, toilet paper holders, and cabinets take up space, but modern options are slimline space-saving.
Consider replacing the old bathtub with a walk-in shower. Most homeowners shower more than bathe, so losing the tub is no big deal. Or swap the cabinets under the sink with open-legged units to maximize vertical storage space.
Even the toilet paper holder can be upgraded. Wall-mounted versions take up no floor space and keep rolls accessible.
The Power of Corner Storage Solutions
Here’s an organizing tactic for most bathrooms. Take advantage of narrow corner nooks by installing specialized corner shelving units. Unlike bulky cabinets, these triangular units fit neatly into unused acute angles.
Corner caddies with multiple shelves are perfect for keeping towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies organized. Corner floor cabinets can house bulkier items like extra bath mats, plungers, or waste bins. Keep these items off the floor yet within arm’s reach.
Over the Door Storage
An often overlooked asset in small bathrooms is the back of the door! Turn this space into valuable real estate with over-the-door storage units. Hooks, shelves and pouches keep essentials accessible without taking up floor space.
I love mesh over-the-door shoe organizers. The breathable material is ideal for quick-drying bath linens or shower essentials. The see-through mesh makes finding items easy, and quick-grab handles allow for easy access.
Sink Skirt Storage
Who knew what’s hidden beneath bathroom sinks could be storage-friendly! Keep plumbing and other unsightly items out of sight while gaining space.
Sink skirts are fabric panels that conceal the area under sinks for a clean look. The best ones include shelves, drawers, and discrete compartments for organization.
Store cleaning products, backup toiletries, and other bathroom supplies within arm’s reach. Customize compartments to suit your storage needs for an organized look.
Final Thoughts on Small Bathroom Storage Solutions
Here are my top 8 storage hacks for transforming tiny bathrooms! As a landscaper and home decor enthusiast in space-starved Los Angeles, I’ve become skilled in maximizing compact spaces.
I hope you found useful tips to overhaul storage in your modest bathroom. It’s about exploiting vertical space, multi-purpose furnishings, upgraded fixtures, and overlooked storage spots like doors and sink undersides. Get creative with household items before buying organizers to save money.
Have fun! Experiment with storage until you find the ideal blend of form and function. Share your tiny bathroom makeovers on social media. I’d love to see your handiwork!
