Effective bathroom organization is achievable for bathrooms of all sizes, though small bathrooms often face unique challenges due to their limited space. Regardless of size, certain fundamental organizational principles should be applied to ensure that your bathroom remains functional and clutter-free.
A well-organized bathroom should have designated spaces for storing essentials such as toilet paper, towels, toothbrushes, and other daily necessities while maintaining a tidy and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
To help you maximize your bathroom space, whether small or large, here are 26 organizing ideas that cater to various needs and preferences. These tips will assist you in creating a more efficient and clutter-free bathroom environment.
1. Utilize a Rollable Cart
The bathroom in this Fire Island home is clad in Carrara marble tiles, designed to withstand moisture and sand brought in from the beach. The room’s cool, monochromatic color scheme adds a spa-like ambiance. A rolling cart provides a versatile storage solution with its combination of drawers, a cabinet, and shelves, making it a practical addition to any bathroom.
2. Optimize Space with a Three-Drawer Organizer
Three-drawer organizers are versatile storage solutions that can be used throughout the home. In the bathroom, they are perfect for storing small items such as washcloths and toiletries. Choosing a stylish organizer, like the rattan one shown here, can also enhance the room’s aesthetic.
3. Cut Out a Shower Niche
If traditional shelves or hanging storage feel out of place in your shower, consider installing a shower niche. This built-in storage option is both stylish and functional, complementing any bathroom design.
4. Incorporate a Leaning Shelf
For bathrooms with extra wall space, a leaning shelf can be a great addition. It offers a mix of functional and decorative storage, holding items such as plants, perfume bottles, and candles, while bins can store makeup and jewelry.
5. Create Hidden Storage with a Curtain
If your bathroom lacks a vanity, consider creating your own storage space with an under-the-sink curtain. This solution keeps essentials out of sight, contributing to a clutter-free environment.
6. Utilize a Small Tray
A small tray is a versatile addition to any bathroom, providing an organized space for everyday essentials like creams, lotions, and medicine bottles. Placing a tray near the sink ensures easy access to frequently used items.
7. Install Towel Storage
Installing a wall-mounted towel storage system keeps clean towels within easy reach and adds a luxurious, hotel-like feel to the bathroom. It also helps free up space in your linen closet and allows you to keep track of your towel inventory.
8. Add Hooks for Extra Storage
Hooks are particularly useful in shared bathrooms, where multiple people need space to hang washcloths, robes, and other items. Assigning a hook to each person helps keep things organized and tidy.
9. Introduce Accent Furniture
A small piece of accent furniture, such as a nightstand, can add both style and functionality to the bathroom. This approach allows you to store essentials in a more aesthetically pleasing way compared to traditional plastic bins.
10. Install Small Wall Shelves
Small wall shelves are an excellent way to add extra storage while enhancing the visual appeal of your bathroom. These shelves can hold bath and shower supplies, making efficient use of otherwise empty space.
11. Repurpose a Woven Basket
A lidded woven basket can be repurposed for bathroom storage, holding items like extra toilet paper or towels. Placing it under the sink maximizes limited space while keeping the room organized.
12. Decant Essentials into Clear Containers
Transferring bath salts, cotton balls, and other essentials into clear containers not only improves the aesthetic of your bathroom but also makes it easier to monitor when supplies are running low.
13. Organize with Plastic Containers
Plastic organizers are perfect for keeping bathroom items categorized and easy to find. Labeling the containers can further streamline the process, ensuring that you always know where to find what you need.
14. Use Stackable Bins
Stackable bins are ideal for small bathrooms where space is at a premium. These bins help keep smaller items organized and can even be used to store everyday makeup.
15. Install a Floating Shelf
A floating shelf painted the same color as your bathroom walls creates a cohesive, built-in look. This dainty shelf offers a charming spot for displaying items like perfume bottles and soap.
16. Hang a Medicine Cabinet
A traditional medicine cabinet remains a practical and stylish storage solution for any bathroom. It provides ample space for organizing skincare products and other essentials.
17. Maximize Vertical Space
In a small apartment bathroom, utilizing vertical space is crucial. A tall, narrow shelving unit can provide ample storage for all your bathroom necessities.
18. Add a Hanging Basket
Hanging baskets are not only decorative but also highly functional. Use them to store towels, washcloths, or makeup wipes, adding both style and storage to your bathroom.
19. Utilize Your Door
An over-the-door hanger is a highly practical addition to any bathroom. It provides a convenient spot for hanging towels, robes, and the next day’s outfit, keeping them off the floor and easily accessible. This is especially useful when hosting guests, as they can hang their toiletry bags, helping to keep the countertop clutter-free.
20. Rotate Your Essentials
Just as you store away seasonal items to maximize closet space, it’s beneficial to do the same with your bathroom products and tools. For instance, if you have a favorite color palette for the summer or a hairstyle that requires specific tools, keep those items within easy reach. Store non-essential products in a cabinet, drawer, or closet until they are needed again.
21. Opt for a Caddy
A caddy is a great solution for organizing frequently used hair care products and toiletries, especially in a shared bathroom. This portable organizer keeps everything sorted and ready for use. When not needed, it can be stored under the sink or even under the bed if cabinet space is limited.
22. Choose a Flexible Laundry Solution
A designated spot for dirty laundry is essential in any bathroom, and a flexible laundry hamper can make your space more efficient. Consider using a foldable hamper that can be easily tucked away when not in use or slid into a narrow space to free up floor space.
23. Keep it Clean
Regardless of the season, a deep cleaning is crucial for maintaining an organized and clutter-free bathroom. Discard expired cosmetics, organize small items like bobby pins, and thoroughly clean areas like the corners around your toilet. Regular cleaning will keep your bathroom fresh and inviting.
24. Opt for a Low-Profile Storage Solution
If your bathroom is short on space, consider using a leaning towel rack. These racks stand nearly flush against the wall and can store towels, hold your next-day outfit, and even display a few small accessories, all without taking up much room.
25. Introduce Greenery
Adding a touch of greenery is an easy way to enhance your bathroom’s aesthetic. Consider placing a small succulent in a hanging planter and suspending it from the ceiling or a shower curtain rod. The plant will thrive in the moist environment and add a refreshing touch to your space.
26. Create a Soothing Atmosphere
Transform your bathroom into a personal oasis by incorporating calming elements like your favorite candle or essential oils. Even if your bathroom doesn’t have luxurious features like a clawfoot tub or steam shower, these small touches can help you relax and enjoy the space more.
Final Thoughts
Your bathroom should be a functional and pleasant space in your home. Regardless of its size or storage capacity, there are numerous simple ways to organize it while expressing your style. Whether you prefer clean, geometric designs or bold accents, the possibilities for bathroom organization are endless and can be applied to children’s bathrooms as well.