10 Genius Over-the-Toilet Storage Ideas for Small Bathroom Organization

Small bathrooms are a puzzle. You need storage, but every time you try to add some, the space somehow feels even smaller. Been there. I used to rely on one of those wire-frame over-the-toilet racks—the kind that wobbles if you breathe wrong. It worked, but it was a little meh in the style department.

Eventually, I realized that over-the-toilet storage isn’t just about finding a place to cram stuff. It’s about using that space wisely in a way that actually makes the bathroom feel bigger and more put together. The right choices can add function without turning the room into a cluttered mess.

Why Over the Toilet Storage is a Game-Changer

Bathrooms never seem to have enough storage. Between towels, toiletries, and a mysteriously growing collection of skincare products, space disappears fast. That blank wall above the toilet is prime real estate. The key is figuring out how to use it without making the space feel cramped.

For starters, it keeps essentials within reach—no more awkward stretching for toilet paper. It also draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more open. And best of all? It clears up countertop clutter, so your sink doesn’t look like a chaotic disaster zone.

Not all over-the-toilet storage ideas work in every bathroom, though. Some add function without taking over the space, while others just feel bulky. Let’s talk about the best ways to make this spot work for you.

Stylish and Functional Over the Toilet Storage Ideas

Floating Shelves Above the Toilet for a Minimalist Look

The first time I swapped my wobbly metal rack for floating shelves, my bathroom instantly looked more put together. They take up no floor space, keep things light and airy, and can be customized to match any bathroom style.

Wood shelves give a warm, classic look, while glass shelves keep things modern and open up the space. Metal shelves add a sleek, industrial feel. The important part? They need to be water-resistant. Steamy showers can warp shelves that aren’t made for humidity.

When it comes to styling, less is more:

• Keep daily essentials within easy reach, like hand soap, cotton balls, or backup toilet paper.
• Use small decorative baskets to corral smaller items and keep everything looking tidy.
• Add a bit of decor—maybe a plant, a framed picture, or a candle—to keep the space from feeling too functional.

The trick is to avoid overloading the shelves. If they’re packed with stuff, they can make the bathroom feel even more cramped.

Cabinets Above the Toilet for Hidden Storage

Not everything belongs on display. If you’d rather hide the mess, a cabinet above the toilet is the way to go.

This is perfect for stashing things like extra toilet paper, hair products, or cleaning supplies. If you go with a mirrored cabinet, it pulls double duty by adding storage and reflecting light to make the space feel bigger.

Store-bought cabinets work great, but if you want a perfect fit, a DIY built-in cabinet lets you customize the size and design. Some of the best options include:

• Classic white cabinets that blend seamlessly with the wall.
• Darker wood tones for a warm, spa-like feel.
• A mix of open shelving and closed storage so you can display the pretty stuff and hide the clutter.

Ladder Shelves for a Chic and Versatile Touch

I used to think ladder shelves were just for Pinterest-perfect homes. Then I got one, and now I swear by them.

Unlike bulky cabinets, ladder shelves lean against the wall, making them feel light and open instead of overwhelming. They also give off that effortless “I just threw this together, and it looks amazing” energy.

The best way to style a ladder shelf?

• Bottom shelves: Stack towels neatly for an organized, spa-like vibe.
• Middle shelves: Use small baskets to hold extra toiletries, cotton swabs, or even rolled-up washcloths.
• Top shelf: Add a plant, candle, or small decorative piece to keep the space from feeling too practical.

Baskets are the real MVP here. They keep things contained and make the whole setup feel intentional instead of cluttered.

Built-in Shelves for a Custom Look

If you want a seamless, high-end storage solution, built-in shelves are the way to go. They’re especially great if your bathroom has a recessed wall above the toilet, giving you instant storage without adding bulk.

A mix of open and closed storage works best. Display towels and decor while keeping less attractive necessities tucked away in baskets. Matching the shelves to the wall color helps them blend in, making the space feel larger.

One of my favorite ideas? A small recessed niche above the toilet. It’s subtle, doesn’t take up extra space, and keeps things looking polished. If you’re already working with a small bathroom, this is one of the best ways to add storage without making the room feel cluttered.

Over the Toilet Racks for Easy Installation

Not everyone wants to break out the power tools just to add a little bathroom storage. That’s where over-the-toilet racks come in. They’re freestanding, easy to install, and perfect if you need a quick, renter-friendly solution that won’t leave holes in the wall.

A free-standing toilet storage cabinet works especially well in apartments or homes where you can’t mount shelves or cabinets. These racks slide right over the toilet, instantly adding storage without any major effort. Some come with open shelves, others with cabinets, and a few even have a combination of both.

When choosing the right over-the-toilet rack, consider:

• Height and width – Measure your space to make sure it actually fits without feeling cramped.
• Material – Metal racks are lightweight and modern, while wood ones add warmth and a more built-in look.
• Open vs. closed storage – Open shelves make it easy to grab what you need, but a closed cabinet keeps clutter hidden.

Renters, this is one of the best storage options for you. No drilling, no patching holes when you move out—just instant extra space without the commitment.

Decorative and Functional Baskets

If there’s one thing that makes over-the-toilet storage feel intentional instead of chaotic, it’s baskets. They’re the ultimate clutter-containers, keeping everything in one place while still looking stylish.

One of the best ways to use above-the-toilet basket storage is for towels and toiletries. Instead of shoving extra hand towels into a cabinet, roll them up neatly in a woven basket and place it on a shelf. It’s practical, looks good, and keeps everything within reach.

Baskets also help tie in toilet room decor without feeling too “decorative.” A mix of woven textures, small fabric bins, or even wire baskets can bring warmth and personality into a small bathroom.

For easy access, go with:

• Deep baskets – Perfect for holding toilet paper rolls, extra soap, or cleaning supplies.
• Shallow trays – Great for small toiletries, perfume, or a candle to make the space feel fresh.
• Stackable storage bins – Ideal for keeping everything in its own section without taking up too much room.

Baskets are one of the easiest upgrades for over-the-toilet storage. They make the space feel organized and intentional instead of just a place where random items get stashed.

Multipurpose Bathroom Storage Cabinets

Sometimes, one type of storage isn’t enough. That’s where multipurpose storage cabinets come in—they combine shelves, cabinets, and drawers to fit everything in one place.

A toilet storage cabinet with doors is perfect if you want to hide the mess while keeping the room looking sleek. No one needs to see your backup shampoo bottles or half-used toothpaste tubes. Cabinets with a mix of open and closed storage give you the flexibility to display the pretty stuff and stash everything else behind doors.

If toilet paper storage is your biggest struggle, look for a narrow cabinet designed for small spaces. Some have built-in slots for toilet paper rolls, making it easy to grab a new one without digging through a cluttered shelf.

Adding an over-the-toilet organizer can also help maximize the space even further. These attach to existing storage racks or cabinets and give you extra compartments for smaller bathroom essentials. Built-in towel bars, side hooks for hanging baskets, or even small sliding drawers can take a simple cabinet and make it way more functional.

Small Bathroom Organization Hacks

A small bathroom doesn’t mean you have to live with clutter. Smart storage hacks can make a tiny space feel bigger and more efficient without sacrificing style.

Some of the best storage behind toilet ideas involve using vertical space. Even if you don’t want a full cabinet or shelving unit, a narrow ladder shelf or stacked floating shelves can add storage without making the space feel closed in.

For renters vs. homeowners, the best storage solutions depend on whether you can install things permanently. Homeowners can go for built-in shelving, wall-mounted cabinets, or recessed storage for a seamless look. Renters should stick with freestanding storage, adjustable racks, or removable wall hooks that won’t leave damage behind.

If DIY is your thing, there are plenty of around-the-toilet storage ideas you can try:

• Repurpose a small bookcase – Slide a short, narrow bookcase behind the toilet and use it for towels, toiletries, and decor.
• Use a hanging shelf unit – Instead of drilling into the wall, hang a lightweight shelving unit with adhesive hooks for extra storage.
• Attach baskets to the wall – Use removable wall hooks to hang wire or woven baskets above the toilet for an easy, damage-free storage fix.

A little creativity goes a long way in small bathroom storage. The key is working with the space you have and making every inch count.

DIY Over the Toilet Storage Projects

Alright, DIY lovers, it’s your time to shine. There’s something deeply satisfying about building your own storage solutions, especially when they save space, cost next to nothing, and make you feel like a home improvement wizard. You don’t need a full woodworking shop to pull off some genius over-the-toilet storage—you just need a little creativity, a few materials, and a mild obsession with making the most of every square inch of your bathroom.

DIY Floating Shelves and Cabinets

Floating shelves are already great, but DIY floating shelves? That’s next-level home genius. They let you customize the size, finish, and style to fit your bathroom perfectly. And honestly? They’re not that hard to make.

How to Build Your Own Floating Shelves

1. Find some solid wood—pine, reclaimed wood, even an old bookshelf you’re ready to hack apart.
2. Cut it to size. Measure twice, cut once—unless you enjoy muttering under your breath about wasted materials.
3. Sand, stain, or paint to match your bathroom’s vibe.
4. Mount with brackets or hidden supports. Congratulations, you now own custom storage that cost way less than anything you’d find in a store.

If you’re feeling extra ambitious, try a DIY cabinet above the toilet. Old kitchen cabinets can be repurposed, painted, and mounted to the wall for a built-in storage look without the built-in price tag.

For the extra-thrifty DIYers, upcycling materials is the way to go. Got an old dresser drawer? Flip it, mount it, and boom—instant toilet shelf with personality. Found an old wooden crate? A quick coat of paint, and you’ve got rustic storage that looks like it came straight out of a fancy decor magazine.

Repurposing Furniture for Bathroom Storage

If you’re not afraid to think outside the box (or, in this case, outside the vanity), repurposed furniture makes for some of the coolest over-the-toilet storage solutions.

Turning a Small Table into a Toilet Storage Cabinet

You ever see one of those small, decorative tables that look cute but don’t actually serve much of a purpose? Well, now they do. A slim console or nightstand can slide right behind the toilet, instantly becoming a storage cabinet for extra supplies. Add some baskets or small bins underneath, and suddenly, you’ve got an organized, functional setup without drilling a single hole in the wall.

Industrial Chic with a Pipe Toilet Paper Holder

Love that modern, slightly edgy, “I found this idea on Pinterest and now I’m obsessed” look? A simple pipe toilet paper holder can bring some industrial charm to your bathroom. All you need is a metal pipe, some wall brackets, and a few minutes of DIY magic. It’s durable, space-saving, and gives your bathroom that “cool coffee shop restroom” vibe.

Upcycling a Ladder Shelf Over the Toilet

Ladder shelves are already great, but upcycling an old one? That’s DIY gold. If you have an old wooden ladder hanging out in the garage, give it a fresh coat of paint or stain, lean it against the wall, and use it for towel storage, baskets, and decorative items. Bonus points if it looks like something you “just casually found at a flea market” (even if it was collecting dust in the basement).

Final Touches: Decorating Over the Toilet Storage

Alright, you’ve got your shelves, cabinets, and repurposed furniture in place. Now, let’s decorate like we actually planned this whole thing and didn’t just throw a bunch of storage together in a panic.

How to decorate a bathroom shelf while keeping it functional:

• Balance function and style. Keep essentials on hand (extra toilet paper, soap, hand towels) but mix in some decor to make it look intentional.
• Use varying heights. A mix of taller items (a vase, a small framed print) with shorter baskets or candles makes the space feel more curated and less cluttered.
• Stick to a color scheme. If your bathroom is light and airy, go with whites, natural wood, and soft blues or greens. If it’s bold and moody, try darker wood, black accents, or metal details.

For a spa-like vibe, throw in a little eucalyptus decor. A small bundle of dried eucalyptus in a vase or even a hanging sprig near the shower instantly makes the space feel like you just stepped into a fancy hotel bathroom.

Bathroom niche decor is another great way to bring personality into the space. Small framed art, a ceramic dish for jewelry, or even a decorative soap dispenser can pull the whole look together.

Conclusion: Smart Storage, Big Impact

The space above your toilet isn’t just empty wall space—it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re going for minimalist floating shelves, a sleek cabinet, a trendy ladder shelf, or a DIY masterpiece, this little area can make a huge difference in keeping your bathroom organized and stylish.

If you’re not sure where to start, pick the storage that fits your lifestyle. Need something renter-friendly? Go for freestanding racks or ladder shelves. Want a built-in look? Try floating shelves or cabinets. Feeling crafty? DIY your way to an organized bathroom with repurposed furniture or upcycled shelving.

Bathrooms are small but mighty when it comes to storage potential. A little creativity, the right materials, and just the right amount of decorative flair can take your bathroom from cluttered chaos to a functional, stylish space that actually makes sense. Now go forth, find that empty wall space, and give it the storage upgrade it deserves!

FAQ

What Do You Do with Space Above the Toilet?

The space above the toilet is prime real estate for adding storage and style to a small bathroom. You can install floating shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, or even a ladder shelf to keep essentials like towels, toiletries, and decorative accents organized. If you want a sleek, built-in look, recessed shelves or a niche storage unit can add storage without making the space feel cluttered. For a renter-friendly option, a freestanding over-the-toilet rack provides extra storage without requiring wall mounting.

How to Maximize Storage in a Small Bathroom?

Maximizing storage in a small bathroom is all about using vertical space and choosing multi-functional furniture. Here are a few key strategies:

• Use Over-the-Toilet Storage: Floating shelves, cabinets, or ladder shelves add storage without taking up floor space.
• Incorporate Hidden Storage: Use baskets, bins, or storage ottomans to hide toiletries and bathroom essentials.
• Install Hooks and Racks: Add towel hooks, hanging baskets, or wall-mounted racks to keep things off the counter.
• Use the Back of the Door: An over-the-door organizer or towel rack can free up valuable cabinet or shelf space.
• Opt for Slim Cabinets: A narrow floor-to-ceiling cabinet can provide hidden storage for toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies.

How to Hide a Toilet in a Small Bathroom?

If you want to make your toilet less of a focal point, strategic design choices can help it blend seamlessly into the space.

• Install a Half-Wall or Divider: A half-wall with built-in storage or a decorative room divider can create a subtle separation.
• Use a Floating Vanity or Storage Unit: A floating vanity with a built-in shelf can draw the eye away from the toilet while adding function.
• Add a Large Mirror: A full-length or oversized mirror positioned across from the vanity can make the room feel larger and redirect attention.
• Use a Decorative Screen or Curtain: A folding screen or fabric panel can visually separate the toilet area in a stylish way.
• Paint or Tile with a Darker Color: If your walls are light, painting the area around the toilet a slightly darker shade can help it blend in.

What Can I Store on Top of My Toilet?

The top of the toilet tank is a great spot for small, easy-to-reach storage. Some clutter-free ideas include:

• A Decorative Basket: Holds extra toilet paper rolls, small hand towels, or travel-sized toiletries.
• A Small Plant: A simple potted plant like a snake plant or eucalyptus adds a fresh touch.
• A Mini Storage Tray: Keeps everyday essentials like a candle, air freshener, or a small container of cotton swabs neatly arranged.
• Stacked Towels: Rolling or folding a couple of towels makes the space feel spa-like.
• A Slim Tissue Box Holder: If you use tissues frequently, a narrow, stylish tissue box cover can keep them accessible without looking cluttered.

For a cleaner, more organized look, try a low-profile shelf or recessed storage above the toilet to keep essentials within reach while freeing up the tank space.