Introduction
Living in a small space can be challenging, especially when it comes to designing a functional bathroom. With some creativity and smart solutions, it’s possible to make the most of every inch in a tiny bathroom without sacrificing comfort or style. Here are 9 big space-saving ideas to maximize storage, functionality, and visual space in a small bathroom.
Optimize Storage with Shelving and Organizers
- Install corner shelves in unused areas to store extra towels, toiletries and decorative items. This takes advantage of vertical space.
- Consider open shelving above the toilet as display space and quick grab storage for toilet paper and other essentials.
- Use an over-the-toilet storage unit with shelves or a cabinet to stash extra toiletries and supplies.
- Install wall-mounted cabinets with adjustable shelves. They provide tons of storage and free up floor space underneath.
- Use hanging wall storage, racks and caddies for rolled towels, hair products and other daily use items.
- Add a slim storage cabinet by the bathroom entry to stash cleaning supplies, linens and first aid items.
Choose Multi-Functional Fixtures
- Select a vanity with drawers and a cabinet to hide plumbing and create more storage.
- Opt for a sink pedestal with a built-in storage cabinet beneath.
- Choose a medicine cabinet with mirrors on the door to expand visual space.
- Install a mirrored cabinet to conceal plumbing and electrical fixtures.
- Use a combo tub/shower enclosure rather than separate units to save space.
- Consider a wall-hung or compact toilet to allow more floor space.
Scale Down Fixtures
- Install the smallest vanity possible for your needs. Wall-hung styles create the illusion of more floor space.
- Opt for a narrow 18-24 inch vanity with a vessel sink taking up less surface area.
- Choose a rectangular undermount sink instead of an oval one to maximize countertop space.
- Install a hand-held showerhead with a hose for quick rinses in a small shower.
- Select space-saving fixtures like a corner sink, petite vessel sink, or a wall-hung faucet.
Visually Expand Space
- Use glass shower doors rather than shower curtains to create an open look.
- Install large reflective tiles on walls and opt for lighter grout colors to bounce light.
- Hang a mirrored cabinet directly across from the vanity to create depth.
- Paint walls, cabinets and vanity a light, bright color to make the room feel larger.
- Opt for open shelving, clear shower curtains and under-sink storage to prevent a cluttered look.
Prioritize Most Used Areas
- Focus storage solutions around the sink/vanity area for everyday essentials.
- Ensure the shower has easily reachable shelving for shampoo, soap and razors.
- Place a corner shelf nearby the toilet for extra TP and air fresheners.
- Don’t clutter up the prime sink/vanity area with items rarely used.
Add Multi-Tasking Furniture
- Choose a vanity with a built-in flip-down seat for extra seating.
- Opt for a narrow console table that can work as a vanity and display space.
- Install a wall-mounted fold-down table to use as a temporary vanity or work surface.
- Find a stool or bench that can store extra towels and linens inside.
Seek Out Hidden Storage Spots
- Take advantage of the space behind slid-open doors by adding hooks or a shelving unit.
- Install removable velcro shelves inside cabinet doors to hold small bottles.
- Use the inside of the vanity cabinet door to mount a makeup organizer.
- Attach towel rods and hooks to the wall side of the vanity cabinet.
- Stick removable shower caddies directly to tile walls using suction cups.
Choose Multi-Purpose Decor
- Hang wall storage baskets for rolled towels that double as rustic chic decor.
- Opt for a ceramic vessel sink that adds visual interest while taking up less space.
- Use flower-patterned shower curtains to soften hard surfaces and add a pop of color.
- Select candles in relaxing scents that create a spa-like ambiance while storing Q-tips.
- Choose live plants like bamboo or ferns that thrive in humid bathrooms and purify the air.
Conclusion
While a small bathroom presents storage, functionality and visual challenges, smart design solutions can help you make the most of the space. Focus on maximizing vertical storage, selecting space-saving fixtures, visually expanding the area and taking advantage of every inch. With creative innovations and compact upgrades, even the tiniest bathroom can be a well-organized oasis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I add more storage to my small bathroom?
Some great ways to add storage in a small bathroom include wall cabinets, corner shelves, over-the-toilet units, medicine cabinets, hanging wall storage, under-sink organizers and multi-functional vanities with drawers and cabinets.
What types of sinks work best in small bathrooms?
Excellent options for small bathrooms include vessel sinks, pedestal sinks, corner sinks, rectangular undermount sinks, and wall-mounted faucets. These take up minimal counter space.
What is a good tile option to make a small bathroom look bigger?
Large, reflective subway tiles or penny tiles create the illusion of more space by bouncing light around. Light grout colors also expand the look of the room.
How can I free up more floor space in a cramped bathroom?
Consider a wall-hung vanity, wall-mounted sink faucets and a wall-hung toilet. Removing fixtures from the floor visually opens up the room.
What colors work best in small bathrooms?
Light, bright, neutral colors like soft whites, grays and beiges keep a small bathroom feeling airy and expanded. Avoid dark colors, which can make the space feel closed in.
