Bathroom storage is an essential consideration when designing a bath space. The right storage solutions can help maximize space, reduce clutter, and create a cleaner, more organized look. As interior designers know, not all storage options are created equal. Certain types tend to be favored for their aesthetic appeal, functionality, and space-saving abilities. Here we will explore the bathroom storage solutions that designers often prefer and recommend.
Open Shelving
Open shelving is a go-to storage option for many designers. When selected and styled properly, open shelves can give a light and airy look to the bath. Designers often use them in place of upper cabinets, selecting a few shelves in key areas to hold neatly folded towels, toiletries, and decorative items.
Benefits
- Visually opens up small bathrooms
- Provides easy access to items
- Can be styled decoratively
- More budget-friendly than cabinetry
Considerations
- Exposure can create cluttered look if not styled well
- Offers less privacy than cabinets
- Not as much storage space as enclosed cabinets
Popular open shelving styles include:
- Floating wood or metal brackets with wood shelves
- Built-in niche shelving in shower area
- Ladder-style shelves mounted to the wall
- Rustic wood shelves with black metal brackets
When using open shelves, be selective about what is placed on them. Keep things tidy, organized, and decorative for the best look.
Drawers and Pull-Outs
Interior designers love pull-outs and drawers for their hidden storage abilities. Roll-out drawers built into vanity cabinets are a top choice. They stow away clutter while keeping necessities within arm’s reach.
Other designer-preferred pull-out storage options include:
- Cabinet pull-outs for storing cleaning supplies, hair tools, and toiletries
- Soft-close drawers under the vanity for rolled towels and toiletries
- Full-extension drawers for complete access to contents
- Apothecary-style drawers for organizing products
- Pull-out cabinet towers providing additional drawer space
Benefits
- Conceal contents and reduce visible clutter
- Keep items organized and easily accessible
- Customizable to needs with trays and compartments
- Use otherwise wasted cabinet space efficiently
Considerations
- More expensive than basic cabinetry
- Require some cabinet modification
Sliding Barn Doors
Barn-style sliding doors are a huge trend in bath design. These rustic-chic doors provide a beautiful, space-saving solution for hiding necessary bathroom items. Many designers use sliding barn doors on:
- Linen closets
- Bathroom vanity alcoves
- Water closet compartments
- Shower niches
Benefits
- Space-efficient, requiring little clearance
- Provides both form and function
- Adds unique character to the bath
- Conceals necessary items attractively
Considerations
- Can be pricier than hinged doors
- Not as effective at blocking sound
- Limit accessibility to interior of cabinet
Freestanding Furniture
Freestanding furniture is favored by designers to provide storage while keeping an open, furniture-like look. Decorative cabinets, chests, hampers, and side tables all serve as chic storage solutions.
Popular freestanding storage pieces include:
- Vintage dressers or chests for towels and toiletries
- Furniture-style sink consoles with drawers and cabinets
- Side tables with drawers and lower shelf storage
- Closed hampers on casters for hiding laundry
- Rattan or washed wood cabinets for a beachy look
Benefits
- Provides storage with furniture styling
- Easy to incorporate into any décor
- Flexible placement; not built-in
- Cost-effective off-the-shelf options
Considerations
- Takes up floor space
- Limited capacity compared to built-ins
- Drawers may be shallow
Wall Cabinets
While open shelves get a lot of love, designers still appreciate the clean look of wall-mounted cabinets. Bathrooms large and small benefit from the abundant concealed storage of wall cabinets. They allow for storing all bathroom necessities while maintaining a tidy appearance.
Popular wall cabinet choices include:
- Floating wood medicine cabinets with mirrors
- Painted cabinetry matching vanities
- Glass-front cabinets displaying decorative items
- Wall-to-wall budget-friendly stock cabinets
Benefits
- Abundant enclosed storage capacity
- Hide contents while allowing display space
- Available in range of sizes and finishes
- Provide useful storage in small footprint
Considerations
- Can make space feel closed in if overused
- Improper installation may seem cluttered
- Less customizable than built-in cabinetry
Baskets
Woven baskets offer an attractive way to neatly corral bath essentials. Designers will often incorporate baskets for storing rolled towels, toilet paper, bath accessories, and personal items. Storage benches lined with baskets are also popular for providing seating and concealed storage.
Benefits
- Affordable and widely available
- Lightweight with easy portability
- Variety of colors/textures to suit any décor
- Easily accessible contents
Considerations
- Open construction shows contents
- Limited capacity and organization
- Can appear cluttered if overfilled
Under Sink Storage
The space under bathroom sinks often goes unused. Designers frequently add specialized under-sink storage solutions to take advantage of this available real estate. Options like pull-out cabinets on rollers, multi-tier drawers, and custom fitted organizers all help maximize this space.
Benefits
- Uses available but often overlooked space
- Convenient access without crowding countertops
- Keeps items organized and hidden
- Affordable add-on storage
Considerations
- Requires plumbing modifications
- Size limitations for small spaces
- Must be cleaned regularly to control mildew
Mirror Cabinets
Mirrored cabinets continue to be a designer go-to above bathroom vanities. In addition to letting light reflect around the space, they allow discreet storage for medicines, toiletries, and beauty products. Designers select frameless mirrored cabinets for a clean contemporary look or framed versions for more traditional styling.
Benefits
- Provides abundant enclosed storage
- Dual purpose mirror brightens space
- Conceals contents behind mirrors
- Available in range of sizes and finishes
Considerations
- Limit accessibility compared to open shelves
- Some loss of reflective area
- Improper installation can seem cluttered
- Condensation and fogging issues if not vented
When selecting bathroom storage, interior designers consider not just what looks attractive but also what adds real functionality. The goal is to create ample space for stowing necessities while maintaining a clean, inviting ambiance. By incorporating designer-preferred options like open shelves, drawers, barn doors, and well-placed cabinets, you can achieve the perfect storage solution for your bath.
Common Design Styles Used for Bathroom Storage
The overall aesthetic of the bathroom should inform the style of storage selections. Certain storage options naturally complement specific bath design motifs. Here are some of the most common styles designers integrate with storage.
Contemporary
For a sleek, contemporary bath a designer may select:
- Floating glass shelves
- Frameless mirrored cabinets
- Glossy door fronts on wall cabinets
- Chrome hardware and fixtures
- Custom fitted pull-out drawers
Clean lines, minimalist styling, and smart hidden storage define the contemporary bath.
Traditional
A traditional bathroom often features:
- Framed mirror cabinets with beveled edges
- Painted wall cabinets with detailed trim
- Cabinetry matching vanities
- Freestanding linen cabinets
- Wicker baskets for towels
Elegant finishes, ornate detailing, and natural materials give the traditional bath a classic styling.
Farmhouse
Storage in a rustic farmhouse bath may include:
- Open wood shelf brackets
- Wire baskets for storage
- Barn door on shower niche
- Repurposed furniture as sink stands
- Unlacquered brass pulls on drawers
Casual, rural elements like rough woods, wire baskets, and vintage pieces give this bath its charm.
Modern
For sleek, modern styling look for:
- Floating glass shelving
- High-gloss lacquered cabinetry
- Sliding doors on vanity alcove
- Chrome and glass accents
- LED lighting on shelves
The modern bath uses streamlined shapes, glass, metallics, and hidden storage.
Coastal
In a beach-inspired bath designers often pick:
- Woven baskets and nets
- Whitewashed wood open shelves
- Driftwood accents
- Weathered finishes
- Rattan cabinetry
Natural textures and ocean-inspired hues define the breezy coastal bath.
Choosing Materials
The materials used for bathroom storage also contribute to the overall look and feel. Designers select materials that align with the desired aesthetic and withstand the high humidity of bathrooms. Recommended storage material options include:
Wood
- Popular for warmth and visual appeal
- Best finished with moisture-resistant lacquer
- Good for open shelving, cabinets, freestanding furniture
Solid oak, teak, and maple all make good wood options.
Metal
- Used for shelves, hardware, and accessories
- Stainless steel, bronze, and chrome suit modern baths
- Brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze work in traditional settings
Durable, anti-corrosion finishes are a must.
Glass
- Glass shelves, cabinets, and drawers provide a lightweight appearance
- Tempered glass is very strong and shatter-resistant
- Mirrored cabinets brighten and visually expand
Use clear seals to prevent condensation buildup.
Ceramics and Stone
- Used for ornamental hardware and accents
- Excellent durability and water-resistance
- Marble, granite, tiles, and mosaics available
Avoid porous, pitted surfaces that absorb moisture.
Baskets
- Inexpensive material option
- Made from rattan, bamboo, sea grass, and more
- Available in myriad sizes and weaves
Allow space for air circulation to prevent mildew.
Bathroom Storage By Size
The size and layout of the bathroom will inform storage needs and options. Designers tailor storage to make the most of the given space.
Small Bathrooms
To maximize limited space in small baths, designers recommend:
- Wall-mounted narrow glass shelves
- Recessed niches for shower storage
- Pedestal sink to allow floorspace
- Mirrored cabinet instead of bulky furniture
- Floating wall cabinets instead of vanity
The goal is compact storage that preserves the perception of spaciousness.
Large Bathrooms
Ample space allows for options like:
- Freestanding storage furniture
- Built-in floor-to-ceiling linen cabinet
- Double vanities with abundant cabinetry
- Bench seating with baskets underneath
- Room for open and closed storage
The spacious bath can comfortably accommodate larger storage pieces.
Master Baths
Spa-like master baths benefit from amenities like:
- His and hers sinks with mirrored storage
- Custom cabinetry matching throughout
- Wide drawer organizers for accessories
- Glass door display cabinets
- Baskets for rolled towels
Built-in cabinetry and coordinating freestanding furniture give an upscale look.
Bathroom Storage By Function
Certain items are universally stored in bathrooms. Here are some go-to storage solutions designers might suggest for specific contents:
Towel Storage
- Open shelving, hooks, and rods
- Freestanding ladder shelves
- Built-in recessed niches
- Rattan bins or baskets
Proper air circulation prevents musty towels.
Toiletries
- Drawers built into vanities
- Glass jars or bins on shelves
- Mirror cabinets above sinks
- Transportable caddies
Group by frequency of use for easy access.
Medicine
- Mirror cabinets with shelves
- Wall cabinets with child locks
- Concealed cabinets with lighting
- Lockable wooden cabinets
Keep medical items organized but secure.
Cleaning Supplies
- Under-sink pull-out cabinets
- Divided bucket caddies for portability
- Low cabinets away from food items
- Upper cabinets out of reach of children
Corrosive cleaners warrant proper separation.
Laundry
- Freestanding laundry hamper with lid
- Built-in cabinet with laundry chute
- Lidded wicker baskets on shelves
- Under-counter cabinets behind doors
Conceal dirty laundry in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Design Tips for Optimal Storage
To make the most of bathroom storage, designers recommend keeping these tips in mind:
- Select multipurpose furniture that can store towels and toiletries.
- Incorporate different types of storage like open shelves, drawers, and cabinets.
- Make smart use of all available space with wall cabinets and under-sink storage.
- Include specialized pull-outs and organizers within cabinets.
- Make storage easily accessible. Those requiring daily access should be most convenient.
- Use trays, bins, and baskets to corral items within cabinets.
- Store cleaning supplies separately from toiletries and linens.
- Make sure contents can be identified at a glance for ease of use.
- Combine matching storage pieces for a cohesive look.
- Light cabinets internally to view interiors.
- Include mirrors on cabinets to visually expand space.
- Purchase high-quality storage that will last and resist moisture and mildew.
- Keep frequently used items on open shelves while concealing infrequently used things.
- Maximize cabinet space with racks, dividers, and other organizational tools.
- Make sure bathroom storage has adequate ventilation to prevent mold buildup.
Bathroom Storage Solutions to Avoid
While most bath storage options have excellent functionality, a few are problematic or out of favor. Here are some designer-disliked bathroom storage options:
- Wire shelving – Looks lightweight and prone to rusting
- Fabric cover boxes – Absorb moisture and foster mold
- Wooden ladders – Take up prime floor space
- Opaque containers – Cannot identify contents
- Cheap plastic bins – Look flimsy and breakable
- Bulky floor cabinets – Can make a small bath feel crowded
- Mismatched pieces – Creates a disjointed look
- Open-front cabinets – Exposes cluttered interiors
These storage solutions tend to cheapen the look of a bath or lack adequate utility in this humid environment. Keep storage useful and attractive by avoiding options that seem flimsy, weathered, opaque, or disorganized.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Storage
Bathroom storage is a commonly discussed topic among homeowners and designers alike. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
What are the best ways to store towels in a bathroom?
Some good options include open shelves, wall-mounted rods and hooks, freestanding ladder shelves, and built-in recessed niches. Bins and baskets also neatly corral towels. Ensure towels can dry fully to prevent mildew.
Where should toiletries and medications be stored in a bathroom?
Keep toiletries and frequently used medications in easy-access spots like drawers, open shelves near the sink, or mirrored medicine cabinets. Secure medications away from children in overhead cabinets or concealed wall storage.
How can I add more bathroom storage without remodeling?
Affordable add-ons like freestanding furniture, over-toilet racks, hanging wall shelves, under-sink organizers, and neatly stacked baskets can maximize space without remodeling.
What bathroom storage should be avoided?
Avoid metal wire racks, fabric bins, mismatched containers, cheap plastic products, and anything that seems flimsy or prone to moisture damage. Make sure storage is durable and made for high-humidity.
How much storage space do I need in my bathroom?
There is no magic formula, but make sure to accommodate all linens, toiletries, medications, cleaning supplies, accessories, and laundry. Include a variety of storage types (open, closed, freestanding, built-in) for the most space-efficiency.
Achieving an Organized Bathroom
The ultimate goal of bathroom storage is to make the space clean, tidy, and organized. Here are some designer tips for keeping order:
- Give everything a dedicated place. Never allow items to pile up loosely.
- Store items conveniently near where they will be used.
- Use trays and baskets to compartmentalize cabinets.
- Keep lesser-used items separate from everyday essentials.
- Only keep current products in the bath. Donate or toss expired items.
- Keep medicines and cleaners separate from food and linens.
- Wipe down shelves and clean bins/baskets periodically.
- Maintain adequate ventilation to avoid musty, moldy storage spaces.
- Keep cabinet interiors visible. Opaque bins lead to forgotten contents.
- Ensure storage furniture legs have non-scratching floor protectors.
- Avoid over-filling storage spaces. Clutter should be contained, not spilling out.
Key Takeaways
When designing bathroom storage, aim for solutions that are:
- Functional – Offer abundant, accessible storage
- Coordinated – Match the style of the space
- Maximal – Take advantage of all available space
- Tidy – Neatly contain contents rather than expose clutter
- Dry – Allow ventilation to prevent dampness
- Durable – Withstand the humidity of bathrooms
- Easy to clean – Smooth surfaces and minimal nooks
With proper planning, it’s possible to have a bathroom that is beautiful, organized, and full equipped to stow away all necessities. Focus
