Maximising storage space in a small bathroom can be a real challenge, but with the right strategies and a little creativity, small bathroom storage solutions can transform even the tiniest of spaces into a functional and organised oasis. Whether you’re dealing with a cramped city apartment or a compact cottage bathroom, clever storage solutions can make a huge difference.
From utilising vertical space with floating shelves to optimising every drawer and corner, this guide offers practical tips and real-world examples to help you create a bathroom that feels spacious, organised, and stress-free.
Maximise Storage Space in Your Small Bathroom with These Clever Ideas
When it comes to maximising space in a small bathroom, the first step is always the same: declutter. It sounds simple, but trust me, it’s the foundation of everything else that follows.
I remember my first small bathroom renovation. The space felt cramped, almost like you couldn’t move without knocking something over. But the real issue wasn’t the size—it was the mess. Toiletries, old towels, half-empty bottles of shampoo… the list went on. So, I took a step back, took inventory, and started eliminating what wasn’t absolutely essential.
Take Inventory and Minimise Clutter
This is the hardest part for many, especially if you’re a bit sentimental about your bathroom supplies (and yes, I’ve definitely held onto my favourite towel for way too long). But, to make the most of your space, you’ve got to be ruthless.
Start by going through every drawer and cabinet. Have a look at all those beauty products. Are you really using that half-empty bottle of moisturiser from last year? What about the shampoo you tried once and didn’t like? Get rid of expired items, throw out those half-used products, and only keep what you use daily. I always recommend cutting down to the essentials—just the stuff you reach for every day. Kelley Jonkoff, a professional organiser, suggests limiting bathroom items to just those used regularly, and I can tell you it makes a world of difference.
Group Similar Items for Easy Access
Once you’ve pared everything back, it’s time to get organised. Group similar items together, like hair care, dental products, and skincare. This simple step cuts down on the chaos and allows you to find things in a snap. If you’re sharing the bathroom, consider creating little sections for each person. One for the kids, one for the partner, and one for you—easy, right?
Relocate Non-Essentials
Now, here’s a little trick that’s helped me over the years: If something isn’t used every day, don’t keep it in the bathroom. Store the spare towels in the linen cupboard, or even in a spare room. And for the products you just don’t need right now, think outside the box: Find another spot—maybe in a bedroom drawer or even the pantry. You’ll be surprised how much space you can clear up by relocating things.
Use Vertical Space to Your Advantage
I can’t stress enough how crucial vertical space is in a small bathroom. When floor space is at a premium, you’ve got to think up. And trust me, there’s a lot of room above your head to make use of.
Install Floating Shelves for a Clean, Open Look
I’ve always been a fan of floating shelves. They’re simple, sleek, and allow for practical storage without crowding the floor. In one of my past projects, we installed floating shelves above the toilet and sink, and it instantly made the room feel bigger. We used them for extra toiletries, plants, and even some decorative pieces. The key? Keep them light and simple. I also painted them the same colour as the wall, which gave the shelves a built-in feel, blending seamlessly into the room.
Add Tall Cabinets and Slim Shelving Units
Look around for any empty corners or narrow spaces that could benefit from a tall, slim cabinet. These are perfect for small bathrooms because they take up almost no floor space while providing plenty of storage. If you’ve got a little nook or cranny, a tallboy cabinet can be a great addition. One of my go-to pieces is the Dirksen Bathroom Narrow Storage Tall Thin Cabinet, which fits perfectly beside a vanity without overcrowding the room. It’s just one of the clever storage solutions I always recommend to clients.
Over-the-Toilet Storage: A Hidden Gem
Now, let’s talk about the space above your toilet. It’s often one of the most underused areas in a bathroom, and I’m guilty of it too. But when I started adding over-the-toilet storage, it really changed the game. Wall-mounted cabinets, open shelves, and even freestanding units can all work wonders. For a smaller bathroom, a ladder-style shelf is a great option. Lean it against the wall for added storage, but without taking up too much of the already limited space. And don’t forget the toilet tank—I’ve used a simple tray on top to store extra toilet rolls and room spray.
Hanging Items Using Hooks and Racks
Hooks and racks are your best friend when you’re working with tight spaces. Wall-mounted hooks are perfect for towels, robes, and even hair tools. You can also get multi-tiered racks for additional hanging space, and over-the-door hook racks are a drill-free solution for renters. I once worked on a rental property where we installed the Cabidor Deluxe Behind the Door Storage Cabinet, a clever unit that attaches to the back of the door and doesn’t require any drilling. It was a game-changer for my clients who were looking to maximize space in a small, temporary bathroom.
Maximise Your Existing Cabinets and Drawers
The insides of your bathroom cabinets can be just as useful as the actual storage units themselves. I’ve helped many clients who had great storage units but were underutilising the interior space. Small adjustments inside drawers and cabinets can make all the difference.
Transform Under-Sink Storage
Under-sink storage is often a wasteland of cleaning supplies, random products, and a whole lot of clutter. But with the right organization, this space can become a powerhouse of storage. Start with stackable bins for toiletries or cleaning products. If you’re dealing with tricky plumbing, expandable shelving units can fit around the pipes, giving you extra space without wasting a centimetre. For an even smoother experience, use pull-out drawers or lazy Susans so that you can access items in the back with ease. I even recommend using waterproof storage bins—they’re great for keeping things dry and tidy, especially if there’s a risk of leaks.
Inside Cabinet Doors: The Hidden Space
This is one of those spaces that gets overlooked, but it can be a goldmine. I’ve used the inside of cabinet doors for all sorts of things: adhesive hooks for hairdryers and curling irons, slim wire baskets for toiletries, and even magnetic storage to hold small items like bobby pins and tweezers. It’s easy, cost-effective, and adds a surprising amount of storage without taking up any extra space.
Organising Vanity Drawers
Vanity drawers often end up being a chaotic mess, especially when they’re deep enough to hide things but too hard to organise properly. Use adjustable drawer organizers to create dedicated sections for makeup, toothbrushes, or grooming tools. You can even use stackable organisers to maximize vertical space. If you have a deep drawer, clear bins are a must—they’ll keep everything visible and easy to grab. And for the ultimate tidy look, I always recommend using non-slip liners to keep everything in place.
Choose Furniture and Fixtures that Save Space
Furniture choices in a small bathroom can have a huge impact on both the functionality and feel of the space. I’ve seen how the right pieces can make a bathroom feel not only more spacious but more luxurious.
Opt for Vanities with Built-In Storage
One of my go-to pieces of advice is to choose vanities that come with built-in storage. A well-designed vanity can save you so much space and reduce the need for additional storage units. Look for vanities with multiple drawers or shelves that help keep everything organised. Not only will they keep things hidden away, but they also eliminate the need to buy separate storage solutions.
Go for Floating Vanities for a Sleek Look
Wall-mounted, floating vanities are a fantastic option in small bathrooms. They create the illusion of more floor space and help make the bathroom feel less cluttered. Plus, you can store extra items underneath them. I installed a floating vanity in a recent bathroom makeover, and the difference in how spacious the room felt was incredible. You can find these vanities in minimalist designs with built-in drawers or open shelving, giving you versatile storage that fits the room’s flow.
Install Mirrored Medicine Cabinets for Dual Functionality
Mirrored medicine cabinets are brilliant because they serve two purposes in one. Not only do they provide storage, but they also serve as a mirror—essential in any bathroom. Recessed medicine cabinets, which sit flush with the wall, are a great option if you’re tight on space. They allow you to keep your daily essentials close at hand, but without taking up precious real estate in the room.
Select Compact, Multi-Functional Furniture
Small but mighty furniture options can make a real difference. Slimline furniture fits perfectly in narrow spaces, ensuring every inch is used effectively. Corner units are another great idea. In a tiny bathroom, corner vanities can save so much space while also improving the room’s flow. And if you have just a little extra floor space, consider adding a storage bench or stool. These pieces can serve as a place to sit while also offering hidden storage for towels, cleaning products, or even extra toilet paper.
Make Your Shower Area More Efficient
The shower is often the most cluttered space in a small bathroom. With a few strategic choices, though, you can make the most of that precious space without compromising on style or function.
Utilize Shower Caddies for Organised Storage
Shower caddies are a simple solution to keep everything you need within easy reach. I prefer hanging caddies that hook onto the showerhead or over the door—these keep things organized without taking up valuable space. For larger showers, wall-mounted caddies are a great option. If you’re looking to avoid holes in the tiles, there are adhesive and suction options that hold strong, even in damp environments. If you’ve got kids, a mesh organiser with suction cups is perfect for holding bath toys and loofahs.
Incorporate Wall-Mounted Dispensers for a Neater Look
Say goodbye to bulky shampoo and conditioner bottles with wall-mounted dispensers. These sleek dispensers can store everything from body wash to hand soap, reducing clutter on the shower floor. They also give your bathroom a modern, minimalist look—perfect for that clean, spa-like vibe.
Install Built-In Shower Niches for Seamless Storage
Built-in niches are an elegant and practical way to add storage to your shower without encroaching on the space. These recessed shelves provide a spot to store soap, shampoo, and other shower essentials, all while maintaining a smooth, uninterrupted surface. In one of my recent projects, we incorporated a recessed niche right into the shower wall, and it instantly created a more polished, luxurious feel.
Use Shower Stools for Extra Surface Area
In a small bathroom, every inch counts, and that includes the shower area. A small shower stool made from moisture-resistant materials like teak or bamboo can double as a seat or provide extra surface area for items like shaving supplies or toiletries. Plus, it looks great and adds a bit of style to the space.
Implement Space-Enhancing Design Elements
A few smart design choices can completely transform how a small bathroom feels. It’s not just about storage—it’s about creating the illusion of space and light.
Light Colours and Reflective Surfaces to Open Up the Room
The colour palette in a small bathroom can make a huge difference. I always recommend light, neutral colours—whites, pastels, or soft greys—as they reflect light and make the space feel bigger. Glossy tiles and shiny countertops also reflect light, making the room feel more open and airy.
Strategic Mirror Placement to Add Depth
Large mirrors are a classic trick to make any space feel larger. By reflecting light and visually doubling the space, mirrors can do wonders for creating a more spacious feel. I’ve used large, full-length mirrors in several bathrooms, and it’s always a simple yet effective way to maximise the sense of space.
Opt for Glass Shower Enclosures for an Open Look
If you want to make your bathroom feel more expansive, opt for clear glass shower panels instead of frosted doors or shower curtains. This gives the space a seamless look, allowing the entire bathroom to flow together.
Consider Wall-Mounted Toilets to Save Floor Space
Wall-mounted toilets are a fantastic solution for small bathrooms. They not only create more floor space by hiding the tank inside the wall, but they’re also much easier to clean. In one renovation, installing a wall-mounted toilet instantly made the room feel bigger and cleaner.
Use Large-Format Tiles to Minimise Grout Lines
Large-format tiles are perfect for creating a cleaner, more open look. They reduce the number of grout lines, making the room appear bigger and less cluttered. Floor-to-ceiling tiles can also make your walls seem taller, which is especially useful in small bathrooms.
Install Pocket or Barn Doors for Extra Floor Space
Traditional hinged doors can take up valuable space. In smaller bathrooms, I always recommend pocket or barn doors. These sliding doors free up floor space and create a more seamless layout, giving you a lot more room to work with.
Extra Space-Saving Storage Solutions for Small Bathrooms
When you’re working with limited space, it’s important to make every inch count. Even in the tiniest corners, there are clever ways to add storage that can make a big difference.
Corner Shelves for Unused Spaces
Often, corners are wasted in a bathroom. But I’ve found that corner shelves can make a huge difference in how efficiently a space works. Think about it: your bathroom has four corners, and each one can be transformed into storage. For example, I installed corner shelves above the toilet and in the shower area in one project, and it instantly gave the bathroom a more streamlined feel. These shelves can hold everything from toiletries to small plants, and in a corner, they don’t eat into the precious floor space.
Floating Shelves as a Modern Storage Solution
Floating shelves are one of my favourite space-saving solutions. They don’t just add storage—they also create a sense of openness. I’ve used floating shelves above the sink, on the walls, and near the door to store everything from decorative candles to extra hand towels. The best part? They maintain an open feel, so the bathroom doesn’t feel cramped.
Hidden Storage Areas to Keep Things Tidy
Some of the best storage solutions are the ones that are out of sight. Hidden storage can be anything from recessed niches in the walls, built-in cabinets behind mirrors, or even under-floor drawers. In a recent renovation, I had the brilliant idea to install a hidden drawer in the flooring under the sink. It’s barely noticeable but provides just the right amount of storage for cleaning supplies or extra toilet rolls. These hidden storage solutions are not only practical but also create a clean, minimalist vibe in your bathroom.
Maximising Bathroom Space
By now, you’ve got a ton of ideas to help you make the most out of your small bathroom. But at the end of the day, it’s about creating a space that works for you. Whether you’re in a cramped apartment in Melbourne or a cottage in the suburbs, the goal is the same: to make your bathroom feel open, organised, and efficient.
Embrace Minimalism for a Clutter-Free Bathroom
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to embrace minimalism. The fewer items you have, the more space you’ll have. After all, a clutter-free bathroom isn’t just easier to clean—it’s more relaxing and enjoyable to use. Take a leaf out of the minimalist book: Keep only what’s necessary and functional.
Opt for Multifunctional Furniture and Fixtures
The key to a small bathroom is versatility. If a piece of furniture or a fixture can serve multiple purposes, then it’s worth considering. For instance, a floating vanity provides storage while making the room look bigger, and wall-mounted shelves double as both storage and decorative space. Think about every piece you add and ask yourself: How can this solve more than one problem?
