Need Some Smart Bathroom Storage? Designers Weigh in on How to Store Essentials (2024)

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Bathroom storage is a problem that many people encounter at one time or another. Whether you are dealing with a small space, an awkward layout, or an old house that doesn’t have built-in closets and storage solutions, finding the space to store all your bathroom essentials in a functional and stylish way is an ongoing challenge. We asked two interior designers to share their top tips for storing bathroom essentials, and they had some valuable insight to share.

Here are 7 designer-approved tips for storing bathroom essentials that you’ll want to steal.

Bring in Storage Furniture

If built-in storage like closets and recessed shelving are in short supply in your bathroom, adding a piece of storage furniture is a great place to start.

“A vintage armoire or step-back cupboard is perfect for storing towels, toilet paper, and larger items in the bottom section; while toiletries, makeup, and small baskets for storage can go up top,” say Christy Scott Spearman and Kate Duffy of Duffy Scott Interiors.

Not only are these types of pieces super functional, but they can help tell your story through the style of the cabinet, Scott Spearman and Duffy say. Plus, if you’re a fan of vintage or thrifted pieces this is a great opportunity to add some pre-loved charm to your home.

Utilize Decorative Bowls or Trays

Bathrooms that are short on storage space will inevitably need to store some toiletries and bathroom essentials out in plain sight, so for these items decorative bowls, trays, and baskets are the way to go.

“These can be favorite vintage or heirloom hand-me-downs, or pieces collected from your favorite travels or memories,” Scott Spearman and Duffy say.

Opt for pieces that you find visually appealing and match the existing style of your space for a seamless and intentional look. Style them directly on your countertop, or add a small wall shelf if counter space is limited.

Make the Most of Under-Counter Space

For those bathrooms with under-counter space but no drawers, Duffy and Spearman Scott recommend adding organizational units that are designed to fit underneath sinks and counters.

“Lazy Susans with storage bins, drawer units, stackable shelves—all of these allow for an organized storage space under your sink!” they say.

Don’t Forget About the Walls

When floor space and closet space are limited, don’t forget to utilize your walls for storage space, says Ricky Allen, interior designer and director at EverWallpaper. Shelves, hanging organizers, and wall-mounted storage cabinets are great options for making the most out of your wall space. If you’re working with a particularly small space where wall space is limited, Allen recommends adding some corner shelves to fill awkward or empty corners in your bathroom with functional storage.

Try a Medicine Cabinet

Medicine cabinets may have you thinking of your grandma’s outdated bathroom, but trust us, they’ve come a long way. In fact, medicine cabinets have been listed as a 2024 bathroom trend to watch out for by interior designers, so it's safe to say they are on the rise.

Today’s medicine cabinets come in endless different sizes and styles, including recessed options that give the appearance of a regular mirror. Consider adding a medicine cabinet in place of a standard mirror above the sink or toilet in your bathroom for some additional hidden storage for small cosmetics and toiletries, Allen says.

Consider Towel Racks

Rather than folding your bath towels and hand towels for storage on shelves or cabinets, consider installing a towel rack or hooks on the wall, says Allen. This is the perfect way to keep some towels in your bathroom even if you don’t have space for extensive shelving or a large cabinet for storage. Simply keep the extras in a closet or cabinet outside the bathroom and replenish them as needed. Plus, it adds a decorative element to the space, says Allen.

Utilize the Back of the Bathroom Door

Lastly, don’t forget to make the most of your bathroom door says Allen. It’s the perfect place to install over-the-door organizers or towel hooks to add some additional storage to your space. Plus, there are endless different options, sizes, and styles to suit any style and need.