20 Over The Toilet Storage Ideas

If you’ve ever stood in your bathroom, wondering where to put all your towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, you’re definitely not alone.

Bathrooms—especially smaller ones—tend to have limited storage space, and that’s where over-the-toilet storage comes to the rescue. It’s one of the smartest ways to use vertical space without taking up any valuable floor area.

Whether your style leans minimalist, rustic, or ultra-modern, there’s an over-the-toilet storage idea out there that’ll transform your bathroom from cluttered to cleverly organized.

Let’s dive into 20 creative, stylish, and practical ways to make the most of that space above your toilet.

1. Floating Shelves for a Clean Look

Floating shelves are a timeless and easy way to add storage above your toilet. They provide plenty of room for towels, jars, and decorative items while keeping your bathroom airy and modern.

Choose wood for a rustic vibe or white lacquer for a sleek finish. The best part? They’re simple to install and don’t take up any visual weight.

2. Ladder-Style Shelf Unit

If you love a casual yet functional design, a leaning ladder shelf is perfect. It can rest right above your toilet, offering tiered levels of storage for baskets, plants, and essentials. It’s a stylish piece that brings both charm and practicality to small bathrooms.

3. Cabinet with Doors for Hidden Storage

Not everyone likes displaying everything. A cabinet with doors keeps things neat by hiding clutter like cleaning supplies or extra toiletries. Go for one that matches your vanity or mirror frame to tie the look together.

4. Industrial Pipe Shelving

For an edgy, industrial feel, opt for open shelving made with metal pipes and wood planks. It’s sturdy, affordable, and gives your bathroom a loft-like aesthetic. This design works especially well if you pair it with Edison bulbs or matte black fixtures.

5. Built-In Over Toilet Niche

If you’re up for a small renovation, a built-in niche is a sleek way to add permanent storage. It looks clean and intentional, perfect for a minimalist or modern bathroom. Add glass shelves for a polished finish that feels custom-designed.

6. Over-the-Toilet Cabinet with Open Shelves

Why settle for one option when you can have both? Choose a cabinet that has doors on top for private storage and open shelves below for decorative touches. You can display small plants, candles, or rolled towels while keeping less aesthetic items hidden.

7. Wire Baskets for a Rustic Touch

Wire baskets bring that cozy farmhouse charm to your bathroom. Mount them directly on the wall above your toilet for storing toilet paper, washcloths, or rolled hand towels. They’re functional and effortlessly stylish.

8. Space-Saving Over-the-Toilet Rack

A freestanding rack designed to fit snugly over your toilet is one of the easiest upgrades. It’s great for renters since it doesn’t require drilling. Look for a metal or bamboo version depending on your decor style, and enjoy instant extra storage.

9. Floating Boxes Instead of Shelves

Take a break from traditional shelving with floating storage boxes. They create a unique, geometric wall feature while providing plenty of room for essentials. Try arranging them in asymmetrical patterns for a modern, artistic feel.

10. Glass Shelves for a Light and Airy Feel

Glass shelves are a subtle choice that works wonders in small bathrooms. They keep the space visually open while still offering room for jars, lotions, and decor. Pair them with chrome or brass brackets for a touch of luxury.

11. Vintage Dresser Hutch Makeover

Love a good DIY project? Repurpose an old dresser hutch or cabinet top by painting it and placing it over your toilet. It adds tons of charm and gives you a one-of-a-kind piece that tells a story.

12. Woven Baskets on Shelves

Baskets are lifesavers for keeping small items contained and organized. Use woven or fabric baskets on your shelves for a clean, uniform look. They hide clutter beautifully and add warmth and texture to your bathroom.

13. Tiered Hanging Shelves

Instead of wall-mounted shelves, consider hanging shelves suspended from ropes or metal chains. This adds visual interest and can be adjusted to your desired height. They’re particularly great for bohemian or eclectic bathroom styles.

14. Compact Over Toilet Storage Tower

Storage towers are perfect for narrow bathrooms. They have slim frames but multiple shelves for all your essentials. Choose one that matches your bathroom’s color palette for a cohesive look.

15. Mirrored Over Toilet Cabinet

Add a mirrored cabinet above your toilet to get both storage and functionality. It’s perfect for tight spaces since mirrors visually enlarge the room while hiding your bathroom items behind sleek doors.

16. Corner Shelving for Small Spaces

If your toilet is near a corner, don’t waste that awkward space. Install small corner shelves that wrap around the wall. This smart solution makes every inch count and can be perfect for displaying small decor items.

17. Wooden Crate Shelving

Wooden crates are a great budget-friendly way to create rustic over-the-toilet storage. Stack or mount them in creative arrangements and stain them in your preferred color. They’re easy to customize and ideal for farmhouse-inspired bathrooms.

18. Decorative Over Toilet Arch or Frame

For those who want storage with a statement, consider an arched shelving unit or decorative frame over your toilet. It adds a soft, architectural detail while still being practical. Add small jars, books, or greenery to style it up.

19. Compact Floating Cabinet

If you prefer clean lines and minimalist design, a single floating cabinet above your toilet can do wonders. It offers hidden storage while keeping the overall look sleek and clutter-free. Use a high-gloss finish for modern bathrooms or matte wood tones for Scandinavian styles.

20. Custom Built-In Shelving Unit

If you’re planning a remodel or want something perfectly tailored to your bathroom, go custom. A built-in shelving unit above the toilet can include cubbies, drawers, and open shelves that match your exact needs. It’s a long-term investment that adds value to your home and makes your bathroom feel truly finished.

Tips for Styling Over the Toilet Storage

Now that you have plenty of ideas, let’s talk about styling. The trick is balancing function and aesthetics. Start by grouping items—like towels, jars, or candles—in threes or fives for a visually pleasing arrangement. Use a mix of textures: wood, glass, metal, and greenery add depth and contrast. Keep clutter minimal—less is more when it comes to bathroom decor.

If your bathroom is small, go for light colors and open shelving to keep things airy. In larger spaces, you can experiment with darker tones and bold statement pieces. Lighting also makes a huge difference. A small wall sconce or LED strip under the shelf can elevate the whole look.

And don’t forget to personalize your space. A framed print, a mini plant, or a small diffuser can make your bathroom feel cozy and inviting.

Practical Considerations Before You Start

Before jumping into your favorite over-the-toilet storage idea, measure your space carefully. Toilets vary in height, and you’ll want enough clearance to avoid bumping into shelves. Also, check for any wall studs or plumbing that could affect installation.

If you’re renting, freestanding racks or adhesive-based storage solutions are best since they don’t damage walls. Homeowners, on the other hand, can enjoy more flexibility with built-ins or mounted cabinets.

Lastly, always balance practicality with style. It’s tempting to go all out with decor, but remember that this area should still serve a purpose—keeping your bathroom essentials within reach and neatly organized.

Conclusion

When it comes to maximizing bathroom space, over-the-toilet storage is an absolute game-changer. Whether you choose floating shelves for a modern look, a ladder rack for that casual farmhouse feel, or a sleek built-in unit for a high-end finish, the right setup can completely transform your bathroom. The key is finding a balance between beauty and function—so your space not only looks great but also works effortlessly for your daily routine.

With these 20 over-the-toilet storage ideas, you have endless inspiration to make the most of every inch of your bathroom. From quick DIY fixes to more permanent upgrades, you can create a space that’s organized, stylish, and uniquely yours.