Unless you’re in a very exclusive tax bracket, bathrooms typically are the smallest rooms in the house. Despite the traffic these rooms get on a daily basis — and the amount of stuff we keep in them — bathrooms are rarely overflowing with space and, more importantly, storage.
And let’s be honest here, people: We can only shove so many lotions, potions, and shampoos under the sink.
But what’s a beauty addict to do? The answer, of course, is clever storage hacks.
From easy DIY wall racks to a new use for step ladders, here are 14 creative — and super pretty — solutions to lack of bathroom storage. Your (tiny) vanity will thank you.
Image via Amber Interior Design
Put a Basket in It
myfabulesslife.com
Baskets are the saviors for the storage-challenged — and that goes double for bathrooms. If you’re in need of space for extra clean towels or, um, reading material, a basket on the back of the toilet can do wonders.
Go High – Way High – With Shelves
hometalk.com
The standard number of above-toilet shelves is two. And that’s great if you have other spots to store toilet paper, Q-tips, and other bathroom accoutrements.
If you’re in need of more storage, add another shelf or two , depending on the height of your ceiling. It might look weird at first, but you’ll get used to it — and the extra space.
Install a Barn Door
unskinnyboppy.com
If you’re in the camp of people whose bathrooms shrink a quarter of a size every time the door is open, try installing — or DIYing — a barn door . Not only does it look chic, but it also takes up much less room.
Use a Wall Rack
ichdesigner.com
Bits and bobs don’t need to be stored in drawers only. Find or DIY a wall rack (behind-the-door or otherwise) and hook on all of your toiletries.
Expedit It
diycraftsa.com
Few people have gone through life without owning Ikea Expedit shelves , but how many people have used them in their bathroom? The tall, skinny design is perfect for small bathrooms with little space.
DIY a Closet
shanty-2-chic.com
If open shelves aren’t your thing (but storage is), try DIYing your very own bathroom closet .
Hang Baskets
ourfifthhouse.com
A cute alternative to opening shelving is hanging baskets . Clever!
DIY an Antique Window Cabinet
lizmarieblog.com
How pretty is this antique window cabinet ?! Perfect for a bathroom, and it’s really not that hard to make.
Put a Mason Jar in It
masonjarcraftslove.com
Is there anything Mason jars can’t do?! These painted, distressed jars would be great for holding cotton balls, Q-tips, and even toothbrushes.
Go With a Stool
kellyelko.com
Stools and step ladders might not be able to store much, but they look cute and often fit into awkward, too-big-for-cabinet spots.
Repurpose an Old Dresser
daisypies/Tumblr
What to do with an old dresser that you’re not going to use in your room? Paint it and put it in the bathroom!
DIY a Magnetic Makeup Board
laurathoughts81.blogspot.com
Makeup-lovers with small bathrooms, this could be your saving grace: A magnetic makeup board !
Use a Ladder as a Towel Rack
funkyjunkinteriors.com
An old ladder can be the perfect (skinny) solution to a towel rack.
DIY a Picture Ledge into a Nail Polish Rack
blog.zygomatics.com
Picture ledges — especially of the Ikea variety — are key for storing nail polishes or other small beauty products. It’s like your very own nail salon!
