Bathroom Open Shelving Storage Ideas You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner
I have always found that the bathroom gets messy faster than any other room.
Bottles, towels, and little baskets somehow end up everywhere.
That’s when I started looking into bathroom open shelving storage ideas, and honestly, things have changed!
Not only do open shelves keep things within reach, but they also make the space feel more open and styled.
Whether your bathroom is big or small, the right shelving can make it both neat and pretty.
Let’s walk through some of my favorite bathroom open shelving storage ideas that are simple, smart, and easy to try.
1. Open Shelves Above the Toilet
This spot often goes unused, but it’s actually perfect for storing bathroom basics.
I once added two simple wooden shelves above the toilet, and it changed everything.
I kept rolled towels, a small plant, and a jar of bath salts.
It felt like a mini spa.
Bathroom open shelving storage ideas like this work especially well in tight spaces and give a sense of order.
2. Corner Floating Shelves
Corners are usually awkward, but I have learned to love them.
A set of small floating shelves in the corner adds vertical storage without bulk.
For example, you can stack cotton balls in a jar, place a candle, or even store skincare.
This storage solution with open shelving create visual balance and draw the eye upward, making small bathrooms feel taller and more spacious.
Even a simple triangle shelf in a corner can do a lot more than people think.
3. Reclaimed Wood Shelving for Texture
There’s something comforting about natural textures in a bathroom.
I once used an old wood plank as a shelf and instantly felt like I’d stepped into a cozy cottage.
This idea bring warmth and contrast, especially in white or tiled spaces.
The rough grain, even if sealed, adds personality. In addition, it tells a quiet story.
Pair it with simple glass jars or white towels for a calm and grounded feel.
4. Built-In Wall Niche with Open Shelves
If you’re redoing your bathroom, consider carving out a niche.
It looks sleek and saves space.
One of my friends had one built during a renovation, and she never stops bragging about how tidy her bathroom feels now.
Open shelving like this blends in with the wall but still offers space to display your nicest bath products. Also, it removes the need for bulky cabinets.
Overall, it’s a neat solution that feels both practical and elegant.
5. Minimalist Black Metal Shelves
If you love a clean and modern vibe, then go for matte black open shelves.
They’re minimal, easy to match, and instantly make the space look structured.
I added one above my sink, and it holds my toothbrush holder, a soap dish, and a tiny succulent. The dark metal anchors the room visually, especially in lighter-toned bathrooms.
Moreover, this bathroom open shelving storage ideas feel architectural without being loud.
They’re proof that simplicity really works.
6. Ladder Shelf Against the Wall
I’m a huge fan of ladder shelves.
They lean without needing screws, which makes them renter-friendly.
I placed one near my bathtub, and now it holds towels, bath bombs, and even a book or two. It’s decorative but super functional.
This open shelving solution adds vertical storage stylishly and creatively.
In the end, they also tap into that open and airy look that helps small bathrooms feel less cramped.
7. Glass Shelves for a Light Feel
Sometimes solid shelves feel too heavy, especially in smaller bathrooms.
That’s where glass comes in.
I once added a pair of glass shelves above the sink, and the whole space felt lighter.
They’re almost invisible but still offer plenty of space.
Additionally, transparency reduces visual clutter, which can make you feel more relaxed, especially during morning routines.
8. Crate-Style Wooden Boxes on the Wall
This idea came from a friend who used leftover fruit crates as wall shelves.
At first, I wasn’t sure it would work.
But once I tried it in my guest bathroom, it looked charming and rustic. This solution provides deep storage without the need for closed cabinets.
For example, you can tuck in rolled hand towels, skincare, or bath supplies.
The wooden texture adds warmth and comfort, which is especially nice in colder-looking bathrooms.
Also, it’s a creative and eco-friendly way to recycle.
9. Shelf Over the Door
It’s easy to forget the space above the bathroom door, but that’s valuable real estate.
I once placed a slim shelf up there to store extra toilet paper and rarely used items.
It felt smart, like a secret storage spot.
This open shelving storage idea for the bathroom helps clear your cabinets without making the room look cluttered.
Even better, it’s a visual trick, when the eye travels upward, the room appears taller and more open.
10. Tiered Wall-Mounted Rack
I love using vertical space, especially when floor space is limited.
A tiered rack mounted on the wall near the sink or tub gives you layers of storage.
I found one in brass, and it gave the bathroom a vintage charm.
This open shelf setup makes organization easy, with each tier holding a different category like hair, face, or body products.
As a result, it reduces decision fatigue during routines and makes the space look thoughtfully arranged.
Where to Put Shelves in a Small Bathroom?
Above the toilet is my go-to spot, since that wall is often wasted space.
I also once added a slim shelf right above the sink mirror, and it held just enough. In addition, if there’s space above the door or next to the shower, those can work too.
The key is to think vertically and keep shelves shallow so they don’t stick out too much.
Even small additions can make a big impact.
How to Organize Open Shelves in a Bathroom?
Start with what you use most.
For instance, I keep towels on the middle shelf, a small basket for daily items like lotion and toothpaste, and a jar for cotton pads.
Keeping things grouped by use really helps with staying organized.
Also, I like to mix in one or two decor pieces so it doesn’t feel too plain, such as a candle or a little plant.
Altogether, this balance of function and style makes the space feel both useful and welcoming.
Final Thoughts
I hope these bathroom open shelving storage ideas help you find a better way to organise your space.
It doesn’t take much to turn a cluttered corner into something that feels fresh and calming. Just a few open shelves can make your bathroom look brighter and work better too.
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