How do you organize a bathroom with no counter space?

Many small bathroom organization ideas assume that the space in question comes equipped with at least some type of countertop. But these solutions are of little help if your bathroom features a pedestal or otherwise compact sink. You can easily replace the role of a vanity counter by mounting floating shelves around your bathroom sink. Hanging shelves above the sink is the most obvious choice. However, shelves installed directly next to or even below a bathroom sink can be surprisingly useful as well!

How do you make a small bathroom appear larger?

Simple design tricks like using light paint colors and keeping clutter to a minimum will ensure your small bathroom looks bright and open. Be sure to utilize all of the vertical space in your bathroom. Tall and narrow furniture and decor will draw the eyes up, creating the illusion of a bigger room. Hang a large mirror (or several). Keep any window treatments light and airy. If possible, swap out your shower curtain for a glass door or partition.

14 Small Bathroom Storage Ideas to Save Space in Your Bathroom

When it comes to the spaces we use each and every day, it’s easy to lose sight of our organization goals. Things become even more daunting when trying to keep a compact living space, like a small bathroom, well-organized.

In such cases, you can’t rely on excess closet space to keep day-to-day messes out of sight. Instead, storage must be built into your interior design as a whole.

Keep reading for our favorite small bathroom storage ideas and how to incorporate them in your own home!

1. Use Baskets for Extra Storage

Baskets are an excellent way to add storage to a small bathroom without compromising on style. Choose baskets that complement your bathroom’s decor for a cohesive look. They’re perfect for storing towels, toiletries, and other essentials, keeping them accessible yet out of sight. Place them on open shelves or directly on the floor to maximize vertical space. Their portability also makes rearranging your bathroom a breeze.

Bathroom vanity with double sinks, a red cushioned stool, baskets underneath, and cosmetics organized on the counter — Source: @2of9organizers via Instagram

Bathroom with patterned wall, wooden shelves holding woven baskets, potted plants, and spare towels above a white toilet — Source: @faithandfarmhouseblog via Instagram

A bright, modern bathroom with a double vanity, with drawers and baskets for storage, gold fixtures, and a patterned rug featuring a toilet and two framed pictures on the wall — Source: @househappening via Instagram

Wicker basket with toilet paper, potted lavender and green plant on a windowsill — Source: @malmesbury_home via Instagram

Wooden shelves with folded towels, woven baskets, and wicker baskets containing toilet paper in a neatly organized closet — Source: @ourcphhome via Instagram

Shelves with wicker baskets and potted plants; a woven basket and a potted plant on the floor; neutral tones in a cozy corner — Source: @steeds_at_sixteen via Instagram

White, arched-top cabinet with glass-paneled door, revealing woven baskets inside, located in a bathroom with a wooden floor — Source: @hartwares via Instagram

Light wood cabinet with wicker baskets and a plant on top, next to a shower; white textured wall and rug enhance the decor — Source: @home.caffeine.cacti via Instagram

Rustic bathroom with a white rectangular sink with storage baskets under, round mirror, nautical decor, and wooden shelving on a shiplap wall — Source: @bellabranchdiy via Instagram

2. Handleless Cabinet for a Seamless Look

A handleless cabinet offers a sleek, modern solution to bathroom storage. This design creates an uninterrupted visual flow, making your small bathroom appear larger and more open. The smooth facade is easy to clean and operate, perfect for storing daily necessities. Select a finish that matches your bathroom’s palette for a harmonious aesthetic. This cabinet type is ideal for storing items you need to access regularly, keeping them handy yet hidden.

Pink bathroom vanity with a striped design, topped with a potted plant, frosted window and tiled floor and walls in the background — Source: @lizziegreen.co via Instagram

3. Utilize Cabinet Countertop

Maximizing the cabinet countertop provides extra surface space for storing and organizing bathroom essentials. Use stylish trays or small organizers to keep items like cotton swabs, soaps, or skincare products neatly arranged. This approach not only adds functionality but also enhances the overall look of your bathroom. Remember to keep it clutter-free by only displaying essential items, maintaining a clean and organized appearance.

White cabinet with baskets, two potted plants, and a decorative dish on top; black and white star-patterned floor tiles — Source: @misty.back.home via Instagram

4. Make Use of the Space Under the Sink

The area under the sink is often underutilized in small bathrooms. Install pull-out drawers or shelves to transform this empty space into a useful storage area. This solution is perfect for keeping cleaning supplies, extra toilet paper, or less frequently used items. Custom-fit organizers can help maximize this space, ensuring you make the most of every inch in your small bathroom.

Rustic bathroom with a wooden vanity with storage, two white sinks, round mirrors, and a potted plant, featuring white shiplap walls and herringbone floor — Source: @rusticfarmhome via Instagram

Modern bathroom with a round sink, wooden drawers, and decorative items. Open drawers show organized storage, and a circular mirror above — Source: @kristina_sofka_ via Instagram

Open bathroom cabinet with two pull-out drawers holding toiletries and grooming essentials — Source: @glidingshelf via Instagram

Bathroom vanity with a white countertop, twin mirrors, and open cabinets below revealing hair styling tools and plumbing — Source: @_studiofain_ via Instagram

5. Hovering Cabinet for More Floor Space

A hovering, or wall-mounted, cabinet frees up floor space, making your bathroom appear larger. This option is perfect for storing toiletries and bathroom linens, offering ample storage without the bulkiness of a floor-standing cabinet. Choose a design with adjustable shelves to customize the storage to your needs. The elevated position also makes cleaning the bathroom floor easier.

Modern bathroom with a round mirror, wooden vanity with two drawers for storage, striped shower curtain, potted plant, woven rug, and a toilet on tiled floor — Source: @winterwhitedesign via Instagram

6. Use the Space Above the Toilet

The space above the toilet is prime real estate in a small bathroom. Install shelves or a cabinet above the toilet tank to store extra rolls of toilet paper, toiletries, or decorative items. This area is ideal for items you need to access frequently. Opt for floating shelves for a minimalist look or a cabinet for concealed storage.

Two wall-mounted shelves holding toiletries, towels, a small plant, and toilet paper above a toilet in a white bathroom — Source: @_amanda_pickett_ via Instagram

A small bathroom with leafy wallpaper, a white toilet, wooden shelf, sink, and decorative items including plants and towels — Source: @gnortolife via Instagram

Modern bathroom with a wall-hung toilet next to black cabinets, wooden wall shelves for storage, plants, books, and a towel on a heated rack; speckled terrazzo floor adds texture — Source: @houseofnebu via Instagram

A bathroom with a toilet, wooden cabinet, and a sink with four drawers, and a window showing snow outside — Source: @riverridgehome via Instagram

7. Add Storage with a Standalone Shelf

A standalone shelf unit can be a stylish and practical addition to a small bathroom. It offers flexibility in placement and design, fitting into narrow or awkward spaces where built-in options won’t. Use it to display decorative items, store towels, or keep essential toiletries within reach. Choose a design that complements your bathroom’s aesthetic for a cohesive look.

A small wooden shelf with two tiers, holding towels, a plant, candles, and toiletries. It's placed on a light wood floor — Source: @homeisno22 via Instagram

Bathroom with a metal shelf holding towels, baskets, and toiletries; white vanity, mirror, potted plant, and folded dark towels visible — Source: @honeycando via Instagram

Three-tier bathroom organizer with toiletries and bath products next to a toilet, featuring a roll of toilet paper on the holder — Source: @militia.k.67 via Instagram

Bathroom scene with small gray cabinet, potted succulent on top, chrome towel rail, and the edge of a white bathtub — Source: @ourlittlehastings via Instagram

Bathroom with a pedestal sink, circular window, tall storage cabinet with baskets, and a potted plant. Geometric tile floor — Source: @2thecrescent via Instagram

Bathroom with a wooden shelf holding folded towels, jar, and decor; white towel hangs nearby; toilet with tray and plant — Source: @a.simple.start via Instagram

A bathroom with a white cabinet, round mirrors on the wall, a white sink, and decorative items on a shelf — Source: @the_queenofmyown_castle via Instagram

Wooden shelf with plants, toiletries, baskets, and rolled towels; neutral-toned wall and floor accent the neatly arranged items — Source: @victoriaproctor__ via Instagram

White bathroom storage cabinet with shelves holding towels, boxes, bottles, and a plant, next to a sink against a green wall — Source: @riverridgehome via Instagram

8. Install a Floating Shelf

Floating shelves add storage without the bulk of traditional shelving, keeping your small bathroom looking open and airy. Install them at a convenient height to store frequently used items or to display decorative elements. These shelves are not only functional but also serve as a design feature, adding character to your bathroom.

Wooden shelves with toilet paper, a heart-shaped ornament, a digital clock, and potted succulents against a white wall — Source: @countrylife_by_the_sea via Instagram

Two wooden shelves with a potted plant and folded towels on the top, and a wire basket with toilet rolls and a small plant on the bottom — Source: @maybeprobablyabsolutely via Instagram

Bathroom shelves with woven and white baskets holding toiletries, candles, and towels; a round mirror and sink are nearby — Source: @monica.bazemore via Instagram

9. Install a Towel Rail

A towel rail provides a dedicated space for hanging towels, keeping them dry and organized. Install it on the back of the door or on a wall to save space. For smaller bathrooms, consider a retractable or swivel towel rail that can be tucked away when not in use. This addition is both practical and essential for maintaining an organized bathroom.

Compact bathroom with gray walls, white cabinets, neatly organized baskets, stacked towels, and a pink towel on a heated rack — Source: @my_leicester_home via Instagram

10. Vanity Countertop Shelf

Maximize the space on your vanity countertop with a tiered shelf. This allows you to store more items vertically, making the most of limited counter space. It’s ideal for organizing daily essentials like toothbrushes, makeup, and skincare products. Choose a design that complements your vanity for a seamless look.

A white shelf with skincare products, candles, and a green vine plant against a light-colored wall — Source: @organiseme via Instagram

11. Label Your Organizers for an Easy Access

Labeling organizers in your bathroom simplifies finding what you need quickly. Use labels on baskets, drawers, and shelves to categorize items, making it easy to locate and return them. This system is especially useful in shared bathrooms, ensuring that every item has its designated place.

Bathroom cabinet with clear labeled storage bins for toiletries, dental, hair removal, lotion, sewing kit, and more — Source: @perfectlyplacedorg via Instagram

Modern bathroom with a shower, white sink, storage drawers, and gray rugs, neatly organized with toiletries in a shelf unit — Source: @whisks_and_spades via Instagram

12. Bathroom Vanity with Built-In Closet

A bathroom vanity with a built-in closet offers a comprehensive storage solution. This design combines open shelving or drawers with a closet, providing ample space for linens, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. It’s a space-saving option that brings order and elegance to small bathrooms.

Modern bathroom with wood-accented vanity with two drawers for storage, tall cabinet, white sink, mirrored cabinet, and window; scent bottles on small round table — Source: @canaromatoronto via Instagram

13. Opt for a Standalone Vanity Sink

A standalone vanity sink is an excellent choice for small bathrooms. It typically comes with built-in storage underneath, perfect for stowing away toiletries and cleaning products. This fixture offers the functionality of a sink and the added benefit of storage, all while occupying minimal space. Choose a design that complements your bathroom’s style for a harmonious look.

Wooden vanity with two drawers, brass handles, a white basin, and a potted plant against a white brick wall — Source: @furnewal via Instagram

A cozy bathroom with a bathtub, sink with storage, and toilet, featuring decor that includes a heart-shaped wall ornament and a bathtub tray with bath items — Source: @homely_hanbury via Instagram

Wooden vanity with three drawers, a patterned bowl sink, and a bronze faucet, set against white tiled walls — Source: @thisbayhome via Instagram

White bathroom vanity with marble countertop, chrome faucet, storage, and a potted plant; gray tile floor and blue wall background — Source: @waynehymerinc via Instagram

14. Create Storage with a Recessed Wall Niche

A recessed wall niche is a clever way to add storage without encroaching on your bathroom’s space. It’s perfect for storing shower products, small towels, or decorative items. Customize the size and number of shelves to suit your storage needs. This built-in feature adds depth and interest to your bathroom, while keeping essentials neatly organized.