10 clever small bathroom storage ideas: 10 built-in ideas to make your small bathroom feel spacious and stylishLena WhitmoreSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Recessed Shelves in the Shower2. Vanity with Hidden Drawers3. Over-the-Toilet Cabinet4. Sliding Mirror Cabinets5. Built-in Laundry Hamper6. Wall Niches Above Bathtub7. Corner Shelf Towers8. Under-Sink Pull-Outs9. Step-Storage Platform10. Built-in Towel Warmer NicheFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, I designed a tiny bathroom for a newlywed couple who insisted on keeping their surfboard inside – yes, in the bathroom! That impossible request actually pushed me to rethink built-in storage altogether. Honestly, small spaces can bring out the smartest tricks, and your bathroom is the perfect place to explore them. Here, I’m sharing 10 built-in storage ideas from my years of designing that can make even the smallest bathroom feel organized and charming.1. Recessed Shelves in the ShowerCutting into the wall for recessed shelves saves floor space while keeping shampoo and soaps off the edge of the tub. I’ve used this in many remodels – it keeps things tidy and feels custom. Just make sure you waterproof properly to avoid future trouble.save pin2. Vanity with Hidden DrawersA vanity can hide more than you think. Layering a shallow top drawer and a deep bottom one keeps daily-use items within reach. I once mapped this out with a room planner to ensure every inch was used smartly.save pin3. Over-the-Toilet CabinetThis is the oldest trick in the book, but with a modern twist – build it seamlessly into the wall. The space above toilets is often dead space; using it for towels or cleaning supplies can be a lifesaver.save pin4. Sliding Mirror CabinetsInstead of a traditional mirror door, I love designing sliding mirror panels. They save the clearance space needed to swing open, and hide plenty behind them. The only caution – sliding tracks need regular cleaning.save pin5. Built-in Laundry HamperIf you have a small family bathroom, building a pull-out laundry hamper into a cupboard keeps clothes off the floor. It’s one of those little upgrades people thank me for later.save pin6. Wall Niches Above BathtubPerfect for candles, bath salts, or décor – wall niches add storage without cluttering the tub edge. In my experience, measuring bottle heights before construction saves a lot of regret later. I once planned this precisely using a free floor plan creator to avoid awkward sizing.save pin7. Corner Shelf TowersDon’t underestimate the power of a corner. Tall, built-in shelves in corners create vertical storage in tight spaces, especially in awkward layouts.save pin8. Under-Sink Pull-OutsInstead of a big empty under-sink cabinet, customize with pull-out baskets and trays. This avoids the ‘black hole’ effect and keeps cleaning supplies visible.save pin9. Step-Storage PlatformFor very small bathrooms with raised shower floors, I’ve designed platforms with built-in drawers. The slight height change hides shoe-box-sized storage – great for extra toilet paper. I even sketched one using a bathroom design tool to ensure it wouldn’t eat into walking space.save pin10. Built-in Towel Warmer NicheIntegrating a towel warmer into the wall not only frees floor space, but feels downright luxurious. Just keep in mind you’ll need an electrician – it’s worth it in winter.save pinFAQQ: Are built-ins expensive for small bathrooms?A: They can be more costly than off-the-shelf furniture, but they maximize space and can add resale value.Q: How do I waterproof recessed storage?A: Use proper waterproof backing boards and a good sealant – never skip this step, or you risk mould.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE