10 Smart Above-Toilet Storage Ideas: Creative and Practical Ways to Maximize Bathroom SpaceClara WhitmoreSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Floating Shelves for a Minimal Look2. Ladder Shelf Leaning Against the Wall3. Built-In Recessed Cabinet4. Over-the-Toilet Cabinet with Doors5. Basket Storage on Open Shelves6. Metal Rack with Multiple Tiers7. Pegboard Wall for Flexible Hooks8. Repurposed Wooden Crates9. Over-the-Toilet Hanging Shelves10. Custom Shelf + Art ComboFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOnce, a client of mine insisted on storing a full stack of towels and three giant scented candles above their toilet. It looked amazing… until one candle almost turned into a fire hazard. That’s when I realized above-toilet storage is a delicate balance between function and style. Small bathrooms can spark big creativity, and today, I’ll walk you through 10 storage ideas I’ve personally used in real home projects.1. Floating Shelves for a Minimal LookFloating shelves are my go-to — sleek, lightweight, and easy to install. They keep essentials handy without making the space feel cramped. Just make sure you don’t overload them with heavy items.save pin2. Ladder Shelf Leaning Against the WallA ladder shelf can transform a plain wall into layered storage. I once used it in a narrow powder room to hold plants and toiletries. It adds charm, but do check stability — especially if you have kids.save pin3. Built-In Recessed CabinetIn one project, we carved out a recessed niche to store extra toilet paper and cleaning supplies. This approach blends seamlessly into the wall. For compact bathrooms, you can mock up the layout first using a room visualization tool to avoid awkward placements.save pin4. Over-the-Toilet Cabinet with DoorsGreat for hiding clutter. I love adding frosted glass doors for an airy feel while still concealing items. The only trick is matching its style with the rest of your bathroom furniture.save pin5. Basket Storage on Open ShelvesThis is a quick, budget-friendly fix. Woven baskets add texture and keep small items organized. But remember — baskets can collect dust, so choose washable liners.save pin6. Metal Rack with Multiple TiersFreestanding metal racks fit snugly over toilets and offer plenty of levels for storage. In one remodel, I paired a matte black rack with white tiles — instant “boutique hotel” vibes. You can experiment with different layouts using a space planning tool before committing.save pin7. Pegboard Wall for Flexible HooksI once installed a white pegboard above the toilet for a family who needed a changeable setup. Hooks for hand towels one month, hanging plants the next — pure versatility.save pin8. Repurposed Wooden CratesA stack of sanded, painted crates over the toilet creates rustic charm and generous storage. They’re not for everyone — expect a slightly bulkier look — but they store a lot.save pin9. Over-the-Toilet Hanging ShelvesSuspended on sturdy ropes or leather straps, these shelves turn blank space into a design focal point. They do sway a little when touched, so best for lighter objects.save pin10. Custom Shelf + Art ComboOne of my favorite tricks — a slim shelf holding a few essentials, paired with framed art above it. It blends practicality with personality. I often test proportions in a bathroom layout mock-up before drilling any holes.save pinFAQQ: How high should I place shelves above the toilet?A: Usually 2 feet above the tank gives enough clearance without feeling too high.Q: Will wall-mounted storage damage tiles?A: With the right drill bits and anchors, you can mount safely — or opt for freestanding designs to skip drilling entirely.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