Let’s be honest—bathrooms aren’t always blessed with a ton of space. And when you're working with a smaller setup (hello, apartment life), every square inch counts. Especially that often-overlooked spot right above the toilet.
Instead of letting it go to waste, why not turn it into a stylish, functional storage zone? Whether you’re dealing with a tiny guest bath or just want your main bathroom to feel less cluttered, these ideas can help you level up your storage game—without sacrificing aesthetics.
Here are 10 chic over-the-toilet storage ideas that actually look good and totally work in small spaces.
1. Freestanding Over-the-Toilet Shelf Unit
This is the MVP of small-bathroom storage. A freestanding shelf unit fits right over the toilet tank, giving you multiple tiers of vertical storage without having to drill a single hole.
🛠️ Why it’s perfect:
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No wall-mounting required (hello, renters!)
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Easy to move and restyle
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Works with wood, metal, or bamboo for any vibe
👉 Look for one with adjustable shelves or a built-in cabinet if you like hidden storage.
2. Floating Wooden Shelves
Floating shelves instantly make your bathroom feel more custom—and they’re so easy to personalize.
Style them with rolled towels, candles, little potted plants, or pretty jars. If you're going for a minimalist look, stick with neutral baskets and repeat textures for that Pinterest-worthy feel.
🧺 Pro tip: Choose a wood finish that complements your mirror or vanity for a cohesive look.
3. Over-the-Toilet Ladder Shelf
For a more relaxed, farmhouse-inspired look, a leaning ladder shelf brings just enough structure without feeling bulky.
Use the bottom rung for hand towels, the middle for a basket of essentials, and the top for something pretty—maybe a small frame or faux greenery.
🪴 Why people love it:
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No drilling
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Adds height and texture
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Instantly cozy
👉 Rustic woods or matte black finishes make it feel modern and homey.
4. Wall-Mounted Cabinet with Doors
Sometimes you just want the mess tucked away—and that’s okay.
A compact cabinet with doors above the toilet gives you a spot to store all the things you don’t want on display (we see you, extra toilet paper and feminine products).
✨ Best for:
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Clean, minimalist spaces
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Families with kids (hide the good skincare 😉)
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Bathrooms with neutral or traditional design
5. Hanging Wire Baskets
If you’re into more open, airy storage, wire baskets are such a smart fix. Mount two or three directly to the wall above the toilet and fill them with rolled towels, soaps, bath bombs, or skincare you actually use.
Bonus? They’re easy to switch out if your style changes.
🧼 Try this: Mix metal tones (like gold or matte black) to match your fixtures and add visual interest.
6. Slim Cabinet Tower with Open Shelves
Got a bit more wall space beside the toilet? Try a tall, slim tower cabinet that fits snugly in that often-unused space. Look for one with open shelving on top and a drawer or cabinet on the bottom.
🧴 Why it’s worth it:
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Blends display and hidden storage
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Feels custom without being expensive
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Adds “built-in” vibes without renovation
7. Wall-Mounted Basket Rack
This is like vertical shelving’s cool little sister. A wall-mounted basket rack adds height and warmth—especially in tighter bathrooms that feel a bit flat.
🧺 Perfect for:
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Boho, rustic, or cottagecore vibes
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Styling with hand towels, candles, or even faux plants
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Keeping clutter off the sink without going full minimalist
8. Macramé Shelf Hanger
Want something soft, cozy, and a little artsy? A macramé shelf brings warmth and texture to the space above your toilet—and it’s totally renter-friendly.
Style it with a mini diffuser, a tiny plant, or your prettiest bath salts.
🌿 Why we love it:
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Adds softness and depth
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Perfect for small, feminine spaces
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Doubles as decor
👉 Choose a neutral or pastel macramé to keep the space feeling light.
9. Mirror Cabinet with Bottom Shelf
Kill two birds with one beautiful piece: storage and a mirror.
A small cabinet with a mirrored front and a bottom shelf brings in light, makes the room feel bigger, and still holds your bathroom must-haves.
🪞 Best for:
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Bathrooms with limited natural light
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People who get ready in their bathroom
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Small spaces that need smart multifunctional pieces
10. Minimalist Open Cube Shelves
Not into traditional shelves? Try open cubes in a staggered layout. They feel sculptural and modern while still giving you space to display cute jars, folded towels, or bathroom greenery.
🧊 Why they work:
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Create a unique wall feature
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Add symmetry or asymmetry, depending on your style
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Make small items look intentional and styled
👉 Use light woods or white cubes for a clean, airy look—or go bold with matte black.
Final Thoughts: Function Can Be Cute
The space above your toilet doesn’t have to be an afterthought.
With just a little planning (and maybe a cute basket or two), it can become one of your bathroom’s most functional and stylish corners. Whether you're going for sleek and modern or soft and boho, there’s a storage solution here that’ll fit your vibe—and your budget.
And trust me, once everything has a place, your bathroom will feel bigger… and a whole lot calmer.
