Bathrooms are one of the most used spaces in any home, yet they are often the smallest rooms. This makes storage a constant challenge. If your bathroom feels cluttered with toiletries, towels, and decor items, one of the best ways to maximize the space is to add shelving over the toilet. This area is often underutilized but can provide both function and style with the right shelf setup.
Over the toilet shelves are not just about storage. They also allow you to display decorative accents, plants, or baskets that bring charm and personality into your bathroom. From rustic wood shelving to modern floating shelves, there are endless ways to transform that empty wall space above your toilet into something useful and beautiful.
In this blog post, we will dive into 10 bathroom shelf ideas over the toilet that can work for small bathrooms, large bathrooms, minimalist designs, or cozy rustic spaces. Whether you want sleek and modern or warm and farmhouse-inspired, these ideas will inspire you to make the most of your vertical space.
1. Floating Wooden Shelves Over the Toilet
Floating shelves are one of the most popular options for bathrooms because they are versatile, affordable, and stylish. Wooden floating shelves add warmth and character while also being highly functional. You can stain them to match your bathroom vanity, or paint them white for a crisp, clean look.
Floating shelves work well for holding toiletries, small baskets, or decorative jars. You can also add a small plant or candle to bring a fresh touch to the bathroom. They come in different lengths, so you can choose two or three stacked shelves depending on the amount of space you have above your toilet.
This style works perfectly in minimalist, rustic, or farmhouse bathrooms and is easy to install with basic tools.
2. Over the Toilet Cabinet Shelves
If you prefer a more enclosed storage solution, cabinets with open shelving above the toilet are a fantastic idea. These units often combine cabinet doors for hidden storage with open shelves on top.
The closed portion is perfect for storing extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, or other items you want out of sight, while the open shelves allow you to style your bathroom with decorative accents. Over the toilet cabinet shelves are available in wood, metal, or even glass designs, so you can find one that matches your bathroom style.
This design is especially great for small bathrooms where you need every inch of storage to count.
3. Industrial Pipe Shelves Over Toilet
For those who love an urban, rustic, or industrial design, pipe shelves are an eye-catching option. These shelves are made with metal pipe brackets paired with wood planks, giving them a bold and stylish look.
The industrial design makes your bathroom feel modern while still being practical. These shelves are strong enough to hold multiple items, such as baskets, toiletries, or rolled towels. Pairing natural wood with black metal pipes works especially well in bathrooms with dark accents or subway tile walls.
If you want to add a unique, edgy vibe to your bathroom, industrial pipe shelves are the way to go.
4. Farmhouse Ladder Shelf Over Toilet
A ladder shelf is a freestanding unit that leans against the wall and often has multiple levels of shelving. Farmhouse ladder shelves are especially charming in bathrooms because they combine rustic style with great storage potential.
The shelves can be used to hold rolled towels, small baskets, jars, or decorative accents. Because ladder shelves are freestanding, you do not need to drill into the wall, making them a great option for renters.
Whitewashed wood or distressed finishes add to the farmhouse feel, while natural wood tones create a warm and inviting look.
5. Glass Shelves for a Minimalist Look
If you want something sleek and modern, glass shelves above the toilet provide a minimalist touch. They are perfect for small bathrooms because they do not feel bulky and help create a light and airy atmosphere.
Glass shelves work beautifully in bathrooms with contemporary or modern styles. They are ideal for holding lightweight items such as perfume bottles, decorative jars, or small plants. For added style, you can choose shelves with chrome or brass brackets that match your bathroom fixtures.
The simplicity of glass shelves makes them timeless and easy to style in almost any bathroom.
6. Rustic Barnwood Shelves Over the Toilet
Rustic shelves made from reclaimed barnwood are perfect for creating a cozy, farmhouse-inspired bathroom. The natural imperfections in the wood give character and charm while making your space feel warm and inviting.
These shelves are typically wider and sturdier, making them excellent for storing rolled towels, baskets, and decorative accents. Pairing barnwood shelves with black metal brackets creates a rustic-chic style that blends functionality with aesthetics.
Rustic barnwood shelves are ideal for anyone looking to create a bathroom that feels cozy, homey, and timeless.
7. Built-In Shelves Over the Toilet
For a more permanent and custom solution, built-in shelves above the toilet offer both elegance and practicality. Built-ins are constructed as part of the wall, often recessed or framed in with trim.
These shelves are highly functional because they maximize every inch of space while also looking seamless. Built-ins can be painted to match your bathroom walls or cabinetry for a polished look.
If you are remodeling your bathroom, built-in shelves are a smart investment because they add value to your home while also improving storage.
8. Tiered Metal Rack Shelves
Metal rack shelves are a practical and affordable way to add storage above the toilet. These freestanding racks usually come with multiple shelves, making them ideal for holding toiletries, towels, and decorative baskets.
They are lightweight, easy to assemble, and perfect for renters because they do not require wall installation. Metal rack shelves are available in different finishes, such as chrome, bronze, or black, so you can choose one that complements your bathroom fixtures.
If you are looking for functionality and affordability, tiered metal racks are a great choice.
9. Decorative Corner Shelves Above the Toilet
Sometimes bathrooms have awkward layouts, and corner shelves can be the perfect solution. Installing decorative corner shelves above the toilet allows you to maximize wall space that would otherwise go unused.
Corner shelves can be made from wood, glass, or metal, and they are ideal for small bathrooms where every inch of space counts. You can style them with small baskets, plants, or decorative jars for both function and beauty.
They are an excellent way to add personality and charm while making the most of your bathroom space.
10. Over the Toilet Shelf with Hooks
A creative twist on shelving is to add hooks underneath the shelves for extra functionality. Hooks are perfect for hanging hand towels, robes, or even small baskets.
This design not only gives you a place for decorative items on the shelves but also makes the area more practical. You can use wooden shelves with metal hooks for a farmhouse look or sleek glass shelves with chrome hooks for a modern design.
Adding hooks is especially helpful in bathrooms where you need additional towel space without installing a large towel bar.
How to Style Your Over the Toilet Shelves
Once you have chosen your shelf type, the fun part begins: styling. Here are a few tips to make your shelves both functional and beautiful.
- Use baskets and bins: Store smaller items like toiletries, cotton balls, or extra toilet paper in woven baskets or decorative bins.
- Add greenery: A small plant or faux greenery instantly makes the bathroom feel fresher.
- Mix functional and decorative items: Combine storage with decor by placing jars of bath salts next to a candle or picture frame.
- Roll towels: Rolled towels not only save space but also add a spa-like feel to the bathroom.
- Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding your shelves. A few well-chosen items look better than a cluttered display.
Final Thoughts
Adding shelves above the toilet is one of the simplest ways to improve storage and style in your bathroom. From floating wooden shelves to industrial pipe designs, ladder shelves, and built-ins, there are endless options to fit every bathroom style and size.
Whether you want sleek modern glass shelves or rustic barnwood designs, the right shelves can completely transform the look of your bathroom. They create a balance of functionality and decor while making use of a space that often goes overlooked.
When planning your over the toilet shelving, think about your bathroom’s overall design theme, how much storage you need, and how you want to style the shelves. With the right choice, your bathroom will feel more organized, stylish, and welcoming.
