10 Bathroom Storage Ideas for Small Spaces Apartment Living That Look Chic and Organized
Living in a small apartment often means making the most of every square inch, especially in the bathroom. As someone who’s spent years hopping between tiny city apartments, I know firsthand how tricky it can be to keep a bathroom both functional and beautiful. From figuring out where to stash extra toilet paper to creating room for towels and hot tools, I’ve tested—and fallen in love with—many clever solutions. In this post, I’ll share my favorite bathroom storage ideas for small spaces apartment living that not only save space but also look effortlessly chic.
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1. Go Vertical with Smart Shelving
If you’re tight on floor space, it’s time to look up. Vertical storage can transform a cramped bathroom into a well-organized oasis. Consider adding over toilet shelves or a sleek above toilet cabinet to store essentials like towels and toilet paper. Floating shelves that run up to the ceiling are another brilliant way to make use of unused wall space. I love styling these with small baskets for a clean and cohesive look—it feels like an instant upgrade without a major renovation.
2. Cabinets and Cupboards for a Hidden Touch
When it comes to small bathrooms, nothing beats the elegance of cabinets and cupboards for hiding clutter. Whether you add a compact corner cabinet or a freestanding unit, closed storage keeps everything looking organized. If you’re renting, a slim vertical cupboard can provide the perfect spot for cleaning supplies or spare towels without needing to drill into walls. Don’t overlook the power of drawers—small but deep drawers can hold more than you’d expect while keeping countertops clear.
3. Clever Under Sink Storage
The space under your sink is prime real estate. I learned this the hard way when I once balanced all my toiletries on a tiny pedestal sink in a half bath. Now, I rely on stackable drawers, sliding baskets, and pull-out trays to maximize that awkward area. Adding a hot tool organizer under the sink is a lifesaver for keeping hair dryers and curling irons safe and tangle-free. A simple tension rod can even hold spray bottles, turning wasted space into a mini storage hub.
4. DIY Baskets and Organizers
If you love a good weekend project, DIY storage is both budget-friendly and rewarding. I’ve spray-painted old wooden crates and woven my own rope baskets to match my bathroom’s interior. Baskets are perfect for holding toilet paper, small towels, or skincare products. Not only are they practical, but they also add a touch of warmth and texture to a small bathroom. Plus, you can swap them out easily when you want a fresh look.
5. Over Toilet Storage Hacks
Bathrooms with half baths and pedestal sinks often lack built-in cabinetry, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add storage. Installing a sleek shelving unit or cabinet above the toilet is one of my favorite tricks. You can display decorative accents like plants or candles while still keeping essentials within easy reach. I recently added a three-tier shelf over my toilet, and it instantly made my little apartment bathroom feel bigger and more organized.
My Favorite Amazon Finds for Tiny Bathroom Storage
Over the years, I’ve tested countless products to keep my bathrooms organized. Here are three Amazon gems that have truly transformed my space:
1. Simple Trending Over The Toilet Storage Rack
This sleek, metal shelving unit fits perfectly over most toilets and offers three tiers of storage. It’s ideal for holding towels, baskets, or even decorative plants. Assembly is simple, and the open design keeps the space feeling airy. Grab yours on Amazon and instantly add vertical storage without a major investment.
2. mDesign Plastic Bathroom Organizer Bins
These clear bins are perfect for under-sink organization. I use them to separate cleaning supplies, extra soap, and skincare products. The built-in handles make it easy to slide them out when I need something. Check them out on Amazon to create a clutter-free cabinet.
3. Polder Style Station Hair Tool Organizer
Say goodbye to tangled cords! This hot tool organizer keeps my hair dryer, straightener, and curling iron neat and ready to use. It’s heat-resistant and can sit on the counter or tuck inside a cabinet. Order it on Amazon for a safer, more organized bathroom routine.
6. Drawer Dividers for Tiny Bathrooms
Even the smallest drawers can hold a surprising amount when organized properly. I recommend acrylic dividers or adjustable trays to separate cosmetics, toothbrushes, and skincare essentials. These simple organizing hacks save time and keep everything in its place—no more frantic morning searches!
7. Hot Tool Organizer Solutions
If you use hair dryers or curling irons regularly, a dedicated hot tool organizer is a must. Wall-mounted racks or cabinet-door holders keep cords neat and prevent heat damage. I recently added a wall-mounted organizer behind my cabinet door, and it’s one of the best small upgrades I’ve ever made.
8. Simple Storage for Towels and Toilet Paper
Displaying towels doesn’t have to look messy. Consider a decorative ladder shelf or a slim rolling cart to keep towels accessible but stylish. For toilet paper, I love tall, narrow baskets or vertical racks that fit into tiny corners. These solutions are perfect for maintaining a clean look in a small interior bathroom.
9. Closet and Built-In Storage
If you’re lucky enough to have a bathroom closet, even a small one, maximize it with vertical shelves and pull-out drawers. Adding built-ins with adjustable shelving can turn a tiny interior closet into a powerhouse of organization. I recommend clear bins or labeled baskets for easy access to towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies.
10. Half Bath & Pedestal Sink Hacks
Bathrooms with pedestal sinks can be the trickiest to organize because they lack cabinets. Narrow rolling carts, hanging organizers, and floating shelves are lifesavers here. I once installed a floating shelf above my pedestal sink and added a basket beneath it for hand towels—it gave me both storage and a chic, layered look.
Final Thoughts
Organizing a small bathroom doesn’t mean sacrificing style. These bathroom storage ideas for small spaces apartment living prove that with a little creativity—and a few smart purchases—you can create a chic, clutter-free oasis. Whether you’re adding cabinets and cupboards, trying DIY baskets, or installing over toilet shelves, each solution helps maximize space while keeping your bathroom beautiful. Start with one or two of these ideas today and watch your tiny bathroom transform into a space that feels both functional and fabulous.