How to Maximize Bathroom Storage Space

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Why is it that this is the one room in the house, where we could really use loads of storage and we have the least amount?

Usually the most that we have is whatever is in the base of the cabinet and the medicine cabinet. It is hard to have that extra storage space for extra's during the cold season and extra toothpaste for guests. If you have kids and need extra towels, the small amount of room that is in the linen cabinet barely holds the washcloths. I am a firm believer that whoever drew the plans for bathroom storage space, never had to clean and stock a bathroom for a large family.

So what little tips and hints can I give you to be able to double your space? Well, before we think about that, we have to take a good look at just how much space you really have? So, we need to go through those cabinets and eliminate the clutter first.

1. Take everything out of a cabinet, if this seems overwhelming, just empty one shelf at a time.
2. Now, put all 'like' things together, you know, medicine, things for your nails, make-up, lotions etc.
3. While you are categorizing items, throw out anything that is outdated or only has a small amount in. You can also make a list of things that you need to add or replace, so that you can leave ample room to store it after you purchase it.
4. Now leave these things out and empty another shelf or cabinet until you get everything in the cabinets; organized and visible.

Storage Ideas

Now that you have a good view of everything that you have to store and what you have to purchase and or 'like' items are together, you can decide in what type and size storage container that you want to use.

You may want to use zip lock or cosmetic bags, Rubbermaid or plastic boxes, or just boxes decorated with Contac paper; the choice is up to you. Also, now is a great time to decide what 'out of the box' ways that you can store items.

What do I mean by 'out of the box'?

Just to give you a small clue, how about a basket on the counter or shelf that has toothpaste, lotion, perfume, after-shave etc. Things that are used everyday and that, usually end up staying on the countertop and are scattered from one end to the other. This way you can keep it handy, but it has a place that keeps it under control.

What about having a holder on the wall for the hairdryer, curling iron and heat comb?

What about having a shelf above an outlet to keep the shaver and accessories on? All of these are handy, easy to reach, off of the countertop and can double as décor if done correctly. Add these shelves and then hang some older antique or collectible items above it, and it will blend in nicely.

What about hanging ribbon on the inside of the towel cabinet and use this to attach all of your hair accessories too? This way they are handy, out of the way, easily accessible, and you have an all-over view of everything you own!

Where to store it

Now comes the fun part, putting it all back in easy to reach places. This is where a little concentration comes in. What things do you use on a daily basis? Those are the things that will be stored to the front of the shelves. What items do you use seasonally? Those are the items that will be stored in the back of the shelves (and usually the bottom shelf).

This is how I store my items:

Top Shelf: Back

Things that I use occasionally but I want to keep them handy such as extra hand soap, hair spray, toothpaste etc.

Top Shelf Front;

Make-up, hair accessories and nail items

Bottom shelf-Back

Seasonal Items

Bottom Shelf Front:

Extra Toilet paper, Kleenex and air freshener

Now, of course, this will change for everyone depending upon the amount of storage are and shelf space that you have. I am giving you ideas for a bathroom with the barest minimum of space.

Add Space

You may also add space to your bathroom by adding shelving, a storage cabinet over the toilet area or another wall, adding a over the door towel rack, and don't forget to use the space on the inside of the cabinet doors, you may be able to add shelf space or hang items here.

Jan Hayner is a Professional Organizer that offers tips and hints on organizing and cleaning to help you take the stress out of life. Get other shortcuts at Easy Home Organizing.