10 Creative Storage Ideas for Small Bathrooms

Smart storage hacks to make the most of every inch in your Grand Rapids bathroom!

If you live in Grand Rapids, chances are you’ve come across at least one bathroom that feels… a little too cozy. Whether it's a charming older home near Heritage Hill or a modern condo downtown, small bathrooms are pretty common around here.

But don’t worry—limited space doesn’t mean you’re stuck with cluttered counters and overstuffed cabinets. With a little creativity (and some strategic planning), you can transform your small bathroom into a space that works smarter and looks great doing it.

Here are 10 practical and creative storage ideas to help you get the most out of your bathroom—without sacrificing style or function.

1. Take Advantage of the Wall Above the Toilet

That wall space above your toilet? It’s prime real estate. Installing a set of open shelves or a sleek cabinet can give you a ton of extra storage without taking up an inch of floor space. It’s especially useful in Grand Rapids homes where bathrooms weren’t exactly built with modern storage needs in mind.

Pro tip: Use those shelves for rolled towels, pretty jars of cotton balls, or a small plant to keep it functional and stylish.

2. Add Floating Shelves Where You Can

Floating shelves are a great way to sneak in extra storage without making the space feel cramped. Mount them above your sink, next to your mirror, or even above the doorframe. They’re perfect for storing things like skincare products, spare hand towels, or decorative accents that make your bathroom feel a little more "you."

3. Built-In Niches: A Remodeler's Best Friend

Planning a renovation? Ask your contractor about adding built-in niches. These recessed shelves (usually installed in shower walls or above vanities) are sleek, space-saving, and completely customizable. Plus, they’re super practical—no more balancing your shampoo bottles on the edge of the tub.

They’re a smart upgrade if you're already working with someone on a bathroom remodel in your Grand Rapids home.

4. Baskets + Bins = Low Effort, Big Impact

Never underestimate the power of a good basket. Whether woven, wire, or fabric, baskets and bins are perfect for tucking away clutter while still keeping everything within reach. Pop them under the sink, on shelving, or even on the toilet tank lid for an instant organization upgrade.

Want to take it up a notch? Label them for things like "guest towels," "hair tools," or "extras."

5. Choose a Vanity With Drawers (Not Just Doors)

If your current bathroom vanity is one of those that makes you dig through the dark abyss of a single cabinet… it's time for an upgrade. Vanities with drawers let you organize things better and access what you need faster. No more forgotten products hiding in the back.

This is an especially smart swap in homes where bathroom space is tight—and with Grand Rapids' ever-changing humidity, go for materials that can stand up to moisture long-term.

6. Make the Most of Hooks and Racks

Got a bare wall or the back of a door that’s not doing anything? Put it to work. Hooks and racks are incredibly useful in small bathrooms—perfect for towels, robes, or even hanging baskets for toiletries.

They’re easy to install, super affordable, and instantly make your space feel more organized (and less like a towel is always on the floor).

7. Don’t Forget the Corners

Corners often go unused in bathrooms—but they don’t have to. A simple corner shelf or corner caddy can give you a surprising amount of extra storage without crowding the space. Great for holding small items or adding a decorative element, especially in bathrooms with quirky layouts (which, let’s face it, Grand Rapids homes have plenty of).

8. Get Clever With Magnetic Strips and Pegboards

Here’s a fun, low-cost storage hack: Install a magnetic strip inside a cabinet door or along a wall to hold metal tools like tweezers, nail clippers, or scissors. Or go a step further and hang a pegboard for baskets, mini shelves, and hooks.

It’s functional and gives you a cool, DIY vibe—perfect if you’re looking to personalize your space.

9. Try a Towel Ladder

No drilling required, and full of style—towel ladders are one of our favorite space-saving finds. They lean gently against the wall and offer multiple rungs for towels, robes, or even storage baskets.

They’re renter-friendly, visually interesting, and just the kind of stylish detail that makes a small bathroom feel more intentional.

10. Multi-Functional Furniture for the Win

Look for pieces that do double-duty: storage stools, medicine cabinets with mirrors, or benches with hidden compartments. These clever furniture finds help reduce visual clutter while still giving you space to stash all the necessities.

It’s a great way to keep your bathroom looking clean and minimal—even if it’s pulling triple duty behind the scenes.

Your Small Bathroom Can Do Big Things

Small bathrooms are a fact of life for many Grand Rapids homeowners, but with the right storage solutions, you don’t have to feel limited. Whether you're organizing on a budget or planning a full remodel, these ideas can help you reclaim space, reduce clutter, and bring more calm into your daily routine.

If you're ready to go beyond baskets and shelves and transform your small bathroom into something truly functional and beautiful, Grand Rapids Remodeling Pros is here to help. Our team specializes in custom bathroom remodels that make the most of your space—no matter how small.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start designing a bathroom that works better for your lifestyle (and looks amazing while doing it).