14 Genius Storage Hacks to Add Space to the Smallest of Bathrooms

Unless you're in a very exclusive tax bracket, bathrooms typically are the smallest rooms in the house. Despite the traffic these rooms get on a daily basis — and the amount of stuff we keep in them — bathrooms are rarely overflowing with space and, more importantly, storage. 

And let's be honest here, people: We can only shove so many lotions, potions, and shampoos under the sink. 

But what's a beauty addict to do? The answer, of course, is clever storage hacks.

From easy DIY wall racks to a new use for step ladders, here are 14 creative — and super pretty — solutions to lack of bathroom storage. Your (tiny) vanity will thank you. 

Image via Amber Interior Design

Put a Basket in It

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myfabulesslife.com

Baskets are the saviors for the storage-challenged — and that goes double for bathrooms. If you're in need of space for extra clean towels or, um, reading material, a basket on the back of the toilet can do wonders.

Go High -- Way High -- With Shelves

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hometalk.com

The standard number of above-toilet shelves is two. And that's great if you have other spots to store toilet paper, Q-tips, and other bathroom accoutrements.

If you're in need of more storage, add another shelf or two, depending on the height of your ceiling. It might look weird at first, but you'll get used to it — and the extra space.

Install a Barn Door

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unskinnyboppy.com

If you're in the camp of people whose bathrooms shrink a quarter of a size every time the door is open, try installing — or DIYing — a barn door. Not only does it look chic, but it also takes up much less room. 

More from CafeMom: 15 Millionaire Bathrooms We Only Wish We Could Pee In

Use a Wall Rack

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ichdesigner.com

Bits and bobs don't need to be stored in drawers only. Find or DIY a wall rack (behind-the-door or otherwise) and hook on all of your toiletries.

Expedit It

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diycraftsa.com

Few people have gone through life without owning Ikea Expedit shelves, but how many people have used them in their bathroom? The tall, skinny design is perfect for small bathrooms with little space.

DIY a Closet

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shanty-2-chic.com

If open shelves aren't your thing (but storage is), try DIYing your very own bathroom closet

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Hang Baskets

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ourfifthhouse.com

A cute alternative to opening shelving is hanging baskets. Clever!

DIY an Antique Window Cabinet

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lizmarieblog.com

How pretty is this antique window cabinet?! Perfect for a bathroom, and it's really not that hard to make.

Put a Mason Jar in It

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masonjarcraftslove.com

Is there anything Mason jars can't do?! These painted, distressed jars would be great for holding cotton balls, Q-tips, and even toothbrushes.  

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Go With a Stool

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kellyelko.com

Stools and step ladders might not be able to store much, but they look cute and often fit into awkward, too-big-for-cabinet spots.

Repurpose an Old Dresser

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daisypies/Tumblr

What to do with an old dresser that you're not going to use in your room? Paint it and put it in the bathroom!

DIY a Magnetic Makeup Board

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laurathoughts81.blogspot.com

Makeup-lovers with small bathrooms, this could be your saving grace: A magnetic makeup board!

More from CafeMom: 11 Small-Space Hacks to Steal from Ikea's 2017 Catalog

Use a Ladder as a Towel Rack

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funkyjunkinteriors.com

An old ladder can be the perfect (skinny) solution to a towel rack.

DIY a Picture Ledge into a Nail Polish Rack

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blog.zygomatics.com

Picture ledges — especially of the Ikea variety — are key for storing nail polishes or other small beauty products. It's like your very own nail salon!