25 Bathroom Shelf Ideas To Improve Storage And Style

@jenniferbeekhunter

Whether you're building a new bathroom or renovating an existing one, you might be considering your bathroom storage. Bathroom cabinets are tempting but look out of place in certain spaces, which is where shelves save the day. Shelves do double-duty as both storage and decoration, holding your bath towels, toiletries, and more without compromising your bathroom's charm. Shelves come in all shapes and sizes — built-in, free-standing, floating, and even moveable. Plus, they're easy to work into your space, whether you have open space above the toilet, under the mirror, next to the sink — you name it! With all these options, you're sure to find shelving that suits your bathroom's style and space needs. Read on for the most useful and beautiful shelving ideas.

@interiors71

These shelves do double duty as decor and shower storage. A bit of rustic wood really pops against white tiles and walls.

@jenniferbeekhunter

Corner shelves make great washcloth stands and plant holders. Plus, they don't contribute to clutter — even in tiny bathrooms.

Alison Gootee; Courtesy of Nomita Joshi Interior Design

Not all mirrors are created equal. Bathroom mirrors with attached shelves work particularly well for lotion, tissues, and other amenities you'll want handy for guests.

Brian Woodcock; Styling by Natalie Warady

Stand-alone shelves can be super storers. To avoid the appearance of clutter, store towels and other items that match the bathroom's decorative palette, then add small pieces of complimentary decor (pro tip: you can rarely go wrong with plants).

Linny Morris; Styling by Sunday Hendrickson

Shelves made of less common materials, such as bamboo or wicker, can add a lot of character to a space without much effort. In conjunction with the shelf material, different plants can also set different styles — the fern above indicates Bohemian while a vase of flowers could suggest farmhouse.

Moving shelves make the most of any corner in any bathroom — no installation required. Don't worry about accidents - most have locking wheels to avoid slips.

Sinan Tuncay; Courtesy of Arditi Design

A simple metal shelf matches almost any space but looks especially chic paired with a silver faucet. Plus, it won't break the bank.

@carlaelliman

This out-of-the-ordinary shelf adds character and looks chic in almost any space. Add some potted plants to create a Bohemian feel.

Helen McLean/ @mamofboys

Built-in wall shelves are space-saving superheroes that look great even in simple bathrooms. To keep them from looking utilitarian, add some framed photos or decorative items.

Robbie Caponetto and Charles Walton IV; Styling by Buffy Hargett

Though not a traditional shelf, some vanities have lower levels perfect for storage containers, towels, and more. If you're willing and able to swap out an existing vanity, this is an excellent space-saving option.

@wheretwoaregathered

Who said decor can't be useful? Mix and match amenities with decorations to make the most of a wall shelf.

Helen Norman

This rustic bathroom repurposes a ladder as a shelf—and it looks amazing. Not too shabby!

@mycityapartment

At some point, we've all run out of toilet paper and realized the replacement is out of arm's reach. With a layered standalone shelf, all your necessities fit in even the smallest corner.

@margogardnerdesign

There's no shame in a classic wooden shelf. We love a shelf with a pull-out drawer to store all the knickknacks you don't want to display.

Hector Sanchez

These built-in cabinets have all the storage you could ask for while looking super classy. We love the black-and-white color scheme mixed with brass for extra glam.

This built-in bath/shower combo doubles up as shelving. It also maintains the bathroom's modernity.

The vintage character of this uncommon shelving option is likely to impress guests. Add framed photos from the era to enhance the feel.

In this simple set-up, a repurposed drying rack suits all sorts of tiny items. Use it to store your hand towels, wash cloths, or small toiletries.

Markus Wilborn MW Concepts; Design by Susan Sutter Interiors

Cut-out wall shelves are super classy, especially in the shower. Designer Susan Sutter chose a dark tile for the cut-outs, allowing them to pop against the shower tile.

Don't discount the power of a built-in vanity with open shelving. This option is ideal for more modern bathrooms.

@farmhousefourwinds

If you have very specific storage needs, it's worth considering a specialized shelf like this towel rack. This bathroom paired the rack with a more traditional shelf for decor.

Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling by Buffy Hargett Miller

It might look like there's no shelving in this bathroom, but the vanity is hiding a hidden shelf underneath. Use this clever concealed storage spot to hold extra towels and linens.

In a small bathroom or power room, the toilet can come in serious handy. Use the top to store little things like toiletries, or use it to add to the ambiance of the space with a small vase of flowers or a candle.

Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Buffy Hargett Miller

While a bench isn't technically a shelf, it can be used to house things like extra towels if you're short on space and want to blend style with function. This one fits perfectly into a window alcove, making it useful without taking up precious floor space.

Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling by Barbara Schmidt

Give yourself all the space with a giant cabinet that blends drawers with cabinets and shelving. This can be either built-in or freestanding, and you can take it all the way up to the ceiling if you lack square footage but need the extra storage.