Maximizing a Small Bathroom
BATHROOM
"Maximizing a small bathroom is all about smart storage, light colors, and space-saving designs."
Maximizing a Small Bathroom: DIY Projects, Storage Solutions & Design Tricks
A small bathroom can feel cramped and cluttered—unless you know how to maximize every inch. With the right DIY projects, storage solutions, and decorating tricks, you can transform even the tiniest space into a stylish and functional oasis. Whether you're looking for a full refresh or just a few easy upgrades, this guide will help you create a bathroom that looks and feels bigger.
DIY Projects to Maximize a Small Bathroom
1. Install Floating Shelves
Why it works: Floating shelves take advantage of unused vertical space without adding bulk.
How to do it:
Choose wood, glass, or metal shelves that match your bathroom’s style.
Install them above the toilet, beside the mirror, or in an empty corner.
Use them to store towels, toiletries, or decorative accents.
Estimated Cost: $30–$100
2. Replace Your Vanity with a Pedestal Sink or Floating Vanity
Why it works: A bulky vanity can make a small bathroom feel even tighter.
How to do it:
Swap it for a pedestal sink to open up floor space.
Install a floating vanity for a modern look while keeping storage underneath.
Add baskets or rolling carts for additional storage if needed.
Estimated Cost: $100–$500 (depending on sink style and installation)
3. Add a Large Mirror or Medicine Cabinet
Why it works: Mirrors reflect light, making the space feel bigger and brighter.
How to do it:
Install a large, frameless mirror above the sink.
Upgrade to a mirrored medicine cabinet for extra hidden storage.
Consider placing mirrors on opposite walls to create the illusion of depth.
Estimated Cost: $50–$250
Storage Tips for Small Bathrooms
1. Use Over-the-Door & Wall-Mounted Storage
Over-the-door racks can hold towels, hair tools, or cleaning supplies.
Wall-mounted baskets or magnetic strips keep small items off the counter.
Tension rods inside cabinets can hold spray bottles or create extra shelf space.
Estimated Cost: $20–$75
2. Optimize Under-Sink Storage
Use stackable bins or pull-out drawers to organize toiletries.
Store everyday essentials in clear containers for easy access.
Hang hooks inside cabinet doors for extra storage.
Estimated Cost: $15–$50
3. Utilize Corners & Unused Spaces
Install a corner shelf or cabinet for extra storage.
Use a narrow rolling cart to fit between the toilet and vanity.
Hang shower caddies or adhesive hooks to store shower essentials.
Estimated Cost: $25–$100
Decorating Tricks to Make a Small Bathroom Feel Larger
1. Choose Light Colors & Reflective Surfaces
Use white, soft grays, or pastels to brighten the space.
Glossy or satin finishes reflect light better than matte paints.
Glass shower doors instead of curtains open up the room.
Estimated Cost: $50–$150 (paint & supplies)
2. Install Proper Lighting
Upgrade to wall sconces or LED vanity lights to avoid harsh shadows.
Add recessed lighting in the ceiling for an even glow.
Consider motion-activated lights for convenience and energy savings.
Estimated Cost: $50–$200
3. Use Vertical Patterns & Minimalist Decor
Vertical shiplap or tile designs make ceilings look higher.
Keep decor minimal—too many items can make the room feel cluttered.
Stick to one or two statement pieces like framed art or a stylish mirror.
Estimated Cost: $30–$150
Final Thoughts
Maximizing a small bathroom is all about smart storage, light colors, and space-saving designs. Whether you tackle DIY projects like floating shelves and mirror upgrades or invest in lighting and decor changes, these budget-friendly ideas can make your bathroom feel bigger and more functional.
Which of these upgrades are you planning to try? Let us know in the comments!