This post has 13 toilet with a shelf ideas to elevate the add style and functionality of your small toilet room.
It’s one of the smallest but most used spaces in the home, yet the area above the toilet is often overlooked. Whether you’re working with a tiny powder room or a narrow water closet, adding the right shelving can transform it from an afterthought into a stylish and functional feature.
When space is limited, the right over-the-toilet shelving helps keep essentials organized while elevating the overall design. Whether you’re planning a small bathroom remodel or just looking for quick storage upgrades, choosing the right shelf can make all the difference.
From floating shelves above the toilet to built-in storage solutions, we’ve rounded up the best ideas to help you maximize space while keeping your bathroom stylish and clutter-free. Let’s dive into the best shelving ideas for small toilet rooms and how to style them effortlessly!
13 Best Shelves Above the Toilet for Small Toilet Rooms
1. Modern toilet shelves
Bring texture into a modern toilet room with rattan shelving above the toilet. Not only does shelving with doors help hide toilet paper, cleaner or any other clutter. They can easily add a bit more interest into a room that is generally limited in decor options.
2. Match decor to toilet room hardware
A hanging toilet is a great minimalist option for a small water closet or bathroom. The ledge that is created about the toilet during installation is a great shelving option. Style it with a splash of greenery and a basket for toilet paper. For a cohesive look choose accessories for the shelf in the same color as the hardware.
3. Frame the window above the toilet with shelves
Embrace the light a window gives, even in a toilet room. By installing built-in shelves around the window, you not only get great storage in a small bathroom but to make the window a design feature of its own.
4. Floating shelf above the toilet
A floating shelf about the toilet gives you the perfect space to place decorative items like plants, candles or artwork. Adding style and personality to a room that can using be lacking in style. Enhancing the overall appeal of your home.
5. Metallic shelves and wall decor
Bring a sleek and contemporary flair to a small toilet room with floating shelves that match the tone of other decor in the room.
Like this space that uses metallic floating shelves around the toilet that match the wall decor. The contrast between the dark accent wall look high end while still having personality.
These over the toilet shelves are not only stylish but also a sneaky stop to store essential like air freshener or incense sticks.
6. Affordable shelves in a small water closet
Simple shelving in a small toilet room compared to cabinets are more affordable and are easier to install. They offer great storage and charm to the toilet.
7. Space-saving shelves for toilet rooms
In a small bathroom remodel, adding shelving above the toilet is a smart way to maximize storage. Especially in a narrow water closet with an unusual layout.
During a remodel, the space above a wall-mounted toilet can be transformed with built-in shelves, seamlessly blending into the design. Using the same material as the wall creates a streamlined, minimalist look, offering plenty of storage without making the space feel cluttered.
For more inspiration on transforming compact spaces, check out Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas: Tiny Space, Maximum Style.
8. Streamlined storage above toilet
For a streamlined storage solution, consider adding a cupboard above the toilet. This provides hidden storage while maintaining a clean, minimalist look that seamlessly blends into the space. By keeping the floor clear and eliminating visual clutter, the room feels more open and modern.
Enhance the aesthetic with bold wallpaper or statement tiles to add personality and style.
9. Farmhouse toilet with a shelf
Extended the farmhouse aesthetic into the toilet with a raw wood shelf to hold soaps and hand towels. Give the shelf a rustic cottage feel with vintage inspired art, flour sack towels and amber glass.
10. Boho designed toilet room
Give the space above your toilet a boho flair by adding floating shelves styled with plants and woven storage boxes. Using neutral tones creates a soft, organic feel, perfect for a small toilet room.
Woven baskets are a stylish way to store toilet paper and bathroom essentials, while greenery adds a refreshing touch of nature.
11. How to style a shelf above a toilet in a powder room
Style a shelf above the toilet with decor that complements the room’s aesthetic for a cohesive, polished look. Carry the same color tones from the space into your decor pieces to create a seamless design. A touch of greenery, a fresh, natural element that works with any style.
12. Eclectic toilet with bold shelf decor
If you enjoy reading while on the toilet, consider adding a shelf above the toilet to hold your books. To add a touch of intrigue to an eclectic toilet room, opt for a shelf that blends seamlessly into the wall by matching the wall’s pattern. This creates the illusion of books, decor, or storage items floating above the toilet.
13. Best renter friendly shelf ideas for small toilet rooms
A renter-friendly way to add storage above the toilet is with a free-standing shelf. It offers all the benefits of extra storage and decor without the need for drilling or installation. Available in a variety of styles, these shelves can be easily customized to match your space, making them a practical and stylish solution for any small toilet room.
How to Choose the Right Shelf for Your Toilet Room
Whether you’re adding storage to looking to decorate you toilet room. Choosing the right shelf for both your walls and aesthetic is very important.
The shelf above the toilet should be both functional and stylish, fitting seamlessly into your small toilet room while providing extra storage.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing the right shelf for your toilet room:
- Choose Durable Materials
- Stainless steel holds up well in humid environments, while teak or mahogany offer a water-resistant, natural look.
- Match Your Aesthetic
- A cherry wood shelf adds warmth to a modern space, while floating shelves create a sleek, open feel.
- Maximize Functionality
- Over-the-toilet shelving adds storage without installation, and shelves with built-in towel bars offer extra convenience.
- Get the Right Size
- A 14-inch deep shelf prevents clutter, and placing it 24-36 inches above the toilet tank keeps it accessible.
- Ensure Stability
- Proper wall anchors or toggle bolts keep shelves secure, especially on drywall.
- Keep It Low-Maintenance
- Choosing easy-to-clean materials keeps your space looking fresh with minimal effort.
Best Styling Tips for Shelves Above the Toilet
A toilet with a shelf isn’t just about storage—it’s a chance to add personality and style to your small toilet room while keeping it both practical and beautifully curated.
Here are some styling tips for your shelf about the toilet:
- Follow the Rule of Threes
- Grouping items in sets of three (or other odd numbers) creates a balanced, visually appealing look. Try combining a small plant, a decorative object, and a candle for effortless styling.
- Layer for Depth
- Avoid a flat, one-dimensional look by placing items in front of each other. A framed print behind a small vase or a stack of books topped with a decorative piece makes the shelf feel curated.
- Incorporate Greenery
- A touch of nature—real or faux—instantly warms up the space. Small potted plants or trailing greenery in a floating shelf above the toilet can make the room feel fresh and inviting.
- Use Stylish Storage
- Turn functional items into decor by storing essentials in woven baskets, decorative canisters, or modern vases. This keeps things like toilet paper and cotton balls easily accessible while maintaining a tidy, chic look.
- Match Your Aesthetic
- Keep your shelving above the toilet cohesive with the rest of the room. If your powder room has a boho, modern, or vintage vibe, choose shelves and decor that complement the existing fixtures and color scheme.
- Add Personal Touches
- Framed artwork, a small decorative sign, or even a scented candle can make the space feel inviting and uniquely yours.
Maximize Style and Storage with the Perfect Over-the-Toilet Shelf
A well-styled shelf above the toilet can transform even the smallest toilet room into a functional, beautiful space. Whether you opt for floating shelves, built-in storage, or a renter-friendly shelving unit, the right choice enhances both style and organization.
Which toilet with a shelf idea is your favorite? Have you discovered a creative way to style bathroom shelves in your own space? Share your ideas in the comments! And if this post helped you, don’t forget to share it with others looking for small bathroom remodel inspiration.