When it comes to bathroom shelf styling, it’s all about striking a balance between function and beauty. Trust me, I’ve been there—standing in front of a blank shelf above the toilet, thinking, “What do I even put here?” I’ve nailed down a few tricks that make any bathroom look like it’s been styled by a pro, even if you’re working with a tiny space. Let’s break it down into manageable steps so you can get that designer look without feeling overwhelmed.
What Do You Put on Shelves in a Bathroom?
First, think essentials. Start with the items you actually need to access regularly—extra toilet paper rolls, cotton swabs, or hand towels. But here’s the trick: put them in pretty containers. Swap the bulky plastic packaging for glass jars, woven baskets, or sleek ceramic canisters. I once found a set of matching jars at a thrift store for under $10, and they completely transformed my shelf from cluttered to classy.
Next, layer in decorative pieces. Small potted plants (real or faux) instantly add life and a pop of color. You can’t go wrong with a small stack of books—yes, books in the bathroom. Just choose ones with neutral or pastel spines to keep it cohesive. Finish it off with a candle or a subtle piece of art that matches your bathroom’s color scheme.
What to Put on an Open Bathroom Shelf
Open bathroom shelves are both a blessing and a curse. They look great, but they leave no room to hide messes! For an open shelf, keep it minimal and intentional. Stick to three main categories: useful items, greenery, and personal touches.
Useful items could be rolled-up hand towels or a soap dispenser. Greenery adds texture and freshness—I’m obsessed with eucalyptus in a small vase because it’s low-maintenance and smells divine. Personal touches could be framed quotes, family photos in water-resistant frames, or even a quirky decorative object.
Pro tip: Use the “rule of three.” Group items in odd numbers, like three jars or a vase paired with two books. It creates visual harmony without looking too staged.
How to Decorate a Shelf Above the Toilet
Ah, the infamous shelf above the toilet. This spot can be tricky, but it’s prime real estate for small bathroom decor. One of my favorite above-toilet decor hacks is layering framed art. Use one larger frame and a smaller one, overlapping them slightly for depth. Keep the art simple—abstract prints or calming nature scenes work best here.
For storage, add a narrow basket or a tray to hold extra toilet paper rolls or a pretty box of tissues. If you’ve got room, a trailing plant like pothos can add a soft, natural element. And don’t forget height! A tall candle or a slim vase helps break up the horizontal space.
Just a heads-up: if you don’t close the toilet seat, the area above it isn’t super sanitary. Avoid putting washcloths or anything you use to clean yourself there unless they’re in a closed container.
Decorative items are the way to go!
Bathroom Shelf Styling Ideas
Here are 8 Small Bathroom Shelf Decor Ideas to inspire you and help maximize style and functionality in your space:
1. Mini Potted Plants & Flowers
Small potted plants, like succulents or air plants, bring life to a bathroom without taking up much space. Use ceramic or glass pots that match your bathroom’s aesthetic.
Bonus points for faux plants if your bathroom lacks natural light—they look great and require zero upkeep!
2. Matching Jars or Boxes for Bathroom Essentials
Decant cotton balls, swabs, or bath salts into matching clear or frosted jars. This not only keeps things organized but also gives your bathroom a polished, spa-like vibe. Opt for jars with lids to keep everything dust-free.
3. Rolled Towels in a Basket
Roll up your hand towels or washcloths and place them in a small woven basket on your shelf. It’s a practical storage solution that adds texture to your decor. Choose a basket with a neutral tone to keep things cohesive and chic.
You can even do little baskets with bathroom products, such as some hand towels, extra toilet paper & bathroom spray. Practical stuff but get things that look nice (higher-end bathroom spray, for example).
4. Framed Art or Quotes
Add a small framed print or a motivational quote to your shelf. Stick to calming themes like nature scenes, abstract designs, or soothing colors to create a relaxing atmosphere. For a fun touch, use a mini clipboard as a frame—it’s easy to swap out prints!
5. Candle and Matches Duo
A candle is a no-brainer for ambiance, but take it a step further by pairing it with a chic container of matches or a stylish lighter. Look for candles in neutral tones or with subtle patterns that complement your bathroom’s design.
6. Small Tray or Dish for Everyday Items
Use a decorative tray or dish to corral smaller items like rings, earrings, or a mini bottle of hand lotion. A marble or wooden tray instantly elevates the look while keeping things organized. It’s practical and prevents clutter from taking over your shelf.
7. Stacked Books with a Decorative Touch
Yes, even in a small bathroom, books can be part of the decor! Stack one or two small books with beautiful covers and top them with a decorative object, like a small figurine or a ceramic bowl. This adds layers and visual interest without overwhelming the space.
8. Bathroom Shelf Styling Tip: A Hanging Element
If your shelf is open or slightly higher up, add something hanging—like a trailing pothos plant or a small macramé piece. This creates movement and softens the look of rigid shelves. Opt for lightweight decor to avoid making the area feel heavy or cluttered.
These ideas combine function and style to help you make the most of every inch of your small bathroom shelves. With these tips, even the tiniest spaces can feel thoughtfully curated and designer-worthy!
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