Smart Space-Saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

From: Martha Stewart

When it comes to organizing the bathroom, there is one absolutely vital rule: Find a rightful place for everything. Of course, looks are just as important, especially in the most utilitarian of spaces. Here are some tips for organizing three types of bathrooms -- one for a family, another for a couple, and a third for houseguests -- to serve both form and function.

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Bathroom Talk

When it comes to organizing the bathroom, there is one absolutely vital rule: Find a rightful place for everything. Of course, looks are just as important, especially in the most utilitarian of spaces. Here are some tips for organizing three types of bathrooms -- one for a family, another for a couple, and a third for houseguests -- to serve both form and function.

Family Business

As you might expect of a bathroom shared by the whole family, this one can get chaotic, especially during the morning rush. If disorganized, the family bathroom can feel more cramped and cluttered than it really is.
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Compartmentalize

If you can, choose cabinets that allow separate spaces for each person who uses the bathroom. Shelves and a lazy Susan help to keep necessities separate but easily accessible.

Make Use of Magnets

Sometimes, you have to think behind the box. A medicine cabinet becomes more efficient if you affix a sheet of precut galvanized steel to its interior with construction adhesive. Magnetic hooks can hold scissors and a mirror, and small plastic cups corral small necessities, such as rubber bands and hair clips.

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Think Vertically

Put underutilized walls and doors to task! Use this hotel-style multitiered towel rack for an upgrade on the single, inefficient towel hook.

His and Hers

Sharing is important in any relationship, but not when it comes to the bathroom. Case in point: the sharp-elbowed nudges caused by an unorganized vanity. The solution is to divvy up surfaces and compartments.

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Divide and Prosper

Bathroom drawers are second only to junk drawers in their messiness. Wooden boxes and trays in various sizes help categorize items.

Let It Slide

Fit central cabinets with roll-out trays, like ones you'd see in a kitchen cabinet.
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Keep to Yourself

Side cabinets, like the vanity's countertops, should be divided as well. Keep his shaving stuff in a portable basket and store towels (and maybe some of her stuff) on the spare shelves in his cabinet.

Guest Services

If you regularly have visitors, keeping an organized guest bathroom is an easy way to make sure a guest feels welcome and at home.
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Bulk Up on Supplies

Guest bathrooms require frequent cleaning, so keep a plastic bin of necessary cleaning supplies in the largest cabinet. It's also good to stash a season's worth of toilet paper so that the guest doesn't have the awkward task of asking for more.

Hide It in Plain Sight

Because guests will be unfamiliar with the bathroom, it is best to leave important items -- like a hair dryer -- out in the open where they can see them. Place items on a mounted wall shelf or even a well-organized bathroom cart.
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Stack It Up

Houseguests almost always forget something. Show your affection by providing a three-tier basket containing those easily forgettable items for your guests -- toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant. It'll be both elegant and welcoming.

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