Clever Small Bathroom Storage Ideas and Top Recommendations

By the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

Living in the UK often means making the most of compact living spaces, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the bathroom. A small bathroom, cloakroom, or ensuite can quickly become cluttered with toiletries, towels and cleaning supplies, making it feel cramped and disorganised. The challenge is finding storage solutions that are both practical and stylish without overwhelming the room.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. We will look at key considerations when choosing furniture for a smaller space and highlight a few products that offer clever designs to maximise your storage potential.

How to Choose the Right Storage for Your Small Bathroom

Before you start adding items to your basket, a little planning can ensure you find the perfect fit. Focusing on a few key areas will help you select functional and proportionate pieces for your home.

1. Measure Your Space Accurately

This may seem obvious, but it is the most critical step. Measure the exact footprint you have available, paying close attention to the height, width and depth. This is especially important for finding effective under sink storage, as you need to account for plumbing. For particularly tight areas, look for narrow bathroom storage units specifically designed for slim profiles. Knowing your dimensions will prevent the disappointment of purchasing a small bathroom cabinet that doesn't quite fit.

2. Reclaim Unused Areas

Many small bathrooms have untapped storage potential. The space around a traditional basin is a prime example. A pedestal sink storage unit is designed with a U-shaped cut-out to wrap neatly around the base, instantly creating valuable cupboard space where there was none. Similarly, consider vertical space. Wall-mounted cabinets or a compact bathroom sink that frees up the floor underneath can make a room feel significantly larger and less cluttered.

3. Select Materials for Durability and Style

The materials used in your space saving bathroom furniture will impact both its longevity and the room's overall aesthetic. Ceramic sinks are classic, durable and easy to clean. For cabinets, materials like MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) are a popular choice as they are robust and often finished with moisture-resistant coatings, making them well-suited for the humid bathroom environment. The colour and finish can also influence the perception of space; lighter colours and reflective surfaces tend to make a room feel brighter and more open.

Our Small Bathroom Storage Picks

Here are a few recommendations that address common storage challenges in compact bathrooms.

DeerValley Ceramic Wall-Mounted Bathroom Sink, Small Bathroom Black

Why It Stands Out: This sink offers a bold alternative to traditional white ceramics. Its striking black finish and compact, wall-mounted design make it a functional centrepiece. By mounting directly to the wall, it frees up floor space entirely, which is a significant advantage in the smallest of rooms.

Pros:

• Space-Efficient Design: With dimensions of 40 cm x 33 cm, it is ideally suited for cloakrooms and tight ensuites.
• Premium Material: Crafted from high-quality ceramic with a smooth, stain-resistant glaze that simplifies cleaning.
• Modern Aesthetic: The deep black colour and elegant oval shape provide a contemporary and luxurious feel.
• Practical Shape: The basin's 14.5 cm depth is designed to help minimise water splashing during use.

Who is it for? This is a great option for anyone looking to make a modern style statement in a very small bathroom or powder room, where maximising floor space is the top priority.

Ochama Bathroom Storage Unit with Drawers, for Pedestal Basins

Why It Stands Out: This unit is a classic solution to one of the most common cloakroom storage solutions: what to do with the awkward space around a pedestal sink. Its U-shaped cut-out allows it to fit snugly around most standard pedestals, providing a combination of drawers and cupboard space.

Pros:

• Universal Fit: Designed to accommodate most pedestal and non-pedestal washbasins.
• Organised Storage: Features multiple drawers and an internal compartment with an adjustable shelf, allowing you to customise the space for tall bottles or smaller items.
• Stable Construction: Made from durable MDF and particleboard, it includes an anti-tip kit for added safety.
• Straightforward Assembly: Comes with clear instructions and labelled parts for a hassle-free setup.

Who is it for? This is ideal for those with a traditional pedestal sink who need a simple, effective way to add concealed storage for towels, toiletries and cleaning products without replacing their existing basin.

Ochama Under Sink Bathroom Cabinet, Matte White

Why It Stands Out: This cabinet offers a slightly different configuration, combining three drawers with a single-door cupboard. The clean, matte white finish provides a timeless look that can brighten a small space and blend with various décor styles. Like the previous model, it is designed to fit around a pedestal.

Pros:

• Versatile Storage: The mix of three drawers and a cupboard with an adjustable shelf provides flexible options for organising different-sized items.
• Classic Design: The matte white finish and simple lines create a clean, unobtrusive look.
• Durable Build: Constructed from MDF, it is designed for the bathroom environment and has a maximum static weight capacity of 36.2 kg.
• Safety Included: An anti-tip kit is supplied to secure the unit to the wall.

Who is it for? This unit is well-suited for individuals seeking a classic, functional pedestal sink storage unit that offers a good balance of drawer and cupboard space to keep their bathroom tidy.

Looking for More Options?

While these selections offer excellent solutions for common storage problems, every bathroom is unique. If you are looking for different styles, sizes or configurations, there are many other possibilities to consider.

Explore our full collection of bathroom cabinet and sink combinations to find the perfect fit for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Small Bathroom Storage

Q1: How can I add storage to a small bathroom without drilling? Freestanding units are an excellent choice. A pedestal sink storage unit simply stands on the floor and wraps around the basin's column. Other options include slimline ladder shelves, wheeled storage trolleys or over-the-toilet units that use vertical space without requiring wall mounting.

Q2: What is the best way to use the space under a pedestal sink? The most efficient method is a purpose-built under sink storage cabinet. These units are specifically designed with a cut-out at the back to accommodate the pedestal, transforming previously wasted space into a functional cupboard for hiding clutter and keeping essentials within reach.

Q3: Can a new sink really create more space? Yes, it can. Opting for a compact bathroom sink with smaller overall dimensions or a wall-mounted model that eliminates the need for a pedestal or vanity unit, can significantly free up floor space. This not only makes the room feel larger and more open but also creates new possibilities for adding narrow bathroom storage units or other freestanding furniture.