For a long time, I have been struggling with towel clutter in my bathroom. I was always juggling where to place my towels and how to keep them neatly organized.
Whether it was a pile on the shelf or towels hanging loosely on hooks, I just couldn’t find a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution that fit my bathroom’s design.
That was when I decided it was time to take matters into my own hands and create a DIY towel storage solution that would not only work for my space but also reflect my personal style. Here’s how I went from a chaotic bathroom to a beautifully organized space, one towel at a time.
Why DIY Towel Storage Is the Right Solution?
I had come to understand that the towel space wasn’t the real issue; it was the poor storage solutions, lack of functionality, and, honestly, my need for something that was personalized to my style.
I had tried a few store-bought options, like those over-the-door racks and basic shelving units, but nothing ever felt quite right. They were either too big for my small space or did not match the decor I had envisioned.
I required something that would make my bathroom appear open and airy but also provide efficient storage.
It was clear that DIY towel storage was the way to go—not only would I get a chance to customize it according to my needs, but I could easily create a functional as well as visually appealing feature in the bathroom.
Step-by-Step Process to Make DIY Towel Storage
Step 1: Determine My Needs and Measure the Space
Before I started building, I had to determine exactly what I wanted. I knew I needed space for multiple towels, both stacked and hung, without cramming everything into one small cabinet.
My bathroom is on the smaller side, so it was crucial to maximize the vertical space. I also wanted it to blend with my light, minimalistic bathroom decor while being functional.
I didn’t want anything that would make the room feel cluttered. Next to the shower was the available wall space, where I measured my DIY towel storage.
I also kept in mind that the design had to be compact but able to provide adequate space for holding different types of towels and providing hooks for hand towels or a bathrobe for hanging.
Pro tip: If you have a small bathroom like mine, measure not only the wall space but also how far your door or shower can open without obstructing the storage unit. This way, you avoid cramping your space.
Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools
Because I wanted my DIY towel storage to feel individualized and blend with what I already have in my bathroom, I felt natural wood as the primary material was a great choice: warm, versatile, and adds a little rustic charm. Here is what I used:
- Wooden planks (2x4s) for the shelves—I went with these for durability, and I loved the idea of the natural wood grain showing through.
- Metal hooks for hanging extra towels or robes underneath the shelves.
- Screws, nails, and wood glue—all the essentials for securing everything in place.
- Paint and wood sealer—I went for a whitewashed finish for a clean, bright look that complemented the bathroom’s color scheme.
- Drill, screwdriver, level, and measuring tape—tools that made the whole process easier, especially ensuring everything was level.
Step 3: Building the Storage Unit
This is where the fun started! I started by cutting up the wooden planks to whatever length was necessary for the shelves.
The upper shelf needed to be tall enough to accommodate larger bath towels, while the lower ones were suitable for smaller hand towels and face cloths.
I was thinking the shelves should not look too huge as my bathroom is pretty tiny. So I made the shelves pretty minimalist and deep enough for the towels but not so wide that they just fall over there.
Once these pieces were all cut, then I drilled all the shelves into the back panel. I used wood glue just to double-check that they would stay good and tight in the long term.
Then I added the metal hooks underneath the shelf for extra towels, robes, or even washcloths. Having the hooks under every shelf was one of those ideas that I didn’t realize till later would add a lot to my DIY towel storage.
But they also kept me from having to use extra space on either side of the unit.
Step 4: Painting and Finishing Touches
I painted the shelves with a soft, neutral color that complemented my bathroom’s aesthetic. I chose white with a hint of gray for a washed-out look—this would keep the unit from feeling too heavy in a small space.
Once the paint dried, I sealed the wood to protect it from the humidity of the bathroom. This extra step helps preserve the wood and ensures the finish doesn’t deteriorate over time due to moisture.
Personal tip: Don’t rush this step—let the paint dry completely before moving on to avoid any smudges or uneven coloring. Trust me, it’s worth the wait for a smooth finish.
Step 5: Mounting the Storage Unit
This is the moment I have been waiting for. I measured carefully to ensure that the DIY towel storage was mounted at just the right height—this isn’t too close to the bottom shelf, which makes it a little too close to the floor, but low enough to be easily reached.
I used a level to check all was in order before screwing the unit into the wall. I made sure to sink screws into the studs (not merely drywall) for added stability.
It felt so great watching the unit really come together. The floating shelves gave it such an open and airy feel, with the hooks down below keeping everything within easy access without the cramped feeling of storage.
Step 6: Installation of Additional Storage for Bathroom Supplements
This gave me the chance to add more storage for other bathroom essentials such as toiletries, cleaning supplies, or even some decorative items. I placed a small, shallow basket underneath the bottom shelf where I would be able to put extra bottles of shampoo, soap, and lotions.
This added the unit with extra practicality, and I found my bathroom became more organized as well. To keep everything tidy, I decided to use a woven basket with a natural wood finish to blend in with the shelves.
Besides keeping things in order, this basket was also part of what made the area look great overall. Now I had a multirecipes DIY towel storage solution that also included additional space for small objects, which gave me a full utilization of available space.
Pro tip: Try including some minor storage on the shelf using small baskets, jars, or trays in order to keep on your shelves those smaller essentials, like cotton balls and facial tissues, which makes a difference in keeping space neat, besides being functionally beneficial.
Conclusion
Looking back, I’m so glad I took matters into my own hands when it came to DIY towel storage. Not only did I get a practical solution to a nagging problem, but I also made something that truly reflects my personal style.
It was more than just building a storage unit; it was transforming a part of my bathroom into a functional, beautiful space that meets my needs.
By customizing the design, using materials to match my taste, and even being thoughtful to incorporate a small basket for essentials when needed, the storage unit worked out perfect.
Whether one would like to create a bathroom organized with towel storage or have a different storage feature unique for the bathroom, DIY is surely the best bet.
I hope this article inspires you to embark on your own DIY journey and create a space that feels both organized and personalized. The satisfaction of creating something yourself is always worth it.
FAQs about DIY Towel Storage
1. What are the best materials for building DIY towel storage?
Wood can be great in giving the bathroom a warm and natural look, but make sure to treat it to be moisture resistant. Metal is also an industrial type, though very durable. These two can be customized through paints or finishes, so you can always coordinate with your bathroom style.
2. How do you maximize space in a small bathroom using DIY towel storage?
Make use of vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or floating units. Consider adding hooks or baskets underneath for additional storage. Consider a multi-functional design that meets both towel and general storage needs.
3. How can I make sure my DIY towel storage is strong and long-lasting?
Use good-quality materials, such as treated wood or moisture-resistant paint, to avoid wear and tear. Install the unit securely into the wall if you will be using it for heavier towels. Then, don’t forget to apply a protective sealant to the wood for added durability in the humid bathroom environment.
4. Can I add extra features like hooks and baskets to my DIY towel storage?
Yes, you could add hooks under the shelves, where you could hang towels or robes, for example. Add baskets or trays for small things like toiletries. These will help maximize the space while keeping your bathroom tidy.
5. How do you style DIY towel storage?
Choose materials to complement the overall design of your bathroom, such as wood for a rustic feel or sleek metal for a modern touch. Use plants, candles, or other small items to decorate shelves. Your unit should serve functional and aesthetic purposes.
