Buying Guide: Space Optimisation – Choosing the Right Bathroom Storage for Your Space
Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes – from compact cloakrooms to spacious master ensuites. One of the biggest challenges when furnishing a bathroom is finding storage solutions that fit the available space without making the room feel cramped. The right bathroom cabinet or storage unit should not only hold your toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies but also complement the room's layout and flow. This guide focuses on space optimisation – helping you choose between wall-mounted cabinets, freestanding units, under-sink storage, and tall slim cabinets based on your bathroom size and layout.
1. Measuring Your Bathroom – The First Step
Before buying any storage, measure your bathroom carefully. Note the width, depth, and height of available wall space, as well as floor space around fixtures. Remember to account for door swing, shower openings, and clearance around the toilet and basin. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 60 cm of walking space in front of any storage unit.
2. Storage Solutions by Bathroom Size
Different bathroom sizes call for different storage strategies. Here's a practical guide to help you choose:
| Bathroom Size | Recommended Storage Type | Key Features | Example Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small / Compact (under 5 m²) | Wall-mounted cabinets, under-sink units, over-toilet storage | Maximises floor space, uses vertical wall area | HOMCOM Under Sink Bathroom Storage Cabinet |
| Medium (5‑8 m²) | Freestanding cabinets, combination of wall and floor units | Balances storage capacity and floor space | kleankin Freestanding Bathroom Storage Cabinet |
| Large (8+ m²) | Tall cabinets, vanity units, multiple storage pieces | Offers maximum storage, can be decorative | kleankin 180cm Tall Bathroom Cabinet |
3. Types of Bathroom Storage – What Fits Where?
Understanding the different types of bathroom storage helps you match the right piece to the right space:
- Wall-Mounted Cabinets and Mirrored Cabinets – perfect for small bathrooms as they keep the floor clear. They provide discreet storage for daily essentials and often include mirrors to make the room feel larger. The kleankin Mirrored Cabinet with 2 Internal Shelves is a great example of space-efficient wall storage.
- Under-Sink Cabinets – make use of the space below the basin that often goes unused. Choose from simple open shelves or units with doors and drawers. The HOMCOM Bathroom Under-Sink Cabinet with Cupboard, Shelves and Drawers offers a practical solution for concealing plumbing while adding storage.
- Freestanding Cabinets – come in a range of heights and widths. Slimline models can fit into narrow gaps, while wider units work well in larger bathrooms. The kleankin Space-Saving Toilet-Paper Cabinet is specifically designed for narrow spots.
- Tall / Column Cabinets – ideal for making use of vertical space. A narrow tall cabinet can provide a surprising amount of storage without taking up much floor area. The kleankin Tall Cabinet with 4 Open Shelves and 2 Door Cupboards is a good choice for this.
- Bathroom Mirrors with LED and Anti-Fog – combine lighting, mirror, and sometimes even storage, eliminating the need for separate bathroom lighting or a separate cabinet. The HOMCOM 50 x 70 cm Anti-Fog LED Bathroom Mirror with Bluetooth is a modern example that saves space while adding functionality.
4. Space-Saving Features to Look For
If you're short on space, look for these clever design features:
- Mirrored doors – make the room feel larger and brighter while hiding storage behind them.
- Adjustable shelves – allow you to customise the interior to fit items of different heights.
- Slimline profiles – units with a depth of 20‑30 cm are easier to place in narrow bathrooms.
- Multi-functional designs – storage that doubles as a mirror, laundry basket, or even a decorative piece saves space and reduces clutter.
- Corner-friendly shapes – some cabinets are designed specifically to fit into corners, making use of an often-underutilised space.
5. Practical Tips for Bathroom Storage
- Use vertical space – a tall, narrow cabinet can hold more than a wide, low one without taking up extra floor area.
- Keep daily items at eye level – store frequently used items on middle shelves and occasional-use items higher up.
- Consider humidity – choose materials like bamboo, water-resistant MDF, or metal with rust-proof coatings for damp bathroom environments.
- Measure twice, order once – always double-check measurements, especially the height and depth, before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I measure my bathroom for a new cabinet?
Measure the width, depth, and height of the available space. For wall-mounted units, also check the distance from the floor and any fixtures that might interfere. Always leave a few centimetres of clearance on each side for installation and adjustment. If you're replacing an existing unit, measure the old one as a helpful reference.
2. Can I use a bamboo storage unit in a humid bathroom?
Yes, bamboo is naturally moisture-resistant and works well in bathrooms, provided it is properly sealed. Look for products specifically labelled for bathroom use. Regular wiping and good ventilation will help extend the life of any bamboo bathroom furniture.
3. What's the best storage for a very small bathroom?
For small bathrooms, a wall-mounted cabinet or a mirrored medicine cabinet is often the best choice as they don't take up any floor space. An under-sink cabinet is also a good option, as it fills a space that would otherwise be wasted. Slimline tall cabinets can also be effective if you have a narrow wall space available.
