By myhomeidentity 
When we dove into our small bathroom remodel, storage quickly became the biggest challenge. The square footage was limited, the walls were awkwardly shaped, and yet—we had towels, skincare, cleaning supplies, and more to stash.
We wanted style, but we also needed serious storage that wouldn’t make the room feel even smaller. So, like any design-loving but practical homeowner, we experimented. We tried built-in, freestanding, and modular storage options. Some were wins. Some were, well, lessons.
Here’s what we learned—so you don’t have to repeat our mistakes.
🧱 Built-In Storage: Beautiful but Commitment-Heavy
What We Tried
We added recessed shelving in the shower wall and a custom-built linen niche just outside the tub area.
Pros
- Seamless and sleek
- Takes up zero floor space
- Adds value with a permanent upgrade
Cons
- Requires framing and drywall work
- Not flexible if your storage needs change
- More expensive than it looks
Verdict: Worth it if you’re already opening up walls. But for a quick or budget remodel? Consider alternatives.
🪑 Freestanding Furniture: Quick Fix, Limited Function
What We Tried
A narrow vertical cabinet and a small over-the-toilet shelving unit.
Pros
- Super easy to install—just place and go
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to remove or rearrange
Cons
- Visually cluttered the space
- Tended to wobble on uneven tile
- Limited capacity for anything bulky
Verdict: Great temporary solution, especially for renters. But if you want a polished look, these rarely deliver long-term satisfaction.
🔧 Modular Wall Systems: The Surprising Sweet Spot
What We Tried
We installed a modular pegboard-style wall system with mix-and-match shelves, baskets, and hooks.
Pros
- Customizable and super flexible
- Wall-mounted, so it saves floor space
- Surprisingly chic (especially in white or matte black)
Cons
- Takes some planning to install properly
- Doesn’t hide clutter—requires styling effort
Verdict: Our favorite. It gave us the right balance of form and function. Plus, it felt intentional, not improvised.
🧼 Bonus Solution: Under-Sink Organization That Actually Works
Drawer inserts and labeled bins might sound like a Pinterest cliché, but they transformed our under-sink chaos into calm.
Cost: Around $50 total
Impact: Game-changing.
Don’t underestimate the power of behind-the-door and inside-the-drawer order. It makes daily routines smoother and more pleasant.
🧠 What We’d Do Again (And What We Wouldn’t)
- ✅ Modular wall systems — flexible, stylish, and ideal for small bathrooms
- ✅ Built-in niches — but only during major renovations
- ❌ Freestanding cabinets — unless you’re staging, skip the wobble
- ✅ Under-sink organizers — low-cost, high-impact
💬 Call to Action
If you’re tackling a small bathroom remodel, the right storage can make your space feel double the size. But don’t just copy what looks good on Instagram—choose what functions for your life.
Need help deciding what works for your space and budget? Let our team guide you through storage-smart solutions that actually work—because great design starts with smart decisions.