When it comes to bathroom storage, you’re spoiled for choice. Your choice of shelving depends on two main factors: the style of your bathroom and the size of your bathroom. That said, no matter what your style or purpose, or how big or small the room, you’ll find several options that will work beautifully in your room. Bathroom storage has never been easier.

bathroom shelf materials

The bathroom shelf consists of four main materials. Most are easy to care for, but they will add a very different feel to the room.

Glass – Frosted or clear glass shelves are best in contemporary bathrooms, but they can also be an attractive contrast to an ornate bathroom. Glass shelving is usually mounted on two side brackets or hidden wall brackets behind them. Glass shelves are especially attractive when installed as tier shelves, with all shelves the same size or graduating from large to small as they go up the wall. Frosted glass is best if you want concealed mounts. Glass is the easiest to clean, but also the most prone to cracks. When shopping, look for tempered glass for safety.

Plastic – Plastic shelves are best for children’s bathrooms or infrequently used utility rooms. They are easy to maintain, but are not usually very attractive. Because they can take a lot of abuse, they’re great for kids who tend to bang on cabinets, push through drawers, and cram as much as possible into them.

Metal – Metal shelves come in two styles: polished and unpolished. Polished steel, chrome or brass shelves look great in contemporary bathrooms. Raw steel or aluminum shelves are best reserved for utility rooms and laundry bathrooms where storage is more important than style.

Wood – Although wood and wicker seem contradictory in damp rooms, today’s treated woods can withstand the heat and humidity of the bathroom. They come in a variety of attractive styles and shades that are at home in any bathroom style, from contemporary Asian to Victorian.

Bathroom Shelves Styles
Once you’ve decided on the shelving material that’s best for your bathroom, you can consider the style that will work best.

Open: Glass, wood, or polished metal shelves are attractive options for open shelving. Open shelving is more convenient because you don’t have to open doors or drawers to find what you’re looking for. You can also create an additional design aesthetic by placing bins and bottles of the same color or limited to a few colors on the shelves. Non-decorative personal items can be stored in dresser drawers or cabinets for privacy. For very small bathrooms, corner glass shelves provide storage without adding clutter.

Cabinets: Wood cabinets can be open, have glass doors, or wood doors. Open cabinets are often designed as cubbies where you can store towels or larger containers. Cabinets with glass doors are usually mounted to the wall, but can also sit on the floor or over the toilet. The wide range of styles makes them the most versatile for small and medium bathrooms.

Floor – Floor units are usually made of wood, but plastic models are available for children. They look similar to a dresser with a flat top, or they can be styled with cubbies or sneakers. With cubbies, you can leave some open and place baskets in others. You can also find floor shelves with hanging baskets already installed. Floor shelving units are better for larger bathrooms with wall space, although corner units are good for small bathrooms.

When it comes to bathroom shelving, you have a wide variety of options. Let your storage needs and personal style guide you to the best option for your bathroom.