The Best Bathroom Closet Organization Ideas to Maximize Storage

If you’re looking for bathroom closet organization ideas, you’ve come to the right place! We’re sharing simple, space-saving tips to help you organize like a pro! And even if you don’t have a dedicated closet, we have tips for you at the end of this post!

Over the years, I’ve learned that even the smallest closets can hold a surprising amount—if they’re organized well.

Welcome to the Summer Home Organization Challenge, where we’re organizing the personal living zone of our home.

And today, we’re tackling the primary bathroom closet.

Whether your closet is packed with towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, or a random mix of everything, these practical tips will help you create a tidy, functional space.

Let’s walk through the exact steps I used to transform our cluttered closet into a streamlined storage spot that works for our everyday life.

Empty the closet and Declutter

You Can’t Organize Clutter—Start Fresh

Let’s be honest—before you can put any bathroom closet organization ideas into action, you need a clean slate.

That means taking everything out of the closet.

Yes, every last bottle, bin, and backup bar of soap!

As you empty the space, take a moment to assess what you’re working with.

You might be surprised how much has piled up over time—half-used products, expired medications, or things you didn’t even know were in there.

Here’s what to do next:

• Toss anything expired or unusable. Medications, old lotions, dried-up nail polish—if it’s past its prime, let it go.
• Donate or relocate extras. If you have five hotel shampoos but only use one, it might be time to simplify. Consider donating unopened items or moving extras to a storage bin elsewhere.
• Keep only what you use. Ask yourself: Would I reach for this next week? If not, it may not deserve prime closet real estate.

Once your shelves are empty, wipe everything down.

Sort and Categorize Bathroom Essentials

Group Items by Type and/or Use

Now that your closet is clean, it’s time for one of my favorite steps: sorting and categorizing.

This is where the magic happens.

A little thoughtful grouping cannot only make your bathroom closet look better but also work better.

Start by laying everything out—on a table, your bathroom floor, or even your bed.

Seeing all of your items at once makes it easier to group similar things and notice duplicates.

Here are some helpful category ideas to get you started with your bathroom closet organization:

• Daily-use items – Think of everything you reach for every day, such as toothpaste, floss, and face wash.
• Extra toiletries – Backups of shampoo, body wash, razors, shaving cream, and lotion.
• Medicines and First Aid – Keep these together, and consider using a lockable bin if you have children. (We store our medicine in our pantry instead of the bathroom)
• Cleaning supplies – All-purpose cleaner, disinfectant wipes, toilet bowl cleaner, and gloves.
• Bath linens – Bath towels, hand towels, washcloths, and maybe a couple of guest sets.
• Toilet paper and hygiene products – Ensure they’re easily accessible.
• Dental care – Extra toothbrushes, mouthwash, floss, and whitening strips.
• Travel toiletries – Keep them all in one pouch or bin for easy packing.
• Miscellaneous items – Batteries, light bulbs, grooming tools, or even a small vacuum if it fits.
• Linens – If your bathroom closet doubles as a linen closet, group sheet sets by size or room.

Once you’ve sorted your categories, you’ll have a clear picture of the types of storage solutions you’ll need next and where everything should be placed in your newly organized closet.

Measure Your Space Before Buying Bins

Avoid Returns and Maximize Every Inch

Before you start shopping for all those pretty bins and baskets, take a few minutes to measure your bathroom closet.

I know—measuring might not be the most exciting part of organizing, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Not all closets are created equal, and nothing is more frustrating than coming home with storage containers that don’t fit.

Grab a tape measure and record the width, depth, and height of each shelf, as well as the total height and width of the closet.

Once you’ve got those numbers, bring them with you (or keep them in your phone) when you’re out shopping.

This little step helps ensure every storage solution you bring home for your bathroom closet organization works with your space, not against it.

Smart Storage Solutions for Every Category

Bins, Baskets, and Drawers That Actually Work

Now that you’ve sorted your bathroom essentials into categories and measured the closet, it’s time to find the proper storage solutions to keep everything organized.

The key is to choose bins and baskets that fit your space and your belongings, making it easy to grab what you need (and just as easy to put it back!).

Here are some of my go-to bathroom closet storage options:

Cloth Bins

These soft-sided bins are ideal for storing towels, sheets, or bulky items, such as extra toilet paper. They’re great on open shelves and can add a pop of texture or color to your space.

Stackable Bins

Maximize vertical space by using stackable plastic bins or boxes. They’re ideal for items you don’t need every day, such as backstock toiletries or guest supplies.

Clear Drawers

Clear drawers are ideal for storing smaller items, such as medicine, dental products, or travel toiletries. You can see exactly what’s inside without digging through everything.

Baskets and Tubs

Woven or plastic baskets are great for grouping like items together—think shampoos, body washes, or first aid supplies. Use one basket per category so you can pull it out and access everything at once.

Choosing the proper containers may take a little trial and error, but once everything has a designated spot, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to keep your bathroom closet neat and functional.

Bathroom Closet Hacks to Maximize Space

Even the tiniest bathroom closet can feel spacious with a few clever organization tricks.

These bathroom closet hacks will help you use every square inch—without making it feel overcrowded.

Here are my favorite space-saving ideas:

Use the Back of the Door

The back of your closet door is prime real estate.

I use it to hang my robe and bath towel wrap.

You can also mount small hooks or adhesive bins for even more storage.

Consider hanging a clear pocket organizer for smaller items, such as hair tools, toiletries, or first-aid supplies.

Fold Towels to fit your space

Neatly folded towels not only look better, they also save space and make your closet feel instantly more organized.

The key is to fold them in a way that works with the size of your shelves.

I fold mine into thirds and then stack them.

Experiment with a few folding styles (don’t forget about rolling!) and choose the one that best suits your space (and what you’ll maintain!).

Make Toilet Paper Easy to Access

Dedicate a bin or basket for extra rolls and keep it within arm’s reach.

Use a Cleaning Caddy

Group your cleaning products in a handled caddy so you can easily access them all at once.

This saves time and keeps leaks or drips contained.

Create a Travel Zone

We store travel-size products in individual toiletry bags and put everyone’s bags in a fabric cube bin.

It keeps our stash organized and clutter-free, making packing a breeze.

Try a Basket with Wheels

If you have floor space, consider using a storage basket with wheels for added convenience.

We use one to hold our beach towels!

When we have company and are going to the pool, I can roll it out and let everyone pick their towel.

A basket on wheels makes vacuuming so much easier!

Design a System That Works for Real Life

Make It Easy to Grab, Use, and Put Away

The secret to a truly organized bathroom closet?

Creating a system that’s not just pretty—it’s practical.

Your setup should match the way you and your family actually live.

Because if it’s not easy to maintain, it won’t stay organized for long!

Here are a few tips to build a system that works for the long haul:

Label Everything Clearly

Make it foolproof for everyone in the house.

Use large, easy-to-read labels so no one has to guess where things go.

These white labels are perfect and so easy to use on baskets, bins, and boxes.

They easily attach to storage containers and can be wiped clean with a damp paper towel.

Group Items by Routine

Think in terms of how you use things, not just what they are. For example:

• Morning routine bin (toothpaste, face wash, deodorant)
• Guest-ready bin (extra towels, shampoo, body wash)
• Cleaning kit bin (disinfectant wipes, gloves, toilet brush)

Designate “Drop Zones”

Let’s be real—everyone has a habit of tossing random stuff in the bathroom closet.

Create a catch-all bin for “unassigned” items or those that need to be restocked, relocated, or tossed later.

Keep Everyday Items Front and Center

You’re more likely to maintain an organized space when it’s easy to grab what you need and put it away just as quickly.

Place the most frequently used bins at eye level or on middle shelves for maximum convenience.

Build in Flexibility

Life changes—and so do your storage needs.

Choose bins and containers that can be easily re-categorized or repurposed.

You might need a baby supplies bin today and a teen skincare bin next year.

Remember: Your bathroom closet doesn’t have to be picture-perfect—just functional, calm, and easy to keep clean and maintain. If it supports your daily routines and reduces stress, then it’s a success!

No Bathroom Closet? No Problem!

Smart Storage Ideas When You’re Short on Space

If your bathroom doesn’t have a built-in closet, don’t worry, we still have organization tips for you!

You can stay clutter-free with a few creative solutions.

The key is to think vertically, utilize hidden spaces, and incorporate flexible storage options.

Here are some ideas to try:

Over-the-Toilet Shelving

Utilize the vertical wall space above the toilet. You can find slim shelving units that fit snugly over the tank and are perfect for storing toilet paper, towels, or a few cute baskets of essentials.

Rolling Carts

A slim rolling cart can be tucked between the toilet and vanity or next to the shower. Use it for extra toiletries, washcloths, or everyday items you want close by but don’t want on the counter.

Back-of-Door Organizers

Hang a clear pocket shoe organizer or wire rack on the back of your bathroom or linen closet door. These are lifesavers for small products, such as makeup, hair tools, first aid items, or travel essentials.

Under-the-Sink Storage

Don’t overlook the space under your sink! Use stackable drawers, small bins, or pull-out organizers to maximize the space and prevent it from becoming a cluttered mess. You can see how we organized under our bathroom sink here.

Repurpose Furniture

A small dresser, armoire, or vintage cabinet can act as a mini linen closet. Style it with baskets and bins, and you’ll have a functional piece that also looks great in the bedroom or hallway.

Wall-Mounted Cabinets or Shelves

Install floating shelves, a medicine cabinet, or wall-mounted baskets to create storage without occupying floor space.

Even if you don’t have a dedicated bathroom closet, these creative options can help you create a tidy, organized system that works just as well—maybe even better!

Closing thoughts

I hope these bathroom closet organization ideas have inspired you to tackle your space with confidence!

Whether you’re working with deep shelves, a tiny linen closet, or no closet at all, there’s a solution out there that can help you create a tidy, functional system that works for your family.

Remember—progress over perfection!

Start with one shelf or one category, and build from there.

Once everything has a home, you’ll spend less time digging and more time enjoying a calm, clutter-free bathroom.

Now tell me—are you excited to organize?

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Blessings, Donna and Rich

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More Inspiration

Need more help organizing your bathroom? Check out these posts:

• Best Tips to Organize Under the Bathroom Sink
• How to Organize a Functional and Pretty Bathroom Counter
• Simple Ways to Organize Bathroom Drawers and Cabinets
• Easy Steps to Declutter and Organize Make-up
• 15 Awesome Storage Solutions for Your Bathroom