Types of Bathroom Towel Shelves Over Toilet
Towel shelves over the toilet are a practical and stylish addition to any bathroom, providing extra storage space for towels, toiletries, and other essentials. These shelves come in various designs and materials, offering a wide range of options to suit different bathroom styles and budgets.
Types of Bathroom Towel Shelves Over Toilet
The most common types of bathroom towel shelves over the toilet include:
- Wall-mounted shelves: These shelves are typically made of wood, metal, or plastic and are mounted directly to the wall. They are easy to install and can be placed at any height.
- Over-the-toilet storage units: These units are freestanding and sit on top of the toilet tank. They offer more storage space than wall-mounted shelves and often include features like drawers, shelves, and towel bars.
- Corner shelves: These shelves are designed to fit in the corner of the bathroom, maximizing space utilization. They are available in various sizes and materials.
- Floating shelves: These shelves are mounted to the wall with hidden brackets, creating a sleek and modern look. They are typically made of wood or glass.
Materials Used in Bathroom Towel Shelves Over Toilet
Bathroom towel shelves are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Wood: Wooden shelves are durable, stylish, and can be stained or painted to match any bathroom decor. However, they can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly sealed.
- Metal: Metal shelves are sturdy and resistant to moisture. They are available in various finishes, including chrome, nickel, and brass.
- Plastic: Plastic shelves are lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean. However, they may not be as durable as wood or metal shelves.
- Glass: Glass shelves are sleek and modern, but they can be fragile and require careful cleaning.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Bathroom Towel Shelves Over Toilet
Here is a table comparing the advantages and disadvantages of different types of bathroom towel shelves over the toilet:
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Wall-mounted shelves | Easy to install, affordable, available in various styles | Limited storage space, may not be suitable for heavy items |
| Over-the-toilet storage units | Offer more storage space, often include drawers and shelves | Can be bulky, may not fit all toilet sizes |
| Corner shelves | Maximize space utilization, available in various sizes and materials | May not be suitable for all bathroom layouts |
| Floating shelves | Sleek and modern look, create a minimalist aesthetic | Can be more expensive, require professional installation |
Comparison of Popular Towel Shelves Over Toilet
Here is a table comparing the features and pricing of popular towel shelves over the toilet from various brands:
| Brand | Model | Material | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ikea | LACK Wall Shelf | Wood | Simple design, affordable | $10-$20 |
| AmazonBasics | Over-the-Toilet Storage Organizer | Metal | Includes shelves and towel bars | $30-$50 |
| Home Decorators Collection | Floating Shelf | Glass | Sleek and modern design | $50-$80 |
Installation and Placement Considerations
Installing a bathroom towel shelf over the toilet is a pretty straightforward DIY project, and it can seriously upgrade your bathroom’s style and functionality. But before you start hammering and drilling, there are a few things you need to know about installation and placement.
Tools and Materials
Before you get started, gather the necessary tools and materials. This will make the installation process smoother and less stressful. You’ll need:
- A level
- A drill with appropriate bits
- A tape measure
- A pencil
- A screwdriver
- Safety glasses
- Stud finder
- Appropriate anchors and screws for your wall type
- Your chosen towel shelf
Installation Steps
The installation process will vary depending on the type of shelf you’ve chosen. Here’s a general guide, but always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details:
- Determine the shelf location: Use a tape measure to determine the optimal height and placement for your shelf. Consider the toilet height, available space, and accessibility for towels. Aim for a height that allows you to easily reach and grab towels without straining.
- Mark the wall: Once you’ve decided on the location, use a pencil to mark the wall where the shelf will be mounted. Use a level to ensure the marks are straight and horizontal.
- Locate studs: Use a stud finder to locate wall studs. Securely attaching the shelf to studs provides the strongest support and prevents it from sagging over time.
- Pre-drill holes: Before drilling into the wall, pre-drill holes with a bit slightly smaller than the screw size. This will prevent the wall material from cracking or splitting.
- Install the shelf: Attach the shelf to the wall using the appropriate screws and anchors. Ensure the shelf is securely mounted and level.
- Test the shelf: Once the shelf is installed, test its stability by gently pulling on it. Make sure it’s securely mounted and won’t come loose.
Placement Considerations, Bathroom towel shelves over toilet
Choosing the right spot for your towel shelf is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. Consider these factors:
- Toilet height: The shelf should be positioned at a height that allows you to easily reach and grab towels without bending over excessively. A standard height is about 60-65 cm (24-26 inches) above the toilet seat.
- Available space: Ensure there’s enough space above the toilet for the shelf without blocking the toilet lid or obstructing movement around the bathroom.
- Accessibility: Consider the layout of your bathroom and ensure the shelf is accessible from both sides of the toilet. It should be easy to reach and use, especially if you have limited mobility.
Style and Design Ideas: Bathroom Towel Shelves Over Toilet
Towel shelves over the toilet aren’t just functional; they’re a chance to add style and personality to your bathroom. Whether you’re going for a sleek modern look, a cozy farmhouse vibe, or something in between, there’s a shelf design out there that’s perfect for you.
Think about your bathroom’s overall aesthetic and choose a shelf that complements it. For example, a minimalist shelf with clean lines would be perfect for a contemporary bathroom, while a rustic wooden shelf would work well in a farmhouse-style bathroom.
Shelf Design Ideas
Here are some design ideas to get you started:
- Modern: Modern towel shelves over the toilet are often made of sleek materials like chrome, stainless steel, or glass. They often have minimalist designs with clean lines and geometric shapes.
- Traditional: Traditional towel shelves over the toilet are often made of wood or metal with intricate details and carvings. They can be painted in a variety of colors to match the bathroom’s decor.
- Minimalist: Minimalist towel shelves over the toilet are designed to be simple and functional. They often have a clean, uncluttered look with no unnecessary embellishments.
- Farmhouse: Farmhouse towel shelves over the toilet are often made of reclaimed wood or distressed metal. They have a rustic, cozy look that complements farmhouse-style bathrooms.
Decorative Elements
Adding decorative elements to your towel shelf can make it even more stylish and functional.
- Towel bars: Towel bars are a great way to add storage space and style to your towel shelf. They can be used to hang towels, robes, or other bathroom accessories.
- Hooks: Hooks are another great way to add storage space to your towel shelf. They can be used to hang towels, robes, or other bathroom accessories.
- Storage baskets: Storage baskets can be used to store towels, toiletries, or other bathroom essentials. They can be placed on the shelf or hung from hooks.
