Having adequate storage space in a bathroom can be a challenge, especially in small bathrooms. Counter space comes at a premium, yet there always seems to be a need for extra room to store toiletries, towels, cleaning supplies, and other essentials. This is where over the faucet shelves come in handy! Installing a shelf above your sink is an easy way to gain storage without taking up valuable floor space. With so many stylish options to choose from, over the faucet shelves are both functional and decorative. Keep reading for 10 over the sink shelf ideas that will maximize your bathroom storage potential.
DIY Pipe Shelf
Pipe shelves have an industrial, urban chic vibe that works well in contemporary bathrooms. The great thing about this DIY shelf is that you can customize the length and height to perfectly fit your space. All you need are black iron pipes, fittings, flanges, and pipe clamps to construct the frame. Then add wooden shelves cut to size. The benefit of an exposed pipe design is being able to adjust the shelf height to accommodate your faucet and maximize clearance. Finish it off by anchoring the shelf securely to wall studs for safety.
Tips for Installing a Pipe Shelf:
- Measure carefully to calculate pipe lengths.
- Use pipe sealant to prevent leaks.
- Make sure pipes are aligned vertically and horizontally.
- Add shelf brackets for sturdy shelf support.
With a sleek, industrial vibe and customizable sizing, a DIY pipe shelf is perfect for small bathrooms needing a storage boost.
Wire Shelving Unit
For those desiring an open, airy look, wire shelving is a great option for over the sink storage. The thin metal wires allow for visibility while still providing space to store bathroom items. Wire shelving comes in a range of dimension configurations, like single tiers, double tiers, or modular cube designs. Chrome finishes give wire shelving a clean, modern aesthetic that pairs well with many bathroom styles.
Benefits of wire shelving include:
- Lightweight yet durable
- Quick and easy assembly
- Customizable configurations
The open design of wire shelving units makes them ideal for small bathrooms needing to maximize every inch without making the space feel overly crowded.
Rustic Wood Shelf
For a cozy, spa-like atmosphere, a rustic wood shelf brings warmth and texture to the space. Opt for wood with a rich grain pattern, like pine or cedar. Seek out boards with natural knots and imperfections to enhance the rustic charm. Sand and seal the boards with a water-resistant finish to prevent warping from moisture over time. Add carved decorative details along the edges for visual interest.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Warm, natural material | Heavy weight |
| Distressed details add charm | Prone to water damage |
| Classic, timeless look | Difficult to clean |
For traditional or farmhouse-inspired bathrooms, a rustic wood shelf softens the space while providing practical storage.
Tiered Glass Shelves
Glass shelves are ideal for small bathrooms because they keep the space feeling open rather than boxed in. The transparent quality allows light to filter through, creating a bright, airy ambiance. Glass shelves come in tempered safety glass to prevent cracking or shattering under weight. The sleek surface also resists water build up and wipes clean easily.
Stacking glass shelves in staggered tiers is a great way to double your storage capacity. Here are some benefits of tiered glass shelves:
- Lightweight material
- Doesn’t obstruct light
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Glass thickness supports weight
With their clean lines and lightweight profile, glass shelves are perfect for enhancing modern or contemporary bathrooms.
Pull-Out Cabinet Shelf
For those desiring concealed storage, install an over the sink cabinet with doors or a pull-out shelf on tracks. Keeping toiletries and clutter out of sight not only looks tidier, it also makes cleaning the bathroom easier by allowing you to simply wipe down flat surfaces. Pull-out cabinet shelves are great for stashing bulkier items that may not fit well on open shelving units. And the smooth gliding tracks make items easy to access when you need them.
Considerations for Pull-Out Shelves:
- Measure cabinet depth to order proper shelf size
- Look for soft-close features to prevent slamming
- Choose rust-resistant tracks for bathroom environment
With their hidden storage capabilities, pull-out cabinet shelves allow you to neatly tuck away bathroom clutter.
Wall-Mounted Shelf
For durability and strength, a wall-mounted floating shelf provides robust storage space. Always mount the shelf brackets securely into wall studs for stability and weight capacity. Wood or metal brackets work well, just be sure to use corrosion-resistant brackets in humid bathroom settings to prevent rust over time. The benefit of a wall-mounted shelf is it frees up precious sink and counter space by jutting straight out from the wall. This allows better clearance for accessing the sink, versus shelves that sit on top of the vanity.
Wall-Mounted Shelf Ideas:
- Sturdy wooden shelf with decorative brackets
- Sleek metal rail with acrylic shelves
- Rustic corbel brackets supporting reclaimed wood shelf
Let a wall-mounted shelf carry the weight while opening up floor space and keeping your faucet easily accessible.
Sliding Basket Shelf
For a pretty, organized look try open-weave baskets lining your over the sink shelf. The removable baskets make it easy to access everyday items without cluttering up the shelf space. Look for baskets in moisture-resistant wicker, or add vinyl liners to prevent leaks if storing soaps or toiletries. Baskets are ideal for organizing tissues, cotton balls and swabs, cleaning rags, and other small necessities. Their smooth gliding design lets you access contents easily.
| Basket Materials: | Ideal For Storing: |
|---|---|
| Wicker | Soaps, lotions |
| Rattan | Cotton pads, Q-tips |
| Bamboo | Fresh hand towels |
Lined with sliding baskets, over the sink shelves keep all your go-to items neatly organized and within reach.
Shelf with Towel Bar
For ultimate space efficiency, choose an over the sink shelf with an integrated towel bar. This dual storage solution lets you hang dish towels or hand towels to dry, while providing shelves to organize toiletries and cleaning supplies. Look for towel bars with brushed nickel or chrome finishes to complement most decor. Considerations for an integrated shelf and towel bar include:
- Will the towel bar length accommodate your towels?
- Is the bar installed securely to support weight when wet?
- Are there hooks or baskets to hold small items?
Combining a handy towel bar with useful shelves helps maximize storage in small bathrooms.
Corner Shelf
Take advantage of wasted corner space by installing angled corner shelves. Corner shelves are uniquely designed to fit into tricky small or half bathrooms. Look for corner shelves with a triangular footprint to optimize the layout. Filling that empty corner spot allows you to gain storage while preserving floor and counter space in cramped bathrooms. The angled shelves hug the wall contours neatly to prevent poking into traffic areas. Make sure the shelves are properly secured and weight rated for safety.
Corner Shelf Storage Ideas:
- Extra toilet paper rolls
- Cleaning spray bottles
- Sponges and scrub brushes
- Washcloths folded vertically
Corner shelves are problem-solving storage solutions for tiny bathrooms and powder rooms.
Mirror Cabinet Shelf
For a functional focal point, try a mirrored cabinet shelf installed over the sink. The cabinet doors feature mirrors, doubling as decorative accent mirrors that brighten up the room. Inside, shelves neatly organize all your toiletries and bathroom items to keep them hidden away. Look for features like adjustable shelving, soft-close hinges, and built in lighting for convenience. A mirror cabinet shelf is also easy to clean, just wipe down the smooth mirrored doors.
Mirrored Cabinet Considerations:
- Accommodate plumbing or electrical under cabinet
- Illumination strength for makeup or shaving
- Fog-free mirrors in humid bathrooms
With their dual storage and decor benefits, mirrored cabinet shelves allow you to hide clutter while amplifying style.
Ready to add extra storage to your bathroom sink area? Keep these tips in mind while shopping for over the faucet shelves:
- Measure carefully to ensure the ideal fit over your existing sink and faucet.
- Check weight limits and load capacity for safety.
- Look for moisture resistant materials like metal, glass, or treated wood.
- Seek out ventilation or dehumidifying features to deter mold growth in humid areas.
- Opt for adjustable shelves and modular components to customize configurations.
- Ensure all hardware is corrosion resistant.
- Select finishes that match your faucets and overall decor.
With the right over the sink shelf, you can gain valuable storage space while elevating the style of your bathroom. No longer will you have to sacrifice surface space for necessities. An organized, decluttered space promotes tranquil spa vibes, giving your daily routine a little luxurious feel. Which over the faucet shelf design are you ready to install in your bathroom?
