Small bathrooms don’t have to feel cramped or overwhelming. Even the tiniest spots can turn stylish and functional with the right tweaks.
Smart design tricks help you squeeze the most out of every inch in a tiny bathroom. Choosing the right fixtures and clever storage makes a world of difference.
With a little planning, you can actually enjoy using your small bathroom.
1. Floating Vanity to Open Up Floor Space
A floating vanity mounts on the wall instead of sitting on the floor. You’ll see more open floor, which instantly makes the room feel bigger.
It’s easier to clean under a floating vanity, too. You can find models with drawers for storage, which come in handy for really small bathrooms.
2. Wall-Mounted Toilets for Easier Cleaning and More Room
Wall-mounted toilets attach right to the wall, leaving the floor below open. Cleaning becomes much simpler—no more awkward corners around the toilet base.
The open space under the toilet also helps your small bathroom look and feel bigger.
3. Floating Shelves for Extra Storage
Use the wall above your toilet for floating shelves. You get storage without losing precious floor space.
Corners work great for shelving too—those spots usually go to waste. Floating shelves look less bulky than cabinets and help the room feel airier.
4. Light, Neutral Wall Colors to Brighten the Room
Light paint colors can make a small bathroom feel open and bright. Off-whites, pale grays, and soft beiges bounce light around the space.
Painting the walls, ceiling, and trim the same light shade gives a seamless, larger look.
5. Large Mirrors to Create an Illusion of Space
Large mirrors work wonders in tiny bathrooms. They reflect light and make walls seem to disappear.
Try putting a big mirror across from a window to double the daylight. It’s almost like adding a second window!
6. Sliding Barn Door Instead of a Swinging Door
A sliding barn door saves space because it glides along a track instead of swinging open. You won’t have to worry about a door bumping into fixtures.
It’s a simple swap that makes your bathroom feel less boxed in.
7. Recessed Shelving in the Shower Area
Recessed shelves built into the shower wall sit flush, saving floor space. You can stash shampoo and soap neatly, with everything within easy reach.
No more knocking over bottles or cluttering up the corners.
8. Narrow Pedestal Sink to Save Space
A narrow pedestal sink frees up a surprising amount of floor space—sometimes up to six square feet. Look for models around 16-20 inches wide.
You still get enough room to wash up, but the bathroom won’t feel so jam-packed.
9. Hooks Behind the Door for Towels and Robes
Hooks on the back of your bathroom door make use of space you’d probably ignore. Towels and robes hang out of the way.
Over-the-door hooks go up in seconds—no tools or screws required.
10. Clear Glass Shower Doors to Keep the Space Open
Clear glass shower doors let light flow through your whole bathroom. You can see from one end to the other, which tricks the eye into feeling like there’s more space.
It’s a simple upgrade that really opens things up.
11. Multi-Functional Fixtures Like a Toilet-Sink Combo
A toilet-sink combo puts the sink right on top of the toilet tank. You save wall space and get two functions in one neat unit.
It’s a surprisingly clever fix for tiny bathrooms.
12. Built-In Storage Niches for Toiletries
Built-in wall niches let you stash toiletries without eating up floor space. These shelves fit between studs and keep things tidy.
Try adding a niche in the shower for shampoo, or near the sink for everyday items.
13. Corner Sink to Maximize Layout Options
Corner sinks free up wall space and open up your bathroom layout. The triangle shape slides right into a corner, making the room feel less crowded.
You still get full sink function, but with extra breathing room.
14. Patterned Wallpaper on One Wall for a Design Pop
Pick a single wall for patterned wallpaper to create a fun focal point. Light colors and small patterns keep things bright and open.
A bold print on just one wall adds style without making the space feel busy.
15. Compact, Stackable Laundry Units if Needed
Stackable washer and dryer units squeeze into tight corners or closets. You’ll free up floor space for storage or a tiny folding area.
They work surprisingly well if your bathroom doubles as a laundry spot.
16. Small but Bright Overhead Light
A bright ceiling light can make your tiny bathroom feel bigger and more cheerful. Pick a compact fixture that doesn’t draw too much attention.
LEDs are a good bet—they’re bright and energy efficient. Warm white light feels cozy and welcoming.
17. Magnetic Strips Inside Cabinets for Metal Tools
Stick magnetic strips inside cabinet doors to hold tweezers, nail clippers, and scissors. Your tools stay organized and easy to grab.
No more digging through drawers for the little stuff.
18. Replace Bulky Cabinets With Open Shelving
Open shelves make your bathroom feel bigger by letting light and air flow. Ditching heavy cabinets opens up the space.
You can reach towels and toiletries easily, and the room looks less crowded.
19. Small Stool That Fits Under the Vanity
A small stool that tucks under your floating vanity adds function without clutter. Pull it out for makeup or to help kids brush their teeth.
If you pick a stool with storage inside, you get a bonus spot for towels or toiletries. When you’re done, slide it back under to keep the bathroom looking neat.
20. Over-the-Toilet Shelving Units
You can squeeze in extra storage above your toilet without eating up precious floor space. These shelves hold toilet paper, towels, and those random bathroom supplies we never know where to stash.
Wall-mounted shelves handle lighter items just fine. Freestanding units wrap around your toilet and give you a sturdier spot for heavier things.