Compact Wooden Stools Add Storage to Tiny Bathrooms

Trying to maximize every inch of a small bathroom? One space-saving solution is adding a compact wooden stool. These petite and practical stools pull double duty as extra seating and clever storage.

Continue reading to discover why small wooden bath stools are useful additions to tiny loos. Get tips on choosing the best size, style, and design to complement your decor. We'll also cover clever ways to utilize them for storing necessities or as makeshift shelves.

Benefits of Small Wooden Stools in Bathrooms

It's common for modern homes and apartments to have modestly sized bathrooms. Large soaking tubs and spacious vanities are luxuries some spaces can't accommodate. That's where stools offer big benefits on a small scale:

• Provide extra seating for putting on shoes or doing makeup
• Stash rolled towels, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies
• Raiseheights for more comfortable bathing and grooming

Wooden stools are preferred for damp bathroom environments. Wood resists mold and bacteria growth better than fabrics or cushions. Unfinished stools should be avoided since constant moisture exposure can warp and crack wood over time.

Choosing the Right Wood for Bathroom Stools

Not all woods are equal when it comes to durability. Denser hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut hold up better to routine use and accidental spills. They're less prone to dents and scratches too. Water-resistant lacquered finishes also protect wood against warping and discoloration.

Teak is another smart choice because its natural oils make it resistant to water damage. Just avoid very soft woods like pine that degrade more quickly. Cedar and redwood both have natural moisture resistance too but aren't as hardy for seating.

Finished Woods Resist Water Damage in Bathrooms

The most durable wooden stools have a protective finish to repel bathroom moisture. Look for these when selecting a stool:

• Polyurethane resists watermarks and staining while adding shine
• Penetrating oil finishes soak into wood pores for water resistance
• Drying oils like tung and boiled linseed oil protect from inside wood cells
• Marine varnish and spar urethane are extremely water-repellant finishes
• Multiple coats of any finish protects better than a single coating

Key Features of Quality Small Wooden Bathroom Stools

Well-made wooden stools boast design details that make them perfect for bathrooms. Consider these desirable features when comparing options:

Compact Size to Fit Small Bathroom Spaces

The most useful wooden stools for modest bathrooms measure 16 inches or less across. Their small footprint lets you tuck them neatly beside vanities, next to showers, or behind doors. Square and round stools 12 inches wide work well without crowding floors.

Sturdy Construction to Hold Weight

Don't sacrifice quality just because a stool is miniature. Poor construction with weak joinery will make stools unstable or unable to support much weight. Thicker wood is more rigid too.

Mortise and tenon joinery adds strength at critical joints. Avoid flimsy glue-only connections that can loosen and break over time. Some details that indicate durable build quality are:

• Corner blocks reinforce 90-degree joints
• Web frame or stretcher supports span all sides
• Interlocking joints keep joints securely meshed

Storage Space for Extra Towels and Toiletries

One advantage stools have over other bathroom furniture is their interior storage cavity. This handy space is ideal for stashing backup supplies of toilet paper, rolled hand towels, or cleaning products.

Look for generously sized storage cavities at least 4 inches high. This leaves room for multiple rolled towels. Lift-out tops make accessing stored items easier. Some models even include interior shelves or partitions.

Stylish Designs That Complement Bathroom Decors

Fortunately, compact stools come in all different designs to match your bathroom's style. Keep an eye out for these trendy looks and finishes when shopping:

Round and Square Seat Shapes

Both round and square stools work well in modest bathrooms. Round seats save a bit of floor space while squared versions sit flush against walls. Personal style preference usually determines what shape you choose.

Neutral Colors Blend With Most Color Schemes

Go for versatile wooden stool colors like creamy whites or warm browns. These fit with both cool grays and beiges or bolder shades like navy and emerald. Stick with solid hues because painted patterns or distressed finishes cramp smaller rooms.

Textured or Smooth Finishes Match Tile and Fixtures

Wooden stool finishes align well with common bathroom materials like porcelain tile, metals, and glass. For a coordinating look:

• Distressed stools complement subway, mosaics, or textured tiles
• Glossy lacquered stools pair nicely with chrome or glass
• Matte, oiled finishes match with slate, stone, or bronzed metals

Shopping Tips for Buying the Best Small Wooden Stool

Armed with background on compact stool designs and materials, it's time to start shopping. Keep these pro tips in mind while browsing options:

Measure Your Bathroom's Dimensions

First, bust out your measuring tape! Double check clearance around sinks, toilets, tubs and doorways where you want to place stools. This prevents buying one that's too large or bulky for your bath's actual layout.

Select Based on Intended Purpose and Weight Needs

Consider who will use your wooden stool most when choosing capacity. Standard models hold 200-300 pounds which works for most adults. Beef up to heavier duty 500+ pound stools for big and tall users.

Compare Prices and Reviews From Reliable Retailers

Quality artisan-made stools start around $50-75 for simpler designs. Handcrafted hardwoods with detailed joinery or finishes cost $125-150+. Check seller feedback and reviews about durability and construction before purchasing.

Clever Ways to Use a Small Wooden Stool in the Bathroom

Compact stools slide seamlessly into modest bathrooms to instantly add function. Getting creative with their placement results in the biggest gains in convenience and storage.

Extra Seating While Putting on Makeup or Getting Ready

Pull a dainty stool in front of your sink's vanity when applying makeup or styling hair. The added boost in height makes it easier to get close to mirrors for detail work like tweezing or shaving. You can also perch while drying off after baths to keep floors dry and tidy.

Storage for Rolled Towels, Toilet Paper, or Cleaning Supplies

Make the most of humble wooden stools by filling their interior cavities with bathroom necessities. Stash backup toilet paper or wipes to grab easily when needed. Or neatly organize all those extra hand towels that won't squeeze into cabinets or on towel bars.

Cleaning products fit nicely inside too for grabbing quickly when giving bathrooms a wipe down. Just be sure to remove any liquids that could leak and damage bare wood interior surfaces.

Wood stools stationary placements transform them into impromptu shelves or plant stands. Set one beside bathtubs topped with bath salts, bubbles, candles or small speakers to play music from. Use a water-friendly protective tray underneath in case of spills.