Tiny Bathroom Storage with Shallow Cabinets

Bathroom storage space always seems to be in short supply. With all the toiletries, towels, and other essentials we need to store, it's easy to run out of places to neatly tuck everything away. This gets especially challenging in small or tiny bathrooms where there just isn't much free space to begin with.

Shallow bathroom storage cabinets provide a clever solution for opening up storage capacity without taking up valuable floor space. Measuring between 3 to 7 inches deep, these specialized cabinets squeeze into tight areas and transform previously unusable nooks into organized storage solutions.

Maximizing Vertical Storage

The key to shallow bathroom cabinet storage is utilizing vertical space. By building up rather than out, shallow cabinets capitalize on the height in your bathroom you aren't currently using. Here are some ideas for going vertical with shallow bathroom cabinetry:

• Wall mounted cabinets: Installing shallow wall cabinets over the toilet or sink takes advantage of prime real estate that's often wasted.
• Tower cabinets: Slender, freestanding tower cabinets tuck neatly into corners or narrow spaces between existing fixtures.
• Two-tier open shelves: Double your storage with open shelves stacked vertically to hold towels, toiletries and decorative items on display.

Under Sink Storage Solutions

The space under bathroom sinks is prime shallow cabinet territory. Open shelves or enclosed cabinets under the sink keep items visible or hidden away as needed. For example, daily essentials like soap, lotion and toothbrushes can live on open shelves for grab-and-go access. More private items or medical supplies might be better stored behind cabinet doors.

Overhead Storage Options

Another spot that tends to get neglected is the area above your toilet. Shallow cabinets for this previously disused place open up storage that's easy to access. The key is installing cabinets that are high enough to avoid getting bonked on the head every time you stand up. Aim for at least 72 inches of clearance between the floor and bottom of the cabinet.

Popular Shallow Cabinet Styles

Shallow bathroom cabinets come in a variety of configurations to suit your specific storage needs and style preferences. Here are some of the most popular options:

Freestanding Tower Cabinets

Slender like a tower with a narrow footprint, freestanding tower cabinets squeeze into tight floor spaces. Stacked vertically with shelves or drawers, towers make use of corner nooks or gaps between existing furniture. Available in wood, metal or glass, towers bring stylish storage to modest bathrooms.

Wall Mounted Cabinets

Wall mounted shallow cabinets install directly onto bathroom walls studs to save floor space. Mount them above sinks, toilets, in corners or vertically stacked. Mix open shelves and enclosed cabinet spaces for combined display and hidden storage. Wall mounts work especially well over pedestal sinks lacking surface storage.

Under Sink Storage Cabinets

Shallow cabinets for under bathroom sinks come as both open shelving units or full cabinet enclosures. Enclosed cabinets hide mess while shelves provide grab-and-go access to daily essentials. Many include interior dividers, slide out trays and other built-in organizational features. Install directly under sinks mounted to walls or freestanding vanities.

Design & Installation Tips

Achieving a storage boost with shallow bathroom cabinets relies on careful planning and smart installation. Follow these tips to maximize your gained space:

• Audit what you need to store so cabinets meet your storage requirements.
• Measure potential cabinet locations to ensure proper sizing and fit.
• Factor in plumbing or electrical that could dictate placement.
• Include interior organization systems like slide out trays, adjustable shelves and inner compartments.
• Install storage solutions even in modest unused spaces to avoid wasted areas.

Choosing Fixtures wisely

The design of your existing bathroom fixtures impacts how much storage gain shallow cabinets can provide. Optimize storage space by choosing bathroom basics like:

• Wall mounted sinks and toilets to open up floor area.
• Pedestal sinks lacking under surface storage space.
• Open bottom vanities allowing cabinet installation.
• Vessel sinks permitting under sink cabinet placement.

Multifunctional Furniture

In very compact bathrooms, shallow cabinets pulled double duty as storage and furniture combine multiple functions. Consider shallow cabinets offering extra amenities such as:

• A mirror surface for checking your look.
• An integrated bathroom sink gaining counter and storage space.
• A cushioned top for extra seating.
• Hooks and shelves for hanging and displaying items.
• Drawers for tucking away bathroom essentials.
• Doors hiding necessities behind closed cabinets.

Material & Finish Options

Shallow bathroom cabinets come in a variety of material finishes to coordinate with your room's style. Consider what look you want to achieve when selecting cabinet materials:

Wood Cabinet Materials

The warmth of wood brings a traditional sensibility. Opt for moisture resistant wood species like teak able to handle bathroom humidity. Or choose engineered woods made with moisture defence technology such as CARB compliant medium density fiberboard (MDF).

Metal and Wire Shelving

The straight clean lines of metal wire shelving has an industrial modern vibe. Metal finishes like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze complement traditional decor. Durable metal stands up well to bathroom moisture while providing see-through storage.

Glass Cabinet Materials

Transparent or colored glass cabinets lend a contemporary airiness. Tempered glass withstands heat and humidity. Frosted glass diffuses contents keeping them discreetly hidden while still visible. For traditional charm, leaded or beveled glass nicely accents other wood cabinets.

Bamboo Cabinetry

Eco-friendly bamboo bathroom cabinets bring natural texture. Bamboo's moisture resistance makes it an ideal wood alternative able to handle steamy bathrooms. Different stains dramatically vary bamboo's look from light and airy washed looks to rich darker stains.

Style Ideas

Shallow bathroom cabinets assimilate beautifully into various decor styles. Whether your bathroom leans traditional, modern or coastal, shallow cabinetry fits right in when materials and finishes coordinate.

Modern and Contemporary

The clean simplicity of glass, metal or colorful lacquer cabinets give bathrooms a sleek modern edge. Contemporary styling choices include:

• Frosted tempered glass shelves and cabinets in chrome or black metal frames.
• White powder coated metal wire shelving and wall mounts providing crisp contrast.
• Glossy two-toned cabinets in matte and high-gloss lacquer combinations.

Traditional Styles

Warm wood finishes, framed cabinet doors and ornate hardware bring old-world traditional charm. Ideas such as:

• Dark espresso stained cabinets with oil rubbed bronze hardware
• Whitewashed wood cabinets with recessed panel doors and porcelain knobs
• Wood medicine cabinets with mirrors backed by charming crown molding

Coastal Looks

Breezy coastal decor welcomes shallow cabinets in driftwoods, sea glass hues and weathered finishes. For beach house flair try:

• White washed wood cabinets with visible wood grains
• Sky blue glass shelves and matching ceramic knobs
• Natural woven rattan storage baskets in sand and navy tones

Rustic Bathroom Style

Rough luxe rustic design sees smooth modern forms mix with organic textures. Rustic shallow cabinet ideas such as:

• Reclaimed wood wall mounts with galvanized hardware
• Frosted glass cabinets on cast iron frames
• White lacquer cabinets with woven bamboo fronts

Finishing Touches

The right accessories put the final polish on shallow bathroom cabinets. Finishing touches optimize storage spaces while upping the stylish appeal.

Mood Lighting Sets the Tone

Task lighting ensures you can actually see what's in those cabinets. Accent lighting sets a relaxing ambiance. Lighting ideas include:

• Under cabinet LED strip lighting to illuminate interiors
• Overhead directional lights positioned to avoid shadows
• Niche lights highlighting decorative displays
• Strip lighting behind mirrors surrounded by shallow cabinets

Stylish Decorations

Tasteful decor transforms plain cabinets into focal features. Display treasured travel trinkets, sea glass collections or perfumed candles. Other decorative touches like:

• Framed photos or artworks exhibiting personality
• Scented candles setting a relaxing mood
• Stacked ornamental boxes for striking colors and textures
• Glass canisters of cotton balls and swabs kept within sight

Color Contrasts Draw the Eye

Crisp color pairings carve out defined storage zones that pop. Contrasting combinations for visual interest:

• Glossy white cabinets on matte navy blue walls
• Vibrant orange organizational trays within neutral cabinets
• Metallic finishes like glinting brass or warm bronzes

Maintenance

Preserve your shallow bathroom cabinets by giving them a bit of periodic TLC. With regular attention, they'll keep your bathroom organized for years.

Regular Cleanings

Frequently wipe down cabinet exteriors using a soft damp cloth and mild cleaner safe for the material. Take special care when using spray cleaners to avoid drips seeping into cabinet interiors.

Check for Damage

Inspect cabinets every couple of months for any damage from moisture exposure. Look for bubbling finishes, mold growth or warped shelves. Promptly fix minor issues before they worsen. If damage is extensive, replacement may be needed.

Dust Proofing

Bathroom humidity enables dust build up that clouds the contents of glass-fronted cabinets. Use closet storage sheets inside glass cabinets to prevent dust. Or try moisture absorbing packets changed out monthly.

Costs & Considerations

Shallow bathroom cabinets span a wide price spectrum. Costs vary based on size, materials, included fixtures and installation. Here's what impacts pricing:

Project Budget

As a rough estimate, shallow cabinetry runs $50 - $500+. Factors affecting budget:

• Materials: Solid woods cost more than engineered wood products and plastics.
• Included fixtures: Built-in lighting, mirrors or sinks raise prices.
• Size: Larger or custom cabinetry costs exponentially more.
• Do It Yourself vs Pro Install: DIY saves on labor fees.

With proper care, quality shallow bathroom cabinets operate for a decade or longer. Signs it's time to replace cabinets include loose hinges, sagging frames, warped shelves or finishes worn bare.

Storage challenges in modest bathrooms meet their match with shallow bathroom cabinets. These slim specialty cabinets squeeze into previously unusable spaces to cure clutter. Tailor shallow cabinetry to your taste with diverse materials and finishes sure to match any style. Accessible organization is just inches deep away!