Did you know that the average bathroom in a Toronto home is less than 60 square feet? I’m Robbie Fraikin from Raakss Reno, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned from remodeling bathrooms across the GTA, it’s this: no matter how big or small your bathroom is, smart storage makes or breaks the space.
Whether you’re dealing with a tight powder room or planning a small bathroom makeover, the right storage solutions don’t just improve functionality—they make your bathroom feel cleaner, calmer, and more livable. In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical storage ideas, real-life recommendations, and how I approach storage in most renovations we handle.
Why Storage Matters More Than You Think
Storage isn’t just about hiding clutter. When your essentials have a home, your bathroom feels bigger and cleaner. In fact, most homeowners I work with underestimate how much storage they actually need—until they realize their new bathroom looks amazing but has nowhere to stash towels or toiletries.
This is especially true in small bathrooms. One oversized closet or too many open shelves, and you’ve accidentally made your space feel tighter and messier.
Built-In Bathroom Storage Is a Game-Changer
When space is tight, I always recommend thinking built-in over freestanding.
Medicine cabinets that are recessed into the wall behind mirrors save inches while storing everyday essentials. I often recommend these especially in smaller bathrooms—plus, you can get them with defogging features and lighting built in.
Floating vanities are another favorite. Because they don’t touch the floor, they visually open the space—but still have drawers or open cubbies for your day-to-day needs. For example, pairing a floating vanity with a matching side unit can give you towel storage without adding bulk.
We’ve also had clients who removed outdated built-in closets to free up floor space, allowing for better layout planning and upgraded fixtures. Sometimes, less is more, especially when it’s well thought out.
👉 Want inspiration on vanities and layout upgrades? Check out our article on ensuite bathroom ideas for more functional design options.
Vertical Space Is Storage Gold
Look up—there’s usually a lot of unused wall space that could be working harder.
Above-the-toilet shelving gives you room for extra toilet paper, towels, or even decorative accents like plants.
Wall-mounted towel racks or hooks behind the door can make drying and hanging more efficient.
Consider narrow shelving or built-ins above eye level for extra supplies you don’t need to access daily.
These are easy DIY upgrades or can be incorporated into a professional reno for a cleaner finish.
Storage Mistakes to Avoid
Through dozens of bathroom makeovers, I’ve seen what doesn’t work. Here are a few things to steer clear of:
Over-cluttering the space: Just because a unit fits doesn’t mean it belongs there. If it blocks movement or light, it’s a no-go.
Using your bathroom like a storage unit: Don’t try to store everything in one place. Keep only what you need daily in the bathroom—everything else can live in a nearby linen closet.
Neglecting waterproof materials: If you’re placing wood-based shelves or storage near moisture, make sure they’re sealed or designed for humid environments.
A Word on Materials
If you’re buying standalone storage furniture—like over-the-toilet units or wall-mounted shelves—watch for durability. Bathrooms are naturally humid and damp, so materials like MDF can warp or swell over time. I always tell my clients to spend a little more for water-resistant coatings or powder-coated metal options. You’ll thank yourself later.
Practical Product Recommendations
Here are a few items I’ve recommended (and installed) for clients in the past:
Recessed medicine cabinets with mirror and lighting
Floating vanities with soft-close drawers
Matching side cabinets that mount flush with your vanity
Under-sink organizers for double-vanity setups
Wall-mounted open shelves above the toilet or door
Compact towel ladders that double as décor
If you’re handling your own purchasing, just make sure the finish and color scheme matches your overall style—storage should blend, not stand out.
How We Help at Raakss Reno
At Raakss Reno, 95% of our clients buy their own materials—but I always help guide them. Whether it’s pointing them to the right tile shop or advising on functional vanities, we’re not just building a bathroom—we’re making sure it works for you.
We’re all about smart planning. Before any build starts, we’ll walk through your layout, your must-haves, and what storage you’ll actually use. From bathroom lighting to glass and mirrors, we build from experience—so nothing gets overlooked.
Explore budget-friendly tips to save on renovations while still getting custom storage.
Learn what bathroom repairs you shouldn’t ignore—especially around old storage cabinets and vanities.
Planning a small bathroom makeover? You’ll love our guide to best tile ideas and how color impacts perception of space.
Final Thought from Me, Robbie
Every piece in your bathroom—from your vanity to your medicine cabinet—should serve a purpose. If it doesn’t? You’re probably wasting space. Don’t just renovate your bathroom. Design it to serve your life—and good storage is how you start.
📞 Ready to talk about your bathroom? Reach out to us on our Contact Page and let’s build your perfect space together.