Let’s be honest — bathrooms are often short on space. When you’ve got a toilet taking up prime real estate, it’s easy to wonder, “Where do I put all this stuff?”
Towels, toilet paper, cleaners, extra soaps, magazines — they all need a home.
That’s exactly where behind-toilet storage comes in. And if you’re thinking about shopping for one at Walmart, you’re in luck — there are options that are functional, affordable, and stylish enough to enhance your bathroom instead of cluttering it.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know:
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Why behind-toilet storage matters
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Types of storage solutions
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Smart tips for small bathrooms
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What to consider before buying
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Installation basics
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Ideas that actually look good
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FAQs for quick answers
It’s time to make that awkward space above your toilet work for you — in a way that feels thoughtful and useful.
Why Behind-Toilet Storage Matters More Than You Think
Bathrooms are tricky. They’re small, humid, and packed with items that need easy access. Storage under the sink gets used, but there’s so much dead space right above the toilet that usually goes unnoticed.
When you use that space effectively, here’s what happens:
- You gain valuable storage without crowding the floor
- Your bathroom looks neater and more organized
- Everyday items are easier to find
- You free up counter and cabinet space
- Even small bathrooms feel more functional
It’s one of those small design choices that delivers big practical benefit.
Types of Behind-Toilet Storage (And What Works Best)
Let’s break down the most common storage solutions you can find — especially at Walmart — and what makes each one useful.
1. Over-Toilet Shelving Units
This is the classic behind-toilet storage setup.
It’s basically a shelving unit that stands on the floor, rises above the toilet, and gives you:
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open shelves
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hidden cabinets
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or a mix of both
Why it works:
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Takes advantage of vertical space
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No drilling required (in many models)
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Great for towels, baskets, decor, and essentials
Who it’s best for:
People who want maximum storage without wall mounting.
2. Wall-Mounted Cabinets
If you like a cleaner, more built-in look, wall-mounted cabinets over the toilet are a great choice.
These usually come with:
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doors to hide clutter
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adjustable shelves
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sleek finishes
Why it works:
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Keeps everything out of sight
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Looks modern and streamlined
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Good for narrow bathrooms
Who it’s best for:
People who prefer closed storage and minimalist style.
3. Simple Floating Shelves
Floating shelves give you storage and display space — ideal if you love a bit of styling.
You can use them for:
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folded towels
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scented candles
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small baskets
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plants
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toiletries
Why it works:
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Affordable and stylish
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Easy to install in most bathrooms
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Perfect for light storage
Who it’s best for:
People who want style + function without bulk.
4. Narrow Storage Towers
These vertical units stand beside or behind the toilet and make excellent use of tall, narrow space.
They’re ideal when:
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your bathroom is tight on floor space
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you need discrete storage
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you want easy access to toilet paper and wipes
Why it works:
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Tall, slim design fits even small bathrooms
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Lots of hidden storage without cluttering the room
5. Mirror Cabinets With Behind-Toilet Shelves
Some bathrooms combine a mirror cabinet with extra shelving below — a smart way to double up on storage without separate pieces.
This style works especially well when:
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you want to avoid a bunch of separate furniture
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you prefer a coordinated look
Why it works:
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Two storage needs in one footprint
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Looks intentional and sleek
What to Consider Before You Buy
Don’t just buy the first piece that fits! Think about these key things first:
1. Size & Measurement
Before anything else, measure:
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the width above your toilet
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the height between the toilet and ceiling
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how much clearance you need for your head
Too big = awkward. Too small = wasted space.
2. Style of Your Bathroom
Storage doesn’t exist in a vacuum — it should fit your aesthetic.
Ask yourself:
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Is your bathroom modern, traditional, rustic, or minimalist?
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Do you want open shelves or closed cabinets?
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What finishes match your cabinets and fixtures?
This keeps the space cohesive.
3. Moisture & Material
Bathrooms are humid, so prioritize materials that resist moisture:
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sealed wood
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metal with rust-resistant finish
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plastic or PVC shelves
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engineered materials
Avoid raw, unfinished wood that can warp or stain.
4. Ease of Installation
Some storage units:
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stand on the floor
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clamp to the wall
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need professional installation
If you’re not a DIY person, choose what feels doable — or get help!
5. What You Plan to Store
Before buying, think about what actually needs storing:
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Toilet paper rolls
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Extra towels
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Cleaning supplies
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Toiletries
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Makeup or personal care
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Decorative items
This will tell you whether you need:
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deep shelves
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wide shelves
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closed cabinets
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combo options
Stylish & Practical Ideas for Behind-Toilet Storage
Okay, now let’s have some fun. Here are practical ideas that look great — not just serve function.
1. Towel Stacks + Baskets
Fold towels and set them on open shelves with small baskets for smaller items. It feels spa-like and tidy.
2. Hidden Cleaning Supplies
Place cleaning sprays, brushes, and extra soaps behind cabinet doors so they’re ready but out of sight.
3. Display With Purpose
Use floating shelves to show:
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candles
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small potted plants
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perfume bottles
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decorative items
Just keep the top shelves for decor and bottom shelves for essentials.
4. Magazine or Book Storage
A small basket with reading material can make your bathroom feel more thoughtful and comfortable (for those relaxed moments).
5. Matching Accessories
Pick a storage piece that matches other bathroom hardware — towel bars, hooks, mirror frame — for a unified look.
Installation Basics — Make It Easy & Secure
Here are some practical installation tips so your storage stays solid:
Choose Appropriate Hardware
If you’re drilling into tile, use proper tile anchors or get a professional.
Check Stud Locations
If you’re mounting cabinets, finding studs makes the unit more secure.
Keep Clearance in Mind
Make sure nothing interferes with flushing or your head hitting shelves.
Use Anti-Tip Straps (If Needed)
Tall, free-standing units should be anchored to prevent tipping.
Maintenance Tips (Keep It Looking Sharp)
Bathrooms are humid and prone to splashes — so storage needs a bit of love.
Wipe Regularly
A quick dust + wipe stops buildup.
Avoid Standing Water
If shelves get wet from splashes, dry them so finishes stay happy.
Airflow Helps
Good ventilation keeps cabinets and shelves from smelling musty.
Reorganize Seasonally
Every few months, clear out old items to keep it tidy.
FAQs — Behind-Toilet Storage Walmart
Q1. What is behind-toilet storage used for?
It’s used to store towels, toiletries, toilet paper, cleaners, and small decorative items while freeing up bathroom floor and counter space.
Q2. Can I install shelving myself?
Yes — if you’re comfortable with basic tools. Otherwise, simple freestanding units require no installation.
Q3. How do I choose the right size?
Measure the width and height above your toilet first. Aim for proportionate storage that doesn’t crowd the space.
Q4. What materials last best in bathrooms?
Moisture-resistant materials like sealed wood, engineered wood, metal with finishes, or PVC are best.
Q5. Should I use open shelves or cabinets?
Open shelves are airy and decorative — great for towels and neat items. Cabinets keep clutter hidden — perfect for cleaning supplies and extras.
Final Thoughts — Small Space, Big Impact
Bathroom storage doesn’t have to be an afterthought. With something as simple as behind-toilet storage from Walmart, you can transform wasted space into a smart, intentional part of your bathroom.
Here’s the essence:
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Measure before you buy
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Pick materials that handle humidity
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Choose styles that match your décor
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Organize based on what you use most
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Install securely and maintain easily
The space above your toilet can go from an awkward void to one of the most functional areas in your bathroom.
And once you see how much easier life gets with smart storage, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.