16 Clever Ways to Store Towels and Keep Your Bathroom Organized
Towels have a sneaky way of ending up everywhere but where they belong. One minute, they are in neat folds.
The next, they’re draped over the tub, piled on the floor, or stuffed in an already bursting cabinet.
If you’ve ever sighed at the towel chaos (we’ve all been there), it might be time for a smarter system. In this guide, we’ll explore smart ways to save space when storing towels.
You’ll achieve the calm and organized bathroom vibe you want..
1. Over-the-Door Towel Racks
Honestly, these are lifesavers. No drilling, no drama. Just hook it over your door, and boom—instant towel real estate.
Why it works:
- Perfect for renters (or commitment-phobes).
- Holds multiple towels without eating up wall space.
- Some even come with shelves on top for bonus storage.
Ever wondered where to store guest towels? This one’s your new BFF.
2. Floating Shelves
Floating shelves aren’t just for influencers and their indoor plants. You can actually use them.
Try this:
- Stack rolled towels on one shelf.
- Use baskets on another for washcloths or hand towels.
- Bonus shelf for bathroom décor (aka stuff you bought at Target but didn’t know where to put).
Pro tip: Stick to two or three shelves max so it doesn’t scream “towel museum.”
3. Towel Hooks Are Underrated
I’ll say it louder for the people in the back: Hooks > Bars.
Here’s why:
- You can hang more towels without the “they’re touching each other and now they’ll never dry” problem.
- You can install them behind the door, on empty walls, or next to the shower.
And yes, you can even get cute hooks. Think matte black, brass, or ceramic—something with a little personality.
4. Ladder-Style Towel Racks
Want something stylish without trying too hard? Get a wooden ladder rack. Lean it against the wall, and drape your towels like you live in a minimalist home in Copenhagen.
What’s the vibe?
- Boho meets practical.
- Easy to move when you redecorate (again).
- Ideal for small bathrooms with no wall space.
FYI, I found mine at a flea market and painted it black. Ten bucks, now it looks like $80. Just saying.
5. Use Baskets (Yes, Again—but Smarter)
Baskets are like the sweatpants of bathroom storage: comfy, flexible, and always there when you need them.
Where to put them:
- Under your sink.
- On open shelves.
- Even stacked in a corner.
Roll up your towels and stand them upright for that spa look. Bonus points if the basket’s woven and neutral-toned. #aesthetic
6. Wall-Mounted Wine Rack (But Make It Towels)
Trust me. A wall-mounted wine rack is towel storage in disguise. Slide rolled-up towels into each slot and thank me later.
Perfect for:
- Small spaces.
- Impressing guests who think it’s so clever.
- Reusing something that’s been collecting dust in your garage.
IMO, this is one of those “I saw it on TikTok and actually did it” things that works.
7. Install a Towel Shelf Above the Toilet
Yep, that weird space above the toilet isn’t just for bad art anymore.
What to do:
- Install a slim shelf.
- Stack towels or place a couple of baskets up there.
- Add a plant if you’re feeling fancy.
It’s all about using vertical space like a storage ninja.
8. Built-In Niches (If You’re Remodeling Anyway)
If you’re already messing with tiles and grout, ask your contractor to carve out a towel nook in the wall.
Why it’s smart:
- You get storage without adding bulk.
- It looks super sleek.
- It makes people think you know what you’re doing (even if you don’t).
It’s giving “modern spa.” Minus the $200 massage.
9. Repurpose a Bar Cart
No joke—bar carts make excellent bathroom storage. Towels on top, toilet paper below, skincare galore in between.
What I love:
- It rolls!
- It looks high-end (even the $30 ones).
- You can move it out when guests come over if your bathroom’s cozy (read: tiny).
Just maybe don’t keep your actual booze on it unless you want very weird mornings.
10. Over-the-Toilet Storage Units
I used to think these were tacky. Then I found one in matte black with clean lines and a sleek design, and now I’m obsessed.
Great for:
- Stacking towels in visible reach.
- Adding extra shelf space without drilling into walls.
- Making your bathroom look like it came from a catalog.
Warning: Some look like they belong in your grandma’s guest bathroom. Choose wisely.
11. Towel Rings Near the Sink
Want hand towels to stop ending up on the counter or floor? Mount towel rings next to the sink. Simple, but a game-changer.
Benefits:
- Keeps towels dry and easy to reach.
- Adds symmetry and structure to your space.
- Makes it look like you actually care about hand hygiene. 🙂
Plus, rings come in all finishes now—chrome, black, gold. Match them to your faucet and you’re golden.
12. Hidden Drawers or Pull-Out Shelves
Got a vanity with deep cabinets? Add some pull-out drawers inside. Trust me, digging through layers of towels is not a vibe.
Why it’s brilliant:
- Maximizes space.
- Keeps towels clean and dust-free.
- Helps you actually use the ones in the back of the drawer.
This one’s for the Type-A organizers (or wannabes like me).
13. Hanging Baskets on the Wall
Okay, hear me out: Wire or woven hanging baskets mounted on the wall = genius.
What makes them great:
- Easy to grab-and-go.
- Adds texture and interest to blank walls.
- Great for color-coding towels for each family member.
Plus, it gives major farmhouse-chic vibes—no chicken wire necessary.
14. Use a Coat Rack for Towels
If you’ve got space, a vintage coat rack (the kind with arms) can be your bathroom’s secret weapon.
Perks:
- Holds so many towels.
- Easy for guests to spot.
- Adds quirky charm to your space.
Just make sure it’s sealed or painted if your bathroom gets super humid. No one wants a soggy wooden pole situation.
15. Repurpose a Magazine Rack
Tbh, nobody’s reading actual magazines in the bathroom anymore. So give that rack a glow-up.
What it can do:
- Hold rolled hand towels.
- Fit in narrow spaces.
- Make you feel like a DIY genius.
Ever felt proud of turning clutter into clever? This one’s for you.
16. Just Fold Better—Seriously
Sometimes the problem isn’t where, it’s how. Take 5 minutes to learn the spa-style towel roll or the tri-fold method. You’ll be shocked at how much space you save (and how much neater everything looks).
Pro folding =
- More room for more towels.
- Less visual clutter.
- Slight ego boost every time you open the cabinet.
Don’t knock it till you try it.
Final Thoughts: Towel Chaos? Not Anymore.
So there you have it—16 ways to store towels that don’t involve stuffing them into a corner and hoping no one notices. Whether you’re working with a tiny bathroom, a family of five, or just a towel-hoarding habit, there’s a clever fix that works.
Pick one or two ideas to try this weekend. Or go wild and turn your bathroom into a towel storage masterpiece. Either way, your towels (and your sanity) will thank you.
And hey—don’t forget to actually wash those towels once in a while. No amount of clever storage can hide that mildew smell.
