Styling bathroom shelves can be a daunting task, especially when trying to avoid clutter. However, with the right approach, anyone can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing bathroom storage space. In this article, we will discuss five steps to styling bathroom shelves that don’t look cluttered.
The first step to styling bathroom shelves is to consider the existing shelves and how they complement the bathroom’s overall style and functionality. Whether you have floating shelves, built-in shelves, ladder shelves, a wall ledge, shower shelves, or even shelves in your bar cart or vanity, it’s essential to make sure they match the bathroom’s decor. This step ensures that the shelves blend in seamlessly with the bathroom’s design and don’t look out of place.
The second step is to use boxes, bins, and baskets to keep clutter in check. One of the biggest drawbacks of open shelves is visible clutter, which can make the bathroom look messy and disorganized. By using boxes, bins, and baskets, you can contain all the small accessories and keep them out of sight. This step not only helps keep the bathroom looking neat and tidy but also makes it easier to find what you need.
Assessing Your Space and Needs
When it comes to styling bathroom shelves, the first step is to assess your space and needs. This will help you determine what items you need to store and how much space you have to work with. Here are a few things to consider:
Evaluate Shelf Dimensions
Before you start styling your bathroom shelves, it’s important to evaluate the dimensions of your shelves. This will help you determine what items you can store and how you can arrange them. Make sure to measure the width, depth, and height of each shelf, and take note of any obstacles, such as pipes or light fixtures, that may affect your storage options.
Consider Bathroom Essentials
When assessing your space and needs, it’s important to consider your bathroom essentials. These are the items that you use on a daily basis, such as towels, toilet paper, and soap. Make sure to store these items in a convenient location, such as on a lower shelf or in a basket, so that they are easily accessible.
In addition to your bathroom essentials, you may also want to consider storing other items on your bathroom shelves, such as decorative items, plants, or extra toiletries. However, it’s important to avoid overcrowding your shelves, as this can make your bathroom look cluttered and disorganized.
By evaluating your shelf dimensions and considering your bathroom essentials, you can create a functional and stylish storage solution for your bathroom shelves.
Selecting a Cohesive Style
When styling bathroom shelves, it’s important to choose a cohesive style that complements the overall look and feel of the bathroom. This can be achieved by selecting a color scheme and consistent materials.
Choose a Color Scheme
A color scheme can tie the different elements of the bathroom together and create a cohesive look. When selecting a color scheme for the bathroom shelves, it’s important to consider the existing colors in the bathroom. For example, if the bathroom has a neutral color palette, adding pops of color to the shelves can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Another option is to use a monochromatic color scheme for the shelves. This involves using different shades of the same color to create a cohesive look. For example, using different shades of blue on the shelves can create a serene and calming atmosphere in the bathroom.
Pick Consistent Materials
Using consistent materials on the bathroom shelves can also create a cohesive look. For example, if the bathroom has a modern aesthetic, using metal or glass shelves can complement the overall style. On the other hand, if the bathroom has a rustic or farmhouse style, using wooden shelves can tie in with the existing decor.
When selecting materials for the bathroom shelves, it’s also important to consider the durability and functionality of the materials. For example, if the shelves will be used to store heavy items like towels or toiletries, it’s important to choose sturdy materials that can withstand the weight.
By selecting a cohesive style for the bathroom shelves, homeowners can create a functional and visually appealing storage solution that complements the overall look and feel of the bathroom.
Organizing for Functionality
When styling bathroom shelves, it is essential to prioritize functionality. The items that are used daily should be easily accessible and organized in a way that makes sense. By doing so, the bathroom will become more efficient, and the shelves will remain clutter-free.
Prioritize Everyday Items
When organizing bathroom shelves, prioritize everyday items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and facial cleansers. These items should be placed in a visible and easily accessible location. Consider using a small tray or dish to corral these items and prevent them from rolling around or cluttering the shelves.
Less frequently used items such as extra towels, seasonal decor, and backup supplies can be stored in the back or on higher shelves. This will free up prime real estate for the items that are used daily.
Utilize Storage Containers
Using storage containers is an excellent way to keep bathroom shelves organized and clutter-free. Consider using labeled bins or baskets to store items such as hair accessories, makeup, and skincare products. This will not only keep the shelves looking tidy but will also make it easier to find what you need.
When selecting storage containers, consider the size of the shelves and the items that need to be stored. Clear containers are an excellent choice as they allow you to see the contents without having to open each container.
By prioritizing everyday items and utilizing storage containers, bathroom shelves can be organized in a way that is both functional and stylish.
Also, read about Small Bathroom Shower Ideas: Luxurious Solutions for Limited Space
Decorating with Intention
When it comes to styling bathroom shelves, it’s important to decorate with intention. This means choosing items that not only look good, but also serve a purpose and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the space. Here are a few tips for decorating bathroom shelves with intention:
Incorporate Decorative Elements
Decorative elements can add visual interest and personality to your bathroom shelves. This can include items such as framed artwork, decorative vases, or unique sculptures. When choosing decorative elements, it’s important to keep the overall style and color scheme of your bathroom in mind. For example, if your bathroom has a modern, minimalist aesthetic, you may want to choose decorative elements that are sleek and simple.
Balance Visual Weight
When styling bathroom shelves, it’s important to balance visual weight. This means distributing items of varying sizes, shapes, and colors in a way that creates a visually pleasing display. One way to achieve balance is to use the rule of thirds. This involves dividing your shelves into thirds both vertically and horizontally, and placing items in each of the resulting nine sections. Another way to achieve balance is to use items of varying heights and shapes, and to group similar items together.
By incorporating decorative elements and balancing visual weight, you can create a stylish and functional display on your bathroom shelves. Remember to choose items that reflect your personal style and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your bathroom.
Maintaining a Clutter-Free Look
Regular Decluttering Sessions
To maintain a clutter-free look on bathroom shelves, it is important to regularly declutter the items on the shelves. This can be done by setting aside a few minutes each week or month to go through the items on the shelves and remove any that are no longer needed or used. This can also be a good opportunity to organize the remaining items in a more efficient manner.
One way to make decluttering easier is to have designated spaces for different types of items. For example, having a specific bin or basket for hair products, another for towels, and another for cleaning supplies can help keep everything organized and make it easier to find what is needed.
Implement Easy-to-Adhere-to Systems
Another way to maintain a clutter-free look is to implement easy-to-adhere-to systems. This can include using clear containers or bins to store smaller items, such as cotton balls or Q-tips, or using labeled baskets to keep larger items, such as towels or extra toilet paper, organized.
It can also be helpful to limit the number of items on the shelves. This can be done by only keeping items that are used regularly on the shelves and storing the rest in a separate location, such as a linen closet or under-sink storage. This will not only help keep the shelves clutter-free but also make it easier to find what is needed.
By regularly decluttering and implementing easy-to-adhere-to systems, it is possible to maintain a clutter-free look on bathroom shelves.