Maximize your bathroom's storage space and personalize your décor simultaneously with a DIY custom over-the-toilet storage cabinet! Bathroom storage often feels limited, leaving toiletries scattered and surfaces cluttered. This simple yet elegant solution transforms that wasted vertical space above your toilet into a practical and stylish addition to your bathroom. Forget overpriced, pre-made cabinets that may not perfectly fit your space or style. This guide empowers you to create a bespoke cabinet tailored to your exact needs and aesthetic preferences, all while saving a significant amount of money.
With readily available materials and straightforward instructions, building your own over-the-toilet cabinet is a surprisingly achievable project for even novice DIY enthusiasts. Ready to transform your bathroom from cluttered to chic? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to build your very own custom storage solution.
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
Tools Needed
- 1x2 boards
- 1/2in plywood
- 3/4in plywood
- screws
- wood glue
- spacer
- speed square
- drill
- pilot drill bits
- bar clamps
- 2in iron-on wood edging
- wood filler
- white chalk paint
- wood tint
- white wax
- wall anchor kit
Safety Guidelines
- Always turn off the water supply to the toilet before beginning any work near the plumbing. Leaks can cause significant damage.
- Ensure the cabinet is securely fastened to the wall studs for stability. Improper fastening can lead to the cabinet tipping or falling.
- Wear appropriate safety glasses and gloves when using power tools and handling sharp materials.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Build Side Panel Skeleton
- Build the skeleton of the side panels. Cut shelf supports, leaving space for shelves and the toilet.
Build Side Panel Skeleton Attach Shelf Supports
- Attach the supports to the 1x2 boards using a spacer to maintain consistent spacing between boards.
Attach Shelf Supports Create Shelves
- Make the shelves. Cut plywood shelves, leaving space at the back. Glue narrow edges of 1x2s to plywood shelves for thickness.
Create Shelves Assemble Cabinet & Install Shelves
- Assemble the cabinet. Place the outside panels with supports facing down, prop them up, and slide shelves in place. Use bar clamps to hold.
- Attach shelves using screws. Drill pilot holes to avoid going through the shelves. It is easier to install from top down.
Assemble Cabinet & Install Shelves Add Optional Half-Shelf
- Add a half-shelf (optional).
Add Optional Half-Shelf Add Shelf Edging
- Add wood edging to the front of the shelves.
Add Shelf Edging Reinforce Back Panel
- Attach a piece of plywood to the back for sturdiness.
Reinforce Back Panel Install Leg Braces
- Attach leg braces. The back brace should be about 6 inches from the bottom. Side panels should be about a foot off the ground.
Install Leg Braces Conceal Screws & Fill Holes
- Recess screw heads and cover with wood filler.
Conceal Screws & Fill Holes Finish and Paint Cabinet
- Finish the cabinet. Sand, paint with white chalk paint, apply wood tint, and finish with white wax.
Finish and Paint Cabinet Secure to Wall
- Secure to the wall using a wall anchor kit.
Secure to Wall
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Tips
- Leave enough space between the bottom shelf and the toilet for access.
- It's easier to install shelves from the top down.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Incorrect Measurements
Reason: Taking inaccurate measurements of the toilet and available space leads to a cabinet that doesn't fit properly or looks awkward.
Solution: Carefully measure the toilet's dimensions and the available wall space multiple times before starting construction.
2. Poorly Secured Cabinet to the Wall
Reason: Using insufficient or inappropriate fasteners can result in a wobbly or unstable cabinet, potentially leading to damage or injury.
Solution: Use heavy-duty wall anchors appropriate for your wall type and distribute weight evenly with multiple fasteners.
3. Ignoring Plumbing Access
Reason: Building a cabinet that completely obstructs access to the toilet's plumbing creates future maintenance headaches.
Solution: Leave sufficient space and/or build access panels into the cabinet design to allow for easy access to the plumbing.
FAQs
What tools and materials will I need to build this cabinet?
The necessary materials depend on your design, but generally include wood (plywood or MDF), wood glue, screws, hinges, a door handle, paint or stain, measuring tape, saw (circular saw or hand saw), drill, screwdriver, sander, and possibly a router for decorative edges. A complete list will be provided in the materials section.
How do I ensure the cabinet fits perfectly over my toilet?
Before building, carefully measure the width and depth of your toilet and the available wall space above it. Account for any toilet tank protrusions or wall irregularities. Building a slightly smaller cabinet initially allows for adjustments during installation.
What if I don't have much woodworking experience? Is this project still doable?
Absolutely! This guide is designed for beginners. While some woodworking skills are helpful, the steps are explained clearly and are achievable with patience and careful attention to detail. Don't be afraid to take your time and ask for help if needed.