DIY Shower Shelf: Simple Storage Solution for Your Bathroom

Updated at: 17/05/2025

Is your shower a chaotic jumble of shampoo bottles, soap bars, and barely-there loofahs? Clutter in the shower isn't just unsightly; it can also make showering a frustrating experience. A simple solution to this common bathroom problem is a DIY shower shelf! Creating your own custom storage is surprisingly easy, offering a cost-effective and personalized way to organize your shower essentials and maximize your space. You'll be amazed at how much cleaner and more efficient your shower routine becomes with a well-organized shelving system.

This guide will walk you through a straightforward process for building a sturdy and attractive shower shelf, perfect for any bathroom. Forget expensive, pre-fabricated options; we'll demonstrate how to construct a practical solution using readily available materials. Ready to transform your chaotic shower into a spa-like oasis? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed

8 by 1 pine board
wood stain (espresso)
wooden dowels
wood glue
clear coat
drill

Safety Guidelines

Always ensure the shelf's weight capacity is appropriate for the items you plan to store. Overloading can lead to the shelf falling and causing injury or damage.
Use appropriate waterproof adhesive or sealant to prevent water damage to the shelf and surrounding wall. Test the adhesive on an inconspicuous area first.
Never install a shelf in a location where it could obstruct access to shower controls or safety features.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Board
- Cut the pine board to the width of your tub, ensuring a slight overhang.
- Apply a coat of wood stain to the board. Let it set and wipe off any excess.
Prepare the Board
Add Hanging Hooks
- Drill holes for the wooden dowels to create hooks on the front of the board for hanging loofahs, etc.
Add Hanging Hooks
Secure the Shelf to the Tub
- Mark the underside of the board where your tub sits. Drill small holes and insert wooden dowels to help keep the shelf in place.
- Apply wood glue to secure the dowels.
- Stain the dowels to match the board.
Secure the Shelf to the Tub
Protect with Clear Coat
- Apply multiple coats of clear coat to protect the shelf from water damage.
Protect with Clear Coat

Tips

Use a dark stain to match existing bathroom decor.
Wooden dowels are a good alternative to metal hooks to avoid rust.
Sand and wipe down between coats of clear coat for a smooth finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Improper Measurement and Cutting

Reason: Inaccurate measurements lead to shelves that are too small, too big, or don't fit the shower walls properly.

Solution: Carefully measure your shower space multiple times before cutting your materials and double-check measurements before attaching components.

2. Using Non-Waterproof Materials

Reason: Materials like untreated wood or certain glues will absorb water, rot, and mold, ruining the shelf and potentially causing damage to your shower.

Solution: Use waterproof materials like PVC, treated lumber, or stainless steel, and ensure any adhesive is rated for wet environments.

3. Inadequate Support or Attachment

Reason: Weak attachment or insufficient support will cause the shelf to sag or fall, potentially causing injury or damage.

Solution: Use strong adhesives, appropriate screws and anchors for your shower wall type, and consider adding extra support brackets for heavier loads.

FAQs

What materials do I need to build a DIY shower shelf?

The specific materials depend on your chosen design, but common options include waterproof wood (like cedar or treated pine), strong adhesive (like silicone sealant or construction adhesive), and potentially screws and brackets for added support. You might also need waterproof sealant, sandpaper, and a measuring tape.