DIY Bathroom Shelves: Quick & Easy Over-Toilet Installation

Updated at: 29/05/2025

Transform your bathroom from cluttered to chic with the simple addition of over-toilet shelving! Limited on space but overflowing with toiletries and cleaning supplies? This common bathroom dilemma has a surprisingly easy solution: DIY installation of stylish and functional shelves above your toilet. Forget expensive, pre-fabricated units and embrace the satisfaction of a personalized project that perfectly suits your needs and aesthetic. With just a few readily available materials and a little bit of elbow grease, you can dramatically increase your bathroom's storage capacity. The process is surprisingly quick and simple, even for novice DIY enthusiasts.

This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process, providing clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure a seamless installation. From choosing the right materials and measuring accurately to securing the shelves safely and adding those finishing touches, we'll cover everything you need to know to complete your project efficiently and effectively. Let's get started and create that spa-like bathroom you've always dreamed of!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Shelves (with mounting hardware)
  • Drywall anchors
  • Drywall screws
  • Screwdriver
  • Drill with appropriate drill bits (smaller than screw size and pilot hole size if desired)
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Tape measure (optional)
  • Stud finder (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure the toilet's supporting wall is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the shelves and their contents. Avoid installing shelves on drywall alone; use wall studs for secure mounting.
  • Always turn off the water supply to the toilet before starting the installation. This prevents accidental flooding during the process.
  • Use appropriate safety gear like safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris during drilling and installation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Planning and Preparation

    • Measure and mark the desired shelf locations on the wall. Center the shelves over the toilet, not necessarily centered between other bathroom fixtures.
    • Use a stud finder to locate wall studs if possible. This will provide extra support. If you can't find studs, mark the location for pilot holes if desired.
    Use a stud finder to locate wall studs if possible. This will provide extra support. If you can't find studs, mark the location for pilot holes if desired.
    Planning and Preparation

  2. Pre-Installation (Optional)

    • Attach the towel bar (if using) to one of the shelves. Position it slightly back from the front edge for better towel placement.
    Attach the towel bar (if using) to one of the shelves. Position it slightly back from the front edge for better towel placement.
    Pre-Installation (Optional)

  3. Drilling Pilot Holes and Anchors (If Necessary)

    • Drill pilot holes (optional) using a drill bit smaller than your screw size. If hitting a stud, only use the screw. If not hitting a stud, use drywall anchors before inserting screws.
    • Insert and secure the drywall anchors into the pilot holes (if necessary).
    Insert and secure the drywall anchors into the pilot holes (if necessary).Insert and secure the drywall anchors into the pilot holes (if necessary).
    Drilling Pilot Holes and Anchors (If Necessary)

  4. Installing Brackets

    • Position the shelf brackets on the wall, ensuring they are level and align with the marks. Partially insert the screws to allow for shelf placement.
    Position the shelf brackets on the wall, ensuring they are level and align with the marks. Partially insert the screws to allow for shelf placement.
    Installing Brackets

  5. Attaching Shelves

    • Hang the shelves, aligning them with the brackets. Tighten the screws securely to ensure the shelves are stable.
    Hang the shelves, aligning them with the brackets. Tighten the screws securely to ensure the shelves are stable.
    Attaching Shelves

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Tips

  • Consider the placement of the shelves in relation to the toilet and other bathroom fixtures. Prioritize centering over the toilet for a clean look.
  • Use a level to ensure the shelves are installed straight and level. Even small inconsistencies can make the shelves look awkward.
  • Use a stud finder to maximize support, especially for heavier items. Drywall anchors are a good backup option, but studs are preferable.
  • Test the screws in your pilot holes to determine whether the screws are biting into a stud. If not, use drywall anchors to provide sufficient support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Measurement and Shelf Placement

Reason: Improperly measuring the toilet's dimensions and the available wall space can lead to shelves that are too large, too small, or awkwardly positioned.
Solution: Carefully measure the toilet's width and height, and the available wall space above it before purchasing or cutting any materials.

2. Inadequate Support and Mounting

Reason: Using insufficiently strong mounting hardware or neglecting to properly secure the shelf to the wall studs can result in the shelf collapsing under weight.
Solution: Use heavy-duty screws or anchors appropriate for your wall type and ensure they are firmly attached to the wall studs for maximum support.

FAQs

What kind of shelf material is best for a bathroom?
Moisture-resistant materials are key in a bathroom. Consider waterproof plywood, treated lumber, or shelves specifically designed for wet environments. Avoid untreated wood as it can warp or rot.
How do I ensure the shelves are securely mounted and won't fall?
Use appropriate wall anchors that are suitable for your wall type (drywall, tile, etc.). Always pre-drill pilot holes to prevent cracking. Choose strong and appropriately sized screws to support the weight of your items. Consider using a level to ensure the shelf is mounted straight.