Where to Store the Towels When You Don’t Have a Linen Closet
Your extras are fluffed and folded. Now what?
When I was planning my bathroom renovation, I knew that one of my issues was towel storage. In my existing situation, they wound up smushed in the vanity underneath the sink’s P-trap, crowded by cleaning supplies and hair appliances. So I turned to Houzz photos for solutions. Here are some of the best ideas I found.
There are many options, including the clean look of this cantilevered vanity with open cubbies on the bottom.
Shop for bathroom vanities on Houzz
Shop for bathroom vanities on Houzz
Here is a modern washstand interpretation of this idea.
If you don’t mind going asymmetrical, try something like this.
If you are a symmetry fan, this one is for you. It has open shelves in the center of the vanity (free from those pesky P-traps).
With baskets. If you don’t have time for that Martha Stewart-esque perfect folding and you like your towels more hidden, you can put baskets on the vanity’s open shelves.
In this bathroom, the wicker baskets add to the beachy vibe, playing off the jute rug and wooden table.
You may opt for loose baskets or for basket drawers on sliders.
In this bathroom, the wicker baskets add to the beachy vibe, playing off the jute rug and wooden table.
You may opt for loose baskets or for basket drawers on sliders.
These vintage crates on casters are another take on the same idea. They add old-timey character to the bathroom in this lake house.
These baskets tuck nicely into the vanity. And their dip-dyed style plays beautifully off the pattern on the floor.
See more basket storage options
See more basket storage options
Hooks
A row of hooks can add a functional and decorative element to a blank wall. But if you will be mixing your damp towels with your fresh ones on a rack like this, make sure the wall behind it can stand up to moisture.
A row of hooks can add a functional and decorative element to a blank wall. But if you will be mixing your damp towels with your fresh ones on a rack like this, make sure the wall behind it can stand up to moisture.
Here a matching freestanding cabinet mixes drawer storage below and doors with grilles on top. A peek through reveals white towels and other neatly organized items.
Recessed Niches
This towel nook is a compelling part of the thoughtful, clean-lined architecture of this bathroom.
This towel nook is a compelling part of the thoughtful, clean-lined architecture of this bathroom.
The wall at the end of the bathtub can be a good spot to place a recessed niche for towels.
Shelves
Built-in. This bathroom combines the idea of the recessed niche with cabinetry that matches the vanity.
Built-in. This bathroom combines the idea of the recessed niche with cabinetry that matches the vanity.
Floating. This option keeps fresh towels handy for those who love a soak. Note that these shelves do not extend over the edge of the tub, or they could be a head-banging risk.
Racks
Over the commode. Speaking of safety, cabinets and racks over the loo are often referred to as “headbangers.” We often forget that, in a tight space, there’s room in this spot for storage. Just make sure you can put it where it won’t keep earning that moniker.
Over the commode. Speaking of safety, cabinets and racks over the loo are often referred to as “headbangers.” We often forget that, in a tight space, there’s room in this spot for storage. Just make sure you can put it where it won’t keep earning that moniker.
Train rack. This strategy may look familiar from stays in hotels — and the product is known as a hotel rack. Installing one is an easy way to combine folded towel storage with a towel bar, and it’s a good solution for a tight space.
Browse towel racks and stands
Browse towel racks and stands
Share: Where and how do you like to store your towels? Are you a folder or a roller? Do you like an all-white collection or a more colorful selection? Please share your ideas with us in the Comments.
More on Houzz
How to Remodel Your Bathroom
Bathroom Storage: Where to Keep the TP?
5 Ways With an 8-by-5-Foot Bathroom
Find a bathroom remodeler
Shop for bathroom products
More on Houzz
How to Remodel Your Bathroom
Bathroom Storage: Where to Keep the TP?
5 Ways With an 8-by-5-Foot Bathroom
Find a bathroom remodeler
Shop for bathroom products
With the wide variety of ready-made vanities as well as custom work available, there are all sorts of configurations where open towel storage is part of the vanity. Here’s a lesson from the beautiful photo styling we see on Houzz every day: Neatly folded matching towels are the way to go with this solution. The next few photos illustrate various configurations. See if any of them suit your style.
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