Building shelves over a toilet is a great way to add storage and visual interest to a small bathroom. It’s a relatively easy DIY project that can be completed in a few simple steps.
To begin, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind the toilet. Mark the studs with an outline or a pencil mark. Cut two pieces of 2×4 lumber to be used as the shelf supports. The supports should be slightly shorter than the desired shelf length.
Secure the supports using 3-inch screws, making sure to screw into the wall studs.
Before mounting the shelf board, measure the dimensions of the wall and cut a board of the appropriate size. Usually a piece of 3/4-inch thick hardwood or laminate will work best. Drill pilot holes into the ends of the shelf board and into the shelf supports, then attach the shelf to the supports with 2-inch screws.
Once the shelf is in place, you can customize the look by adding shelf brackets, decorative molding, or paint. For extra durability and to protect the wood from moisture, you can also seal the shelf with a clear varnish or urethane finish.
How deep should over the toilet shelves be?
When it comes to over-the-toilet shelves, the most important thing to consider is how much storage space you need. The depth of your shelf should depend on what items you’re planning to store. Ideally, it should be deep enough to fit your items securely, while still leaving enough room around the sides for air circulation.
As a good rule of thumb, you should aim for a depth of at least 12 inches, though 16 inches is optimal. However, if what you’re storing is quite bulky or takes up a lot of volume, it’s best to opt for a slightly deeper shelf of around 18 to 20 inches.
You may also want to choose an adjustable shelf with adjustable feet so you can customize the depth to your specific space requirements.
How do you make a simple bathroom shelf?
Making a simple bathroom shelf is a very straightforward task. You’ll need some basic tools and supplies: a shelf board (can be wood, metal, or plastic), shelf supports (brackets), wall anchors (if mounting on drywall), screws, a level, drill, and a screwdriver.
First, measure the length, width, and height of the shelf and make sure to purchase a shelf board that is slightly larger so that it overhangs the supports. Next, use a level to mark the wall for the shelf supports.
This will ensure that the shelf is level when it is up. Make sure to use wall anchors if you are mounting on a drywall.
Once the supports are in place, you can attach the shelf board, making sure everything is level and secure. Drill pilot holes and use screws to attach the shelf board to the supports. Your simple bathroom shelf is now complete.
How high should a shelf be mounted above a toilet?
When deciding how high to mount a shelf above a toilet, the main consideration is safety. The shelf should be mounted well out of the reach of children, but still within easy reach of an adult. This typically means mounting the shelf around 6 feet above the ground and as far away from the toilet itself as possible.
Additionally, the shelf should be securely fastened to the wall so that it does not pose a risk of falling and injuring someone. Finally, clearance between the shelf and any other objects in the bathroom should be considered to avoid any hazardous encounters.
How far above toilet are floating shelves?
Floating shelves can be placed any distance you like above the toilet, as long as they are securely affixed to the wall. Ideally, the bottom of the shelf should be 12″ above the top of the toilet to allow for plenty of headroom.
Depending on the style of shelving and the décor of the room, it might be desired to place the shelves higher or lower than this. For instance, shelves that are more rustic and have a large overhang could be placed lower than 12″ and still look balanced.
Additionally, shelves that have little overhang might be placed higher in order to add visual interest to the space. Ultimately, the height of your floating shelves is entirely up to you and the design of your bathroom.
How do you install a bathroom cabinet above the toilet?
Installing a bathroom cabinet above the toilet can be a great way to add additional storage, as well as improve the overall look of your bathroom. The following steps provide an overview of the installation process, but depending on the specific cabinet you choose and the nature of the bathroom plumbing, you may need to make some adjustments.
1. Measure the space above the toilet to ensure the cabinet you have selected will fit. Also, note the size of the flange and make sure the cabinet you choose has appropriate openings for plumbing.
2. Determine a location for the cabinet and mark the wall for installation.
3. Drill holes in the wall for the screws and anchors that will be used to secure the cabinet.
4. Assemble the cabinet using the provided instructions. Most cabinets will require an upper and lower panel, as well as a back panel, to be secured.
5. Position the assembled cabinet above the toilet and use the drill and anchors to secure it into the wall.
6. Connect any necessary plumbing components according to the instructions. You may need to take breaks between steps to allow the connections to fully dry.
7. Secure the necessary fasteners onto the cabinet and toilet. Depending on the cabinet, you may need to drill holes for these fasteners.
8. Secure the cabinet to the wall using the screws and anchors, then use a level to ensure that it is properly aligned.
9. Connect the plumbing components to the toilet and turn them on to make sure they’re working properly.
10. Finish the installation with the included hardware and caulk.
Once the cabinets are installed, you can start filling them with any necessary items for your bathroom. Organize your items within the cabinet to make sure everything is easily accessible.
What is the proper height to hang a shelf?
The proper height to hang a shelf will depend on what type of items you plan to store and the type of shelving you use. For example, if you plan to store large items on the shelf, you may want to hang it higher on the wall.
On the other hand, if you plan to store small items, such as books, you may want to hang the shelf lower on the wall so it is easier to access the items stored.
As far as specific measurements, a good general rule of thumb is to hang shelves at eye-level. Depending on the height of the person, this is typically between 5 and 6 feet from the floor. If you are hanging an entire shelf unit, measure the overall height of the unit and make sure the center of the shelf unit is at the specified height.
In addition to considering eye-level, you should also consider the overall design of the room and decide where the shelf will look best. Additionally, make sure to check local codes or building regulations before starting your wall-installation project, as certain heights may be required for safety or accessibility reasons.
How close can a cabinet be to a toilet?
The National Electric Code (NEC) stipulates that a cabinet should be at least 15 inches away from a toilet. While this is a guideline, it is important to be aware of the space limitations in the bathroom when installing a cabinet.
Depending on the height and depth of the cabinet, it may be necessary to place the cabinet further away to ensure it is not in the way of opening and closing the toilet lid. Additionally, the layout of the room should be taken into consideration when deciding the location of the cabinet.
The important thing to remember is that there must be enough space to easily access the toilet and the cabinet.
How much space do you need between floating shelves in a bathroom?
When determining how much space you need between floating shelves in a bathroom, it is important to consider several factors. First, you need to take into account the size of the bathroom. If it is a smaller bathroom, it may be more difficult to fit larger items onto floating shelves and thus you may need to leave more space in between shelves.
Additionally, if you are planning on installing shelves above a sink or bathtub, it is important to leave enough space so that they do not interfere with any water splashing. For optimal design and safety, you should leave at least 4 inches of space between shelves.
Furthermore, if you plan to hang any items such as towels on the shelves, make sure the shelves are spaced apart far enough so that they do not overlap and do not get in the way of the items hanging.
You may also want to consider the type of shelves you are using. If you are using lightweight shelves, there may not be a need to leave as much space in between to ensure stability as opposed to heavier shelves which often require more space in between for stability and durability.
Is it OK to put towel bar over toilet?
Yes, it is perfectly OK to put a towel bar over your toilet. It is a great way to keep your bathroom organised and create more storage space. A towel bar over the toilet can free up floor space, allowing you to use that area for a variety of other bathroom necessities.
Additionally, towel bars are typically very easy to install and require minimal tools. When installing a towel bar above your toilet, it is important to make sure it is securely fastened to the wall, so it can hold your towels without becoming loose or falling down.
This is especially important if there are children in the home. Consider adding a sturdy towel bar with strong anchors and double checking the anchors are secure.
What is the cabinet above a toilet called?
The cabinet that is typically found above a toilet is typically referred to as an over-the-toilet cabinet, or a storage cabinet. This type of cabinet is designed to fit perfectly over the top of the toilet, and is a great way to add extra storage to a bathroom without taking up too much floor space.
Over-the-toilet cabinets come in a wide range of styles, colors, and materials, so they can be used to help match or complement the existing décor in a bathroom. Common features of over-the-toilet cabinets include adjustable shelves, closed or open door designs, built-in towel bars, and even drawers for additional storage.
By adding an over-the-toilet cabinet, you can easily store items like spare toilet paper, bathroom cleaners, extra towels, and other bathroom accessories.
Should I put a cabinet above my toilet?
Whether or not you should put a cabinet above your toilet depends on several factors, including the size and space of your bathroom, and the type of cabinet you plan on adding. Generally, a cabinet above a toilet can be functional in a bathroom and serve as extra storage for items like shampoo, extra rolls of toilet paper, or towels.
However, in many cases, a cabinet above a toilet can be impractical. In a small bathroom, a cabinet may make the area feel cramped, and can even impact the flow of the room, making it difficult to open the door or walk around comfortably.
Additionally, the dimensions and weight of certain cabinets can make them difficult, dangerous, and impractical to hang above the toilet.
If you are considering a cabinet above your toilet, be sure to measure the space in your bathroom as accurately as possible. Make sure there is enough space for the cabinet without overcrowding the room or blocking the door or sink.
You should also ensure that the cabinet you plan to buy is light enough to securely hang above the toilet. If you have any doubt, it’s best to have a professional review your bathroom dimension, assess the space and install the cabinet for you.
What do you put on bathroom shelves?
Bathroom shelves are a great place to store a variety of items. Depending on the size of your bathroom and the items you possess, there are many items you can put on your shelves. Common items for bathroom shelves include things like extra towels, washcloths, bath bombs, soaps, shampoos, and conditioners, as well as extra toilet paper and cleaning supplies.
You can also put decorative items such as aromatherapy candles, vases, and artwork. Other storage solutions for bathroom shelves could include baskets and bins to contain items like extra toiletries, q-tips, and other beauty products.
Finally, if your bathroom shelves are large enough you could use them for practical items like a hairdryer, curling iron, and straightener. Shelves are one of the best and most usable designs in any bathroom, so get creative and find the best way to organize.
How much space should be between bathroom shelves?
When installing shelves in a bathroom, it is important to ensure there is enough space between them. Generally, it is recommended to leave between 12 and 18 inches of space between shelves, although choosing a specific measurement will depend upon the size of the items being stored on the shelves.
For larger items, leaving larger spaces between shelves might be better for accessibility and safety. Especially for shelving units that are mounted to a wall, it is important to make sure there is enough space between each shelf to allow those items to be safely removed.
How high above a toilet should you hang a picture?
A good rule of thumb when deciding how high to hang a picture above a toilet is to make sure there is about 6 to 8 inches of clearance between the top of the toilet and the bottom of the frame. This will ensure the frame doesn’t interfere with the toilet lid or the tank lid, and also prevent it from getting splashed with water when using the toilet.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to hang the frame at least 48 inches off the ground for a more comfortable viewing height. Keep in mind, these measurements may vary depending on the size of the toilet, the frame, and the room itself.
Try to hang the picture far enough away from the toilet to maintain a comfortable distance, while also making sure it’s low enough not to be a possible health hazard.
What kind of pictures should you hang in a bathroom?
The kind of pictures that you hang in a bathroom really depends on your own personal preference and the overall aesthetic of the room. Generally speaking, it’s best to choose artwork or prints that will complement the design of the space.
This could mean selecting pieces with a similar color palette or a similar style as the rest of the decor in the room. Additionally, you may want to select art that speaks to the theme or style of the bathroom, such as beach-inspired art for a nautical-themed bathroom, or abstract art for a modern styled space.
With that said, you can also mix it up and hang whatever prints, photography or art you think will look best in the space. You can even experiment with different sizes, frames, textures and colors to create a visually striking wall.
Ultimately, it’s up to you and your style to decide which kind of pictures you should hang in a bathroom.
How can I make my small bathroom look luxurious?
To make a small bathroom look luxurious, there are a few key steps you can take. First, use paint to create a sense of depth and light in the room. Choose a shade of light gray, blue, or white to make the walls and ceiling appear brighter and taller.
Second, add a statement piece of furniture like a vanity with a modern sink. Third, select high-end fixtures such as faucets and showerheads. Use chrome or polished nickel finishes to give the room a more expensive feel.
Fourth, utilize textured tile flooring to add a luxurious feel. Finally, complete the look with carefully chosen accessories, such as fresh flowers, beautiful wall sconces, or unique artwork. By incorporating these elements into your small bathroom design, you can elevate the space and make it look luxurious.
Will pictures get ruined in the bathroom?
It depends on the environment in the bathroom. Most photos and artwork can be damaged if the humidity level in the bathroom is high, as the humidity can cause colors to fade and the paper to warp or yellow.
The best way to reduce the chance that photos or artwork will be damaged by bathroom humidity is to ensure the bathroom is well ventilated. Open the window or turn on the fan after bathing to decrease the dampness in the room.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to hang artwork in the bathroom with quality hanging hardware and to avoid placing artwork directly onto the shower walls. Using frames with glass or plexiglass covers and mats for support can also help protect the photos or artwork from water damage.
Where should bathroom shelves be placed?
Bathroom shelves should be placed in a space that is convenient for you to use, ideally at a comfortable height for you to easily reach. Shelving should be placed away from areas of moisture and humidity, such as the shower, and away from the toilet to avoid accidentally splashing them with water.
It is important to ensure that the shelves are securely fastened to the wall, as well as to make sure that the material used for the shelves is waterproof. Depending on the design of your bathroom, you may decide to install the shelves high up near the ceiling or near the floor in the corner of the room.
If the shelves are relatively high or close to the ceiling, you may want to consider installing a step ladder or access point to make them easier to reach. Ultimately, the best place to install bathroom shelves is where it makes the most sense for you, considering the size of your space and the type of items you want to store.
Can you put floating shelves in bathroom?
Yes, you can put floating shelves in a bathroom. Floating shelves offer a sleek, contemporary look, and they also make it easy to access your things. Floating shelves can be used to store bathroom essentials like towels, toiletries, and even extra toilet paper.
You can also style your shelves with decorative items or plants to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Just make sure to install the shelves securely, preferably with proper hardware or mounting brackets designed for wet areas.
Additionally, you’ll want to use waterproof materials like plastic or resin to ensure the safety of your belongings.
