How to Hang a Shelf Above a Toilet for Optimal Space and Storage

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How High to Hang a Shelf Above a Toilet

A shelf above a toilet is a great way to add storage space to a small bathroom. It can be used to store toiletries, towels, or anything else you need to keep close at hand. But how high should you hang the shelf?

There are a few things to consider when determining the ideal height for your shelf. First, you need to make sure that the shelf is high enough to be out of the way of the toilet seat. Second, you need to make sure that the shelf is low enough to be easily accessible.

In this article, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when determining the ideal height for your shelf, and we will provide some tips on how to hang a shelf safely and securely.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Height of Your Shelf

There are a few factors you need to consider when choosing the height of your shelf. These include:

  • The height of your toilet seat.
  • The height of the person who will be using the shelf.
  • The size of the bathroom.
  • The weight of the items you will be storing on the shelf.

The Height of Your Toilet Seat

The first thing you need to consider is the height of your toilet seat. The standard height for a toilet seat is 17 inches. However, some toilets have seats that are taller or shorter than this. If your toilet seat is taller than 17 inches, you will need to hang the shelf higher than if your toilet seat is shorter than 17 inches.

The Height of the Person Who Will Be Using the Shelf

The next thing you need to consider is the height of the person who will be using the shelf. If the person who will be using the shelf is tall, you will need to hang the shelf higher than if the person who will be using the shelf is short.

The Size of the Bathroom

The size of your bathroom is another factor to consider. If you have a small bathroom, you will need to hang the shelf closer to the ground than if you have a large bathroom. This is because you need to make sure that the shelf does not take up too much space in the bathroom.

The Weight of the Items You Will Be Storing on the Shelf

The weight of the items you will be storing on the shelf is also a factor to consider. If you plan on storing heavy items on the shelf, you will need to hang the shelf more securely than if you plan on storing light items on the shelf.

Height Recommended Shelf Size Notes
18 inches 12-18 inches wide The shelf should be high enough to clear the toilet seat but low enough to be accessible.
24 inches 18-24 inches wide This height is ideal for a shelf that will be used to store frequently used items, such as toilet paper, hand towels, and cleaning supplies.
30 inches 24-30 inches wide This height is best for a shelf that will be used to store less frequently used items, such as extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, or decorations.

How High to Hang a Shelf Above a Toilet

Hanging a shelf above a toilet can be a great way to add storage space to your bathroom, but it’s important to get the height right. If the shelf is too high, it will be difficult to reach; if it’s too low, it could obstruct the toilet.

To determine the best height for your shelf, you’ll need to consider a few factors.

Factors to Consider When Hanging a Shelf Above a Toilet

  • The height of your toilet. The standard height for a toilet is 17 inches from the floor to the seat. If your toilet is taller or shorter than this, you’ll need to adjust the height of the shelf accordingly.
  • The height of your bathroom vanity. If you have a bathroom vanity, you’ll need to make sure that the shelf is high enough to clear the vanity.
  • The height of your shower head. If your shower head is mounted on the wall, you’ll need to make sure that the shelf is high enough to avoid getting wet.
  • The amount of clearance you need. You’ll need to make sure that there is enough clearance between the shelf and the toilet so that you can easily reach it.

Measuring for the Shelf

Once you’ve considered all of the factors above, you can start measuring for the shelf.

  • Measure the height of your toilet. Use a tape measure to measure from the floor to the top of the toilet seat.
  • Measure the height of your bathroom vanity. If you have a bathroom vanity, measure from the floor to the top of the vanity.
  • Measure the height of your shower head. If your shower head is mounted on the wall, measure from the floor to the bottom of the shower head.
  • Add all of the measurements together. This will give you the total height of the shelf.

Installing the Shelf

Once you’ve measured for the shelf, you can start installing it.

  • Choose the right type of shelf. There are a variety of different types of shelves available, so you’ll need to choose one that is suitable for your bathroom.
  • Find the studs in the wall. The shelf will need to be secured to the studs in the wall, so you’ll need to find the studs before you start drilling.
  • Drill the holes. Use a drill to drill holes in the wall where you want to attach the shelf.
  • Insert the anchors. Insert anchors into the holes in the wall.
  • Attach the shelf. Attach the shelf to the anchors using screws or nails.

Hanging a shelf above a toilet is a relatively simple project that can add a lot of storage space to your bathroom. By following these steps, you can easily get the job done right.

3. Installing the Shelf Brackets

Once you have determined the height of your shelf, you can begin installing the brackets.

  • 1. Mark the location of the brackets on the wall. Use a level to ensure that the marks are level.
  • 2. Drill holes for the brackets. The size of the holes will depend on the type of brackets you are using.
  • 3. Insert the brackets into the holes and secure them with screws.

It is important to make sure that the brackets are securely installed so that the shelf is stable.

4. Hanging the Shelf

Once the brackets are installed, you can hang the shelf.

  • 1. Place the shelf on the brackets.
  • 2. Mark the location of the holes in the shelf.
  • 3. Drill holes in the shelf.
  • 4. Insert the screws through the holes in the shelf and into the brackets.

It is important to make sure that the screws are long enough to go through the shelf and into the brackets.

Once the shelf is hung, you can add your items and enjoy your new storage space.

Hanging a shelf above a toilet is a simple project that can add much-needed storage space to your bathroom. By following these steps, you can easily create a functional and stylish space.

How high should I hang a shelf above a toilet?

The ideal height for a shelf above a toilet is 18-20 inches from the floor. This will allow you to easily reach the shelf while sitting on the toilet, and will also prevent the shelf from blocking the toilet seat.

What size shelf should I use?

The size of the shelf will depend on the amount of storage you need. A small shelf, measuring 12-18 inches wide and 10-12 inches deep, is ideal for storing toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and other small items. A larger shelf, measuring 24-30 inches wide and 12-18 inches deep, can be used to store larger items, such as towels, bathrobes, and extra toilet paper.

What type of shelf should I use?

The type of shelf you use will depend on your personal preference and the weight of the items you plan to store on it. A lightweight shelf, made from plastic or metal, is a good option for storing light items, such as toilet paper and cleaning supplies. A heavier shelf, made from wood or tile, is a better option for storing heavier items, such as towels and bathrobes.

What hardware do I need to hang a shelf above a toilet?

You will need the following hardware to hang a shelf above a toilet:

  • 2 – 3 drywall anchors
  • 2 – 3 screws
  • A drill
  • A level

How do I hang a shelf above a toilet?

To hang a shelf above a toilet, follow these steps:

1. Measure the height of the shelf from the floor.
2. Mark the location of the holes on the wall, using a level to make sure they are level.
3. Drill the holes into the wall.
4. Insert the drywall anchors into the holes.
5. Screw the screws into the drywall anchors, attaching the shelf to the wall.

What are some tips for hanging a shelf above a toilet?

Here are some tips for hanging a shelf above a toilet:

  • Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. This will ensure that the shelf is securely attached to the wall.
  • Use screws that are long enough to go through the shelf and into the stud.
  • Pre-drill the holes in the shelf to prevent the wood from splitting.
  • Make sure the shelf is level before attaching it to the wall.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when hanging a shelf above a toilet?

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when hanging a shelf above a toilet:

  • Not using a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall.
  • Using screws that are too short or too long.
  • Not pre-drilling the holes in the shelf.
  • Not making sure the shelf is level before attaching it to the wall.

In this article, we discussed how to hang a shelf above a toilet. We covered the following topics:

  • The ideal height for a shelf above a toilet
  • The materials and tools you will need
  • The steps involved in hanging a shelf
  • Tips for making your shelf look its best

We hope this article has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments below.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • The ideal height for a shelf above a toilet is 18-24 inches from the floor.
  • You will need a stud finder, a level, a drill, screws, and a shelf.
  • To hang a shelf, first find the studs behind the wall where you want to hang the shelf. Then, mark the location of the studs on the wall. Next, attach the brackets to the wall using the screws. Finally, hang the shelf on the brackets.
  • To make your shelf look its best, choose a shelf that is the right size and style for your bathroom. You can also add decorative touches, such as hooks or baskets, to make your shelf more functional.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.