How to Hang Shelves Above a Toilet for Maximum Space and Style

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How High to Hang Shelves Above a Toilet

A bathroom is a place where we can relax, get ready for the day, and unwind after a long day. It’s important to make the most of your bathroom space, and that includes using vertical space. One way to do this is by hanging shelves above the toilet.

But how high should you hang shelves above a toilet? There are a few factors to consider when determining the best height for your shelves.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors to consider when hanging shelves above a toilet, and we’ll provide some tips on how to make your shelves look their best.

We’ll also share some inspiration for different ways to use shelves in your bathroom, so you can create a space that’s both functional and stylish.

Height Recommended Shelf Width Notes
24-30 inches 12-16 inches The shelf should be high enough to allow for easy access to the toilet, but not so high that it is difficult to reach.
16-20 inches 10-14 inches This is a good height for shelves if you have young children or pets.
12-18 inches 8-12 inches This is a good height for shelves if you have limited space.

How High to Hang Shelves Above a Toilet

Shelves above a toilet can be a great way to add storage space to a small bathroom. However, it is important to hang the shelves at the right height so that they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

There are a few factors to consider when determining how high to hang shelves above a toilet.

Factors to Consider When Hanging Shelves Above a Toilet

  • The height of the toilet

The first factor to consider is the height of the toilet. You will want to make sure that the shelves are high enough so that you can easily reach them, but not so high that they are difficult to see or access. A good rule of thumb is to hang the shelves about 18 inches above the top of the toilet tank.

  • The width of the toilet

The next factor to consider is the width of the toilet. You will want to make sure that the shelves are wide enough to accommodate the items you plan to store on them. However, you also want to make sure that the shelves are not so wide that they interfere with the door to the bathroom. A good rule of thumb is to hang the shelves about 1-2 inches wider than the toilet.

  • The weight of the shelves and the items you plan to store on them

The weight of the shelves and the items you plan to store on them is another important factor to consider. You will want to make sure that the shelves are strong enough to support the weight of the items you plan to store on them. If you are planning to store heavy items on the shelves, you may need to use heavier duty brackets or hardware to support them.

  • The type of shelves you plan to use

The type of shelves you plan to use will also affect the height at which you hang them. For example, if you are using open shelves, you will need to hang them higher than if you are using closed shelves. This is because open shelves will allow the items on them to be seen from a greater distance, so you will need to hang them higher so that they are not blocked by the toilet.

  • The materials used to construct the shelves

The materials used to construct the shelves will also affect the height at which you hang them. For example, shelves made of heavier materials will need to be hung higher than shelves made of lighter materials. This is because heavier shelves will be more likely to sag if they are hung too low.

  • The desired appearance of the shelves

Finally, you will also want to consider the desired appearance of the shelves when determining how high to hang them. If you want the shelves to be a focal point in the bathroom, you may want to hang them higher so that they are more visible. However, if you want the shelves to be more subtle, you may want to hang them lower so that they blend in with the rest of the bathroom.

How to Measure for Shelves Above a Toilet

Once you have considered all of the factors above, you can begin measuring for the shelves. To do this, you will need to measure the height of the toilet, the width of the toilet, and the desired height of the shelves.

To measure the height of the toilet, you will need to measure from the floor to the top of the toilet tank. To measure the width of the toilet, you will need to measure from the front of the toilet to the back of the toilet. To measure the desired height of the shelves, you will need to decide how high you want the shelves to be and then measure that distance from the floor.

Once you have measured the height of the toilet, the width of the toilet, and the desired height of the shelves, you can mark the locations of the shelves on the wall. To do this, you will need to use a level to make sure that the shelves are level.

Hanging shelves above a toilet can be a great way to add storage space to a small bathroom. However, it is important to hang the shelves at the right height so that they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. By considering all of the factors discussed in this article, you can easily determine the best height for your shelves.

How High to Hang Shelves Above a Toilet?

The ideal height for hanging shelves above a toilet depends on a few factors, including the height of the toilet, the size of the shelves, and the desired use for the shelves.

  • Toilet height: The average toilet seat is about 17 inches high, so you will need to make sure that the shelves are high enough to allow for clearance. If you have a tall toilet, you may need to hang the shelves higher than if you have a short toilet.
  • Shelf size: The size of the shelves will also affect the ideal hanging height. If you are hanging small shelves, you can get away with hanging them closer to the toilet. However, if you are hanging larger shelves, you will need to hang them higher so that they do not obstruct the toilet.
  • Desired use: The desired use for the shelves will also affect the ideal hanging height. If you plan on using the shelves for storage, you will need to hang them high enough so that you can easily reach the items on the shelves. However, if you plan on using the shelves for decorative purposes, you can hang them lower so that they are more visible.

As a general rule of thumb, you should hang shelves about 24 inches above the toilet seat. This will provide enough clearance for the toilet and allow you to easily reach the items on the shelves. However, you may need to adjust the hanging height depending on the specific factors of your bathroom.

How to Install Shelves Above a Toilet

Installing shelves above a toilet is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few steps.

1. Gather your materials. You will need the following materials to install shelves above a toilet:

  • Shelves
  • Screws
  • Drill
  • Stud finder
  • Level
  • Tape measure

2. Locate the studs in the wall. The first step is to locate the studs in the wall where you will be attaching the shelves. You can use a stud finder to do this.

3. Mark the locations for the shelves. Once you have located the studs, mark the locations for the shelves on the wall. Make sure that the marks are level.

4. Drill pilot holes into the wall. Use a drill to drill pilot holes into the wall at the locations marked for the shelves. The pilot holes should be slightly smaller than the screws that you will be using.

5. Insert the screws into the wall. Insert the screws into the pilot holes and tighten them until they are secure.

6. Attach the shelves to the screws. Attach the shelves to the screws using the screws that you provided.

7. Add decorative touches. Once the shelves are installed, you can add decorative touches to them, such as hooks, baskets, or vases.

Tips for Hanging Shelves Above a Toilet

Here are a few tips for hanging shelves above a toilet:

  • Use a level to make sure the shelves are installed evenly.
  • Use screws that are long enough to go through the shelves and into the studs.
  • Pre-drill holes in the shelves to prevent them from splitting.
  • Use a sealant to prevent water from seeping into the holes in the wall.
  • Be sure to load the shelves evenly to prevent them from tipping over.

Hanging shelves above a toilet is a great way to add storage and organization to your bathroom. By following these tips, you can easily install shelves that are both functional and stylish.

How high should I hang shelves above my toilet?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the ideal height will vary depending on the height of your toilet, the size of your bathroom, and your personal preference. However, there are a few general guidelines that you can follow to help you determine the best height for your shelves.

  • The shelves should be high enough so that you can easily reach them without having to strain your neck or back. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the shelves are at least 24 inches above the floor.
  • The shelves should be low enough so that they do not block the view of the toilet. If the shelves are too high, they can make it difficult to see into the toilet bowl, which can be a problem for cleaning.
  • The shelves should be wide enough to accommodate the items you plan to store on them. If the shelves are too narrow, they will not be able to hold much, and you may find yourself having to stack items on top of each other, which can be unstable and dangerous.
  • The shelves should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the items you plan to store on them. If the shelves are not sturdy, they could collapse, which could damage the items you have stored on them and/or cause you to get hurt.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the ideal height for your shelves is to experiment until you find a height that works for you. You may need to adjust the height of the shelves a few times before you find the perfect spot, but it will be worth it in the end.

What kind of shelves should I use?

The type of shelves you use will depend on the weight and size of the items you plan to store on them. If you only plan to store light items, such as towels or toilet paper, you can use a lightweight material, such as plastic or metal. However, if you plan to store heavy items, such as books or laundry baskets, you will need to use a heavier material, such as wood or glass.

You should also consider the style of your bathroom when choosing shelves. If you have a modern bathroom, you may want to choose sleek, minimalist shelves. If you have a more traditional bathroom, you may want to choose shelves with a more ornate design.

No matter what type of shelves you choose, make sure that they are sturdy and able to support the weight of the items you plan to store on them.

How do I attach shelves to the wall?

There are a few different ways to attach shelves to the wall. The best method for you will depend on the type of wall you have and the weight of the shelves.

  • For drywall, you can use drywall anchors. Drywall anchors are small metal or plastic devices that you insert into the wall and then screw the shelves into.
  • For brick or concrete walls, you can use masonry nails or screws. Masonry nails or screws are designed to penetrate the hard surface of brick or concrete.
  • For wood walls, you can use wood screws. Wood screws are designed to grip the wood and prevent the shelves from slipping.

No matter what method you use, make sure that the screws or nails are long enough to go through the shelves and into the wall. You should also make sure that the screws or nails are tight enough to hold the shelves securely in place.

What should I store on my shelves?

The items you store on your shelves will depend on your needs and the space available. However, some common items that people store on shelves above their toilets include:

  • Towels
  • Toilet paper
  • Hand soap
  • Bathroom supplies
  • Laundry baskets
  • Books
  • Pictures
  • Decorative items

The key is to choose items that you will actually use and that will not be in the way. You should also make sure that the items are lightweight and do not block the view of the toilet.

How do I clean shelves above my toilet?

To clean shelves above your toilet, you will need:

  • A damp cloth
  • A cleaning solution
  • A toothbrush
  • A step stool or ladder

1. Wipe down the shelves with a damp cloth. This will remove any dust or dirt.
2. Apply a cleaning solution to a toothbrush and use it to scrub any stubborn stains or grime. Be careful not to use too much cleaning solution, as this could damage the shelves.
3. **Wipe down the shelves with a clean damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

there are a few key things to keep in mind when hanging shelves above a toilet. First, make sure that the shelves are installed securely so that they can hold the weight of the items you plan to store on them. Second, consider the height of the shelves and the size of the toilet when determining where to place them. Finally, choose shelves that are made from a durable material that will withstand moisture and humidity. By following these tips, you can create a functional and stylish storage solution for your bathroom.

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.