25 DIY Toilet Paper Holder Ideas to Upgrade Bathroom Storage
Crafting a DIY toilet paper holder brings function and personality into one of the most overlooked spaces in any home.
Bathrooms deserve just as much attention as living rooms when it comes to style and practicality.
Simple materials like rope, wood, or metal pipe can become stunning fixtures that reflect who you are as a decorator.
Budget-friendly projects mean you don't need expensive store-bought options that often lack character and uniqueness.
Every bathroom has different needs, whether you prefer modern minimalism or rustic farmhouse charm.
Creative designs solve storage problems while adding an artistic touch that guests will notice and admire.
Weathered Wood Shutter Storage
Old shutters make excellent bathroom storage when you attach small baskets to their slats and hang them on the wall.
You can tuck extra toilet paper rolls and other essentials into those baskets, and the rustic wood immediately catches attention as a functional art piece.
This approach works well in bathrooms where counter space feels tight because it pulls storage up and away from the floor.
A nice touch is how the weathered texture of an aged shutter brings character to what could otherwise be a plain corner.
If your bathroom leans toward farmhouse or cottage style, this repurposed piece fits right in.
You don't need fancy tools or materials to make this work either.
It's a straightforward way to handle storage while giving your space that relaxed, vintage quality that makes a room feel more personal.
Wall-Integrated Storage For Compact Bathrooms
Recessed shelves built straight into your bathroom wall are perfect if you're working with a tight space, and they let you store several rolls of toilet paper alongside magazines or small decorative items while keeping the room feeling open and uncluttered.
By tucking storage directly into the wall itself, you avoid that cramped feeling that comes with freestanding cabinets or shelving units.
This approach gives you a sleek look since nothing sticks out into the room.
You can arrange your essentials and small accessories in an organized way that actually looks good.
Many people love how these shelves solve the storage problem without eating up valuable floor space.
Installing them is something we recommend if you're planning any bathroom updates or renovations.
Once you add recessed shelving to your layout, we love how much easier it becomes to keep everything within reach and out of sight at the same time.
Vertical Storage Baskets For Bathrooms
Hanging baskets are a smart way to gain extra storage in your bathroom without sacrificing valuable floor or counter space, and they work especially well if you have a compact layout.
You can personalize them with simple touches like a charm or colorful ribbon that complement your bathroom's style and aesthetic.
Metal or woven baskets hung from the ceiling or walls keep essentials within reach while staying out of the way.
Small bathrooms benefit the most from this approach because every bit of accessible storage makes a real difference in how functional the space feels.
Wall-mounted shelving and hanging organizers let you take advantage of vertical space that would otherwise go unused.
Whether you need somewhere to stash towels, toiletries, or cleaning supplies, these baskets provide both function and visual interest above your head.
Vintage Metal Bucket Bathroom Storage
Keep a vintage bucket in your bathroom to store toilet paper and add a nostalgic vibe to the space.
You can tuck this charming container into a corner or set it out in the open based on what fits your style best.
Beyond looking great, it actually serves a real purpose and gives your bathroom some personality without taking up much effort.
Most people find that combining practicality with a touch of history makes everyday items feel special.
A nice touch is how something so simple can refresh a room and make guests think about your space differently.
If you prefer a hidden look, position it away from the main view, and if you want it front and center, let it become part of your design scheme.
Either way, you're getting storage that functions well and looks intentional at the same time.
Wicker Baskets Tropical Bathroom Storage
Wicker baskets add an instant tropical and laid-back feel to your bathroom, and mounting one beside your sink gives you easy access to toilet paper while looking great.
Adding a second basket on the other side creates balance and lets you store towels or toiletries in an organized way that feels both practical and stylish.
A nice touch is how these baskets serve double duty; they hide away the things you need while also making your bathroom feel more like a getaway spot.
Steampunk Metal Pipe Toilet Roll Holder
Bold industrial pipes and metal fittings shaped into a toilet paper holder bring unmistakable character to your bathroom space, and this retro steampunk style makes two rolls accessible at the same time.
You get both practical storage and a striking design that really stands out on the wall.
If your bathroom features exposed copper or iron plumbing, this holder slots in perfectly and reinforces that raw, utilitarian aesthetic you've already started building.
We like how this piece works as functional art rather than something you hide away.
The metallic finish catches light differently depending on the time of day, which keeps the bathroom from feeling static or boring.
You can position it near your vanity or toilet and it becomes part of the room's personality instead of just another necessity tucked in a corner.
Metal holders like this one suit bathrooms that lean toward vintage or industrial themes and pair well with vintage mirrors or reclaimed wood shelving.
Patterned Toilet Paper Storage Display
Keep a couple of rolls of toilet paper on display in your bathroom where you and guests can easily grab them, and this practical setup doubles as decoration that brightens up the space.
You won't face that awkward moment when someone needs a fresh roll because you've got a backup right there ready to go.
If you want to make a bold statement, try storing them in a container with a striking pattern that demands attention.
Alternatively, you can go with neutral-colored holders that blend in quietly without demanding much visual interest.
Either way, your bathroom functions better and looks more polished at the same time.
A nice touch is how this simple solution handles both needs without requiring much effort or expense on your part.
Weathered Wood Bathroom Storage Shelves
Reclaimed wood bathroom organizers bring together rustic warmth and contemporary style in one functional piece that you can position almost anywhere in your space.
Open shelves give you plenty of room to arrange toilet paper, fold your favorite towels, and display small decorative items that reflect your personal taste.
A nice touch is how this type of organizer adds genuine character to the room while solving the everyday problem of clutter and storage.
Natural wood tones bring an earthy feel that pairs well with modern fixtures and contemporary finishes.
Beyond just looking nice, it keeps everything you need within arm's reach during your daily routines.
Many people appreciate how these organizers fit different bathroom sizes and layouts without feeling bulky or out of place.
You get both the practical benefits of extra storage and the bonus of adding visual interest to walls that might otherwise feel bare.
Circular White Toilet Paper Display
Round toilet paper holder becomes a surprisingly stylish bathroom accent with its striking circular form that puts your rolls on display like artwork.
You can make the most of how it looks by keeping it filled with fresh rolls at all times.
Visitors often notice this simple addition, and it shifts the way people see basic bathroom necessities.
Since the holder sits where light naturally hits it, the rounded shape catches attention and adds dimension to the room.
Beyond looking good, this kind of storage keeps everything organized and within arm's reach.
Your bathroom gets an instant upgrade without needing to overhaul the whole space.
Reclaimed Wood License Plate Holder
Holder made from reclaimed wood and old license plates brings genuine vintage character to your bathroom and immediately draws the eye with its one-of-a-kind appearance.
You get both function and style since it stores multiple rolls of toilet paper while the rough, weathered wood contrasts nicely with the metal components.
This piece celebrates sustainability because it reuses materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
Beyond just holding paper, it becomes a conversation starter and tells a story about where your things come from.
The natural variations in the wood grain mean no two holders look exactly alike, so yours will be uniquely yours.
If you want to add personality without going overboard, this kind of piece does the job quietly and honestly.
It fits right in whether your bathroom leans modern or traditional, and it costs less than buying new furniture.
Leather Strap Bathroom Elegance
Leather toilet paper dispenser hanging on your bathroom wall becomes an instant statement piece with its clean lines and refined appearance.
You can choose from rich brown tones that echo rustic charm or deep black shades that suit modern spaces, and either option will complement your bathroom's existing accents perfectly.
What makes this accessory so practical is how the leather strap holds the roll securely while letting it hang freely, so it works with any toilet paper size without fuss.
Beyond just doing its job, this piece brings a touch of sophistication to a room that's often overlooked in design.
Since leather adds warmth and character to your space, it bridges the gap between everyday necessity and stylish decor.
The detail that stands out is how such a simple object can shift the entire feel of your bathroom when it's chosen with care.
Toilet Paper Holder Floating Shelf
Floating shelf built around your toilet paper holder brings modern style to the bathroom and makes you rethink how practical storage can look.
You can display small plants or a book on this shelf to make the space feel more like you.
This setup works well if you prefer clean lines and simple design because it combines usefulness with current aesthetics.
The shelf adds dimension to your wall and keeps your bathroom from feeling bare.
Plants on the shelf also help purify the air while adding life to the room.
Books fit nicely there too and show off your personality without taking up much room.
If your bathroom leans toward minimalist or contemporary style, this idea fits right in and improves both how your space functions and how it looks.
Wooden Ladder With Wire Baskets
Ladder shelf combo can transform your bathroom storage into something both practical and good-looking, especially if you're working with limited space.
Wire baskets clipped onto the ladder frame hold all your bathroom essentials like toilet paper and towels in an organized way.
Those wooden rungs bring warmth and texture to the room, giving off that comfortable, rustic quality that makes a bathroom feel less clinical and more like a real home.
This setup saves floor space since it climbs vertically rather than spreading out horizontally.
You get easy access to everything you need without sacrificing style or functionality.
If your bathroom is on the smaller side, this kind of solution works really well because it doesn't eat up valuable square footage.
The combination of natural wood and practical wire storage means you're getting something that looks nice while still doing the heavy lifting of keeping things tidy.
Wire Baskets Maximize Small Bathrooms
Hanging wire baskets offer an excellent way to maximize vertical space in bathrooms where square footage is limited, and you can fill them with rolled towels, extra toilet paper, or small decorative pieces that add personality to the room.
A nice touch is how this storage solution keeps your essentials within arm's reach while freeing up valuable floor space for movement.
Since wire baskets let light pass through, they won't make your bathroom feel cramped or blocked off.
Installing them above the toilet or along a wall takes just a few minutes, and most people find this one of the easiest upgrades to tackle.
You can tell the way affordable these baskets are compared to built-in cabinets or shelving units.
Beyond pure storage, the open design gives your bathroom an airy, organized feel that makes even small spaces look bigger.
If your bathroom struggles with limited storage options, wire baskets solve that problem without requiring renovation work or major wall changes.
Overhead Organization Wall Mounted Storage
Mounted shelving with integrated toilet paper storage solves the problem of cramped bathrooms by keeping essentials organized and visible overhead.
You get both practical storage for daily items and a neat place for rolls to hang directly beneath, which means you aren't wasting valuable floor space on bulky holders.
This kind of setup works well in compact bathrooms where every inch counts and you need solutions that do double duty.
Adding a shelf like this improves how your space looks while handling the nitty-gritty storage needs that every bathroom requires.
It's one of those pieces that serves you functionally and decoratively without demanding much room at all.
Most bathrooms benefit from this type of thinking, where fixtures become part of the design rather than eyesores hidden away.
When you're dealing with tight quarters, this approach saves space and keeps things tidy and accessible in one simple unit.
Customizable Chalkboard Bathroom Labels
Chalkboard labels bring rustic charm to your bathroom storage and let you customize what goes where whenever you want to reorganize.
You can attach them to baskets or shelves so everything has a clear name tag, and swapping labels around takes just seconds when your needs change.
This simple approach keeps your bathroom functional and gives it a personalized feel that standard labels just can't match.
Swinging Chain Wood Toilet Paper Holder
Freely swinging chain toilet paper holder brings rustic charm and farmhouse character into your bathroom space, and it works as both a functional piece and an eye-catching decoration.
You can load rolls of different sizes onto it without any worry, since the swinging design adapts to whatever you have on hand.
A nice touch is how this kind of handcrafted look adds personality to a room and makes bathrooms feel warmer and more lived-in.
It fits perfectly into country-style bathrooms where you want that cozy, homey feeling throughout.
Hanging it on your wall takes up minimal space while keeping your bathroom organized and looking intentionally relaxed.
If your aesthetic leans toward barn doors, exposed wood, or vintage accessories, this holder slots in naturally with those other pieces.
Something about a simple chain and wood construction just feels honest and grounded compared to sleek modern alternatives.
Wire Shelves Above Toilet
Wire racks mounted above your toilet can hold supplies and decorative items while taking advantage of wall space you might otherwise ignore, and this simple solution works especially well when your bathroom lacks built-in storage options.
Toilet paper, rolled towels, and small decor pieces all fit neatly on these racks without taking up floor or counter space.
You get both function and style since wire designs look clean and modern in most bathrooms.
Installing one takes just a few minutes and requires only basic tools.
Bathrooms with tight layouts benefit the most from this approach since every inch counts.
We recommend choosing a rack that matches your other fixtures for a unified look.
Small bathrooms feel less cramped when you use vertical storage like this instead of crowding surfaces with items.
Natural Wood Storage Tower With Fresh Flowers
Wooden storage tower stands out beautifully against all-tile bathrooms and brings natural warmth to the space, while a vase of fresh flowers on top adds a refreshing touch that keeps things simple and clean-looking.
You get both function and style since the tower holds your active toilet paper roll on its peg, extra rolls, and plenty of towels in one rustic piece.
Wood grain and weathered finishes give you that charming, lived-in quality that tile alone cannot deliver.
A nice touch is how this furniture approach balances practicality with genuine character, and it costs far less than renovating your walls or floors.
If you want to keep the look minimal, stick with just the flowers and let the wood do most of the talking.
For a small bathroom, this tower saves you from wasting cabinet space while still keeping everything within arm's reach.
Woven Basket Paper Holder
Built from a simple basket and wooden dowel, a DIY toilet paper holder brings both function and warmth to your bathroom while keeping extra rolls within reach.
You can assemble this project in minutes, and it slots perfectly into spaces where you need storage and style to work together.
Woven baskets give bathrooms that comfortable, lived-in quality that people appreciate when they visit, and the natural wood dowel dispenses rolls just as well as any store-bought option.
If your bathroom tends toward neutral tones, this combination keeps things grounded and organic-feeling.
I can see why the design helps you customize the basket color and wood finish to match what you already have going on, which makes it feel like it truly belongs in your space.
Putting one together yourself means you've added something personal rather than generic to your room.
It's one of those projects where the low effort and high usefulness make it totally worth doing.
Weathered Wood Bathroom Storage
Reclaimed wood transformed into a toilet paper holder brings earthy charm straight into your bathroom and makes you feel connected to nature.
You get the practical function of a simple wooden dowel that holds your roll while a little shelf sits right above it, giving you space to display something beautiful like wildflowers in a mason jar.
Wood grain and weathered textures add genuine character that mass-produced holders just can't match.
Since you're reusing materials that already have history, the whole setup feels authentic and sustainable.
Wildflowers or greenery on that upper shelf add life and freshness to the space without feeling overdone.
Your bathroom becomes a place where function and nature blend together seamlessly.
It's one of those simple swaps that makes a real difference in how your room feels.
Corner Triangle Storage Solution
Magazine holder can do double duty in your bathroom by stashing extra toilet paper rolls, and its triangle shape slots neatly into corners without taking up much room.
Since it has that clean, modern appearance, it actually upgrades the look of your space while keeping supplies within reach.
You get organization and style at the same time, which is hard to beat when you're working with limited bathroom real estate.
The best part is how something so practical can also look good sitting right there on display.
The holder keeps your bathroom from looking cluttered while maintaining that put-together feel you're probably after.
It's one of those solutions that just makes sense once you think about it, and your guests will appreciate the tidy setup too.
Toilet Paper Cabinet Space Saver
Small cabinet nestled between your toilet and sink solves a common storage puzzle and keeps your bathroom feeling orderly and spacious.
When you tuck away extra toilet paper rolls and other supplies inside, you eliminate clutter from view and maintain a clean aesthetic throughout the room.
This type of storage works well because it uses space that often goes to waste, and we all know how much bathrooms benefit from smart organization.
You'll find that having a designated spot for necessities means everything has a home, and your daily routine becomes smoother.
Most compact cabinets fit snugly in tight areas without taking up extra floor space or disrupting traffic flow.
By keeping items behind closed doors rather than displayed on open shelves, you protect them from dust and moisture while preserving your bathroom's relaxed appearance.
Galvanized Steel Bucket Toilet Paper
Galvanized steel buckets make excellent toilet paper holders when you repurpose them in your bathroom space.
You'll quickly see the strong handle works perfectly as a hanging spot for your roll, and the metal finish brings a rustic industrial look to the room.
Beyond holding paper, the sturdy bucket has room for magazines or books if you want to store extra items nearby.
It's a practical solution that combines function with style and costs far less than buying a traditional holder.
A nice touch is how something so simple can add character to a space while doing its job well.
The durable construction means it will last for years without wearing down or breaking.
You get both storage and decoration in one smart piece.
Tree Branch Toilet Paper Keeper
Tree-shaped toilet paper holder brings personality and humor to your bathroom in ways that standard dispensers simply cannot match.
You get a functional piece that doubles as a conversation starter, with each roll nestled among the branches like nature's own design.
A nice touch is how this quirky approach works especially well in bathrooms where kids spend time, since the playful shape makes a mundane necessity feel like part of the room's story.
Nature-themed bathrooms benefit too, as the holder reinforces the outdoor feel you're building throughout the space.
Beyond looks, it keeps your rolls organized and within reach while taking up minimal space.
Whether you want to add a touch of whimsy or strengthen a nature-inspired theme, this type of holder delivers both function and personality without requiring much effort on your part.
Juan Martínez
Founder & Lead Designer
Expertise
Modern & Contemporary Decor, Gothic & Dark Aesthetic, Coastal & Beach Style, Farmhouse & Rustic Decor, Outdoor & Garden Design, Nursery & Kids’ Room Design, Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling, Unique & Specialty Spaces, Living Room and Bedroom Styling
Education
Universidad de los Andes (Bogotá, Colombia)
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (Bogotá, Colombia)
Juan Martínez, Founder & Lead Designer of columbia-artists.com, grew up in Bogotá, inspired by the city’s mix of old and new architecture. He studied Interior Design at Universidad de los Andes and earned an Advanced Interior Architecture Certification from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana.
With 10 years of experience, Juan has transformed homes across Colombia and beyond, blending modern design with cultural craftsmanship. Through columbia-artists.com, he shares expert tips and inspiration to help homeowners create spaces they love.
Outside of design, Juan enjoys exploring markets, mentoring designers, and celebrating Colombian artistry.