How To Build Stylish DIY Bathroom Shelves

Are you tired of bathroom clutter taking over your limited counter space?

Many renters and homeowners struggle to maximize their bathroom’s storage potential.

That bare towel rack above your toilet could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Here’s what makes this project different: you can transform an unused towel rack into a beautiful wooden shelf without permanently changing your bathroom.

There is no need for drilling into walls or complex installations.

Following this simple DIY guide, you’ll learn how to create a custom-made bathroom shelf that fits perfectly over your towel rack.

The result?

A practical storage solution that adds style to your space while keeping your essentials within reach.

Ready to start building your bathroom shelf?

Let’s begin with the basics.

Required Materials And Tools

Item	Details
1 piece of 8-foot pine or oak board	Main material for the project
Wood glue	To bond the wood pieces together
Hand saw, or power saw	For cutting the board
Measuring tape	To measure and mark the wood
Pencil	For marking measurements
Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)	To smooth the surface of the wood
The wood stain of your choice	To color the wood
Clear protective coating	To protect the stained surface
Command strips for extra security	For additional support
Small piece of wood for support	For added stability during the process
Clean cloth for staining	For applying the stain smoothly

Planning Your Bathroom Shelf Project

1. Taking Accurate Measurements

Start by measuring your existing towel rack. Note these key dimensions:

• The total width from wall to wall
• The depth needed for your items
• The height clearance above and below the rack
• The distance from the wall to the rod
• The rod’s thickness

2. Understanding Weight Distribution

The shelf needs proper support to hold your items safely. Consider these factors:

• The towel rod’s sturdiness
• Where to place support pieces
• How much weight the shelf will hold
• The contact points with the wall
• The balance points for stability

3. Choosing The Right Wood Type 

Select wood based on these considerations:

• Pine works well for light items
• Oak offers more strength for heavier objects
• The wood should match your bathroom’s moisture levels
• Pick a material that takes stain well
• Consider the wood’s natural grain pattern

DIY Bathroom Shelves: Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1 – Cutting The Wood To Size

Start with your main pieces:

• Cut two 26-inch pieces for the top and bottom
• Make two 4-inch pieces for the sides
• Measure your front panel to cover the entire box
• Cut a small support piece for the rod area

Step 2 – Creating the Basic Box Structure

1. Lay out your pieces on a flat surface
2. Apply wood glue to connect the side pieces to the top board
3. Attach the bottom board to complete the basic box
4. Let the glue dry completely
5. Test the fit around your towel rack

Step 3 – Adding Support Features

1. Place the box around your towel rack
2. Check for any gaps or tilting
3. Add the small support piece in the middle
4. Make sure it rests firmly on the towel rod
5. Secure it with wood glue
6. Allow time for proper drying

Step 4 – Attaching the Front Panel

1. Test the front panel placement
2. Apply wood glue evenly across the box edges
3. Press the front panel firmly into place
4. Hold in position until the initial bond forms
5. Clean any excess glue immediately
6. Let it dry completely before handling

Video Tutorial

Below, I have attached the video of How To Build Stylish DIY Bathroom Shelves by Kelsey Casteel:

Finishing Touches

1. Selecting The Right Stain Color

Your stain choice affects both protection and style.

Test stain samples on scrap wood first to see how they work with:

• Your bathroom’s existing colors
• The metal fixtures (silver, black, brass)
• The overall room temperature (warm or cool tones)
• Wall color and tile style
• Natural lighting conditions

2. Applying Protective Coating

Follow these steps for lasting protection:

1. Sand all surfaces until smooth
2. Apply the first coat of stain evenly
3. Let dry completely (usually overnight)
4. Add 3-4 layers of clear protective coating
5. Sand lightly between coats
6. Allow full drying time between layers
7. Give the final coat extra time to cure

3. Installation Tips And Safety Measures

Make your shelf secure and safe:

1. Clean the installation area thoroughly
2. Test fit one final time
3. Place command strips on back corners
4. Check the shelf sits on the level
5. Press firmly against the wall for proper adhesion
6. Wait 24 hours before adding items
7. Test stability before placing objects

Styling Your New Bathroom Shelf

Organizing Essential Items

1. Create Zones For Categories

Designate specific shelf areas for types of items, such as grouping cleaning supplies, personal care items, and spare essentials.

This system allows for quick and simple item retrieval.

2. Use Clear Containers For Visibility

Select transparent jars or containers for cotton swabs, bath salts, or spare soaps.

This looks organized and helps you quickly spot when supplies need replenishing.

3. Consider Frequency Of Use

Position daily essentials where they’re easy to reach.

Less frequently used items can go toward the back or in covered containers.

Balancing Function And Design

1. Layer Items By Height

Place taller items like vases or large bottles at the back, medium-height items in the middle, and shorter pieces in front.

This creates visual interest and makes everything accessible.

2. Mix Textures And Materials

Combine smooth glass containers with woven baskets and ceramic pieces.

This adds visual interest while maintaining a cohesive look.

Keep the color palette consistent to avoid visual clutter.

3. Consider Scale And Proportion

Choose accessories that fit your shelf’s size.

Items shouldn’t hang over the edges or look cramped.

Leave enough space between pieces to make each one stand out.

Maintenance Tips

1. Dust And Wipe The Shelf

Weekly with a dry microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth and dry it immediately. Avoid harsh cleaners on the wood and protective coating, focusing on edges and corners.

2. Check Stability

Test the shelf’s security monthly. Look for any wobbling or movement. Examine command strips and replace if needed. Make sure the shelf stays level and sturdy against the wall. Check all support points where the shelf meets the towel rack.

3. Control Moisture

Watch for water marks from containers. Clean spills right away. Use protective pads under items that might hold water. Keep the bathroom well-ventilated to prevent excess moisture buildup around the shelf.

Conclusion

Your DIY bathroom shelf project does more than add storage—it turns an unused towel rack into a personalized space for your essentials.

Following these steps, you’ve created a practical addition that fits your bathroom perfectly.

Your new shelf will serve you well for years with proper care and maintenance.

Remember to check stability regularly, keep moisture at bay, and rotate items to prevent wear.

The best part? This project shows how simple changes can greatly affect your bathroom’s functionality and style.

You’ve taken a basic bathroom fixture and made it work better for your needs, all while keeping your security deposit safe.

Ready to start your shelf project?

Gather your materials and transform your bathroom this weekend.