The bathroom is one of the most frequently used spaces in any home, and as such, it can quickly become cluttered and disorganized. From overflowing drawers to crowded countertops, it’s easy to lose control of this important room. However, with a little effort and the right strategies, you can transform your bathroom into a clean, functional, and relaxing space.
Say goodbye to cramped medicine cabinets, protect your toes from falling hair products, and properly dispose of expired toiletries after tidying up the bathroom! If you’re ready to declutter and organize your bathroom but are unsure where to start, this guide is for you. Below, we’ll walk you through practical tips for decluttering, cleaning, and organizing your bathroom so it can become a peaceful, spa-like sanctuary in no time.
Decluttering the Bathroom
Decluttering the bathroom doesn’t have to be an overwhelming or stressful process—just take it one lipstick at a time! The first step is to make a plan. Create a decluttering schedule that includes all the spaces in your bathroom, and break down the list into specific tasks. For example, instead of tackling everything in one go, you can declutter one drawer or cabinet per day. This approach makes the process more manageable and less daunting.
You’ll also want to consider which organization tools (such as baskets, bins, or trays) you might need, so you can purchase them ahead of time. Once you have your plan in place, it’s time to pick a spot to start and get to work! Whether you begin with your drawers, cabinets, or shower, following these decluttering tips will help you regain control of your space.
1. Declutter Your Bathroom Drawers
Bathroom drawers can easily become a catch-all for unused toiletries, expired makeup, and other odds and ends. Start by pulling everything out of the drawers and sorting items into three piles: keep, toss, and donate. Throw away or recycle any products you no longer need, and give the drawer a good wipe-down before putting items back in.
To prevent future clutter, consider using drawer organizers or containers to separate items by category—such as makeup, dental care, or hair products. This will make it easier to keep the drawer tidy and find what you need quickly.
2. Clean Out Bathroom Cabinets
Just like drawers, bathroom cabinets can become cluttered with old towels, cleaning products, and toiletries. Take the time to go through everything in your cabinets, tossing out anything that’s expired or no longer useful. Be sure to pay attention to unused or old cleaning supplies, as well as personal care products that may have accumulated over time.
After decluttering, give your cabinets a thorough cleaning. This will help you start fresh before organizing the items you plan to keep. Once clean, consider using baskets, bins, or shelf dividers to categorize and store your items more efficiently. You’ll also want to reserve the most accessible spaces for items you use regularly, while storing less frequently used items in harder-to-reach spots.
3. Declutter the Medicine Cabinet
The medicine cabinet is often one of the most cluttered areas of the bathroom, and it’s important to declutter it regularly—especially when it comes to expired medications. According to the FDA, expired medications should be disposed of properly to avoid any risk of harm. You can drop off unused medications at a drug take-back program or flush them, depending on the guidelines. Make sure to dispose of expired over-the-counter medicines, prescription drugs, and even expired skincare products.
Once you’ve cleared out old or unnecessary items, organize the rest by keeping daily essentials at eye level for easy access. Store first-aid supplies, vitamins, and other items in separate containers to keep the cabinet organized.
4. Streamline Your Shower Products
It’s easy to let shower and bath products accumulate, but too many bottles of shampoo or unused body washes can create clutter in your bathroom. Go through your bath products and get rid of anything you don’t use or need. If you have multiple bottles of the same product, consider consolidating them to save space.
To keep your shower organized, invest in a shower caddy or suction-cup hooks to store lightweight items like loofahs and razors. Be sure to place heavier items like shampoo and conditioner on stable surfaces to prevent them from falling and causing a mess. With a more streamlined shower, you’ll find it easier to maintain your daily routine without tripping over unnecessary products.
Cleaning the Bathroom
Once you’ve decluttered your bathroom, it’s time for a deep clean. With drawers, cabinets, and shelves emptied, it’s much easier to give your bathroom the thorough cleaning it deserves. Start by wiping down all surfaces, including countertops, cabinet interiors, and drawer bottoms. Don’t forget to clean your floors and baseboards, which can accumulate dust and grime over time.
Next, tackle the shower or tub, making sure to scrub down walls, clean grout, and remove any soap scum buildup. Clean your showerhead as well—over time, mineral deposits can clog the jets and reduce water pressure. A quick soak in vinegar can help dissolve these deposits and restore your showerhead to full function.
With a sparkling clean bathroom, you’re ready to move on to organizing your space!
Tips for Organizing the Bathroom
Now that the decluttering and cleaning are out of the way, it’s time to focus on organizing. Bathrooms are often small spaces with limited storage, so efficient organization is key to maximizing the available space. Below, we’ve compiled tips to help you turn even the tiniest bathroom into a functional and tidy retreat.
5. Invest in Drawer Organizers
Once your bathroom drawers are decluttered, it’s important to keep them organized to prevent them from becoming junk drawers again. Use drawer organizers to divide your items into categories such as makeup, nail care, dental products, and more. This will help you keep everything neatly in its place and make it easier to find what you need. Place frequently used items in easily accessible areas, and reserve the back or bottom drawers for things you don’t use as often.
6. Organize Your Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are typically stored under the sink, but if you have limited cabinet space, you may need to get creative. Consider hanging your cleaning products on a tension rod under the sink, or invest in a storage caddy to keep everything organized and easily accessible. Use small bins to hold sponges, gloves, and scrub brushes, and designate a specific spot for each cleaning tool. This will make it easier to keep your bathroom clean and ensure that supplies are always within reach.
7. Maximize Bathroom Cabinet Storage
If you have bathroom cabinets, make the most of the vertical space by using tiered shelving or stackable storage containers. This is especially useful for storing items like skincare products, hair tools, and extra toiletries. Group similar items together in baskets or bins, and label them for easy identification. Adding shelf dividers can also help prevent items from toppling over and getting disorganized.
8. Improve Shower Storage
Proper shower storage is essential for both convenience and safety. If you’re currently using your bathtub ledge to store shower products, consider upgrading to a more organized solution. A sturdy shower caddy or shelving unit will keep all your products within reach while preventing them from cluttering the edges of the tub. Use hooks or suction cups to store lightweight items, and be sure to reserve space for towels nearby so they’re easily accessible without cluttering the shower area.
9. Organize the Linen Closet
If your bathroom has a linen closet, take advantage of the storage space to keep towels, washcloths, and other linens organized. Fold items neatly and sort them into categories—such as bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths—and place them in labeled bins or baskets. Consider adding shelving dividers to avoid messy piles, and keep frequently used linens at eye level for easy access. With an organized linen closet, you’ll always know where to find clean towels and linens when you need them.
10. Keep Countertops Clear
One of the easiest ways to make your bathroom feel tidy is to keep the countertops clear of clutter. After organizing your drawers and cabinets, make a habit of putting items away rather than leaving them out on the counter. Store daily-use items like hand soap and toothbrushes in decorative trays or containers, and limit the number of products you keep out.
By keeping your countertops clear, you’ll create a more open and spacious feeling in your bathroom. Plus, it will be easier to clean, as you won’t have to move a lot of items off the counter to wipe it down.
11. Use Matching Containers for a Stylish Look
For a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look, consider pouring your products into matching containers. This is particularly useful if you buy items in bulk, such as shampoo, conditioner, or hand soap. Transfer these products into stylish, matching bottles or jars, and store the bulk containers out of sight. Not only does this make your bathroom look sleek and organized, but it also makes it easier to maintain a consistent style throughout the space.
FAQs: Decluttering and Organizing the Bathroom
Q: What are four tips for organizing your bathroom?
A: To keep your bathroom organized, 1) label containers and bins, 2) schedule monthly decluttering sessions, 3) ensure everything has a place, and 4) make an effort to always put items away after using them.
Q: How should bathrooms be organized?
A: First, declutter to get rid of items you no longer need. Then, use organizational tools like drawer organizers, baskets, and labels to categorize your belongings. Maximize space by using vertical storage and keeping countertops clear.
Q: Where should toiletries be placed in a bathroom?
A: Keep frequently used toiletries—like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and face wash—near the sink for easy access. Store other toiletries in drawers, cabinets, or baskets to minimize clutter.
Q: Where do I start decluttering?
A: Start by choosing one area, such as a drawer or cabinet. Sort items into keep, toss, and donate piles, and use containers to organize the items you intend to keep.
Are you ready to declutter and organize your bathroom? By following these tips, you can transform your bathroom into a clean, relaxing space that serves both function and style. Maximize every inch of space by utilizing baskets, containers, and organizational tools, and you’ll enjoy a tidy, well-organized bathroom in no time. Plus, with regular upkeep and decluttering sessions, you’ll be able to maintain this serene space for years to come. Happy organizing!