How to Store Toilet Paper in a Small Bathroom with a Laundry Basket

In small bathrooms, storing toilet paper is often an ongoing problem. With no cupboards or recessed shelves, rolls frequently end up stacked on the floor, on top of the toilet cistern or squeezed into any spare corner. For people managing limited space every day, finding a compact way to store toilet paper without taking up furniture therefore becomes a priority.

How does the laundry basket trick for storing toilet paper work?

The toilet paper storage hack using a laundry basket is based on a straightforward concept: the depth and open-wire construction of a basket create a type of wall-mounted “cradle”. Rather than using cupboards, the basket is cut in half and mounted horizontally, producing an open recess in which rolls can be stacked in layers and the vertical space fully used.

This solution generally involves a metal wire or mesh basket originally intended for laundry or miscellaneous belongings. Once cut, one side becomes completely flat and sits against the wall, while its curved side acts as a “barrier” for the rolls. This makes it possible to create substantial toilet paper storage without fitting bulky cabinets.

• Saves floor space and space above the toilet.
• Holds several rolls at the same time.
• Makes the available quantity visible straight away.
• Allows rolls to be replaced and removed easily.

How can you adapt a basket to store toilet paper in a small bathroom?

To turn the basket into a toilet paper organiser for a small bathroom, first select a sturdy metal or strong wire model. It then needs to be cut lengthways, removing roughly half of its depth so that it becomes shallower and can serve as a fixed wall-mounted holder.

As cutting leaves exposed edges, the metal must be prepared carefully before installation to ensure it is safe to handle every day. A few simple measures can prevent injuries and improve the fit against the wall, making the finished result sturdier and longer-lasting.

1. Sand or file down the ends to prevent scratches and snagging.
2. Straighten any bent wires so the outline is even.
3. Measure the bathroom area where the basket will be fitted, checking both height and width.
4. Test how many rolls it holds without them falling through the front opening.

What should you consider when fitting the toilet paper holder to the wall?

When mounting the modified basket to store toilet paper rolls, a few precautions help ensure it remains safe and durable. Choosing the fittings is essential: ring hooks, cable clips, and screws with wall plugs are commonly used to secure the back of the basket and spread its weight.

The installation height also needs consideration, particularly in very compact bathrooms or homes with children. Positioning the basket above the toilet cistern or near the sink keeps it accessible without causing head bumps or obstructing doors and windows, while also keeping the rolls away from wetter areas.

• Check that the wall can take screws and wall plugs without damaging the tiles or wall finish.
• Avoid places affected by excessive moisture, leaks or direct splashing.
• Regularly make sure the screws are still secure.
• Use “S” hooks on existing rails when drilling into the wall is not possible.

How can you make the toilet paper organiser more discreet and protected?

Anyone concerned about the bathroom's appearance can customise the basket so that it looks like a decorative accessory rather than simply an improvised solution. Spray paint in neutral shades, such as white, black or graphite, helps the metal blend with the other finishes, while bold colours can create a focal point on the wall.

Because bathrooms are humid environments, it is worth choosing paint with rust protection and placing the holder away from splashes from the sink or shower. With just a few materials, careful fitting and this additional attention to appearance and moisture, the adapted laundry basket can store toilet paper practically while freeing cupboards and shelves for other hygiene and personal-care items.