How to Organize a Small Bathroom Without Drilling
Smart renter-friendly hacks to keep your space tidy—no tools required.
You’ve probably faced the age-old dilemma: tiny bathroom, zero storage, and a lease that forbids drilling holes.
We have firsthand experience with tiny spaces. After college, my future wife and I decided to pack up our lives and start over in a new state. We moved in with a friend. What we didn’t know was exactly what our new living space would look like.
It turned out to be an attic. Although it was finished with drywall and carpet, it was simply a long, narrow space—no rooms, no dividers. Toward the back, there was what I’d call a bathroomette: an open-air toilet/shower combo with nothing more than a curtain for privacy and dog-bowl-sized sink.
The worst part? We weren’t allowed to drill or even use thumbtacks in the walls in hopes of creating any private space.
We learned a lot from that experience. Most of all, we learned that you can still have an organized, functional space—without ever touching a power drill.
Here are the best renter-friendly ways to organize a small bathroom—no screws, no stress.
1. Over-the-Toilet Storage Racks
Don’t waste that vertical real estate! An over-the-toilet rack gives you shelves without wall mounting, perfect for extra towels, toilet paper, or decorative baskets.
Pro tip: Look for slim, freestanding designs made for narrow bathrooms.
2. Use Tension Rods Like a Storage Pro
Tension rods aren’t just for shower curtains.
- Hang one under the sink to clip on cleaning bottles with spray triggers.
- Use them vertically inside a cabinet to divide rolled-up towels.
- Create a hanging basket station by threading small baskets or hooks onto the rod.
Zero drilling. Maximum impact.
3. Adhesive Hooks & Caddies
Modern adhesive technology is a renter’s best friend.
- Stick-on hooks work great for towels, robes, or hanging baskets.
- Shower caddies with suction cups keep shampoo off the floor and in reach.
Just make sure to clean the wall first and follow the weight limits!
4. Countertop Organizers
A small bathroom doesn’t mean you have to cram everything under the sink.
- Use tiered trays or lazy Susans for daily essentials.
- Opt for clear acrylic bins so you can see everything at a glance.
Keep only what you use every day on the counter—store the rest in bins or drawers.
5. Rolling Carts for the Win
Slim rolling carts fit perfectly between the toilet and the wall or beside the vanity.
- Great for storing hair tools, skincare, and backup toiletries.
- Easy to roll out of the way for cleaning or rearranging.
Bonus: They can double as nightstands or kitchen storage if you move!
6. Hang a Back-of-Door Organizer
The back of the bathroom door is prime storage space.
- Use over-the-door organizers with pockets or shelves for hairbrushes, toilet paper, and more.
- Hang a mirror or towel rack there if your walls are off-limits.
Look for options that don’t scratch the door and fit snugly.
Final Tip: Declutter First
Before organizing, edit down what you really use. Toss expired products, consolidate extras, and donate anything unopened you’ll never use. Small bathrooms need ruthless efficiency.
Shop Renter-Friendly Bathroom Storage
At RenterSupply.com, we specialize in small-space solutions—no drills, no damage, no drama. Check out our:
- Over-the-door organizers
- Adhesive shelves and caddies
- Tension-rod storage hacks
- Slim rolling carts