Laundry Basket Trick for Storing Toilet Paper in Small Bathrooms

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

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 idea: using the depth and open structure of a wire basket to create a type of wall-mounted “cradle”. Rather than taking up cupboard space, the basket is cut in half and mounted horizontally, forming an open compartment in which rolls can be stacked in layers and vertical space is used effectively.

This solution generally uses a metal wire or mesh basket, initially intended for laundry or miscellaneous items. Once cut, one side of the basket becomes completely flat against the wall, while its curved side holds the rolls in place. This creates substantial toilet paper storage without the need to fit bulky cabinets.

• Saves floor space and room on top of the toilet cistern.
• Holds several rolls at once.
• Makes the number of rolls available immediately visible.
• Allows rolls to be replaced and removed easily.

How can you adapt a laundry 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 durable wire model. It then needs to be cut lengthways, removing roughly half of its depth so that it is shallower and suitable for use as a fixed wall-mounted holder.

As cutting leaves exposed edges, the metal should be prepared carefully before installation to ensure it is safe for everyday handling. A few simple measures can prevent accidents and improve the fit against the wall, making the finished result more stable and long-lasting.

1. Sand or file down the ends to prevent scratches and snagging.
2. Straighten any bent wires so that 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 fit inside without them falling through the front opening.

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

When mounting the altered basket to hold toilet paper rolls, a few precautions will help ensure safety and durability. Choosing the right fixings is essential: hooks with rings, cable clips and screws with wall plugs are commonly used to secure the rear of the basket and spread its weight.

Its height also needs consideration, particularly in very compact bathrooms or homes with children. Positioning the basket above the toilet cistern or near the sink makes it accessible without causing anyone to knock their head or obstructing doors and windows, while keeping the rolls away from damper areas.

• Check that the wall can take screws and wall plugs without damaging the tiles or wall covering.
• Keep it away from areas affected by excessive humidity, leaks or direct splashes.
• Regularly check that the screws remain tight.
• Use “S” hooks on existing rails where 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 it looks like a decorative accessory rather than simply an improvised solution. Spray paint in neutral shades, such as white, black or graphite grey, helps the metal blend with the other finishes, while brighter colours create a feature on the wall.

As 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 installation and extra attention to appearance and moisture, the adapted laundry basket can store toilet paper practically, freeing cupboards and shelves for other hygiene and personal-care items.