Boost Bathroom Storage With Toilet Tank Trays
Our bathrooms often end up disorganized messes with products strewn about the counters and cluttered cabinets. But there's a handy storage solution that maximizes your existing space - the toilet tank tray.
Toilet tank trays are versatile platforms that sit atop your toilet tank, providing extra real estate to neatly organize your most-used items. With a tray in place, you'll finally have a designated spot for daily essentials like perfume, cotton pads and decorative touches.
Materials and Types of Trays
When selecting a toilet tank tray, you'll first want to choose a material that suits your bathroom's style. Common options include:
- Wood - Rustic and natural
- Metal - Modern and industrial
- Ceramic - Sleek and bright
- Rattan - Boho and earthy
Consider moisture resistance if you tend to get water on the tank area. Whatever you choose should also coordinate with your overall decor - a bold graphic print for a playful bathroom or subdued solid colors for a relaxing spa look.
Freestanding vs Wall-Mounted Trays
The most popular style is a freestanding tray that simply sits atop the toilet tank without any hardware required. But wall-mounted trays can be a wise choice if you want to conserve counter space or prefer a floating look.
For additional vertical storage, opt for a multi-tiered freestanding model. With stacked layers, you'll double or triple your organizational real estate!
Determine Your Storage Needs
Take an inventory of the items you use every day that end up cluttering your counters and drawers when not properly stored. This is what your toilet tank tray will house. Typical contents include:
- Makeup and skincare
- Hair care accessories like brushes and scrunchies
- Toiletries such as cotton squares and Q-tips
- Candles and reed diffusers
- Small decor like mini vases or framed photos
Designate Frequent vs Occasional Use
Arrange according to frequency of use. Place everyday essentials like perfume and hand cream near the front of the tray for quick grabbing. Reserve the rear of the tray for backup supplies and items used less often.
Some trays feature adjustable dividers, letting you customize compartments to keep categories neatly separated.
Installing Your Toilet Tank Tray
When preparing for installation, first measure the top of your toilet tank length and width to ensure proper tray sizing. Freestanding trays simply require setting atop the tank, but check for stability so items don't accidentally get knocked off.
Going Beyond Standard Trays
Get creative with placement using floating wall-mounted shelves installed directly above the tank. Attaching your platform to the wall frees up precious counter space. Or choose a sleek, modern glass tray that seems to hover above the porcelain.
For a unique trendy look, staggered hexagon wall hooks act as unexpected storage above the toilet. Hook cosmetic bags, baskets or even framed art when not in use to infuse artistic flair.
Toilet Tank Tray Inspiration
Toilet tank trays open up a world of style possibilities. For rustic charm, try a wooden tray with woven baskets holding rolled towels and candles. Or go mod with a metallic tiered organizer displaying colorful bottles under bell jars.
Incorporate brush holders, cups and even tissue box covers to consolidate items. For smaller baths, choose trays with built-in mirrors or shelves for multi-tasking storage solutions.
Match Your Decor Theme
Allow your tank tray to complement your overall bathroom motif. For modern spaces, acrylic trays with gold chiselled legs and geometric prints make a statement. In mission-style rustic baths, rough-hewn oak trays display succulents next to a tray-top candle votive.
Boho baths welcome colorful patterned trays paired with woven baskets brimming with toiletries. Or try an unexpected material like rattan or seagrass for organic texture.
Styling Your Toiletries
When setting up your tray, keep things you use most frequently near the front - hand lotion, perfume, lip balm. Backup supplies go in the rear. Group like items together using organizers like brush holders, divided trays and cups.
Change It Up
Have fun switching up the look seasonally to keep your bathroom feeling fresh. In spring and summer, display bright floral soaps and fruity candles. Come fall and winter, go for warmer tones with amber glassware and cashmere-scented candles surrounded by natural elements like pinecones, acorns and driftwood.
Let your tank tray highlight favorite decorative "accessories of the moment" like mini vases, sea shells, or color-coordinated ceramic bunnies and pumpkins.
Caring for Your Tray
To keep toilet tank trays looking their best, choose durable materials that resist moisture damage. Dust frequently and wipe down with a soft cloth and mild soap diluted in warm water as needed.
Avoid placing super heavy items on your tray that could unbalance the tank lid. But most standard freestanding or wall-mounted trays can safely organize lighter beauty products and decor.
While toilet tank trays maximize your top tank real estate, also utilize other under-used bathroom areas to address clutter issues. Install slide-out drawers or open shelving in sink vanities. Wall mount corner shelves. Place a freestanding storage cart or floor shelf behind the door. Use hanging wall racks, over the door storage and tension rods for bonus space too.
With a little creativity, you can de-clutter your countertops and pack away everyday items. Allow your new toilet tank tray to lead the makeover mission as you infuse hotel-style luxury into the heart of your home.