5 Ways To Double The Storage Space In Your Small Shower

If you have a small shower, you know how frustrating it can be to bathe in peace. Such a small space can leave you with very little wiggle room, making it difficult to turn around or wash thoroughly. Plus, it can cause you to continuously drop your products, leading to accidents. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 21.8 million people sustained nonfatal injuries in bathrooms.

Due to the dangers of reduced space in your shower, it's essential to maximize the area as efficiently as possible. You can easily achieve this if you're the only one using it; however, this task becomes significantly more difficult if you share the space with more than one person, including roommates, partners, siblings, and children.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can double the storage space in your small shower. The best part is that many of the methods below are renter-friendly and inexpensive, so you can make the most out of these hacks without breaking the bank or making permanent changes.

1. Use a classic shower caddy

To start off our space-saving shower hacks, let's take a closer look at the classic shower caddy. This shower product sits behind your shower head and is often sold at home improvement stores, such as Lowe's and Home Depot, as well as general retailers like Target and Walmart, so, it's easy to obtain and purchase. The great thing is that there are many different styles to choose from, allowing you to select the one that best suits your budget and lifestyle. However, this can also make it extremely difficult to narrow down your options to just one.

When looking for a shower caddy, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, according to Shower Gem, you'll want to check out its make and strength. This is especially important to do if you'll be adding many products to it. That said, there are many materials that shower caddies can be made out of, including aluminum and stainless steel. Finally, you'll also have to consider the maintenance, so ensure you get a caddy that's easy to clean.

2. Install a pocket shower liner

A liner with pockets can be a great way to make the most of your small shower. But what is a pocket shower liner exactly? This type of liner is specifically designed with pockets that allow you to insert a few of your shower time essentials, including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash bottles. Some of these items even provide space for you to place a tablet or smartphone, such as an iPad or Amazon Kindle, for when you're feeling like listening to good music or a podcast whilst showering.

So, what should you look for when purchasing a pocket shower liner? Whether you're buying a pocket shower one or a regular one, Bed Bath & Beyond suggests looking at the size, materials, and construction. In general, you want a liner that can keep bacteria and mildew at bay. You also want to look at the price of it and find one within your budget.

3. Purchase shower baskets with suction

A shower basket with suction can be an amazing way to maximize the space in your small shower. These baskets can be made out of plastic or metal and seamlessly stick onto the walls with suction cups or a water-resistant adhesive. This can be a great option for renters looking for a way to double the storage in their small shower without damaging the space.

However, several factors suggest that shower baskets with suction or adhesive can be a hit or miss. To ensure suction cups stick on for good to their surface, The Container Store recommends thoroughly cleaning the surface first to remove soap scum and any dirt that may prevent it from creating a strong bond. Then, wipe down the surface with rubbing alcohol and wait for it to dry. When ready, wet the suction cup and firmly stick it onto the wall. Ideally, you want to wait a minimum of 24 hours before putting any items on a shower caddy with suction cups.

4. Buy a tension corner shower caddy

You can also purchase a tension shower caddy if you have a small bathroom with a tiny shower. According to Shower Gem, a tension corner shower caddy is a type of vertical caddy with baskets that sits on an extendable pole with two rubber stoppers on each end. To set it up, simply position it in the corner of your shower, extend the pole until it reaches the ceiling, and ensure it's secure.

You can also move the baskets attached to the tension pole up or down to change the distance between them. This ensures that all your shower items fit great and are accessible to even the tallest and shortest people. Like any shower accessory, it's important to look at the materials used to create it. This way, your tension corner shower caddy can last longer. Make sure to also review the weight limit of each basket in order to prevent it from breaking.

5. Invest in shower niches

Shower niches are recessed spaces in your shower wall where you can store your bath products, including shampoo, soap bars, and so forth. While this is a permanent solution and not renter-friendly, niches are a great way to make your shower seem larger and increase the storage in the space. According to GoShelf, the cost for a shower niche can range between $75 to $300 due to several factors, such as tile design, the size of the built-in, and your specific needs. Even though these built-ins are pricey, they provide long-lasting storage and quick access to items you'll need for bath time.

So, how do you go about selecting a shower niche? The first step is to decide whether you want a custom or prefabricated one. As the name implies, a custom niche allows you to select the tile and size; on the other hand, prefabricated ones are ready to be installed in your shower. What you pick ultimately depends on your preferences and budget.