A shelf is a piece of furniture that does not have a front, and, more recently, no back wall. It is most often used to organize the storage of a wide variety of things.

The main difference between shelves and cabinets is that they take up fairly little space, are acceptable for any wallet, and can fit perfectly into even the most unsuitable space for most other furniture.

How to choose a bathroom shelf

All shelves are usually divided into several categories depending on their purpose: for the bathroom, for the living room, for the office.

Shelves that are installed in the bathroom are mainly used to store a variety of personal hygiene items, such as toothpaste, soap, shampoos, and so on.

Small items, such as small tubes and bottles, are usually stored on narrow shelves, and towels for guests and bathrobes are stored on wider shelves.

As a rule, the most rational place to place a shelf in the bathroom is above the washbasin. In this situation, all the most important accessories will always be right at hand.

In the last couple of years, telescopic shelves have often begun to be used, consisting of a plastic or metal base and shelves that can be moved up/down if necessary.

Thanks to this feature, it is always possible to change the distance between the shelves or their height. Mostly telescopic shelves are installed in the corner of the room.

Their main advantage is that they can fit into absolutely any interior.

When choosing this shelf model, it is very important to immediately check the movement of the shelves directly on the base. It is best to opt for a shelf that is equipped with additional clamps. It is they who will impede their progress under the possible influence of the load.

What material should I choose for the shelf?

Today in construction stores there is a huge selection various materials for shelves.

It is important to consider before purchasing the place where you plan to install the shelf in the future. This is necessary because, for example, unlike models for the living room or bedroom, bathroom shelves must have properties that allow them to remain resistant to temperature changes and moisture.

Plastic is considered one of the most simple materials in terms of care. In addition, it is moisture resistant and can be given absolutely any color and shape without any difficulty.

However, very often plastic turns yellow over time and loses its ideal original appearance. Most often, shelves made of plastic can be seen in the bathroom.

Metal has all the most necessary qualities, and at the same time, unlike plastic, it looks much more impressive and has a longer service life.

It’s true that metal shelves have a lot of disadvantages.

Firstly, they are susceptible limescale and corrosion. Secondly, their cost is slightly higher, and caring for them is more difficult than their plastic counterparts.

Glass shelves can visually increase the area of ​​a room.

The material is considered one of the most fragile, so shelves made from it cannot be trusted with various heavy objects.

The ideal combination is a glass shelf with a wooden or metal frame.

When choosing a shelf, first of all, take into account the style, as well as the materials and colors of the other interior items that are in the room.

It is important not to overload the shelves. Only in this case will they truly decorate the interior of the room.

Photo of bathroom shelves

A mandatory element of the bathroom, in addition to plumbing and communication systems, is furniture for storing bath accessories and accessories. However, the bathroom does not require an abundance of free space, so instead of massive cabinet furniture, shelves are used.

Thanks to the presence of shelves in the bathroom, it is possible to maintain order and make the room more comfortable to use - everything you need is always at hand. In addition, shelves allow you to zone the bathroom and make it more attractive and individual in terms of style.

Peculiarities

When talking about bathroom shelves, we usually mean not only open shelves, mounted on the wall, but also closed cabinets and racks, bookcases, corner telescopic shelves, metal dryers and other models.

Regardless of the type and design, all shelves must meet the following requirements:

• resistance to moisture and corrosion (this is due to the increased level of humidity in bathrooms);
• strength;
• compliance of the dimensions with the expected dimensions of the bathroom;
• security;
• external attractiveness;
• biostability;
• practicality and functionality.

The main purpose of the structures is to store things (usually towels and bath sheets) and hygiene items. With proper selection and placement, shelves transform the interior, becoming its accent or visually expanding the bathroom.

Shelves differ from cabinet furniture in that they are compact, ergonomic, and easy to install and fasten. Thanks to the use of shelves, even small bathrooms gain versatility and become more convenient.

Kinds

Bathroom shelves depending on the installation method and placement features there are the following types:

• floor (stationary);
• corner tiered;
• wall (or hanging).

Floor structures are usually represented by the following types of furniture:

• The shelves are open-type shelves that are connected by a common metal frame. Shelves allow you to effectively use the bathroom space; they are installed along the walls, above the toilets. Typically, shelves are designed to store towels and bath sheets. It is possible to make the shelf in a corner version - a more ergonomic model.
• Another option for small bathrooms is a retractable shelf. Its shelves are transformed, changing size and location, due to which the bookcase becomes more or less spacious. For greater convenience, such models are often equipped with furniture wheels.

• Dryers are used to dry clothes. Unlike wall-mounted and wall-mounted models, stationary dryers are more convenient to use, since they can be folded and stored, for example, in a closet or dressing room. In addition, folding dryers ensure that the product’s shape is preserved, which is important, for example, when drying linen and woolen items.

• Cabinets are not so popular in bathroom interiors. The exception is cabinets under the sink, which are closed cabinets with doors. They do not take up free space and perform 2 functions at once - they serve as a storage place for hygiene items and hide the sink communication system.

• Racks are the same bookcases, but larger in size. Their height usually exceeds 1 m.

• Shelves under the bathroom are usually installed independently and are practical - they do not take up free space, but allow you to store household chemicals, buckets, rags. All these items are hidden from prying eyes sliding screens for Bath. They act as doors.

• Hangers are similar to the structures located in corridors and hallways. They are made mainly of metal. Towels and bathrobes can be placed on such hangers.

Corner designs are especially convenient for small bathrooms, since they do not take up free space. Among the most popular variations are shelving and bookcases, closed cabinets and open shelves. They all have the same triangular shape.

Compact corner shelves are often placed above washing machine or a bath bowl. As a rule, the model includes 2-3 tiers; the shelves themselves are equipped with small fences, which prevents the bottles and vials stored on the shelf from slipping and falling. The most practical are metal and plastic models with perforations.

A type of corner shelves are devices with suction cups. Their advantage is mobility. If necessary, you can quickly change the location of the shelf. To install it, you do not need to install fasteners or ditch the walls.

Wall mounted structures are actively used in small spaces, where it is not possible to accommodate stationary floor storage. For fixing to the wall, wall-mounted models are equipped with canopies.

A special type of corner shelves are telescopic. They are installed in a “blind” corner, where other structures cannot be installed. As a rule, telescopic shelves are made of plastic, but have a strong fastening, so they are practical. If such a shelf has 4-5 tiers, it can easily replace a cabinet.

An important point is that the user can adjust the position of the shelves, changing their height at his discretion. Telescopic devices are easy to install - they are clamped between the bathtub and the ceiling or between a wall and another wall perpendicular to it (if we're talking about about the suction cup model).

Telescopic shelves Convenient to use in the corner above the bathtub. They will accommodate cosmetics necessary for daily use. As a rule, a two-tier or three-tier structure is enough for a family of 3-4 people. It is convenient if such a shelf at the bottom has hooks for washcloths.

Among the most popular wall-mounted structures for storing things in the bathtub are:

• Dryers. Usually this compact models, however, if towels and other bathroom textiles are stored on them, the area occupied by the dryer will significantly increase.
• Heat dryers– stationary devices for drying towels, located on the wall. There are several types of heated towel rails:
• The first is a hanger with rods; drying of towels on them is carried out under the influence of natural ventilation.
• The second type is zigzag or trapezoidal pipes connected to the system central heating. Such devices are very convenient because they allow you not only to dry textiles, but also to heat the bathroom.

• There are radiator devices with a heating element inside that operate when connected to the mains.
• The cabinets are a box with shelves and a door. For the purposes of ergonomics and practicality of operation, cabinets are usually hung above the sink (then on outside doors attach a mirror) or a washing machine.
• Shelves above the bathtub are similar to corner shelves, but they are rectangular or square in shape and are placed along the wall rather than in the corner. Usually installed near the sink, bathtub, toilet.

Shelves above the bath can be built-in. It is believed that this option is one of the most convenient and ergonomic, although the organization of such devices must be carried out at the stage of bathroom renovation. A niche is made in the wall near the bowl with shelves made of plasterboard and metal profiles, which is then tiled (the same as the bathroom wall itself). The resulting shelf is suitable for shampoos and other cosmetics that should always be at hand. The shelf does not take up space, does not rise above the bathroom and is easy to clean.

• Hangers are also used for hanging robes and towels. They are hooks attached to the wall. Unlike floor options wall hangers They do not take up much space and do not risk tipping over if there is an incorrect (one-sided arrangement) or excessive number of items on the hanger. However, wall-mounted models can come off the wall (if glued) or break if the load is too heavy.

To hanging structures turned out to be truly ergonomic, they should be placed above plumbing fixtures or furniture. In other words, the space on the floor under such shelves must be occupied.

Depending on the mounting method, there are shelves that are attached with Velcro or fixed with spacers or dowels included in the kit. When choosing devices with Velcro, preference should be given to models of shelves with Velcro. They are also equipped with suction cups that attach to the wall. After this, the suction cup is closed with a special cap, which provides a vacuum. Such devices can withstand heavy weight, they do not slip off rough surfaces.

Shelves can be closed or open. The former look more massive due to the presence of blind doors, but they allow you to hide stored items from prying eyes and protect them from dust. For convenience, the doors of such designs often have a mirror. Open shelves do not hide what is stored on them, but they take up less space and look lighter and more airy.

Those who like to take long baths, as well as those who read during this process, will appreciate the tray shelf. It is a small “board” that, like a bridge, spans from one edge of the bathtub side to the other. It turns out to be a small table or tray. Many models are equipped with book stands or recesses, for example, for a glass of wine.

Material

In terms of the material used, bathroom shelves are:

• Plastic. They tolerate moisture well, can have a variety of designs, are characterized by lightness and low cost, but are susceptible to mechanical damage and mold formation. When choosing plastic models, preference should be given to products with a perforated bottom. In this case, moisture will not accumulate in them.

• Metal. Such durable, attractive structures that do not withstand direct contact with water and water vapor can become rusty. In this regard, chrome-plated shelves or stainless steel products are considered more practical. Products with a chrome surface look organic in modern interiors.

If you are looking for a sophisticated version of metal shelves, pay attention to forged models, as well as antique bronze shelves. These options look attractive in country, Provence, and classic styles.

• Plasterboard. Such shelves are installed during the renovation stage in the bathroom. Usually they are installed in niches and finished with the same material as the cladding of the bathroom walls (usually tiles). Their advantage is ergonomics, durability, the ability to get the most convenient shelf for a specific room, and an attractive appearance.

• Ceramic and glass models– this is predominantly decorative shelves small sizes. Such structures are impervious to the influence of moisture, but are quite fragile. Typically, ceramics and glass are used in combination with other materials.

The basis of glass shelves is tempered glass, which ensures their strength compared to ordinary glass. In the absence of mechanical impact and shock, such shelves are durable. Particularly attractive are glass models with lighting, which can become the “highlight” of the interior.

• Shelves made of fiberboard and MDF They are distinguished by their strength, light weight, and respectable appearance, however, in conditions of high humidity in the bathroom, such shelves turn out to be short-lived. The exception is wooden models impregnated with special moisture-repellent compounds. The structures are fastened using brackets, hinges or corners.

Dimensions

Bathroom shelves are designed to “unload” the room and are designed for storing things and accessories. However, if they are chosen incorrectly or are overloaded with stored items, the structures look sloppy and make the bathroom less tidy. In this regard, it is important to choose the correct size of these structures.

Narrow hanging shelves or shelves can be “run” from floor to ceiling. The room will only benefit from this, as it will visually become higher. For spacious bathrooms it is better to choose wider options with a height slightly above the middle of the wall, racks or shelves.

In addition to the size of the shelves, it is important to take care of their correct placement. Thus, shelves and towel hooks should be placed closer to the sink or bathtub. A distance of 60-70 cm is considered optimal. In this case, the structures are placed slightly lower (at a height of 140-150 cm from the floor), while for hooks it is better to choose a higher place (160 cm from the floor). For children, it is better to purchase separate hooks and arrange them, taking into account the child’s height.

A structure designed for storing toothbrushes and toothpaste is usually fixed on the wall between the sink and the mirror. It is advisable that there be 15 cm between the mirror and the shelf, and at least 30 between the shelf and the sink.

Colors

Natural shades of wood, as well as a brown-coffee palette, will allow you to add notes of homely warmth and comfort to your bathtub interior. They look good in tiled bathrooms. Tile, as a rule, is associated with a certain coldness and severity. The use of wooden accessories softens this effect. Besides, wooden furniture always looks elegant and respectable.

As for plastic models, they delight with color abundance. It is important to choose a product whose plastic is colored in the mass. With this technology, the pigment is evenly distributed in the raw material and colors the entire thickness of the product. As a result, a pink shelf or product of any other bright color will retain its shade throughout its entire service life. The disadvantage of colored plastic shelves is that dried drops of water are immediately visible on their surface.

Colored shelves, as a rule, become interior accents. More expensive shelf models may have a coating that imitates chrome, brass or gold-plated surfaces. Having chosen the appropriate option, it is convenient to combine such a shelf with plumbing fixtures.

Style and design

The shape of the shelves should not only allow the necessary accessories and textiles to be placed on them ergonomically, but also be in harmony with the overall style of the interior.

Each direction is characterized by certain features that should be reflected in the appearance of the furniture.

• For classic interiors, you should choose simple designs geometric shapes– rectangular, square, trapezoidal. Typically, shelves made of wood, stone, and glass are chosen. They may have carved elements, gilded stands and fittings, and forged holders.
• For romantic ones - the same options, but with rounded corners, as well as oval, round, semicircular.

• For minimalist interiors, you should choose small shelves made of glass or MDF. If the bathroom area is small or there are niches in it, you can choose an option on wheels that fits the size of the niche.
• For high-tech interiors, you can choose metal products or combined shelves combining chrome or glass surfaces.

• Relevant for neoclassical and art deco wooden textures: nut, bog oak, wenge with metal holders or fittings.
• Calm modern interiors allow the use of built-in shelves with tile or mosaic lining. If you choose a fairly bright mosaic, then such a shelf will complement and decorate oriental-style interiors.

For visual increase For the height of the bathroom, furniture with horizontal sections is recommended. And shelves installed in the form of steps will help to visually expand the premises. For this purpose you can also use wall cabinets with a mirror on the doors.

Glass shelves, if not cluttered with hygiene products, can also visually expand the space. It is recommended to combine them with other glass surfaces, for example, a translucent shower or bath door.

Metal shelves look equally good in both classic interiors, and in modern ones. If you choose an accessory of the appropriate type with a brass handle or forged elements, then it will complement the retro interior of the bathroom. Metal products combine harmoniously with stone, wood and glass surfaces.

Often plastic or metal corner models are considered a boring and faceless accessory.. This statement is wrong when it comes to designer products. The shape and design features of corner models suggest their external resemblance to tree branches. On sale you can find unusual corner shelves in the shape of a tree branch with birds. It’s safe to say that they look authentic and will decorate even the most modest bathroom.

How to choose?

Since in the bathroom there is constant contact of water with furniture, preference should be given to moisture-resistant products. It is also important that the dimensions of the structure correspond to the size of the room. Large bookcases and long shelves look ridiculous in small bathrooms.

Before purchasing, you need to carefully measure the area of ​​the bathroom and transfer it to a suitable scale on paper. Next, you need to try to mark the location of plumbing and communications on the drawing as accurately as possible. After this, you can plan where and what furniture to install.

It is important to decide on the budget and color scheme of the shelves. The next step is to decide on the type of material from which the shelf will be made. If you purchase wooden products and plan to saw them yourself, immediately buy yacht varnish. They will need to treat the cut areas, thereby preventing moisture from accessing them.

It is irrational to choose bathroom shelves from wood or materials that are susceptible to corrosion. It is better to give preference to built-in models finished with tiles. This design is ergonomic and safe (a person taking a bath does not risk hitting his head on the shelves), and will last for many years without requiring complex maintenance.

Shelves for the sink should not protrude too much beyond the washbasin and mirror and must necessarily form a unity in terms of style. The rest is their choice - absolute freedom creativity. The most common option are shelves made of plastic or glass.

If you choose a closed design for small spaces, it is better to opt for cabinets and cabinets with sliding doors. For spacious rooms, you can use both shelves with similar doors and hinged ones.

The powder rack is usually made of plastic and is installed above the washing machine. It can be combined with other options or matched to the color of the washing machine. Typically this is a neutral white. You should make sure that the shelf and mountings can support the weight of the powder, as well as conditioners and other cleaning products.

It is not recommended to place the entire package of powder on a hanging shelf. This looks unsightly, and in addition, if the package weighs significantly, the shelf may break. It is much more convenient to use small boxes into which the powder is poured. The rest can be stored on a shelf under the bathroom or other closed sections.

For shampoos, washcloths and hygiene products, it is better to build a built-in shelf above the bathtub or purchase a corner model. The remaining free space on the wall can be used for hanging shelves, bookcases or hangers.

Manufacturers and reviews

The leader among European manufacturers is German brand Villeroy & Boch. In addition to manufacturing sanitary ware, the manufacturer produces accessories and shelves for the bathroom. The products will appeal to those who value high quality and are looking for non-standard solutions.

In the collections you can find wine-burgundy furniture, semicircular cabinets, and bright turquoise vanity units. However, there are also quite traditional options - white, beige models, as well as shelves with an imitation wooden surface. Most accessories are available in 4-5 color variations, which allows you to find the most suitable shade.

These shelves have high-quality Austrian and German fittings. Handles - chrome, brass, there are models with handles in bronze or gold. Product service life is from 5 to 10 years (depending on the model). The disadvantage is the high cost.

If you like the coziness that natural wood gives to rooms, pay attention to the collections of shelves from a Spanish (or rather joint Spanish-Russian) manufacturer Roca. Made from moisture-resistant chipboard furniture is available in 3 price ranges - economy, middle and premium classes. The collections are mostly represented by floor cabinets, cabinets, as well as modular sets (their elements are easily interchangeable, which allows you to vary the resulting appearance of the set). The advantages are the ergonomic size of the furniture, a moisture-resistant durable coating, the presence of chrome and brass fittings and mechanisms for smooth closing of doors.

Another brand in whose collections you can find shelves and other wooden bathroom furniture is Cersanit. The basis of the products is chipboard with a moisture-resistant coating, the main palette is all shades of wood, as well as white. Conventionally, all manufactured products can be divided into 2 groups - for small-sized rooms (for example, 36 cm wide sink cabinets) and for spacious rooms(bases for sinks up to 2 m wide).

Wooden, or rather bamboo products Umbra Aquala, have a unique structure and also fill the room with an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. Their advantage is not only the environmental friendliness and strength of the material, but also the variety of shades - from light wood to almost black tones. The brand's products boast a wide selection (about 25 collections) and a wide price range.

If you are looking for compact bathroom furniture, check out the offers of a domestic company Triton. Most of the products (about 50 collections) are made from laminated or enamel-coated chipboard. The average size of the shelves is 45-120 cm. There are many floor and also hanging models(which is not often found among Russian manufacturers). The price of the products is significantly lower than the cost of Western analogues. However, according to users, the shelves can swell due to frequent contact with water.

Furniture for "Khrushchev" and similar small-sized premises can be found in the line "AquaRodos". The brand's products please with optimal quality and an affordable price for the average buyer.

One of the best manufacturers shelves in classic style is a Russian brand Aquatone, which is a part of the Roca company mentioned above. The products are aimed at domestic buyers, so the sizes of the products offered are suitable for most bathrooms. The basis of the collections are wooden shelves coated with moisture-resistant paints or enamels.

Inexpensive Chinese kits, as a rule, quickly fail. And the safety of some plastic shelves is highly questionable. The only exception is the manufacturer Godi, whose products are distinguished by durability, functionality, resistance to abrasion and high humidity, as well as an elegant appearance. Its disadvantage is its high cost.

Corner shelves are considered the most compact. The leading manufacturer of such structures is the brand Harmoni. The collections are based on shelves made of durable glass with a matte surface and chrome fittings. The number of tiers varies from 1 to 4. In addition to glass models, the catalog also presents metal lattice shelves, which also have 1-4 tiers.

The corner shelves also received high customer ratings. Tatkraft. Thanks to vacuum suction cups, they do not slip even on rough surfaces and fit perfectly into small rooms. The model has a chrome base, the shelves themselves are made of plastic. The latter is characterized by a variety of colors, which allows you to choose an option that suits your bathroom interior.

The variety of available and original furniture for the bathroom, including shelves, boasts a well-known brand Ikea. The specialists of the brand, founded in Sweden, create attractive, practical, functional shelves for both small and spacious bathrooms. The latter will look good with shelves from the Hemnes collection. It is represented by closed shelving with mirror and glass shelves, spacious structures for a sink made of stone and wood.

Collection Silveron, on the contrary, includes pencil cases, bookcases and shelves for small bathrooms. The same can be said about the collection Lillongen. Despite the compactness of the products, such a bathroom looks attractive and stylish. Exquisite shelving with forged elements - home distinguishing characteristic brand collections Rjonser. Stylish towel holders, hangers and hooks made of metal can be found in the Hrundtal series.

In addition to high-quality and practical furniture, the company boasts an easy-to-use website. By going to one of its sections, you can use the bathroom design program. Find a bathroom that is as similar as possible to your bathroom and simply insert one or another shelf or accessory into it. Change its color or look for a more suitable analogue, “assembling” the ideal bathroom.

Typically, most buyers are looking for small shelves and furniture for small rooms. However, such accessories are not suitable for spacious rooms. Happy owners of large bathrooms are advised to pay attention to the Italian manufacturer Labor Legno. In the catalogs you can find a variety of shelf options, made mainly in a classic design.

When choosing floor structures, make sure that they have rubberized legs. This will protect the floor covering from damage and prevent the device from slipping. Racks and shelves are installed on the floor, but require additional fastening to the wall. Otherwise, their use is unsafe. Models made of wood (including those treated with moisture-repellent compounds) should be placed as far as possible from sources of moisture. The same applies to electric heated towel rails. If liquid gets on them, a short circuit may occur.

If it is necessary to attach the structure to the tile, special drills should be used to make holes in it to prevent cracking of the tile covering. In this case, you should carefully measure the structure in height and width, since it will not be possible to make several holes nearby on the tiles (there is a high probability of the material splitting, and it also looks unaesthetic).

Successful examples and options

All kinds of shelves, hangers and cabinets are not only an opportunity to place all the necessary accessories and items in the bathroom, but also a great way to make the interior more interesting and unconventional.

For example, here the shelf is an element of the wall framing and at the same time a countertop for the sink. This creates the effect of completeness, unity, and a certain monumentality. For the shelf in this case it is recommended to use fake diamond marbled, porcelain stoneware.

A win-win and easy-to-use option is the option of built-in shelves that you can make yourself. To do this, during a major renovation in the bathroom, it is necessary to make plasterboard niches in the wall. The resulting shelves can be covered with the same tiles as the walls of the room. Such shelves are reliable, ergonomic and easy to maintain. They are usually located near the bathtub bowl.

When choosing a vanity unit, you should take into account the dimensions of the room. For large rooms, you can choose a cabinet that is slightly elongated in width, which will introduce elements of palace luxury into the interior. For small rooms it is better to choose vertically oriented cabinets. A combination of open and closed shelves allows you to avoid the effect of clutter.

For interiors in a minimalist style, cabinets of simple geometric shapes made of modern material. An excellent solution for the interior in the photo was a cabinet without handles with closed shelves, without any decor or glass inserts.

A mirror is usually hung on the wall above the cabinet and sink. It can also be framed by shelves, convenient for storing small creams and cosmetics. Nearby you can attach miniature hooks for a hair dryer and a small towel.

When purchasing hanging shelves, make sure they match the color of the rest of your furniture. This is the only way to achieve unity of style and visually expand the space. By the way, under the sink you can install not only cabinets, but also open shelves, supplementing them with a heated towel rail.

If you think that storing towels and shower accessories on an open shelf is unhygienic and inconvenient, then pay attention to stylish boxes and wicker drawers. You can sort the necessary accessories and put towels in them. Drawers stored on shelves look stylish and homey.

Elegant glass shelves should be combined with other glass or mirror surfaces, such as mirrors and frosted glass vanity doors. Built-in glass shelves in the interior are sometimes equipped with lighting. Soft light emphasizes the glass texture, and in combination with green mosaic fills the room with softness and comfort.

Create sophisticated style allows for a wrought-iron floor shelf. As a rule, it is made in black, which gives it laconicism or sophisticated rigor. The analogue in white looks more solemn, but no less stylish. This type of shelf will fit most harmoniously into the Provence style.

For this style, as well as for interiors in a classic or Scandinavian design, you can also choose a wooden bookcase. For Scandinavian and provencal style it is advisable to choose light shades tiles or wood finishes. In classic interiors, the bookcase can be placed against a darker wooden wall.

An excellent option for small bathrooms is to place an open shelf above the door. This simple solution allows you to put necessary but not used daily items on the shelf. It is advisable to make hooks behind the door.

It is important not to overload the shelves. Designers recommend using shelves not only for their intended purpose, placing towels on them, for example, but also not forgetting about decorating the structures. To do this, complement them with accessories, fresh or artificial flowers.

For combined bathrooms, you can choose convenient shelves placed above the toilet seat. The main thing is that they do not interfere with its use.

In order for the interior to look cohesive and stylish, it is better to refuse to place assorted tubes and jars on the shelves, and use the same dispensers and storage containers. Of course, it is irrational to pour expensive cream into such a container, just as it is irrational to purchase many identical containers for creams and other small-volume products. In this case, they can be hidden in a box that matches the overall style of the interior.

You can watch how to make a glass shelf for the bathroom in this video.

When decorating a bathroom, a large number of techniques are used to correctly organize the space in the room. One of these techniques is the use of various designs and furniture for the bathroom, used for storage, hiding water and sewer pipes or installing plumbing equipment. Another popular technique is wall-mounted bath shelves, which can even be placed near a water source.

Types of structures

Due to the characteristics of the room, not all types of structures can be used in the bathroom. Stationary floor shelves are actively used to decorate this room, which can be used both for storing things and for installing necessary plumbing equipment.

The most popular bathroom furniture are multi-tiered corner shelves that allow you to place shampoos, gels, creams and other personal hygiene products in the corner of the room.

Hanging wall shelves for the bathroom are often placed above washing machines, which are used to store towels and other textile products.

Floor-standing

Floor designs for the bathroom are presented:

• whatnots;
• dryers;
• cabinets;
• hangers;
• shelving;
• shelves under the bathroom.

Each of these types has its own characteristics, which directly depend on its purpose. Shelves allow you to intelligently organize space in free areas, under the sink or wall shelves - which is why they are very relevant for the bathroom.

These are open shelves for the bathroom, which are interconnected by a common frame. Models are available for storing linen and textiles; some shelves provide the ability to place cosmetics and household chemicals.

Often, shelves are produced in a triangular shape, but in fact they are a floor-mounted corner shelf for the bathroom, allowing you to store anything.

Floor dryers are used for drying clothes. Unlike wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted options, they provide owners easy access and the ability to constantly monitor the drying process.

Stationary shelves for drying in the bathroom are rare, since they take up a fairly large amount of space. Most people in ordinary “Khrushchev” and “Stalin” buildings choose portable options for dryers that can be deployed on the bathroom floor if necessary, and stored in the closet the rest of the time.

Nightstands are also not very popular, with one big exception - very often they are part of the washbasin, serving as a stand for it.

This approach allows you to save a large amount of space in the room: creams and shampoos, some household chemicals and spare cassettes for various detergents are placed in a cabinet under the sink. Sink cabinets are made from a variety of materials, therefore, like whatnots, they can be adapted to any room design.

Floor hangers, which many are accustomed to seeing in corridors or office spaces, are also used in bathrooms, although they lose competition to their wall-mounted counterparts.

Most often they are made of wood or metal, and it is the first option that is extremely rare in the bathroom - high humidity in the room makes wood not the most reliable element, negatively affecting its operational characteristics. Towels and bathrobes are often located on such hangers.

Racks are an enlarged version of whatnots. On the surface of their bathroom shelves you can immediately place all household chemicals, hygiene products and textile products that should be stored in the bathroom.

The height of the racks starts from 1 meter; they, like the shelves, are made from various sources. Often a shelf with chrome-plated sides is placed in the racks: it looks stylish and is very convenient to use.

Ordinary shelving does not have doors; their entire structure is made up of shelves and supports that hold them. Such design elements with doors are called cabinets, in which the contents are hidden from prying eyes.

Bath shelves are created during bathroom renovations. Using them, you can organize a real storage area under the bathroom, access to which will be opened using special hatches.

Corner

The most popular variations of corner shelves are shelves, racks and cabinets. They are actually no different from their floor-standing counterparts, except for the form factor: such objects are placed in the corner, which means they have not a rectangular, but a triangular shape and a facade (if provided) located at an acute angle to the two walls of the bathroom. You can see this in the photo below.

A simple corner bathroom shelf is very popular. It can be placed anywhere: above washing machine, above the toilet or above the bathtub itself.

There are even arrangement options when the shelves for the bathroom are corner, located in the shower stall, however, in this case it will not be possible to use all the variety: wood, MDF and metal do not retain their appearance very well when they are constantly exposed to water.

There is another alternative - corner shelves with suction cups. They can be used in any corner of the room if necessary: ​​this design is very easy to detach and carry.

Suction cup shelves are most often made of metal, but are also available in plastic. The number of tiers in them can vary from 1 to 5. A three-tier shelf is suitable for a small or large bathroom; it can accommodate all household chemicals.

It is impossible to give a definite answer to the question of which shelves are best for the bathroom - each design has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Wall mounted

Almost all elements of bathroom furniture, given the lack of space in the lower part of the room, migrated to the walls. Instead of legs, they now have canopies, with the help of which such cabinets are attached to the wall - they are perfect for a small bathroom.

There are a lot of options for hanging structures:

• lockers;
• dryers;
• heated towel rails;
• hangers;
• shelves for the bathroom.

Wall cabinets are usually placed above the installed plumbing equipment And household appliances. They are presented in a wide range on the shelves of furniture stores.

Cabinets allow you to avoid cluttering the space and add coziness to the bathroom. Such cabinets are made mainly from wood or MDF, less often plastic, glass and mirror are used.

In any case, it is better to keep wall cabinets away from the water source - wood and MDF do not tolerate constant exposure to moisture very well, and drops will regularly form on glass and plastic.

There are two types of dryers: wall-mounted and ceiling-mounted. When choosing where to place them, you should pay attention to the fact that the dryer itself will in any case be quite compact, however, after placing things on it, the size of the occupied space will definitely increase.

It is better to place small-sized products close to the heat source, more bulky ones - closer to the ceiling. There they will not interfere with taking a shower or just being in the bathroom.

Heated towel rails are specialized dryers designed for towels.

There are three types:

• a hanger with straight rods on which towels are dried due to natural ventilation,
• zigzag or trapezoidal radiator connected to centralized system heating and allows you to quickly dry towels during the cold season
• radiators with electric heating elements inside, operating from a 220V network.

Heated towel rails are always mounted on the wall; it is also better to place them not directly above the bathtub to prevent the towels from getting wet. An excellent option for a heater combined with a dryer for a small bathroom.

A hanger, as we wrote above, is relevant for storing textiles: most often it is hung with towels and bathrobes. In the case of wall shelves in the bathroom, they are a bar with hooks on which things are hung.

A minimum of effort during installation and the ability to hang several bathrobes and towels at once make the hanger an almost indispensable attribute of the bathroom.

Shelves for baths of different sizes can be not only corner ones. Such a wall-mounted shelf can be very effective in terms of placing textiles or household chemicals.

It performs all the same functions as a shelving unit, however, it does not require fastening to the floor and cannot be closed with doors or curtains. A variety of glass bathroom shelves can be used to display just about anything.

You should also not forget that the bathroom needs a large number of shelves for small items, usually placed above the sink or near the toilet: you can conveniently place toothbrushes, personal hygiene products and much more on them.

There are different types of bathroom shelves depending on the components used in their production.

Materials used in production

The following materials are used to produce various designs:

• plastics;
• metal;
• stainless steel;
• drywall;
• glass and mirror;
• ceramics;
• wood, MDF and chipboard.

They all have their own competitive advantages and obvious shortcomings. Plastic, for example, is absolutely moisture-resistant and extremely easy to process.

At the same time, it cannot withstand significant loads and may begin to break or deform under the pressure of a pack of powder. That is why plastics are often used to produce individual elements, rather than to create the entire product for the bathroom.

Metal, on the contrary, is a very durable and reliable source. However, it does not take long-term exposure to moisture very well - it can simply become rusty.

Therefore, when producing shelves for a bathroom, they usually use treated metal or stainless steel, which are much less susceptible to corrosion. Installing metal products is much easier than plastic ones: they are stronger, which means you don’t have to worry about their reliability.

It will not be possible to create plasterboard shelves in a bathroom where renovation has already been completed. They are usually built before the tiles are laid, and then laid in the same style as the rest of the room.

Such shelves for a small bath are moderately reliable, they are not afraid of moisture and are not susceptible to bacteria - you can make ideal shelves for a bathroom from plasterboard and tiles.

The only caveat is the capital nature of such bath shelves. They cannot be removed if necessary, since in fact the shelf for small items is part of the bathroom.

Ceramics and glass are usually used to make small shelves in the bathroom, less often - as elements of other products. They are not susceptible to moisture and bacteria, however, they are very susceptible to shocks and falls.

These shelves are ideal for a tiny bath. However, stains and water marks are clearly visible on the glass and mirror. Glass can be used to create illuminated bath shelves - such a thing will become a real highlight of the room. A bathroom shelf with lighting is perfect for a small bathroom.

Wood, MDF and chipboard are the most controversial of the components used for production. They are extremely rarely used to make bathroom shelves. They are quite durable, allow you to create structures of various shapes and sizes, and are easy to process.

At the same time, chipboard is completely unsuitable for use in rooms with high humidity, and when water gets inside the material, it simply swells, losing its presentation. This material is not suitable for making bathroom shelves, since the bathroom is a place where humidity always remains.

In the case of MDF, the situation in terms of moisture resistance is better, however, with prolonged exposure to water it behaves similarly to chipboard.

Wooden products in the bathroom can serve no worse than more moisture-resistant materials due to the use of special impregnations and varnishes that prevent water from entering the wood.

However, at the slightest “depressurization,” the fate of this thing will be the same as that of chipboard and MDF.

Installation Features

When installing floor shelves in the bathroom, you should pay attention to several points:

• the legs of such structures must be rubberized to avoid damage flooring in the bathroom;
• the structure itself, if possible, should be additionally attached to the wall (this is especially true for cabinets under the sink);
• It is advisable to place wooden structures as far as possible from the source of moisture for their safety.

As for wall and corner shelves (in particular, shelves), the recommendations will be as follows:

• when drilling holes in tiles for screws on which cabinets, shelves for small items or drying racks will be hung, you need to use a drill with a special tip - this will avoid chipping the tile and keep it intact;
• It is extremely important to clearly mark the attachment points, since it will not be possible to drill several holes in the tile;
• when installing corner shelves, it is important to take into account possible unevenness of the walls, as a result of which the shelves may not fit tightly to the wall;
• When you install a glass shelf in the bathroom, you need to align the holes clearly so that the fasteners do not create tension, which could cause the glass to burst.

When installing electric heated towel rails, it is extremely important to follow safety precautions and not place them near water sources, as this can lead to a short circuit.

The need to place toiletries is a serious matter. Modern furniture for the bathroom partly solves this problem, but a more radical recipe is to install an additional accessory in the form of a shelf in the bathroom. Such a shelf allows you to keep everything you need, as they say, “at hand,” without cluttering up the space at the same time. Shelves can be installed in the shower area, directly above the washbasin, or used as a separate element.

Variety of materials, their advantages and disadvantages

Depending on individual preferences and the pricing policy of accessory manufacturers, you can select shelves made of plastic, glass, ceramics, metal or wood.

1. Plastic shelves for a bathroom it is noticeably cheaper. The use of impact-resistant ABS plastic in production allows it to withstand significant loads. Such products are moderately strong and durable. White color most popular in this segment of accessories due to its neutrality and practicality. The invisibility of traces left by dried drops of water is an undeniable advantage over glass analogues.

For lovers of bright colors, manufacturers can offer a wide range of colors of mass-dyed plastic, when the paint is distributed over the entire thickness of the material and does not wear off or chip due to any mechanical damage. The emergence of technology for applying chrome and gold coatings to the surface of plastic allows plastic products to harmoniously fit together with sanitary fittings. The ability of plastic to repeat the color and even structure of expensive finishing materials used to imitate valuable wood, marble or granite.

1. Glass shelves for the bathroom allow you to realize the most daring design ideas. Accessories made of glass, among other things, are less noticeable and practically invisible. The edges of the glass shelves are processed, which eliminates small cuts. At the same time, the glass is thick enough to easily withstand a fall. small items. The tempered glass used is safe; with a strong impact, the possibility of cutting yourself is minimal (the shelf crumbles into a huge number of small parts).

Metal fastenings of glass shelves must have a protective chrome coating, as well as elastic separating elements that compensate for the difference in the linear expansion of glass and metal with temperature changes. The ability to apply any design using chemical etching or the use of a matte surface allows you to significantly diversify the range of models.

Please note: There are no traces of water drops left on the matte surface of the glass shelves, which ensures a neat appearance of the products with minimal care. Installation of such shelves is advisable in areas of greatest load. Small glass shelves on individual brackets, placed on free space, can serve as interior decoration and a stand for perfumes. Additionally, some models of glass shelves are equipped with a limiter.

1. Ceramic shelf in the bathroom, the color scheme is as close as possible to the shades of the washbasin. This type of shelf has a greater margin of safety than accessories made of plastic or glass. Sanitary ceramics have a minimum coefficient of moisture permeability, and protective layer glaze reliably protects products from the effects of chemicals contained in detergents. The smooth, shiny surface of the glaze has high dirt-repellent properties, which contributes to a beautiful appearance. The significantly increased price of each element compared to other materials is perhaps the only disadvantage that can be detected.
2. Stainless steel and brass– the main materials used in the manufacture of metal shelves. The blanks are subjected to galvanic treatment and coated with chromium up to 0.6 microns thick. The undeniable advantage of this type of product is durability and resistance to aggressive environment and mechanical damage. When choosing metal accessories, you should avoid purchasing cheap analogues made from silumin.

Important: The lack of high-quality technology for coating silumin with nickel or chromium leads to a rapid loss of appearance and destruction of the structure from corrosion. Such a shelf in the bathroom will last noticeably less than from of stainless steel. In addition to mesh shelves, widespread among metal products We received shelves combined with a towel holder.

1. Bathroom shelf made of wood how a small work of art amazes with its forms and grandeur. These accessories are installed in an area that excludes direct ingress of water. Wood allows the master to realize any ideas. This type of material is especially often used in the manufacture of whatnots. The price of an individual element can reach amounts with three zeros, depending on the complexity of the work and the type of wood. The bathroom is characterized by the use of stained oak and teak wood, which grows in India and the islands of Southeast Asia.

Types of shelves for the bathroom

Made from a variety of materials, shelves are divided into several types, differing in functionality and installation location:

• For a shower or bath, the ideal location is considered to be a corner option. This choice is due to the maximum preservation of space for comfortable water procedures. At the same time, by arranging the shelves in one or several “tiers”, you can easily place a large number of gels, cream masks and other accessories that are so often found in the arsenal of the fair sex.

Corner shelves differ in the method of fastening and the presence of movable elements that allow you to adjust the height of each individual section within the required limits for the most efficient placement of cosmetic and hygiene items. The horizontal surface of the shelves has perforations to drain trapped water. Corner shelves can be combined into a high shelf located in a free corner of the bathroom;

• On the free space of the wall, hanging shelves are successfully placed, which can be used to store large bath towels. The hanging shelf has maximum usable area with minimal use of free space;
• In addition to bathroom shelves mounted on the wall, floor-mounted stationary shelves and shelves on wheels are in wide demand. Mobile and compact, chests of drawers and shelves allow you to store a lot of necessary things that are hidden from prying eyes. Storing towels and personal hygiene items is no longer a problem. The materials used to make these elements are very diverse: plastic, combined metal and glass or wicker for the most demanding customers;

• Built-in shelves. This type of shelves is formed as a result of shaping the wall surface and using hidden voids. Built-in shelves in the bathroom do not take up additional space and are spacious enough to accommodate both cosmetics and decorative elements. The only drawback of built-in shelves is that they can only be installed during major renovations involving dismantling of existing enclosing structures.

When choosing different types of bathroom shelves that match the chosen room design, it is necessary to take into account the ergonomic characteristics of both the room and the selected accessories.

Shelf fastening – reliability with a minimum of effort

According to the method of fastening, shelves in the bathroom are divided into “Velcro” and those fastened with screws (included in the kit). The practicality of each depends solely on the application. Classic version screw mounting is reliable, but requires drilling a hole in the wall.

Bathroom shelves with standard suction cups are available, but they do not handle heavy weight well, often simply coming off the wall. Velcro shelves with suction cups made using vacuum technology have completely different characteristics. The principle of fastening is quite simple. The suction cup is pressed against the surface and screwed on with a cap, creating a vacuum. This type of fastening allows you to support significant weight compared to standard Velcro, without the need to drill into the wall. Additional benefit is installation and holding on an uneven or rough surface.

Conclusion

Beautiful appearance and functionality, durability and practicality are the unifying factors for a small accessory called a bathroom shelf. The freedom to choose these components is determined by the variety of foreign and domestic models shown in the photo. Regardless of the chosen material and layout, the shelves will make your daily visit to the bathroom pleasant and comfortable.

Comfort is created not only with the help the right equipment bedrooms, living room, kitchen. A good apartment begins with a hallway and ends with a first-class bathroom. Comfort in the house should rule every corner, in every room. The bathroom is by no means an exception to this rule. It is important to create such an interior that it would be comfortable to be there yourself and invite friends and relatives to visit.

A cozy bath means not only the right plumbing, it also means many additional accessories. For example, towel holders, bathroom shelves, hooks for paper and bathrobes, the towels themselves, soap accessories.

Beauty consists of little things that need to be carefully thought out in order to be combined into a single whole, called your own home. It’s not for nothing that they say “my home is my fortress”; indeed, it is the place where a person is in a hurry to come.

Statistics show that during a lifetime, a person spends 15% of his free time in the bathroom, washing, shaving, and preening. This means that it makes sense to put everything in such order - so that what you need is in sight, and you don’t have to waste extra time searching.

The Internet provides access to many photos of bathroom shelves, by looking at which you can roughly decide on your wishes in order to purchase something similar for yourself in the future.

They store creams, shampoos, balms, vegetable oils, masks, soap, toothbrushes, towels. You shouldn’t exactly copy the style you see in the picture, but you need to start from something.

Select accessories. Beautiful, unobtrusive, cheap...

The offer of products for bathrooms is so large that it is possible to get confused and simply get lost. First, try to understand which material is closer to you.

After all, there are plastic shelves, wooden, metal (stainless steel alloy, copper), glass, ceramic. Supporters of everything natural generally often look for shelves made of natural stone.

It is best to consult a professional who specializes in bathroom installations. If you decide to do everything yourself, be sure to take the trouble to find out what you should be like. modern shelves to the bathroom. Fashion catalogs, articles by modern decorators, advice from designers, and magazine publications will be useful.

Does not exist universal material for bathroom products, but everyone finds their own ideal from what is offered.

Firstly, plastic shelves need to be chosen high good quality. Plastic can often crack under the influence of negative factors environment. Poor-quality plastic - non-aesthetic defects will appear that will spoil the overall appearance of the room. Ask the seller whether the plastic from which the product is made is of high quality, how long it can be used, how much weight it can withstand, and whether it can withstand high temperatures.

Although you can choose the most inexpensive and intricate shelves from plastic. Any shapes, colors, textures. Modern lightweight The industry never ceases to please us with more and more new compositions for the manufacture of such products.

Secondly, when choosing a metal shelf, be prepared for possible manifestations, corrosion, and soap stains. But by purchasing a good detergent for such cases, you can always keep this organizer clean. A couple of correct movements with a sponge dampened detergent– everything is clean, shiny, and continues to please the owners.

Stainless steel bathroom shelves are just the perfect solution if you have a compressed, limited space, such as if the bathroom is combined. We have to fight for every free centimeter in order to achieve greater lightness and openness of space.

Regarding glass and stone, it is also worth immediately stocking up on a washing and cleaning arsenal to combat stains - the consequences of constant steam in the room. But you will definitely get visual pleasure. They always look better quality and more expensive than they really are.

The stone gives the interior of the room a special elegance, idleness, and majesty. This option will dilute the colors, add brightness, freshness, and will perform the main function - storing necessary things.

How to increase the volume of a room

It will not be a secret that you can visually expand the boundaries with the help of mirrors. The more there are, the more spacious it becomes around. There is an excellent choice for you - a mirror with shelves for the bathroom. Usually they come in different configurations - with doors, with a glass stand, inlaid with broken glass or rhinestones.

You have the opportunity to choose for yourself how original you are willing to see every day. Definitely – beautiful, multifunctional, because the mirror should definitely find its place next to the shower.

Very important - if there are small children, try to fix the mirror on acceptable level so that it is impossible to accidentally drop it on yourself. It is better to foresee such a situation so that you do not have to grieve because of the consequences.

It is better not to place heavy metal objects on mirrored shelves. If you move carelessly, you can damage the integrity of the fragile glass. You should not overload such shelves; the connection between the elements is usually made of rubber fasteners and brackets - these wear out quickly.

One of the know-how is the so-called “built-in shelves”, which are made from plasterboard construction with other materials. Including mirrors, tempered colored glass. Please note that you only need to choose moisture resistant drywall, which does not absorb moisture. Otherwise, you risk not enjoying the new interior for long.

From waterproof plasterboard structures Shelves are made under the bathroom, on which washing powders, soap supplies, cleaning rags, etc. are traditionally stored. It’s a good idea to make them hidden from prying eyes. No one should pry into your personal space. It is convenient for girls to leave personal hygiene products and intimate accessories on such shelves.

It's not just the material that makes the difference

Based on the type of fastening, it is customary to distinguish several more types:

Stationary. These are installed on the floor, often taller than human height, and can accommodate a lot of useful things. Additionally, they can be attached to the wall (in case there are small curious children) or screwed into the ceiling with hooks.

Usually made of wood, metal, plastic or combined materials. But this does not affect capacity and other indicators. For large rooms- will fit just perfectly.

Mounted. From a small toothbrush organizer to full-fledged shelf systems that run the entire length of the wall. By the way, it is precisely such products that will help to delimit (zonate) the common space without cluttering it. This type also includes drying shelves, on which you can place not only hygiene items, but also wet washcloths, towels, and brushes.

From a space saving point of view - profitable solution, you can get 2 in 1. Beautiful - as functional as possible. A drying rack is useful in any bathroom, especially when combined with a shelf for various small items.

Corner shelves for the bathroom. Behind last decades have become extremely popular among consumers of various classes. A practical, convenient device with which you can increase your work space without reducing the overall volume of the room.

There are examples that take up space from floor to ceiling, and there are standard ones with 3-4 shelves. They can be mounted either permanently or using suction cups. Usually there are two types based on the material of manufacture: plastic, metal. Less common are glass and plasterboard.

Furniture on suction cups – to be

A good design solution is bathroom shelves with suction cups. For installation, you do not need to drill holes in the wall, attach additional hooks, or damage the integrity of the coating. Simply press the rubber suction cup firmly onto the tile and it will lock into place on its own in the correct position. No additional effort or money is required from a person.

Suitable for those who are not always sure that they have been placed as conveniently as possible. If necessary, you can disconnect it, move it to another place, and there will be no traces of attachment left on the previous one. It is worth considering that usually such shelves are made of light plastic alloys, and accordingly, they are not designed for the large weight of accessories.

Each type of shelf has its advantages; the choice is always up to the owner - which one his bathroom needs. The main types have already been discussed earlier, so there is a lot to think about and what to choose from.

Photo of bathroom shelf