Planning Your DIY Bathroom Storage
Building your own bathroom storage can be a fantastic way to maximise space and add a personal touch to your bathroom. It’s a project that allows you to tailor the design to your specific needs and style, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. To ensure your project is a success, careful planning is key.
Determining Your Storage Needs
Before you start designing your storage solution, it’s essential to assess your bathroom’s storage requirements. What items do you need to store? This will help you determine the type and amount of storage you need. Consider the following categories:
- Toiletries: This includes everything from shampoo and conditioner to toothbrushes and toothpaste.
- Towels: Decide whether you need storage for hand towels, bath towels, and face cloths, and if you need separate storage for clean and dirty towels.
- Medications: If you store medications in your bathroom, consider a secure and easily accessible storage solution.
- Other Items: This could include hair dryers, styling tools, makeup, shaving supplies, and other personal care items.
Choosing the Right Storage Type
There are several types of storage solutions you can build for your bathroom, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Cabinets: Cabinets offer a closed storage solution, hiding clutter and providing a neat and organised look. They can be built in various sizes and styles, and can be fitted with shelves, drawers, or a combination of both.
- Shelves: Shelves are a more open storage solution, allowing for easy access to your items. They can be made from wood, metal, or glass, and can be fixed to the wall or freestanding.
- Vanities: Vanities are a combination of a sink and storage, typically including drawers and cabinets. They can be built to fit your bathroom’s size and style, and are a popular choice for those who want a more integrated storage solution.
- Wall-mounted organizers: These are great for small bathrooms, as they take up minimal floor space. They can be used to store towels, toiletries, and other items.
Designing Your Storage Solution
Once you’ve identified your storage needs and chosen the type of storage you want to build, it’s time to design your solution. Consider the following factors:
- Bathroom Dimensions: Measure your bathroom carefully to ensure your storage solution will fit comfortably and leave enough space for movement.
- Style: Consider the overall style of your bathroom and choose a storage solution that complements it.
- Materials: Choose materials that are durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean. Common materials for bathroom storage include wood, MDF, and laminate.
- Functionality: Think about how you’ll use your storage solution and design it accordingly. For example, if you need to store bulky items, you’ll need a larger cabinet or shelf.
Creating a Detailed Plan
Once you have a design in mind, it’s time to create a detailed plan. This will include:
- Measurements: Take precise measurements of your bathroom and the storage solution you’re planning to build.
- Materials List: Create a list of all the materials you’ll need, including wood, hardware, paint, and tools.
- Construction Drawings: Draw detailed diagrams of your storage solution, including dimensions, cut lists, and assembly instructions.
Choosing Materials and Tools: Diy Built In Bathroom Storage
Choosing the right materials and tools is crucial for building sturdy and long-lasting bathroom storage. The materials you select will impact the project’s cost, durability, and moisture resistance, while the tools will determine how efficiently and accurately you can complete the project.
Materials for Bathroom Storage
The materials you choose will depend on your budget, desired aesthetic, and the level of moisture resistance required. Here’s a breakdown of common options:
- Wood: Solid wood, such as oak or maple, offers a classic look and excellent durability. It’s naturally moisture-resistant, but requires regular sealing and finishing to prevent warping or damage. However, it can be expensive.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): MDF is a cost-effective alternative to solid wood, providing a smooth surface and good stability. It’s not as moisture-resistant as wood, so it requires a waterproof sealant.
- Plywood: Plywood offers a balance of strength, affordability, and moisture resistance. It’s less prone to warping than MDF and can be easily cut and shaped.
- Plastic: Plastic is a budget-friendly option that’s highly moisture-resistant. It’s available in various colors and finishes, but it might not be as durable as wood or plywood.
Selecting Materials
When selecting materials, consider these factors:
- Budget: Plastic is the most affordable option, followed by MDF and plywood. Solid wood is the most expensive.
- Durability: Solid wood is the most durable, followed by plywood and MDF. Plastic is the least durable.
- Moisture Resistance: Solid wood, plywood, and MDF all require a waterproof sealant for use in bathrooms. Plastic is naturally moisture-resistant.
- Aesthetic: Consider the overall style of your bathroom and choose materials that complement the existing decor.
Tools for Bathroom Storage
You’ll need a variety of tools to build bathroom storage, depending on the complexity of the project. Here’s a list of essential tools:
Measuring and Marking
- Measuring Tape: Accurately measure dimensions and mark cutting lines.
- Level: Ensure shelves and cabinets are level and plumb.
- Pencil: Mark cutting lines and transfer measurements.
Cutting and Shaping
- Circular Saw: Cut wood, plywood, and MDF.
- Jigsaw: Cut intricate shapes and curves.
- Hand Saw: Cut smaller pieces of wood.
Drilling and Fastening
- Drill: Drill pilot holes for screws and create holes for dowels.
- Screwdriver: Drive screws into wood and metal.
- Screwdriver Bits: Use appropriate bits for different screw sizes.
- Clamps: Secure pieces of wood together while drilling or screwing.
- Wood Glue: Glue joints for added strength and stability.
- Screws: Fasten pieces of wood together.
Finishing and Refinishing
- Sandpaper: Smooth surfaces and remove imperfections.
- Sander: Quickly sand large areas.
- Primer: Prepare surfaces for painting.
- Paint: Add color and protection to the storage unit.
- Paintbrush: Apply paint evenly.
- Roller: Apply paint to large areas.
Building and Installing Your Bathroom Storage
Now that you have your materials and tools ready, it’s time to get your hands dirty and start building! This section will guide you through the process of constructing your bathroom storage unit, step by step, from cutting and assembling to installing and finishing.
Cutting and Assembling
This is where your careful planning and measurements come into play. Precise cutting is crucial for a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing storage unit. Here’s how to go about it:
- Cut your materials: Using your chosen tools (saw, mitre saw, etc.), carefully cut your materials to the dimensions you planned. Double-check your measurements before cutting to avoid mistakes.
- Assemble the frame: Depending on your design, you might be assembling a basic frame, adding shelves, or creating drawers. Use your chosen joinery techniques (screws, glue, dowels, etc.) to connect the pieces securely.
- Add shelves and drawers: If you are building shelves, cut them to size and attach them to the frame. If you are creating drawers, construct them separately and then install them using drawer slides.
- Check for stability: Before moving on, ensure your unit is sturdy and level. If needed, make adjustments or add additional support.
Installing Your Storage Unit
Once you’ve built your storage unit, it’s time to install it in your bathroom. This process might vary slightly depending on your unit’s design and your bathroom’s layout, but here are the general steps:
- Locate the installation spot: Choose the desired location for your storage unit, ensuring it’s level and free from obstructions.
- Mark and drill pilot holes: Mark the wall or floor where you’ll be attaching the unit. Use a drill to create pilot holes for screws or anchors, if necessary.
- Securely attach the unit: Attach the unit to the wall or floor using screws, anchors, or other suitable fasteners. Ensure the unit is securely fastened and won’t shift or move.
Creating a Professional Finish
A well-finished storage unit adds a touch of class and elevates the overall look of your bathroom. Here’s how to achieve that professional look:
- Sanding: Sanding smooths out any rough edges and imperfections. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits for a smooth finish.
- Painting or Staining: Choose a paint or stain that complements your bathroom’s decor. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Adding hardware: Install handles, knobs, or other hardware to complete the look of your storage unit. Choose hardware that complements the style of your bathroom and the overall design of the unit.
Tips for a Successful Build, Diy built in bathroom storage
Here are some tips to avoid common mistakes and ensure a successful DIY project:
- Measure twice, cut once: This is a golden rule in woodworking. Always double-check your measurements before cutting to avoid costly mistakes.
- Use the right tools: Invest in quality tools that are appropriate for the job. This will ensure a smooth and accurate build.
- Take your time: Don’t rush the process. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
- Plan ahead: Before you start, have a clear plan of what you want to build and how you want to build it. This will help you stay on track and avoid surprises.
- Safety first: Always prioritize safety when working with tools and materials. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as goggles, gloves, and a dust mask.
