An around toilet cabinet is a specialized storage solution designed to maximize space and functionality in one of the most important rooms in the home. Unlike standard cabinets that sit parallel to the wall, this configuration wraps around the toilet, utilizing the often-underutilized areas behind and beside the fixture. This layout creates a seamless storage zone that can house towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and even laundry, keeping the bathroom clutter-free and organized.
Design and Configuration Options
The primary feature of an around toilet cabinet is its adaptability to the specific geometry of the space. Whether your bathroom is long and narrow or roughly square, the cabinet can be configured to fit snugly. Common setups include a U-shape that wraps completely around the toilet or an L-shape that utilizes two adjacent walls. The toilet itself typically sits open in the center, accessible from both the front and the back, which is a significant advantage for maintaining the plumbing and ensuring proper ventilation.
Material and Style Considerations
Selecting the right materials is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the cabinet, especially given the humidity levels in a bathroom. Wood options range from moisture-resistant plywood to luxury veneers like teak or walnut, often treated with a high-gloss finish to repel water. For a more modern aesthetic, medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with laminate finishes or even PVC-coated steel can be ideal, as they are completely impervious to steam and condensation.
Space Optimization and Storage Solutions
One of the most compelling reasons to install an around toilet cabinet is the sheer amount of storage it provides. Traditional shelving often wastes the space directly behind the toilet, but a custom cabinet fills this void entirely. This allows for the installation of deep drawers for folded towels, tall cabinets for extra toilet paper reserves, and open shelving for decorative baskets. Every inch of the footprint is transformed into valuable square footage, which is particularly beneficial in powder rooms or small ensuite bathrooms.
Layout Efficiency
- Vertical Storage: Utilizing the full height of the room keeps items out of sight but easily reachable.
- Drawer Integration: Pull-out drawers offer superior organization compared to shelves, allowing for dividers for small items like jewelry or hearing aids.
- Topper Shelves: A wooden shelf spanning the top of the cabinet provides a spot for plants or decor, softening the rigid lines of the storage.
Functional Benefits for Daily Use
Beyond storage, an around toilet cabinet significantly enhances the functionality of the bathroom. It provides a centralized location for morning and evening routines, consolidating hair dryers, straighteners, and makeup products in one accessible area. Furthermore, the cabinet creates a visual barrier that can make a small bathroom feel more private and complete, masking the utilitarian look of the toilet tank and pipes.
Hygiene and Maintenance
While the area around a toilet can be a hotspot for germs, a well-designed cabinet minimizes the collection of dust and grime. By eliminating open gaps where spider webs might gather and having smooth, cleanable surfaces, the cabinet makes bathroom maintenance easier. It is important to ensure there is a small gap or ventilation slot at the back to prevent moisture from becoming trapped inside the cabinetry, which could lead to mold growth over time.
Installation and Planning Process
Installing an around toilet cabinet requires careful measurement and planning to ensure the door clears the tank and the bowl. It is essential to measure the rough-in distance—the space between the wall behind the toilet and the center of the bolts securing the toilet to the floor—before ordering or building the cabinet. If you are not confident in your DIY skills, hiring a professional ensures that the cabinet is level, plumb, and securely anchored to the wall studs, preventing wobbling under the weight of heavy items.
Purchasing a Pre-made Unit
For those looking for a quick solution, many home improvement retailers offer modular around toilet cabinets. These usually come in sections that connect together and can be adjusted to fit various toilet shapes. While the selection is more limited than a custom build, these units are generally more affordable and require less lead time. Look for units with soft-close hinges to prevent slamming and integrated handles that won’t catch on towels or clothing.
