Showering in a small space isn’t fun. That’s why shower shelves are so wildly popular. And when you’re living and working in a city like Albuquerque, space is a premium resource. That’s why we at Albuquerque Self Storage are always hunting for innovative storage solutions, even in the smallest nooks and crannies of your home. Today, we’re honing in on a part of the house that often gets overlooked: the bathroom, more specifically, the shower.

Our topic of interest? Shower shelves. Let’s get into it.

Shower Shelves Save the Day

Shower shelves are the unsung heroes of compact storage— designed to elevate your bathroom’s functionality while also complementing its design. They come in an array of sizes, finishes, and designs, each suited to a unique set of needs and spaces. Let’s dive deeper into the world of shower shelves and discover how they could make your bathroom a place you’d like to spend more time in. 

Variety Abound

Let’s discuss the different types of shower shelves available. The most popular ones are built-in shelves, suction cup shelves, tension pole caddies, corner shelves, and over-the-door racks. Each type serves a different purpose and fits a distinct bathroom size and style.

Built-In

Built-in shelves are typically integrated during the construction phase and lend a sleek, minimalist look. Just as they’re called, these shelves are ‘built-in’ to the wall of your bathroom. These are also called niches, and look great because the storage space is inside the wall, not outside. This kind of shelving doesn’t impede the shower space. Built-ins are ideal for medium to large-sized bathrooms where the shower space isn’t limited. The only downside to these shelves is they are permanent and lack flexibility. Depending on your preferences, though, that could be the up-side, too.

Suction Cup Shelves and Tension Pole Caddies

In contrast, suction cup shelves and tension pole caddies offer versatility and are perfect for smaller bathrooms or rental spaces where breaking down walls or drilling into walls isn’t an option. Suction cup shelves are easy to install and remove, making them a go-to option for tenants. Meanwhile, tension pole caddies utilize vertical space efficiently, and their multiple tiers offer ample storage.

If you choose suction cup shelves or tension pole caddies, we recommend doing your research and reading the reviews on the item before purchase. Sometimes it makes sense to spend more on these items for a higher value. It’s not fun to have your toiletries come crashing down on you while showering because the suction cup gave out. 

Corner Shelves and Over-The-Door Racks

Corner shelves, often triangular, are designed to fit snugly in shower corners, making the most out of limited space. This option is fantastic for super-small bathrooms, as a corner shelf utilizes the space least used in a shower. Corner shelves are available in both permanent and temporary options. And finally, over-the-door racks are thoughtful contraptions that turn the unused space behind the shower door into a storage area.

Sizes and Finishes

Let’s talk about the different sizes and finishes shower shelves come in. From small single-tier shelves to larger multi-tiered caddies, there’s a size to fit every shower. Larger shelves are perfect for families or individuals with a plethora of bathing products, while smaller shelves cater to a more minimalist vibe. 

As for finishes, popular materials include plastic, stainless steel, and tempered glass. Plastic shelves are affordable and lightweight, and are perfect if you’re going for something temporary. Stainless steel, often with a chrome or brushed finish, lends a modern, sophisticated look and is rust-resistant. Tempered glass shelves, on the other hand, offer a sleek, luxurious aesthetic. They’re sturdy, easy to clean, and blend seamlessly with any bathroom aesthetic or decor. 

Making The Right Choice 

We just threw a lot of options at you, and you might be wondering how to make the right choice. First off, really think about how you move around in your bathroom and the size of the space itself. Super- small spaces will benefit from tension pole caddies or corner shelves, while larger bathrooms can accommodate built-in shelves or over-the-door racks.

Next, take stock of the items you’ll be storing. If you have a lot of products, opt for multi-tiered shelves. For just a few items, a single-tier shelf will suffice.

Lastly, the shelf material should not only match your bathroom decor but also withstand the humid environment. Stainless steel or plastic shelves are generally more durable and resistant to water damage.

Conclusion

Shower shelves are an under-utilized storage solution that can transform your bathroom, regardless of its size. From built-in shelves to tension pole caddies, there’s a shower shelf for every space and style. Just remember to consider your bathroom size, storage needs, and preferred aesthetic when selecting the right storage solution for your shower.

When you make the right choice, you’ll not only create more storage, but you’ll also update the look. This is an opportunity for a slight make-over, so choose wisely! And remember, at Albuquerque Self Storage, we’re always here to help you find clever storage solutions, whether it’s in your bathroom, living room, or for your larger storage needs.