7 Thriftable Bathroom Solutions for A Clutter-free Aesthetic

Suds, Storage & Secondhand Scores: Thrift Your Dream Bathroom Aesthetic

Let’s be honest—keeping a bathroom both functional and fabulous isn’t always easy, especially when storage is tight and style’s on a budget.

Bathroom organization can feel like one big aesthetic money trap.

Scroll through social media, and suddenly you’re being told that you need matching decanted everything, a million labeled bins, and a plastic organizer for your plastic organizers.

No thanks!

Here’s the thing—organization should make your life easier, not more complicated.

And that’s exactly why thrifting for bathroom storage just makes sense. Instead of spending a fortune on mass-produced, soulless containers, you can thrift unique, stylish, and functional pieces that add character and charm while keeping your space in check.

From glass vessels that turn everyday essentials into décor to baskets, trays, and unexpected finds that double as storage, there’s no shortage of ways to create an organized, aesthetic bathroom—without the overconsumption.

So whether you’re working with a tiny rental bathroom or a full-blown spa retreat, these thrifted organization staples will help you streamline your space, cut the clutter, and do it all with secondhand style.

Now that we’re ditching the overpriced plastic bins, let’s start with one of the easiest and most elegant thrifted storage solutions—vintage glassware.

1. Vintage Glass: Vessels That Organize in Style

Proof that function and fabulous can share the same space. Vintage glass jars and a crystal trinket box keep your bathroom organized and bougie.

Glass vessels are one of my favorite ways to add functional flair to any bathroom for a variety of reasons.

First and foremost, glass is everywhere.

So unless you’re after a highly sought-after collectible like Fenton glass, it’s one of the easiest things to thrift. You can walk into almost any thrift store and find something that works—no chasing estate sales or getting caught in a bidding war necessary.

Second, the variety is endless. Glass comes in every size, shape, color, and design you could want—within reasonable storage standards, of course.

• If you prefer a minimalist look, vintage apothecary jars are the perfect choice.

• If you lean towards ornate and decorative, crystal compote dishes or candy bowls add a touch of luxury.

And let’s talk practicality. Many glass storage options come with lids, which means an extra layer of protection against all the germs we know are floating around in the bathroom (but wish we didn’t). They’re also much easier to clean and sanitize compared to some alternative storage materials.

Beyond the vintage charm, glass storage keeps everyday items corralled and within reach, with the added bonus of a constant visual reminder when you’re running low on essentials—Hello practicallity!

Want to take your vintage glassware game even further? Learn how to use these stunning thrifted pieces in new and unexpected ways! Read Next: How to Use Vintage Glassware as Bathroom Accessories (coming soon)

Of course, glass jars and vessels look stunning—but without the right foundation, they can feel scattered. That’s where trays come in.

My Favorite Glassware to Thrift: Apothecary jars, candy dishes, decanters, trinket trays, and more.

If you’re new to thrifting and unsure how to spot gorgeous glass pieces (or what to do with them once you bring them home), check out 8 Thrift Tips For Beginners: Secondhand Shopping Made Easy. And if you need a little inspiration, From Cocktails to Q-Tips: Ways to Repurpose Vintage Glassware in Your Bathroom (coming soon) proves these beauties are more than just pretty—they’re practical, too.

Over time, I’ve learned that the pieces we’re most drawn to often become the ones we love most—Confessions of a Thrift Addict: How It All Began dives into that exact journey of trusting your gut and letting your style evolve through thrift.

2. Ornate Trays: Chic & Functional Thrifted Storage

When your storage solution slays harder than your contour. A thrifted silver tray turns the linen closet into a backstage glam station—on a dime.

Ornate trays are the secret weapon of stylish organization—perfect for corralling clutter while adding a touch of vintage charm to your bathroom.

If you're using a lot of glass storage in your bathroom (which, let’s be honest, is a total vibe), then trays are a must-have to keep things looking intentional and organized. Not only do they corral your essentials, but they also protect delicate glassware—especially if your bathroom has wire shelving that lacks stability.

For example, if you have solid shelves, you can safely place your thrifted glass jars and bottles directly on them. But if you’re like me and stuck with wire shelving, a sturdy tray acts as a barrier, preventing any wobbly disasters.

Trays also have the added perk of instantly elevating the look of your bathroom, making everything feel more put-together and curated.

Beyond just aesthetics, trays make accessing your essentials easier.

I love using a handled tray to store everyday makeup items in my linen closet (which keeps them sanitary) but can be easily pulled out when needed.

And a countertop tray can hold daily-use items like Q-tips, flossers, perfume, and even a trinket dish for jewelry.

One of the really great things about trays is that they also come in every size, shape, color, design, and material you could want—again, within reasonable standards.

Of course, there are your standard wood and silver-plated trays that are both fairly common and affordable. There are also mirrored vanity trays that are relatively easy to thrift.

Personally, I love silver plate and mirrors, and while that’s an aesthetic preference, it’s also practical—liquid items like bath oils and bubble bath won’t cause permanent damage like they would on wood.

Tiered trays are another fantastic option for smaller items like makeup, perfume, or skincare products.

And with a little creativity, almost anything can be turned into a tray. Marble slabs, mirrors, old frames, vintage cutting boards, or even repurposed cheese boards—if it’s flat and stylish, it works! So don’t overlook those random stone slabs that always seem to show up at thrift stores for no reason.

While trays are perfect for grouping and displaying smaller essentials, baskets take things a step further.

My Favorite Trays to Thrift: Ornate silverplate trays, mirrored vanity organizers, and marble pieces.

Trays might not be top of mind when you walk into a thrift store—but once you see what they can do, you’ll never go back. Make sure they’re on your radar with 7 Must-Know Tips to Create Your Perfect Thrift Wishlist, and dive into even more stylish storage inspo with Thrifted Baskets and Trays for Bathroom Organization (coming soon).

If you’re curious how I stopped chasing "perfect" and embraced the charm of the unexpected, Perfectly Imperfect: How Thrifting Helped Me Ditch Perfectionism will hit home.

3. Baskets: Thrifted Storage That Works

Who needs a built-in system when a basket can do it cuter? Thrifted baskets make your linen closet look like it has its life together—even if you don’t.

Baskets and bins are another must-have thrift find for bathroom organization, and honestly, they’re another one of the easiest things to score secondhand.

They’re almost as cheap and abundant as glassware, making them a budget-friendly way to bring both style and function into your space.

One of the best things about baskets is that they can sometimes offer more stability than trays. The higher sides keep items contained, making them a great option for organizing things like extra toiletries, backstock supplies, or bulky items that don’t fit neatly into glass containers.

Think about shampoo and conditioner that doesn’t really go in jars and containers, or any overflow like extra Q-tips items that would look more aesthetically pleasing in a basket rather than cluttering your cabinets.

Baskets also work beautifully for larger, more impractical-to-store items—like throw blankets, extra sets of sheets, or towels next to the shower.

I personally love keeping a large thrifted basket in my linen closet just for laundry day. There’s something about carrying my laundry in a heavy-duty, aesthetic basket that makes the chore feel a little more romantic and less rushed—as opposed to carrying an overflowing armful and leaving a trail of socks through the apartment like some modern day Hansel and Gretel.

And let’s not forget hanging baskets. They’re an underrated storage hero for keeping small essentials accessible yet stylish. Hanging a basket near the sink, toilet, or on the back of a door adds extra storage without taking up counter space.

Pro Tip: Thrifting Baskets Like a Pro

Baskets are bulky but durable, which means thrift stores don’t bother organizing them. They’re usually stacked inside one another, spilling onto the floor in a precarious pile—making the whole thing feel like the final rounds of a Jenga game.

You pull one, and the whole thing is coming down. But trust me, it’s worth the dig.

A big mistake I see people make? Skipping over a perfectly good basket just because it’s filled with a dusty old faux floral arrangement.

If the flowers are easy to remove, I just take them out and toss them in another basket for someone else who might want them. But if it’s a more complex arrangement, check to see if it’s glued in to the point of ruining the basket before buying—nothing’s worse than getting home and realizing you can’t salvage your find.

My Favorite Baskets to Thrift: Heavy duty wicker baskets, hanging baskets, laundry baskets

A well-placed basket can solve more problems than a drawer ever could—and it’ll look a whole lot cuter doing it. If you’re overwhelmed by all the options, 11 Reasons Thrift Shopping Feels Overwhelming (Tips To Fix It) is packed with mindset-shifting advice. Then head over to How to Thrift Stylish Storage Solutions for Any Space (coming soon) for help spotting baskets that balance beauty and utility.

Want to see how I used pieces like these to personalize my entire space? Thrifted Apartment Makeover: Stamping My Personality On Every Room! (coming soon) shows the transformation room by room.

4. Bins vs Baskets: What’s Your Style?

Bins vs. baskets? Choose your fighter. Thrifted containers keep the chaos tucked away while still giving main character energy on every shelf.

Whether you're team clean-lined bins or boho-chic baskets, your storage style says a lot—so why not thrift the one that fits both your vibe and your vanity?

The warmth and texture of woven baskets and bins help soften the look of a space, especially if you’re using a lot of glass storage. Too much glass can sometimes feel harsh, but baskets and bins add that cozy, balanced aesthetic.

Now, if baskets aren’t really your thing and you’re more of a "bin girly," don’t worry—thrift stores are practically overflowing with discarded TJ Maxx and Hobby Lobby organization bins.

So, if you’re not vibing with the cottagecore, shabby chic aesthetic, you can still find sleek, modern bins that align with your style.

Of course, not everything in your bathroom can be tossed in a basket. For the essentials that need a dedicated home, thrifted cabinets and shelving units offer storage solutions that are both practical and stylish.

My Favorite Bins to Thrift: Fabric storage boxes, plastic bins (great for kitchen organization)

Choosing between bins and baskets isn’t just about function—it’s about vibe. If you’re not sure what fits your style (or you’ve fallen for the wrong one before), Thrifter’s Trap: Rookie Thrifting Mistakes Every Beginner Should Avoid (coming soon) will save you some regret. And if you're torn between clean lines and character, Thrifted Over Catalog: Discover the Personality of Thrifted Charm (coming soon) will help you choose style that actually feels like you.

For a deeper dive into how I ditched the generic big-box look and embraced secondhand pieces that actually felt like home, check out Ditching Generic: How I Made My Apartment My Thrifted Masterpiece (coming soon).

5. Cabinets & Shelves: Thrifted Pieces That Maximize Space

Not built-in? Not a problem. A thrifted shelf adds vertical storage, serious charm, and a little “I totally planned this” energy to any bathroom.

Thrifted cabinets and shelves aren’t just storage—they’re space-saving heroes that bring both function and flair to even the tiniest bathrooms.

Small shelves and trinket cabinets are one of the easiest ways to add aesthetic charm and practical organization to a bathroom—especially if built-in storage is limited.

If your bathroom doesn’t have a linen closet, maximizing vertical space is key. A few floating shelves above the toilet can be a game-changer for keeping essentials within reach.

Think: an extra roll of toilet paper in a basket, bars of soap in a glass jar, or a bathroom spray decanted into a vintage perfume bottle.

For freestanding storage, small shelving units are a great way to squeeze in extra organization where built-in options fall short. Sometimes, you just need a little extra storage next to the toilet or bathtub to hold daily-use essentials, and a thrifted standalone shelf is an easy, affordable solution.

Trinket cabinets are another adorable and functional addition.

A small wall-mounted cabinet next to the sink is perfect for organizing face products, perfumes, or nail polish.

Some wall cabinets can even be turned on their side and repurposed into a tray-style organizer. The compartments make them perfect for sorting small essentials like hair accessories, first-aid items, or travel-size toiletries.

And don’t forget to think outside the box when thrifting for bathroom shelving and cabinet solutions. A vintage spice rack can double as a perfume or skincare organizer. Drawers from old, broken furniture can be repurposed into rustic shelves. Even a vintage printer tray can become a mini display for perfume bottles or small knickknacks—because sometimes, decorating isn’t about function, it’s about the vibe.

Cabinets and shelves are great for maximizing space, but sometimes, you need a storage option that’s more compact and flexible. That’s where thrifted boxes come in—offering all the function of baskets, with the added bonus of stackability.

Favorite Bathroom Storage Finds: Vintage dressers, old-school medicine cabinets, freestanding shelves.

Good shelves are hard to find—and even harder to find secondhand without a little strategy. Furniture Finds: Smart Tips for Thrifting Perfect Secondhand Pieces (coming soon) walks you through exactly what to look for. And if you're just getting started with secondhand furniture, Thrift Stores: A Beginner’s Steppingstone to Estate Sales and Auctions explains how thrift stores can prep you for bigger, bolder finds.

If you love a good before-and-after, Thrift Transformations: From Discarded to Designer-Worthy (coming soon) shows how I made pieces like this work in tight spaces with tons of character.

6. Boxes: Thrifted Storage That Stacks Up

Because sometimes a box just gets you. Thrifted wood boxes stack like a dream and hide all your chaos in a way that feels effortlessly intentional.

Don’t underestimate the power of a good box—thrifted storage boxes are stackable, stylish, and surprisingly versatile for keeping bathroom chaos in check.

Boxes are definitely an overlooked but incredibly useful storage option for the bathroom.

They offer many of the same benefits as baskets, but with one major advantage—stackability. If you’re working with limited storage space, boxes allow you to store vertically without things looking messy.

Of course, there’s a wide range of box styles and materials you’ll come across while thrifting. Some of the cheaper faux suitcases and decorative trunks originally sold at places like Hobby Lobby might seem like a good option, but they’re often overpriced for what they are.

In contrast, smaller, high-quality vintage wooden boxes tend to be more affordable and durable, making them the better choice for long-term storage.

Because boxes aren’t as flexible as baskets, they’re not ideal for storing bulky bathroom items like shampoo and conditioner. Instead, they’re perfect for smaller items that don’t need to be accessed daily but benefit from having a designated home. Think: heating pads, hair clippers, or even backup skincare and self-care items.

Vintage wooden boxes aren’t necessarily hard to find, but they do require a little patience. They’re not something you’ll score on every thrift trip, but if you keep an eye out and intentionally check during each visit, you’ll come across a few before long.

Another fun DIY trick is repurposing vintage silverware carriers into adorable storage boxes. By stripping out the old dividers, relining the interior with fabric, and giving it a little love, you can transform a simple silverware organizer into a stylish and unique bathroom storage piece.

Of course, no bathroom setup is complete without a few decorative touches. But thrifted accents don’t just look good—they can also double as smart storage solutions.

Favorite Boxes to Thrift: Paper boxes, cigar boxes, repurposed silverware organizers.

Vintage boxes are cute, but some come with quirks—missing lids, funky smells, questionable sturdiness. Fix It or Skip It: Essential Considerations for Secondhand Treasures (coming soon) will help you separate the gold from the junk. And if you’ve ever stood in a store wondering “is this even worth it?” 8 Thrifting Do’s and Don’ts for Secondhand Shopping Success (coming soon) has your back.

Want to know how I consistently find secondhand gems that just work? My Secret to Thrift Scores So Good, It Feels Like Cheating! (coming soon) spills my go-to strategies.

7. Pretty & Practical Pieces: Thrifted Décor That Doubles as Storage & Organization

When storage is cute enough to be mistaken for art. This thrifted cherub isn’t just adorable—it’s holding your soap and serving vintage drama.

We’ve covered a lot of practical organization, but let’s not forget about the decorative elements that can add both function and flair to your bathroom.

The best thrift finds aren’t always the obvious ones—sometimes, the key to next-level organization is spotting the potential in overlooked pieces.

Hooks are a perfect example. It’s not uncommon to find brass or wrought iron decorative hooks that can be easily mounted to walls or doors—making them ideal for hanging robes and bath towels. Smaller decorative key hooks can double as a chic way to organize jewelry.

Mail organizers might not seem like a bathroom essential, but they can actually be a creative storage system near the sink. If they have built-in hooks, even better! Use them to store neatly rolled face cloths, makeup brushes, or combs for easy access while keeping things stylishly tucked away.

And of course, always keep an eye out for pieces that can be transformed with a little DIY magic. An ornate vintage frame can be repurposed into a mini shelf organizer. A small decorative frame can be turned into a jewelry holder. A marble paper towel holder? Why not turn it into a boujee toilet paper stand?

Sometimes, it’s all about looking at things through a creative lens and reimagining their purpose.

At the end of the day, organization isn’t about following the latest aesthetic trend—it’s about creating a space that works for you. And thrifting makes that easier (and way more affordable) than ever.

Favorite Decorative Thrift Finds: Mirrors, hooks, small vintage pieces with repurposing potential.

If you're after décor that does more than sit there and look cute, you’re not alone. For me, the magic of thrifting lies in those double-duty pieces that elevate a room while solving a problem. 6 Tips to Personalize Your Space with Thrifted Finds will help you think outside the (literal) box. And if you’re not sure what counts as a good thrift find, Talk Thrifting to Me: A Beginner’s Guide to Secondhand Lingo will help you decode the racks like a pro.

For a little extra dose of secondhand joy, Reasons Thrifting Gives Me Thrills A Shopping Spree Never Could (coming soon) explains why these wins feel so personal.

No Stress, No Mess: Thrift Your Way to Bathroom Bliss

I know that organization isn’t a necessity for everyone, but I’d argue that for some of us, it absolutely is.

Personally, my brain doesn’t function well with clutter—even if it’s out of sight, it’s never out of mind.

The more thoughtful organization systems I put in place, the less unnecessary consumption I engage in. When everything has a place, I’m far less likely to bring something into my space that disrupts that flow and structure.

That’s what real organization is about—it’s not about curating a Pinterest-perfect bathroom or cramming every item you own into a set of identical, clear acrylic bins.

I’m not telling you to go buy a clear plastic milk container just to pour your milk into it when it already comes in a perfectly good carton.

Organization should streamline your life, not add unnecessary work to it.

And that’s why thrifting for bathroom organization just makes sense—it’s about using what’s already out there, finding practical, stylish solutions, and keeping it all functional without falling into the trap of overconsumption.

Now, if you’re ready to take your bathroom aesthetic to the next level, let’s talk vintage glassware and how to use it as stylish, functional bathroom storage. Read Next: How to Use Vintage Glassware as Bathroom Accessories

Before you go, I want to hear from you! What’s your best thrifted organization find? Drop your favorites in the comments, share your most unexpected repurposing hack, or let’s swap tips on how to keep things organized without the pressure of perfection. Let’s make this a space where we can inspire each other to thrift smarter, live more intentionally, and create spaces that truly work for us.