Your bathroom may be small, but that doesn’t mean it has to lack style. One of the most overlooked areas for both storage and decoration is the top of the toilet tank. While it may seem like a throwaway surface, it’s actually prime real estate for adding functionality and a touch of personality to your space.
Whether you’re working with a tiny powder room or a full-size bath, making the most of this area can dramatically improve both organization and aesthetics. From chic trays to natural greenery, the right accessories can transform your toilet-top from an afterthought into a showpiece.
Below, we’ve rounded up 12 space-smart toilet-top décor ideas that will instantly elevate your bathroom. These ideas are undoubtedly beautiful and practical for keeping your essentials tidy and stylishly within reach.
1. Tray Chic: Use a Decorative Tray
A decorative tray is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to corral items on top of your toilet tank. Instead of leaving candles, tissues, and other small accessories scattered across the surface, a tray instantly creates order and cohesion. It acts like a visual anchor that pulls everything together.
Choose a tray that suits your bathroom’s style—wooden trays for a rustic vibe, mirrored or metallic for glam, and bamboo for a spa-like atmosphere. You don’t need a large tray; even a compact one can hold a small candle, mini plant, and a rolled-up washcloth or two.
This method not only looks more polished but also makes cleaning easier—just lift the tray and wipe underneath. It’s a quick upgrade that adds function without fuss, perfect for renters or anyone seeking low-effort décor.
2. Stack & Store: Add Tiered Shelving
Short on space? Go vertical. A slim tiered shelf or organizer that sits right over the toilet tank can add valuable extra storage without taking up additional square footage. It’s a stylish solution for bathrooms that need a bit more breathing room.
Look for shelves made from wood, wire, or even acrylic to match your existing fixtures. These are great for displaying folded hand towels, extra toilet paper, or a small plant or diffuser on the top tier. The key is to keep it minimal—don’t overcrowd.
Besides being functional, tiered shelving adds height and dimension to your bathroom. It draws the eye upward and makes the space feel larger and more intentional. Best of all, many of these shelves are renter-friendly and don’t require drilling into the wall.
3. Bloom Above the Bowl: Add a Small Plant or Succulent
There’s something about greenery that instantly makes a space feel more alive and serene. Placing a small plant or succulent on your toilet top is a wonderful way to add a fresh touch without overpowering the area.
Plants like pothos, aloe vera, or snake plants thrive in bathroom environments with low to medium light. If you’re worried about maintenance or lighting, consider using high-quality faux plants for the same look with zero upkeep. Just make sure the pot is compact and stable to avoid tipping.
Plants also help balance the cool tones of tile and porcelain typically found in bathrooms. Whether you prefer something lush and leafy or sculptural and modern, a little greenery goes a long way in making your toilet-top décor feel thoughtful and complete.
4. Scent-sational: Add a Candle or Diffuser
A stylish candle or essential oil diffuser isn’t just decorative—it enhances the ambiance of your bathroom. Place one on the toilet top to introduce a calming or invigorating scent into the space. This adds a layer of sensory comfort while also serving as a beautiful design accent.
For a more coordinated look, choose candles in neutral-colored jars or decorative diffusers that match your bathroom’s theme. For instance, a frosted glass diffuser looks chic in a minimalist space, while a ceramic one works well in a boho setup.
Layering scent and style creates a multi-sensory experience. Whether you’re setting the mood for a relaxing bath or just making guests feel welcome, a well-placed scent accessory can elevate your toilet-top to spa status.
5. Book Nook: Stack a Few Stylish Books
Books in the bathroom? Absolutely—when chosen thoughtfully. A stack of small, attractive books can give your toilet-top an upscale, curated look. Think mini coffee table books, self-care guides, or art and design collections with beautiful covers.
To keep it balanced, stick to two or three books and stack them neatly. You can top them with a candle, small crystal, or decorative object to create a layered look. This not only adds interest but shows off your personality and design sensibility.
It’s also practical—guests or even you can flip through them during downtime. Choose themes that relax or inspire, and avoid anything too bulky. The goal is to look intentional, not cluttered.
6. Functional Fashion: Use Stylish Baskets or Bins
Stylish storage is key in small bathrooms, and baskets or bins on the toilet-top are a smart way to keep things hidden yet handy. Use a small basket to stash extra rolls of toilet paper, feminine products, or even rolled hand towels.
Woven baskets add texture and warmth, while wire or metal bins bring a modern, industrial edge. You can even line them with fabric for a softer look. Choose colors and materials that match your bathroom’s overall theme for visual consistency.
The beauty of baskets is that they blend function and form effortlessly. You’re keeping things neat, but the look is still elevated—no plastic packaging or clutter in sight.
7. Keep it Clean: Display a Pretty Tissue Box Cover
Tissues are a bathroom essential, but the standard cardboard boxes often clash with your carefully curated décor. A pretty tissue box cover solves that problem instantly and adds a polished touch to your toilet-top display.
Choose a cover made of wood, ceramic, or acrylic depending on your style. Opt for clean lines in minimalist bathrooms or patterned covers for a pop of personality. It’s a subtle upgrade that makes a surprisingly big difference.
Place the covered tissue box on a tray or alongside a plant and candle for a balanced look. It’s functional, stylish, and makes everyday items feel more like part of the design.
8. Matchy Matchy: Coordinate with Color Themes
If your bathroom has a color scheme, your toilet-top décor should echo it. This makes your space feel harmonious and professionally styled. Coordinating colors also helps avoid a cluttered or disjointed look, especially in small bathrooms.
For example, if you have navy and gold accents, a navy tray with a gold candle holder ties it all together beautifully. You don’t have to go overboard—just one or two items in a matching hue can make a big impact.
This approach is especially helpful if you’re decorating on a budget. Rather than buying all new pieces, repurpose what you have and style with color harmony in mind. It’s one of the easiest ways to elevate your space without adding bulk.
9. Mirror Moment: Lean a Small Mirror or Art Frame
Leaning a small mirror or piece of art on your toilet-top is a subtle but stylish move. It adds visual depth, reflects light, and gives your bathroom a curated, homey feel. Best of all, there’s no need to hang anything—ideal for renters or commitment-phobes.
A petite framed mirror or a minimalist art print can rest securely against the wall above the tank. Keep it small and lightweight to avoid any accidents. Pair it with a tray or candle for a full vignette effect.
This technique adds a personal and artistic touch, especially if you use seasonal prints, botanical sketches, or typography that resonates with your taste. It’s your chance to sneak a little creativity into a functional space.
10. Apothecary Vibes: Use Glass Jars for Cotton & Bath Salts
Glass jars are not only practical—they also add a charming, apothecary-style element to your bathroom. Fill small jars with cotton balls, bath salts, or even decorative soaps and display them neatly on the toilet tank.
Choose matching jars with bamboo, cork, or gold lids for a coordinated look. This style works especially well in spa-inspired or vintage-themed bathrooms. The key is uniformity—matching jars make the setup feel intentional and calming.
This setup also frees up vanity space and makes essentials easy to access. Just make sure not to overcrowd the area—two jars and a plant or candle are usually more than enough to create a clean, luxe look.
11. Mini Zen Garden or Sand Tray
If you want your bathroom to double as a relaxation zone, consider adding a small Zen garden or sand tray to your toilet-top. These meditative décor pieces add serenity and serve as beautiful conversation starters.
Choose a compact tray filled with white sand, smooth stones, and a miniature rake. You can even add a few crystals or an air plant for added interest. Just make sure it’s lightweight and stable to avoid messes.
This idea is perfect for creating a spa-like atmosphere and makes your bathroom feel like a personal retreat. It’s a subtle way to bring mindfulness into your daily routine—one rake stroke at a time.
12. Personal Touch: Include a Scented Sachet or Small Keepsake
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of personalization. A scented sachet, a small framed photo, or a travel souvenir can give your toilet-top a warm and inviting touch. These small items make the space feel lived-in and loved.
Choose objects that hold meaning or bring you joy. For instance, a ceramic dish from a favorite vacation spot or a dried lavender sachet adds both scent and sentiment. Just be sure it blends well with your other décor choices.
This idea works especially well when paired with neutral or minimalist styling. One meaningful item can make a big impact and turn your bathroom into a place that reflects who you are—even in the tiniest details.
Styling Tips for Toilet-Top Décor
- Use the “rule of threes” when grouping objects—it creates visual harmony
- Keep scale and function in mind—don’t block the flush button or overfill
- Mix materials and textures—wood, metal, greenery, fabric—for interest without clutter
Final Thoughts
The top of your toilet may be small, but it holds big potential. Whether you’re looking to add storage, scent, style—or all three—these 12 décor ideas prove that even the most overlooked space can make a major impact.
Start with just one or two ideas, and build from there. With the right mix of beauty and practicality, your bathroom will feel more polished, more functional, and a lot more “you.” So go ahead—elevate that tank!
