Small bathrooms can present challenges when it comes to optimal toilet paper placement. With limited wall space and traffic patterns to consider, it may not be as straightforward as simply sticking a holder somewhere. However, with some strategic thinking, you can identify the ideal spot for comfortable and hygienic access.
The key in a cramped bathroom is mounting the toilet paper holder as close to the toilet as possible without interfering with usage. This allows easy reach while keeping the roll clean and dry. We’ll explore the pros and cons of various locations to help you zero in on the best option.
Why Toilet Paper Placement Matters
Convenient access to toilet paper is something most people take for granted, until it goes wrong. Stretching, straining and other gymnastics to reach a poorly positioned roll are nuisance at best, and a potential health hazard at worst.
Mounting the holder too far from the toilet can cause contamination if the dangling paper touches the floor or walls. And good luck if you actually run out mid-use and need to remedy the situation.
The ideal location avoids these problems and lets you easily tear off paper without rising from the seat. Get this right, and you’ll never give it a second thought.
Causes of Suboptimal Placement
Limited real estate is inherently the main culprit in small bathroom toilet paper quandaries. But even with spatial constraints, there are often better options than awkward distant mounts chosen arbitrarily.
In some cases, prioritizing aesthetics over function leads to mounts that don’t align with practical use. Preserving a certain look or symmetry may push the holder away from the ideal spot. Form beating out function causes problems.
Lack of planning also plays a role. Toilet paper may be an afterthought when renovating, leading to strange locations that don’t match typical usage patterns. Mapping out towel bar and toilet paper placement together better optimizes the layout.
Where to Mount the Toilet Paper Holder
When evaluating toilet paper placement in small bathroom, consider the usage zone around the toilet and traffic flows. Identify a spot offering an ergonomic reach that keeps the roll hygienic. Here are a few creative ways to store toilet paper in bathroom:
1. The Wall Behind the Toilet
The most convenient location is on the wall behind the toilet. This allows you to simply reach straight back to access paper. However, limited space and grabrails often complicate this spot.
If a rear mount isn’t feasible, prioritize the wall to the toilet’s dominant side. This prevents excessive leaning or rising that strains the body. Just ensure the holder or roll won’t obstruct the door swing path and get crunched.
2. The Side Wall
The side wall nearest the toilet is the next best bet. Angle the holder to face slightly inward – parallel mounts make you work harder. Place it far enough from the bowl to avoid splashes, but not so far that reaching is difficult.
Before mounting, test various heights while seated to find the most natural access point without excessive effort. Consider possibly raising the toilet seat an inch or two if it allows more positioning latitude.
3. The Door Side
If the forward side wall is the only option, adjust the bathroom toilet paper holder height higher since reaching inward is more of a stretch. Or, invert the mounting so the roll hangs under the base for easier access.
Just beware that the paper then hangs lower and risks touching the floor or clothing. For true small bathrooms, this location is better than cramming paper behind you.
Recommended Toilet Paper Holders – 2 Top Picks
Here are 2 of the best toiler paper holders available out there:
GJA21010-15SBS
This wall-mounted paper holder from Wangel is crafted from solid aluminum with an eye-catching sandblasted silver finish. Its smooth rounded edges and sleek modern styling add elegance to any bathroom. The spacious shelf provides ample storage for extra rolls or bathroom accessories. Thanks to an innovative no-drill installation, it mounts securely without marring walls to preserve deposit returns.
PH33-S17MB
Discreetly tuck away wet wipes and spare TP rolls in this matte black stainless steel organizer from Wangel. Also functioning as a standard toilet paper holder, its dual storage rack and roll cradle mount directly to the wall with the included hardware. The shelf keeps flushable personal hygiene and baby wipes hidden but within easy reach. Durable steel construction withstands busy family use while coordinating with most decors.
Toiler Paper Holder Installation – Step-by-Step Guide
Here are the key steps to install a toilet paper holder[1]:
- Determine the ideal height and location – 26 inches high and 8-12 inches from the toilet is common.
- Use a template or measure to mark bracket locations on the wall.
- Drill holes for the screws, using wall anchors if needed for stability.
- Secure the brackets to the wall with the included screws. Make sure the roller indentations face inward.
- Hang the roller holders on the brackets and tighten any set screws.
- Adjust the spring tension so paper feeds easily without unwinding too fast.
- Load a roll onto the spring roller and confirm smooth rotation.
Following manufacturer instructions for wall mounting, spacing, and hardware ensures your new toilet paper holder works flawlessly even in tight quarters. With smart placement to maximize comfort and access, you’ll appreciate the convenience every time you visit the bathroom.
Continue
Finding that sweet spot to mount a toilet paper holder in a small bathroom brings big rewards. No more contortions, strains, or mess when you can easily access paper comfortably from the toilet. The difference is night and day.
While spatial constraints limit options, solutions exist like forward-angled side mounts, compact floor stands, and even retaining hard-to-reach rear placements. Get creative with mounting angles and heights to optimize ergonomics at your ideal reach point.
For home owners struggling with their tiny bathrooms, Wangel offers a lifeline. Their space-saving bathroom collections include ingenious toilet paper holders sized just right for modest dimensions. Browse clever designs like corner-hugging swivel mounts, space-saving cabinet integrated holders, and customizable multi-use stands to address your specific needs.
