How to Build a Wooden Towel Storage Cabinet for Small Bathrooms
A well-designed wooden towel storage cabinet can maximize space in a small bathroom while adding a stylish and functional touch. This guide will walk you through building a compact, space-saving towel cabinet using basic woodworking techniques and tools.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- ¾-inch plywood (for the cabinet box and shelves)
- 1×2 wood boards (for face frames and supports)
- ¼-inch plywood (for the back panel)
- Wood screws or pocket hole screws
- Wood glue
- Hinges (if you want a door)
- Knobs or handles
- Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
- Wood filler
- Stain or paint (optional)
- Polyurethane finish (for durability)
Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Pocket hole jig (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Clamps
- Sander or sanding block
- Paintbrush or foam roller
- Screwdriver
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Wooden Towel Storage Cabinet
Step 1: Measure and Plan Your Design
Since small bathrooms have limited space, measure the available area where you plan to install the cabinet. Decide on the height, width, and depth of your towel cabinet to ensure it fits well.
A common size for a compact bathroom cabinet is:
- Height: 48 inches
- Width: 18-24 inches
- Depth: 8-12 inches
Sketch out your design, including shelves for towel storage and whether you want an open or closed-door cabinet.
Step 2: Cut Your Wood Pieces
Using a circular saw or table saw, cut the following pieces from your ¾-inch plywood:
- 2 side panels – Cut to your cabinet’s desired height and depth
- 1 top panel – Width of the cabinet, matching the depth
- 1 bottom panel – Same width and depth as the top
- 1 back panel (from ¼-inch plywood) – Same width and height as the cabinet
- Shelves – Cut to match the width of your cabinet
If adding a door, cut a piece of plywood to fit the front dimensions.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabinet Frame
- Apply wood glue to the edges of the side panels.
- Attach the top and bottom panels using wood screws or pocket hole screws. Ensure they are flush with the edges.
- Secure the back panel using wood glue and nails or screws.
- Sand all rough edges and fill any gaps with wood filler.
Step 4: Add the Shelves
Decide how many shelves you want based on towel sizes. Spacing of 10-12 inches per shelf is ideal for storing rolled or folded towels.
- Mark shelf placement on both side panels.
- Secure the shelves using pocket hole screws or wood supports glued and nailed to the sides.
- Ensure shelves are level before final attachment.
Step 5: Attach the Face Frame (Optional for a Finished Look)
To create a polished appearance, use 1×2 wood boards to build a face frame:
- Cut and attach horizontal and vertical boards to the front edges of the cabinet.
- Secure with wood glue and nails.
Step 6: Attach a Cabinet Door (If Desired)
For a closed storage option, install a simple hinged door:
- Attach hinges to one side of the door.
- Secure the hinges to the cabinet frame.
- Add a knob or handle for easy opening.
Step 7: Sand and Finish
- Sand all surfaces smoothly using 120-grit, then 220-grit sandpaper.
- Wipe away dust and apply stain, paint, or a polyurethane finish for protection.
- Let dry completely before installing in your bathroom.
Step 8: Install the Cabinet
Depending on your space, you can:
- Wall-mount it using brackets or a French cleat.
- Place it as a freestanding unit against the wall.
Ensure the cabinet is level and secure to prevent tipping.
Final Thoughts
Building a wooden towel storage cabinet for a small bathroom is a practical and stylish solution. This DIY project allows you to customize the size, finish, and design to match your bathroom decor while optimizing space efficiently.
For more detailed woodworking plans, check out Teds Woodworking Course here:
👉 Teds Woodworking Course