That's why every organizational expert we spoke with recommended investing in an under-sink storage organization system. That could be a two-tier shelf, plastic bins, a revolving lazy Susan organizer, plastic drawers, or whatever is most practical for you and your space.
If space is limited, keep only the necessities and use the linen closet or add shelving elsewhere for everything else. If there's more room for under-bathroom-sink storage, things such as hair tools and backup toiletries can stay.
Items not recommended to store under the sink
Harsh chemicals, bug spray, paper towels, waxes, carpet shampoo, drain cleaners, polishes and paints. Even some cleaning products, including dishwasher pods and colorful spray bottles, can be dangerous and entice curiosities for paws or tiny fingers.
Under-sink liner mats are available in common cabinet sizes and unlike hard plastic drip trays, they're super flexible so they're easy to get in and out around plumbing. If you have any pipes that go into the floor, you can even use scissors to cut holes then reseal the mat with waterproof tape.
Storing towels, washcloths, extra bathmats, and other linens in close proximity to plumbing fixtures under the sink increases the risk of contamination if there are leaks.
Never store prescription medications in the bathroom, advises FDB's So. According to health experts, most things people commonly keep in the bathroom should not be stored there at all because bathrooms tend to be breeding grounds for bacteria.
A heated towel rack is arguably the best place to hang your wet towels, as its primary purpose is to help dry towels after use. Hanging your wet towels on this device will help them dry faster, preventing mold, mildew, and bacteria from accumulating and ensuring you have a dry towel for next time.
Other ways to fill under-the-sink holes
The first is to use caulk to fill gaps less than about 1/2 inch wide. If you have holes wider than that, first stuff them with steel wool, and then caulk over it, he says.
Line bathroom drawers to keep everything in place and from moving around when opening or shutting your vanity drawers.
Sealing the plumbing pipes under your sink prevents potential leaks that could lead to water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. It's an essential preventative measure to ensure the longevity of your plumbing system and the safety of your home.
Trap: A P-trap is a two-part pipe under your sink that allows waste and water to pass through. The bend in the pipe prevents sewer gasses from entering. Today, most models are two pieces joined together. Older P-trap systems may be glued in place and should be replaced with an updated two-piece system.
Add an Under-Sink Mat or Tray
Most mats are rubber so even if they get wet, the water won't saturate through to your sink or kitchen cabinetry and wreck the wood. Most under-sink mats have grooves throughout that can hold water to contain a leak. Some mats are even capable of retaining several gallons of water.
: a large number and variety of something. … in the food lineup is what might be the borough's most weighty pizza. … The creation is topped with everything but the kitchen sink … Pamela Silvestri.
One of the best ways to waterproof underneath these sinks is with cabinet mats, as these mats are designed to fit snugly under sinks, and they serve as a barrier between the cabinet bottom and any leaks coming from the sink's plumbing.
Drawers and baskets offer more organizing potential than open cabinet space. Bring in storage units that allow you to separate items under your sink. On one side of this bathroom vanity, a two-drawer organizer stores surplus toilet paper, extra soap, and shaving products.
One of the best ways to organize bathroom counters is to place products on a tray. It can be mirrored, ceramic, acrylic, or any material that fits your bathroom decor. The key is to get into the habit of returning items to their place on the tray when you're done using them.
Cleaning up spills is easier with a shelf liner, and it also protects surfaces from wear and water damage, preventing damage before it's done. Shelf liners can even spruce up the look of your kitchen, adding a pop of color or pattern. We'd go so far as to say not using them is a mistake!
It's best to leave at least an inch between the vanity and the wall for ease of cleaning and air circulation. A solid wood bathroom vanity directly against the wall may trap moisture, leading to mildew or mold.
Cover up the under-sink zone with cloth, vinyl or polyamide curtains. These are low-maintenance options and don't absorb moisture.
Installing a dishwasher air gap under the sink is not recommended. It can lead to flooding if there's a blockage, and it's harder to notice and fix drainage issues. Flooding: Placing the air gap under the sink poses a risk of flooding if there's a blockage or clog in the drain hose.
“Generally, you should change your towels every three to four uses,” she says. “This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors.” It's important to stick to this clean towel schedule for a few reasons, Chiu notes. Bacteria, dead skin cells, and excess oils from your skin can build up on wet towels.
A good rule of thumb is to wash bath towels and hand towels after three to four uses, says Mary Gagliardi (aka "Dr. Laundry"), Clorox's in-house scientist and cleaning expert.
The second option (what I personally do) is to hang your towel over the shower curtain rod so it is spread out, and then once it drys transfer it to the hook. The towel hook is also a preferred option if you don't have a lot of wall space and want to free up some space for art.