Dorm Bathroom Ideas: DIY Decor Projects for Small Spaces

Small dorm bathrooms often come with big design challenges: limited space, bland finishes, and strict rules against permanent changes. But just because the space is tiny doesn’t mean it can’t be cozy, stylish, and uniquely yours. With a few easy and affordable DIY decor projects, you can turn your dorm bathroom from basic to beautiful without sacrificing square footage—or your deposit.

For students or renters in small apartments, making the most of your bathroom’s footprint is crucial. According to a 2023 dorm living survey, nearly 80% of students said their bathroom setup impacted their overall comfort. Whether you’re sharing with roommates or have a private nook of your own, a little intentional design goes a long way.

This blog post will explore creative dorm bathroom ideas tailored for small space and apartment living. Each section is filled with renter-friendly DIYs, storage solutions, and decorating tips to help you refresh your bathroom with personality and purpose—without breaking the rules or the bank.

Maximize Vertical Space with Hanging Storage

When counter space is limited, look up. Vertical storage is a game-changer in dorm bathrooms, helping you keep essentials accessible while freeing up valuable surface area.

Start with a simple over-the-door organizer. Repurpose a canvas shoe rack by labeling each pocket for daily items like toothbrushes, skincare products, or extra toilet paper. You can also make your own fabric caddy using scrap fabric and a dowel rod—just add pockets and hang it behind the door or on a hook.

Floating wall shelves are another smart addition. If your dorm allows adhesive hooks or tension rods, you can mount lightweight shelves to display small bins, plants, or rolled towels. Add flair by painting the shelves to match your shower curtain or bathmat.

Vertical Storage Breakdown

Make a Statement with Temporary Wallpaper

One of the quickest ways to upgrade a bland dorm bathroom is with temporary wallpaper. It adds personality, color, and depth—all without damaging the walls.

Choose moisture-resistant peel-and-stick wallpaper in a pattern that reflects your style. Florals, geometric shapes, terrazzo, or boho prints can instantly liven up a sterile space. For a more understated look, try a textured or faux-tile design that mimics stone or subway tile.

Apply wallpaper to just one accent wall, the area behind the mirror, or even the inside of cabinet doors for a subtle surprise. If full sheets feel like too much, consider cutting wallpaper into framed sections to hang like art.

Wallpaper Placement Ideas

Custom DIY Bath Mats That Add Color and Comfort (Expanded Section)

Bath mats are often overlooked, but in a dorm bathroom, they serve multiple purposes—comfort underfoot, splash protection, and a big opportunity to add style.

Create your own bath mat using yarn pom-poms or T-shirt scraps. A tufted pom-pom rug is soft, colorful, and completely customizable. Start with a rug canvas or non-slip mat and tie on pom-poms in an ombré or rainbow pattern. You can even repurpose yarn from old sweaters to save money.

For a minimalist approach, take a plain cotton bath mat and use fabric paint to add stripes, polka dots, or a color-blocked edge. Neutral palettes with pops of pastel or mustard yellow can tie in beautifully with your existing decor.

Another trendy option is a cork bath mat. Purchase cork tiles, cut them into a shape you love (like scallops or hexagons), and adhere them together with waterproof glue. They’re naturally antimicrobial and dry quickly—perfect for shared bathrooms.

DIY Bath Mat Project Table

Add Personality with Functional Wall Hooks

In small bathrooms, the back of the door or the wall above the toilet is prime real estate. Wall hooks aren’t just practical—they’re also a fun way to add style.

Use adhesive or suction-cup hooks in fun shapes like stars, rainbows, or animals. You can also DIY your own with wooden pegs and paint. For a simple rustic option, mount a stained wood plank with multiple hooks using damage-free hanging strips.

Use your hooks to display towels, hanging planters, or decorative items like a mini macramé wall hanging. It’s a great way to organize your space while doubling as decor.

Wall Hook Usage Guide

Creative Ways to Scent Style Your Bathroom

A fresh-smelling bathroom makes even the smallest space feel more welcoming. Instead of using strong sprays or plug-ins, opt for natural DIY scent solutions that double as decor.

Make a gel air freshener using water, gelatin, essential oils, and food coloring. Pour into small glass jars and top with faux flowers or decorative stones. Or create a reed diffuser with essential oils and bamboo skewers in a thrifted bottle.

You can also use baking soda jars: add a few drops of essential oil to baking soda in a mason jar, then poke holes in the lid. These are great for tucking into corners or drawers.

Scent Styling Options

Shower Curtain Makeovers for a Custom Look (Expanded Section)

In a small dorm bathroom, your shower curtain takes up visual space—so why not make it count?

Start with a plain fabric shower curtain as your base. Use fabric paint to create abstract shapes, stripes, or a half-moon border. For more intricate designs, try stenciling or stamping with foam shapes. Watercolor ombré or sunburst patterns look great in pastel tones.

If you prefer texture, glue or stitch pom-pom trim, tassels, or ruffles along the edges or bottom. Fabric glue is perfect for no-sew upgrades. Want a high-impact transformation? Iron-on vinyl shapes or decals—stars, clouds, cacti—add a playful twist.

You can even turn two patterned bed sheets into a custom curtain by hemming the edges and adding grommets for hooks. It’s a fun way to repurpose dorm bedding or thrift store finds.

Shower Curtain Customization Chart

Organize Small Essentials in Style

Small spaces require smart storage—and that includes the little things. DIY organizers can help you keep track of hair ties, cotton pads, and toothbrushes while still looking polished.

Try stacking plastic drawer bins inside a cabinet. Decorate the front with patterned washi tape and label each drawer with chalk markers. Or repurpose a silverware tray in a vanity drawer to separate makeup and grooming tools.

Mason jars also work beautifully. Mount them on a wooden board for wall storage, or place them in a thrifted caddy on the countertop. Add some greenery or twinkle lights for charm.

Essential Organizer Guide

Conclusion

Your dorm bathroom might be small, but with a few creative DIY decor projects, it can feel like your own personal retreat. From custom shower curtains and cozy bath mats to scent styling and clever storage, each idea in this guide is designed to maximize space, comfort, and personality—without breaking the rules or your budget. By focusing on what makes the space both beautiful and functional, you’ll turn even the most basic bathroom into a reflection of your style and creativity.