Since bathrooms are rarely spacious, it is important to use the available space optimally. Indeed, in addition to plumbing and a washing machine, it is necessary to place a large number of other things in it necessary in order to put yourself in order. For this, various hinged shelves are most often used - they are quite easy to pick up and place in the right place.
Varieties
In order not to get confused in the assortment of stores offering shelves, they can be divided into several groups with similar characteristics.
Depending on the design, they can be open and closed.
- Open. The simplest model, it can consist of only one part - the bottom, on which the objects are installed, and the sides along the edges. This option looks more compact.
- Closed - in the form of a small hinged cabinet with a door. Unlike open ones, they look more bulky, but better protect the contents from dust and water splashes.
Hinged shelves can be placed both along the wall and in the corner. Corner models allow you to use more space and are more spacious than conventional ones.
In addition, the angular arrangement is the most convenient, does not clutter up the walls and does not interfere with movement around the bathroom.
Hinged shelves can have different shapes - from the most familiar semicircular and rectangular to intricately curved. They may include one or several tiers. For the latter, it is very important to calculate the load, and choose reliable fasteners.Suction cup models are suitable for a tiled bathroom - they can be used temporarily and can be easily replaced with new ones. Typically, such products can withstand only a small load. To secure the shelf more thoroughly, use a drill and self-tapping screws. But only when replacing it or moving it to another place will remain holes that will have to be masked.
Material
Hinged shelves in the bathroom differ in the material from which they are made. It affects not only the appearance of the product, but also its practicality. For the manufacture of shelves most often use several types of raw materials.
- Plastic. Such a shelf will be easy and convenient to use - it is easy to wash. Another plus is the low price in conjunction with an unusual appearance, because of the plastic shelves of any shape and color can be made. However, with careless handling or increased load, individual parts of the structure may not withstand and crack.
- Wood. Despite its natural attractiveness, it is less and less used in bathrooms. Wooden products are clearly not cheap, crack and swell due to moisture changes, and can also become a place for mold to appear.
Liquids are easily absorbed into such surfaces and it is rather difficult to wash them.
- Glass. It attracts with its unusual appearance, especially if tinted or satin varieties are used. Tempered glass is hard to break or scratch; it is quite durable and safe. But such a surface will have to be kept clean all the time, since drops of water and other contaminants will be clearly visible on it.
- Metal (stainless steel is most often used). Suitable for the bathroom only with anti-corrosion coating. It withstands heavy loads, is durable and durable. Chrome parts, like glass ones, will often have to be wiped.
- A rock. It is used quite rarely as hinged shelves because of the high cost and weight, under which it is necessary to select the appropriate fasteners. However, the stone surpasses all previous materials in reliability. In addition, like any other natural material, it looks beautiful and has a wide selection of varieties.
Where to place?
Hinged shelves can not be placed on every wall. First of all, you need to find out how it is suitable for such a weight and mounts. The thickness of the wall, the material from which it is made and the finish is important here. For example, if the wall does not withstand such a load, or if there is no suitable drill for tile, it is better to pay attention to a lighter shelf on the suction cups.
It is most reasonable to place shelves with everything you need near the places where they are most often used.. All kinds of hygiene or care products should be located next to the sink or bathtub. And at such a distance and altitude that it was as convenient as possible. Even if at first it seems that one or two steps to the side will not cause difficulties, with everyday use unnecessary movements will seem tedious.
In addition, do not forget that in the bathroom surfaces can be slippery, and trying to reach something can cause injuries.
Wall-mounted shelves with large accessories are often placed so that they do not interfere with free passage. The angle farthest from the bathtub is ideal for this. You can use the space above the toilet or washing machine. For things that are rarely used, a vault above the door is suitable. To prevent the contents from spoiling from moisture, suitable closed containers will help.
How to choose?
To choose the right shelf, you need to take into account a number of nuances.
- Its size and design depends on the destination.. To accurately determine this, you can make a list of things necessary for the bathroom, or at least divide them into groups according to purpose or size.
- For a glass with brushes or soap, single-tier. Since tall bottles may not fit on multi-tiered shelves, you can select several ordinary ones and place them one above the other at the right distance.
- It is important to calculate the load correctly.. Metal mounts are much more reliable than plastic suction cups.
- The easier the shelf is mounted, the better. An alternative is hanging shelves that can be attached to a hook, curtain rod or special holder.
- Since the humidity in the bathroom is almost always increased, and water can get on the shelf, you need to choose a material that is resistant to these factors. In addition to its external qualities, it must be hygienic and safe.
Design options
So that the shelves do not clutter up the walls, it is better to give preference glass models. They look more elegant and perfectly complement the interior in any style. This option is universal. In this case, the sides or holders to them can be made of contrasting material.
Shelves made of chromed metal suitable for the bathroom in modern style. Metal parts in bronze or gold, on the contrary, emphasize the design in retro style. A large number of shiny surfaces in the bathroom looks especially advantageous.
Most shelves plastic look simple. One of the ways to diversify the interior is to use shelves in different shades that blend well together. Such a touch in the bathroom will definitely cheer you up.
Another win-win option - illuminated shelves. In addition to beauty, shelves, fixtures will serve as an additional source of light, which is important for an enclosed space.
See how to hang a corner shelf in the bathroom in the next video.