What to Put in a Basket on the Back of the Toilet (15 Ideas)
This post shows you 15 things to put in a basket on the back of the toilet that actually work.
A basket on the back of the toilet is one of those things that sounds simple… until you actually try to style it. Too much stuff and it looks cluttered. Too little and it feels unfinished. And if the items don’t make sense together, it can start to look like random storage instead of decor.
I’ve found that the best toilet basket setups are a mix of practical and pretty. Things you actually use, paired with one or two softer elements, make the basket feel intentional instead of like an afterthought. These ideas are easy to mix and match depending on your bathroom style and how much space you’re working with.
Here Are 15 Things to Put in a Basket on the Back of the Toilet
1. Extra Rolls of Toilet Paper
This is the most practical option and still looks good when done right. Neatly stacked or rolled toilet paper fills the basket and makes it feel purposeful. Choosing neutral paper keeps the look clean.
2. Rolled Hand Towels
Rolled towels instantly soften the basket. They add texture and make the bathroom feel more spa-like without taking up much space. Stick to white or light neutrals for a clean look.
3. A Small Faux Plant
A little greenery goes a long way in a bathroom. Faux plants work especially well here since lighting can be limited. One small plant keeps the basket from feeling too utilitarian.
4. A Candle
A single candle adds warmth and makes the basket feel styled. It doesn’t need to be fancy — simple glass or neutral containers work best.
5. A Small Tissue Box or Tissue Pack
Tissues are practical and easy to tuck into a basket. Using a neutral tissue box or wrapping keeps everything looking cohesive.
6. A Reed Diffuser
Diffusers add height and a subtle decorative touch. They also help keep the bathroom smelling fresh without taking up counter space.
7. A Small Decorative Box
A small box is great for hiding personal items. It keeps things discreet while still contributing to the overall look of the basket.
8. Hand Soap or Spray Bottle
If you’re short on counter space, placing soap or spray in the basket can make sense. Keeping bottles simple and neutral helps them blend in.
9. A Folded Washcloth
One folded washcloth adds softness and balances harder items like bottles or boxes. It’s a small detail that makes the basket feel complete.
10. A Small Glass Jar
Glass jars work well for cotton rounds or other small items. They look clean and don’t visually weigh the basket down.
11. A Decorative Accent Piece
One small accent, like a simple ornament or neutral object, adds personality. Keeping it minimal prevents the basket from feeling crowded.
12. A Scented Sachet
Sachets are an easy way to add fragrance without clutter. They tuck neatly into the basket and keep things smelling fresh.
13. Extra Guest Essentials
Travel-size items or guest toiletries can live neatly in a basket. This is especially helpful in guest bathrooms where convenience matters.
14. A Small Book or Magazine
In larger baskets, one thin book or magazine can work surprisingly well. It adds interest without overwhelming the space.
15. Leaving a Little Empty Space
Not filling the basket completely is key. A bit of breathing room keeps everything from feeling cramped and helps the basket look intentional.
Wrapping Up
A basket on the back of the toilet works best when it’s thoughtful and simple. Mixing practical items with one or two decorative pieces keeps the basket useful without looking cluttered. When everything has a purpose, the basket feels like part of the decor instead of extra storage.
This post showed you 15 things to put in a basket on the back of the toilet that actually work.
