We’ve all been there. You’re standing in your bathroom, a space that should be a sanctuary of calm, and it feels more like a cluttered closet. Bottles of shampoo and conditioner compete for space on the edge of the tub, a spare roll of toilet paper sits awkwardly on the tank, and your countertop has all but disappeared under a sea of skincare products and cosmetics. This was the exact scene in my guest bathroom for years—a compact space where every square inch of horizontal surface was prime, and perpetually occupied, real estate. The problem with bathroom clutter is that it’s not just an eyesore; it creates a subtle, constant stress. It makes cleaning harder and finding what you need a daily scavenger hunt. I knew I needed a solution that didn’t involve a costly renovation or sacrificing precious floor space, which led me down the path of vertical storage—specifically, the often-overlooked space above the toilet.
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Before You Buy: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Over-The-Toilet Storage Unit
An over-the-toilet storage unit is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a key solution for reclaiming unused vertical space and transforming a chaotic bathroom into an organized oasis. By elevating storage off the floor and countertop, these units instantly declutter the environment, making small bathrooms feel larger and more functional. They provide a designated home for everything from towels and toiletries to decorative items, combining practicality with a significant aesthetic upgrade. For those of us battling limited space, it’s one of the most impactful and budget-friendly improvements you can make.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the classic small-bathroom dilemma: not enough storage and zero available floor space. It’s perfect for apartment dwellers, homeowners with cozy powder rooms or guest baths, and anyone looking to add organization without committing to permanent fixtures. However, it might not be suitable for those who have bathrooms with custom shelving already built in above the toilet, or where a window or intricate tile work occupies that wall space. If you have an unusually tall or uniquely shaped toilet, meticulous measurement is key. For those with ample vanity storage or linen closets, an over-the-toilet unit might be redundant, and a simple decorative shelf could suffice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is the most critical factor. Before you even look at styles, grab a tape measure. You need to know the width of your toilet tank, the height from the floor to the top of the tank lid (especially when it’s open), and the total available height to your ceiling. The MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet offers a generous 34.25 inches of clearance, which accommodates most standard toilets, but you must verify your own measurements to avoid any frustrating surprises.
- Capacity & Configuration: Think about what you need to store. Do you want to hide away clutter like extra toilet paper and cleaning supplies, or display decorative items and neatly folded towels? A mix of open and closed storage, like that offered by the MXARLTR unit, provides the best of both worlds. Also, consider features like adjustable shelves, which allow you to customize the space for taller bottles or stacked items, maximizing every inch.
- Materials & Durability: Over-the-toilet units come in a range of materials, from plastic and particleboard to solid wood and metal. The MXARLTR model uses a combination of engineered wood for the cabinet and an alloy steel frame. This hybrid approach offers the aesthetic warmth of wood with the structural stability of metal, a smart compromise for durability and affordability in a humid bathroom environment.
- Stability & Safety: Because these units are tall and relatively narrow, stability is paramount. Look for features like adjustable leg levelers to counteract uneven floors and, most importantly, anti-toppling hardware to secure the unit to the wall. We cannot stress this enough: for any over-the-toilet cabinet, wall anchoring is not an optional step; it is essential for safety and long-term stability.
While the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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Unboxing and First Impressions: A Blend of Farmhouse Charm and Modern Lines
The arrival of the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet was our first clue that the company takes care in its process. The box was solid, and upon opening it, we found each component carefully separated and protected with foam sheeting. As one user noted, “the items were carefully pack to prevent damage,” a sentiment we wholeheartedly share. There’s nothing more deflating than unboxing a flat-pack furniture project only to find a chipped corner or a deep scratch. Thankfully, every piece was pristine.
Laying out the parts, the “Transitional” style became immediately apparent. The Cream White finish of the engineered wood panels is soft and warm, not a stark, clinical white. This makes it incredibly versatile, able to blend with both modern and more traditional decor. Paired with the matte black alloy steel frame and the charming barn-style doors, the unit strikes a perfect balance. It has that modern farmhouse appeal without being overly rustic. The quality of the components felt solid for the price point; the steel frame is lightweight but sturdy, and the panels have a substantial feel. It was clear from the start that this wasn’t a flimsy, bargain-basement piece, but a thoughtfully designed cabinet meant to look more expensive than it is. The initial impression was one of impressive value and style.
What We Like
- Stylish transitional design with charming barn doors
- Excellent mix of open and concealed storage
- Sturdy steel frame provides a solid foundation
- Adjustable shelf and leg levelers add versatility
- Great value for the price
What We Didn’t Like
- Absolutely requires wall anchoring for stability
- Included wall anchors are low quality
- Some users report a lingering chemical smell initially
In-Depth Performance Analysis: Putting the MXARLTR Cabinet to the Test
A piece of furniture can look great out of the box, but its true worth is revealed in assembly, daily use, and long-term durability. We spent considerable time with the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet, from building it piece by piece to loading it with essentials and integrating it into our daily routine. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performs in the areas that matter most.
Assembly and Installation: A Mostly Painless Process with One Critical Caveat
The words “assembly required” can strike fear into the hearts of many, but our experience with the MXARLTR cabinet was largely positive. All parts, right down to the screws, were clearly labeled in individual bags, which immediately streamlined the process. The instructions are purely pictorial, a series of diagrams showing each step. For the most part, they are clear and easy to follow. As one user happy with the process stated, “Every thing was labeled and the instructions were easy to follow.” We clocked our assembly time at just under two hours, working at a steady, unhurried pace, which aligns with several user reports.
However, the picture-only format can be a double-edged sword. One user mentioned, “the booklet doesn’t have any written instructions only pictures so it would’ve been easier to figure things out if that were the case.” We agree that a few lines of text at tricky steps, particularly concerning hinge or door alignment, could be beneficial. A fantastic pro-tip we picked up from another user was to attach the barn doors to the cabinet *before* lifting the entire top assembly onto the legs. Trying to align and screw in the doors while the unit is upright and slightly wobbly is a recipe for frustration. Following this advice made the final steps much smoother.
Now for the critical caveat: stability. Assembled and freestanding, the unit feels top-heavy and wobbly. This is not a design flaw unique to this model; it’s the nature of any tall, narrow furniture piece. The manufacturer includes anti-toppling hardware for a reason. You absolutely must anchor this cabinet to the wall. We found, as did several other users, that the included plastic wall anchors are flimsy and of poor quality. One reviewer correctly noted they “bent when they were inserted into the drilled hole” and recommended replacing them. We did just that, opting for a more robust set of drywall anchors from a local hardware store for a couple of dollars. This small, inexpensive upgrade made a world of difference. Once secured, the unit is rock-solid, with no sway or creaking. The adjustable feet are also a nice touch for ensuring it sits level on the floor before you anchor it. See its full feature set and anchoring components online.
Aesthetic Appeal and Material Quality: Exceeding Expectations
For a piece in this price category, the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet delivers exceptional aesthetic value. The cream white and black combination is chic and versatile. We placed it in a bathroom with grey tiles and brushed nickel fixtures, and it fit in beautifully. The transitional style truly shines, feeling neither coldly modern nor stuffily traditional. The barn doors are the visual centerpiece. They slide smoothly and add a touch of character that elevates the entire piece beyond a simple utility cabinet. While one user felt the doors “sound almost like cheap plastic when you tap on them,” we found them to be perfectly acceptable. They are lightweight, which is practical for this type of hinge system, but visually they are indistinguishable from heavier materials.
The cabinet itself is made from painted engineered wood (MDF), which is standard and appropriate for this application. It’s dense and feels durable enough for bathroom use, provided you wipe up any significant splashes of water. The paint finish is even and seems resilient. The alloy steel frame, with its trapezoidal side design, is not just for looks; it provides the core structure and stability (once anchored). The matte black finish is resistant to fingerprints and complements the door handles perfectly. A few minor critiques did emerge during our detailed inspection, echoing user feedback. Inside the cabinet, the silver screw heads are visible. While this is hidden when the doors are closed, some users wished for cover caps to provide a more finished look. Additionally, one user reported a “chemical smell that lingers.” We noticed a faint “new furniture” smell upon unboxing, but it dissipated completely within 24 hours with the bathroom door open. This can vary based on ventilation and individual sensitivity, but for us, it was a non-issue.
Storage and Real-World Functionality: Maximizing a Small Footprint
This is where the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet truly proves its worth. The design is a masterclass in functional storage. The open shelf is the perfect spot for items you want to access quickly or display. We used it for a small plant, a decorative candle, and a basket of neatly rolled washcloths. It breaks up the visual bulk of the cabinet and adds a personal touch.
Behind the charming barn doors, the real work happens. The enclosed space is ideal for hiding away the less glamorous bathroom necessities—extra toilet paper rolls, cleaning supplies, feminine hygiene products, and backup toiletries. The single interior shelf is adjustable to three different heights, a feature we found incredibly useful. We set it to a higher position to accommodate tall bottles of mouthwash and contact lens solution on the bottom. One user wisely took a photo to demonstrate the unit’s ample toilet clearance, noting it “can accommodate a toilet seat lid of up to 18″ tall,” which our measurements confirmed. This generous space ensures it will fit over the vast majority of toilets without issue.
While the internal cabinet dimensions are sufficient for most needs, it’s not cavernous. As one reviewer mentioned, “I wish the cabinets were slightly bigger.” It’s not designed to hold a family’s entire supply of bulky bath towels, but it excels at organizing smaller items that typically clutter a countertop. We were able to store six rolls of toilet paper, three full-sized bottles of shampoo/conditioner, a box of tissues, and various smaller skincare items with room to spare. For a single person or a couple, or for a guest bathroom, the storage capacity is more than adequate and a true game-changer for maintaining a tidy space. This smart combination of open and hidden storage is its greatest functional strength.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our own extensive testing, we dug into the wider pool of user feedback to see how our experience compared. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with most praise centered on the unit’s exceptional style and value. Many users, like one who purchased it after “extensive online research,” were thrilled with the quality relative to the cost, stating it was “value for the spend and as displayed online. No tricks.” The aesthetic appeal is a constant theme, with words like “elegant,” “beautiful,” and “super cute” appearing frequently.
On the constructive side, the feedback aligns almost perfectly with our findings. The most common critique revolves around the need for wall anchoring and the inadequacy of the included hardware. One detailed review was clear: “The wall anchors are definitely a necessity because the unit feels unstable without them.” Another user reported that the main hex bolts connecting the top frame to the legs were the wrong size and fell out, but noted that gravity held it together once upright and anchored. This highlights that while the final result is sturdy, the assembly process can have minor hiccups. The lingering “chemical smell” was mentioned by one user, and a few noted small cosmetic issues like a scratch or misaligned hinges, though most considered these minor inconveniences that didn’t detract from their overall satisfaction with this popular bathroom organizer.
How the MXARLTR Cabinet Stacks Up: Key Alternatives
The MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet offers a fantastic blend of style and function, but it’s important to know your options. Different designs cater to different needs and aesthetics. Here’s how it compares to three other popular choices.
1. Kalrin 4-Tier Over-The-Toilet Storage Rack
The Kalrin rack is all about open, accessible storage. With four full tiers, including a basket, it offers significantly more shelf space than the MXARLTR unit. This is the ideal choice for someone who prefers to have everything on display, or who wants to use the shelves primarily for decorative items, plants, and neatly folded towels. Its industrial-vintage brown wood and metal look caters to a different aesthetic. However, its biggest strength is also its weakness: there is no concealed storage. If your goal is to hide clutter and unsightly bathroom supplies, the MXARLTR cabinet, with its enclosed barn doors, is the far superior option.
2. UTEX Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet with Adjustable Shelves
The UTEX cabinet represents a more traditional approach. It features a fully enclosed two-door cabinet with classic paneling, offering a clean, uniform look. Like the MXARLTR, it has an adjustable shelf inside, but it forgoes the open shelf below in favor of a larger cabinet. This model is perfect for the ultimate minimalist who wants to hide everything behind closed doors. The choice between the UTEX and the MXARLTR comes down to style preference: the classic, fully-enclosed look of the UTEX versus the mixed-material, open-and-closed modern farmhouse style of the MXARLTR.
3. SONGMICS Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet Adjustable Shelf
The SONGMICS cabinet is a strong competitor that shares several features with the MXARLTR, including an enclosed cabinet, an open shelf, and an adjustable interior shelf. Its key differentiator is the inclusion of a bottom stabilizer bar that runs behind the toilet, which can add a bit of extra lateral stability even before wall anchoring. The Natural Beige finish offers a different, slightly warmer aesthetic than MXARLTR’s Cream White. This model is an excellent alternative for someone who is particularly concerned about initial stability during setup or who simply prefers its slightly different color tone and more classic door design.
Final Verdict: Is the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet Right for You?
After a thorough review, we can confidently recommend the MXARLTR Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet. It successfully bridges the gap between budget-friendly function and genuine style. Its charming barn doors and transitional design allow it to elevate a bathroom’s decor in a way that purely utilitarian models can’t. The combination of an open display shelf and a concealed cabinet offers a practical, versatile storage solution that addresses the core problem of bathroom clutter head-on.
Its primary weakness, which it shares with most products in this category, is its reliance on wall anchoring for true stability. We strongly advise discarding the included anchors in favor of a more robust set. But with that minor, inexpensive adjustment, you get a solid, secure, and stylish piece of furniture that performs beautifully. If you’re looking to maximize storage in a small bathroom without sacrificing aesthetics, and you’re prepared for a straightforward assembly process, this cabinet is an outstanding choice that delivers incredible value. Ready to transform your bathroom from chaotic to calm? You can check the latest price and availability for the MXARLTR cabinet right here.
Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API