We’ve all been there. Staring at a bathroom countertop that has disappeared under a mountain of lotions, toothbrushes, and stray hair ties. It’s a scene of quiet, daily chaos. In our small guest bathroom, this wasn’t just an eyesore; it was a logistical nightmare. Every morning involved a careful excavation to find the toothpaste, and having guests over meant a frantic 15-minute sweep of all surfaces into a drawer that could barely close. That limited space, particularly the valuable but unused vertical real estate above the toilet, felt like a constant, mocking reminder of our disorganization. The problem isn’t just clutter; it’s the stress and inefficiency it creates in a space that should be calm and functional. We knew we needed a solution that was smart, compact, and wouldn’t require a major renovation—which led us directly to the world of over-the-toilet storage, and specifically, to the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32.
- 【Left or Right? Your Choice】The side shelf can be mounted on either side of the cabinet, offering flexibility in setup and ensuring...
- 【Organized and Spacious Storage】Store everything you need in style. The top cabinet offers two open shelves for easy access to...
What to Consider Before Buying 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 wasted space and imposing order on bathroom chaos. These clever units transform the empty vertical area above your toilet into a functional storage hub, providing shelves, cabinets, or a combination of both without consuming any additional floor space. This is a game-changer for anyone living in apartments, small homes, or simply dealing with a poorly designed bathroom layout. The main benefits are clear: maximized storage, reduced countertop clutter, and a more organized, aesthetically pleasing environment.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a significant lack of storage in a compact bathroom or laundry room. It’s for the renter who can’t install permanent shelving, the small family trying to organize everyone’s toiletries, or anyone on a budget looking for a high-impact organizational upgrade. However, it might not be suitable for those who have extremely spacious bathrooms with ample built-in cabinetry, or for individuals who prefer a minimalist aesthetic with completely clear walls. If your toilet is situated in a tight alcove with no side clearance or has custom plumbing that obstructs the legs, a freestanding unit like this may not work. In those cases, you might consider wall-mounted floating shelves or a slim rolling cart as alternatives.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is the most critical factor. Meticulously measure the width of your toilet tank, the height from the floor to the top of the tank, and the total vertical clearance you have (watch out for low windows or medicine cabinets). The MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 is 32.06 inches wide, so ensure you have adequate side clearance. Also, note its 61.76-inch height to confirm it fits under any overhead obstacles.
- Storage Capacity & Configuration: How much stuff do you need to store, and what kind? Do you need open shelves for decorative items and frequently used products, or do you prefer concealed cabinet space to hide clutter? This unit offers a hybrid approach with open upper shelves, a side rack, and a double-door cabinet with an adjustable shelf, providing excellent versatility for different storage needs.
- Materials & Durability: Over-the-toilet units come in various materials, from metal and bamboo to solid wood and engineered wood. The MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 is made from P2 particle board. While highly affordable and common in flat-pack furniture, particle board is more susceptible to moisture damage than solid wood. It’s crucial to ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated to maximize its lifespan.
- Ease of Assembly & Stability: Most of these units require assembly. Look for clear instructions and included hardware. Crucially, any tall, freestanding piece of furniture in a bathroom should come with anti-tipping hardware to secure it to the wall. This is a non-negotiable safety feature, especially in homes with children or pets, and we were pleased to see it included with this model.
While the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 is an excellent choice for many, 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:
- [Utility Design] Our over the toilet storage shelf features three open shelves and 1 storage basket, along with 3 removable hooks and a...
- Bring A Tidy Bathroom: Comes with 1 open shelf and 1 cabinet with doors, the organeizer will bring you more storage options to store...
- [Utility Design] Our over the toilet storage shelf features three open shelves and 1 storage basket, along with 3 removable hooks and a...
First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32
The unit arrived in a surprisingly compact, heavy flat-pack box. Unboxing it revealed a neatly organized collection of white particle board panels, a bag of hardware sorted into labeled sections, and a pictorial instruction manual. Our initial thought was that the material felt standard for this price point—not premium, but functional. The white finish was a simple, clean matte, though upon close inspection, we noticed some of the concerns echoed in user reviews. The paint layer is thin, and we could see how it might be prone to chipping if handled roughly during assembly. The manufacturer claims assembly takes under 30 minutes, which we found to be optimistic. Setting a realistic expectation of 60-90 minutes, especially if you’re building it alone, is more practical. The process itself is straightforward, akin to building furniture from IKEA. A key design feature that stood out immediately was the modular side shelf, which can be attached to either the left or right side—a brilliant touch for accommodating different bathroom layouts. To see its full feature set and user reviews, you can find more details online.
What We Like
- Versatile side shelf can be mounted on the left or right
- Generous mix of open and concealed storage
- Includes anti-tipping hardware for safety and stability
- Compact footprint maximizes vertical space effectively
What We Don’t Like
- Particle board material is susceptible to moisture damage
- Paint finish is thin and can chip easily during assembly
A Deep Dive into the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32’s Performance
After assembly and a few weeks of rigorous daily use, we’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of where this storage cabinet shines and where it falls short. It’s a product that absolutely delivers on its core promise of adding significant storage to a small space, but its value is intrinsically tied to managing expectations regarding its material quality and assembly process.
Assembly and Installation: A Test of Patience and Precision
Let’s address the assembly head-on. As seasoned veterans of flat-pack furniture, we found the process for the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 to be manageable, but not without its quirks. The instruction manual relies entirely on diagrams, which are mostly clear but had one or two steps that required a moment of careful study to decipher correctly. This aligns with feedback from one user who noted, “Some of the instructions were incorrect.” While we didn’t find them outright wrong, a lack of written clarification can lead to confusion.
The most significant challenge, and a recurring theme in user experiences, is the material’s fragility. The P2 particle board demands a gentle touch. As one user starkly warned, “The paint cracks and flakes off with hand screwing screws into the holes.” We can confirm this. Over-tightening screws even slightly will cause the white surface to splinter around the screw head. We recommend using only a manual screwdriver and stopping the moment you feel resistance. One person mentioned cracking a piece during assembly, a scenario that is entirely plausible if you’re not careful. The numerous pre-drilled holes also caught our attention. The design allows for the side shelf to be reversible, which means there are mirrored holes on both main supports. The manufacturer provides small white stickers to cover the unused holes. While some users found this perfectly acceptable (“I was given stickers to help hide the holes”), others were less forgiving, stating “the holes are EVERYWHERE.” Aesthetically, it’s a definite trade-off for the unit’s versatility. Once assembled and decorated, the covered holes are less noticeable, but it’s a clear indicator of the product’s budget-conscious construction.
Design, Materials, and Durability: Managing Expectations
The design of the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 is modern, clean, and highly functional. Its bright white finish can freshen up a dated bathroom, and its combination of open shelves and closed cabinets strikes an excellent balance between display and concealment. The ability to mount the side shelves on either side is, in our opinion, a feature that really sets it apart in this category, allowing it to adapt to various room layouts. One user specifically praised this, saying, “I only had extra room in my bathroom on the right had side so I like the extra shelf were on the side I needed it on.”
However, the praise for its design must be tempered by a realistic discussion of its materials. The unit is constructed from EPA-certified P2 particle board. This engineered wood is standard for affordable furniture, but it has inherent weaknesses, especially in a humid environment like a bathroom. As one skeptical user put it, “Since the underlying material is particleboard, I’m having a hard time believing that it will hold up to moisture.” This is a valid concern. The “waterproof surface” mentioned in the product description refers to a thin laminate or paint layer, but any chips or cracks—which are likely to occur during assembly—can become entry points for steam and moisture, potentially leading to swelling and degradation over time. We strongly advise using the bathroom’s exhaust fan during and after showers to mitigate this risk. In essence, the quality is what you pay for. As one user aptly summarized, comparing it to a well-known Swedish brand, “For the price I’m beyond happy. I compare the quality to that of an IKEA item :)” It’s not a heirloom piece, but it’s a perfectly functional and attractive solution for the short to medium term.
Storage Capacity and Practicality in Daily Use
This is where the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 truly excels. For its compact footprint, the amount of storage it offers is impressive. We were able to completely clear our bathroom countertop, an achievement we didn’t think possible. The two open top shelves are perfect for decorative items, like a small plant or candles, or for storing neatly folded hand towels. The main double-door cabinet is the workhorse. Its internal shelf is adjustable to three different heights, allowing you to customize the space for taller bottles of shampoo or shorter jars of cream. We stored extra toilet paper rolls, cleaning supplies, and less-frequently used toiletries here, instantly making the bathroom feel more serene and organized.
The side shelves are ideal for everyday items—our electric toothbrushes, daily moisturizers, and contact lens solution found a perfect home there, easily accessible without being on display for everyone to see. That said, it’s important to note the shelf depth. One user felt the unit was “a lot smaller than expected and the shelves are not deep (wide) either.” The depth is 7.67 inches, which is sufficient for most standard toiletries but won’t accommodate bulky items or large, fluffy bath towels unless they are rolled very tightly. Before you make your purchase, we recommend checking the dimensions against the items you plan to store. For us, the capacity was more than adequate and aligned perfectly with the goal of organizing the multitude of small-to-medium-sized items that typically cause bathroom clutter.
What Other Users Are Saying
Sifting through feedback from other buyers reveals a consistent and telling split in opinion, largely centering on the balance between price and quality. On the positive side, many users are thrilled with the result, especially the added storage. Comments like “I LOVE it! My 1/2 bath needed more storage and I’m so happy I got this!” and “Great value for the money… sturdy with great amount of storage” are common. These users approached the product with realistic expectations, viewing it as an affordable solution to a pressing problem and were delighted with the outcome. One user even enhanced theirs with leftover wallpaper, showing its potential as a customizable piece.
Conversely, the negative feedback focuses almost exclusively on the material quality and assembly experience. The most critical review came from a user who “stopped putting this together to write the review,” citing the cheap materials, thin paint, and paint flaking off during assembly. Another, an experienced flat-pack assembler, called the process frustrating, pointing to incorrect instructions and the prevalence of exposed screw holes. These reviews serve as an important caution: if you are expecting high-end furniture or are easily frustrated by imperfect assembly processes, this may not be the product for you. The general sentiment is that if you can look past the budget materials and a slightly finicky build, the functionality and value are undeniable.
How Does the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 Compare to Alternatives?
While the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 offers a fantastic blend of concealed and open storage, the market has several other compelling options that might better suit your specific needs or aesthetic preferences. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular competitors.
1. Kalrin 4-Tier Over-The-Toilet Storage Rack
- [Utility Design] Our over the toilet storage shelf features three open shelves and 1 storage basket, along with 3 removable hooks and a...
- [High-Quality & Style Go Beyond] 4-Tier-over-the-toilet storage rack Constructed with P2 particleboard thick wood panels and a sturdy...
The Kalrin rack takes a completely different approach, prioritizing open, airy shelving over concealed cabinets. Constructed with a metal frame and vintage brown shelves, it offers an industrial-chic look. This would be a better choice for someone who wants to display decorative items, towels, and baskets, and isn’t concerned with hiding clutter. Its four tiers, including a basket, provide ample space, and the metal construction may offer better long-term durability in a humid environment compared to particle board. However, if your primary goal is to hide messy toiletries and cleaning supplies, the fully open design is a significant drawback compared to the MU cabinet’s closed doors.
2. Spirich Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet
- Maximize Your Space: Bid farewell to bathroom clutter and embrace tranquility! Our advanced over toilet storage cabinet redefines...
- Hidden Storage Enchantment: Tired of the eyesore caused by clutter and exposed toiletries? With its versatile adjustable shelves,...
The Spirich cabinet is perhaps the most direct competitor to the MU model. It features a similar all-white, enclosed design with double doors and an adjustable internal shelf. The primary difference is its focus on fully concealed storage, lacking the open top shelves and side rack of the MU unit. This makes the Spirich an excellent choice for minimalists who want everything hidden from view. It projects a more traditional, substantial look. The trade-off is a loss of the quick-access convenience and decorative potential offered by the MU cabinet’s mixed-storage design.
3. UTEX 3-Tier Over The Toilet Storage Shelf
- Maximize Vertical Space: Utilize the area above your toilet for clutter-free counters and easy access to your essentials with our over...
- Convenient Eye-Level Storage: Keep your must-have bathroom essentials within reach at eye level for effortless access every time with...
Similar to the Kalrin, the UTEX shelf focuses on open storage, but with a warmer, more rustic wood-grain finish that can complement different decor styles. Its simple 3-tier design is straightforward and provides ample space for towels, baskets, and plants. This is a great pick for someone who needs basic, accessible storage and prefers a natural wood look over stark white. It forgoes any cabinet space, so like the Kalrin, it’s less ideal for hiding clutter. The MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 remains the superior choice for those who need the versatility of both open and closed storage compartments.
Our Final Verdict: Is the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 Worth It?
After extensive testing and evaluation, our verdict on the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 is a confident, albeit conditional, recommendation. This is a product that knows its target audience: individuals battling clutter in a small bathroom who need a functional, stylish, and highly affordable solution. It succeeds brilliantly in its primary mission of creating a huge amount of storage out of thin air. The combination of open shelves, a reversible side rack, and a concealed cabinet is a masterstroke of practical design, offering unmatched versatility at this price point.
However, this value comes with a clear trade-off in material quality. The particle board construction and thin paint finish require careful handling during assembly and mindfulness of bathroom humidity for long-term use. It is not a piece of fine furniture, and it doesn’t pretend to be. If you are a discerning buyer looking for premium materials and a flawless finish, you will be disappointed. But if you are a practical problem-solver who can appreciate it for what it is—an intelligent, budget-friendly organizational tool—you will be absolutely delighted. For anyone ready to finally win the war against bathroom clutter without breaking the bank, we believe the MU Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet 32 is an excellent investment in a more organized home.
Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API