Spruce Up The Wall Space Behind Your Toilet With A Gorgeous And Affordable DIY

Have you ever gone into your bathroom and thought it looked boring and drab? Maybe it's small and desperately needs more storage, or your bathroom area just feels unfinished. Bathrooms are often an afterthought when it comes to interior decorating, and the space behind the toilet is sometimes the last part of the room to get a makeover. If you've been wanting to refresh your bathroom but don't know where to begin, adding wooden slat panels behind your toilet can instantly level up your space. 

The process is simple: attach thin, wooden slats directly to the wall behind your toilet to create a stylish, dimensional backdrop. This project is easy to customize, budget-friendly, and something you can totally do yourself with just a few materials and tools. All you need is your chosen material, wood glue or adhesive, finishing nails or a nail gun, a level, paint or stain, gloves, and safety glasses. 

Whether you're going for a modern, classic, or even rustic aesthetic, this project is beginner-friendly and easy to tailor to your personal style in no time — no contractor required. Vertical wood slats will create a modern look, but there are other materials available. Laminate is a great moisture-resistant and budget-friendly option, while shiplap creates a rustic, farmhouse vibe. If you're looking for a super easy route, faux wood peel-and-stick wallpaper adds texture without having to use tools. The most budget-friendly option is faux wood peel-and-stick wallpaper, but laminate wood, wood panels, and shiplap may provide a more aesthetic look.

To begin, decide if you want your accent wall's planks to be vertical, horizontal, or a unique pattern. If you have decided to paint or stain your panels, it's a good idea to do this before you put anything up to make things easier. Then, measure the wall behind your toilet to figure out how much material you'll need. If you don't want to cut the material yourself, take your measurements to your local hardware store where they can cut it for you. Also take a look at your plumbing. If your water line comes in from behind the toilet, you will want to mark its location, cut an opening in your panel material, and avoid nailing into it. To prep your space, remove any baseboards using a pry bar and wide putty knife. Wipe down the wall to get rid of any dirt, dust, or cobwebs.

If you're using shiplap or wood panels, secure the pieces to the wall with adhesive and finishing nails. As you install your panels, use a level to make sure everything stays straight. Fill nail holes with caulk and touch up the paint or stain for a clean, polished look. Also apply a water-resistant sealant to protect the wood from moisture. 

To incorporate storage, hang shelves on the wall by installing a French cleat system with horizontal boards. You could also add a decorative railing with eyelet screws and a bar to your shelves. Or, maximize your bathroom storage space by adding a cabinet or round shelf in the middle of the panel wall.