I’ll be honest — for the longest time, I never paid much attention to my toilet tank. It was just… there. A blank, boring surface that held the essentials and collected a little dust.
But one day, while cleaning my bathroom, I realized that the toilet tank was actually prime real estate — a small, overlooked space that could easily add a whole new vibe to my bathroom decor.
So I started experimenting. I tried adding candles, a small plant, a few trays — and suddenly, my bathroom looked like something out of a Pinterest mood board. It’s funny how a few tiny details can change the whole feel of a room.
If you’ve been ignoring your toilet tank (don’t worry, we’ve all done it), it’s time to give it a little personality. Whether your style is minimalist, cozy farmhouse, boho chic, or modern glam, there are so many ways to decorate that small surface and make it feel like part of the overall design.
In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite toilet tank decor ideas that are actually cute — ideas that I’ve tried myself or seen in homes that totally nailed it.
From greenery and trays to candles and books, these little touches can help your bathroom feel intentional, fresh, and surprisingly elegant.
1. Add a Touch of Greenery
Let’s start with my personal favorite — plants. I always say that if you want to make any room feel more alive, just add a bit of greenery. The bathroom is no exception.
A small potted plant on the toilet tank adds instant freshness, especially if you go for low-light plants like a pothos, ZZ plant, or peace lily. I once placed a small trailing pothos in a white ceramic pot, and every time I walked in, it made me smile.
If your bathroom gets good light, you can even go for a spider plant or English ivy. But if you’re working with a darker bathroom (like mine used to be), faux plants are a perfect alternative.
The key is choosing realistic ones — something that looks lush but requires zero care.
How to Style It:
- Pick a pot that complements your bathroom’s color scheme — for instance, woven baskets for a natural look or glossy ceramic pots for a modern touch.
- Try layering with other decor, like a small candle or a stack of mini towels beside the plant.
- Keep proportions in mind — a small plant works better than one that overpowers the tank.
Pro Tip: Mist your plants occasionally if they’re real; bathrooms tend to have fluctuating humidity levels that can dry them out faster than you think.
2. Use a Stylish Tray for a Polished Look
Here’s a trick I swear by — using trays. They’re one of the easiest ways to make any surface look intentional. Instead of having your candle, lotion, and air freshener scattered around, place them neatly on a small decorative tray.
It instantly turns ordinary items into part of the decor.
I’ve used all kinds of trays — marble ones when I wanted something sleek, wooden ones for a cozy touch, and even a small gold-rimmed mirror tray for a little glam moment. It’s all about matching the vibe you want your bathroom to have.
How to Do It:
- Choose a tray that fits the tank surface (nothing too large or heavy).
- Arrange 2–3 items max — like a candle, a diffuser, and maybe a folded washcloth.
- Keep things balanced — if one item is tall (like a diffuser), pair it with something low and wide (like a small bowl).
Pro Tip: Stick to a color theme. For example, if your bathroom has white and beige tones, go with neutral accessories. The goal is to make the setup look coordinated, not cluttered.
I’ve found that adding just this one element — a simple tray — makes my bathroom look way more “styled.” It’s also super practical because you can easily lift everything when cleaning.
3. Stack a Few Pretty Books or Magazines
Now, this one’s a fun little design hack I learned from browsing boutique hotels. They always seem to have a small stack of books in unexpected places — even in the bathroom. And honestly, it adds such a cozy, thoughtful touch.
I started by placing two small hardcover books on my toilet tank. One was about home interiors (because I’m obsessed), and the other was a tiny photography book with a white cover. Together, they added texture and a sense of “lived-in charm” to the space.
If you’re someone who loves hosting, this also gives your guests something interesting to flip through. Just make sure the books are small enough not to overwhelm the space.
How to Style It:
- Stack 2–3 books, then top them with something small — like a candle, a beaded garland, or a little plant.
- Choose books with neutral or soft-colored covers so they blend well with your decor.
- Avoid anything too tall — you still want your setup to look proportional.
Pro Tip: You can find beautiful, inexpensive coffee table books at thrift stores or secondhand shops. Even if you don’t read them, they look great as decor props!
4. Display Candles for a Spa-Like Feel
There’s something instantly calming about candles in a bathroom. I remember when I first added a couple of scented candles on my toilet tank — suddenly, even my five-minute morning routine felt like a spa session.
The soft glow and subtle fragrance completely transformed the mood of the space.
Candles are perfect because they add both visual warmth and aromatherapy benefits. You can go with earthy scents like sandalwood or cedar for a cozy vibe, or lighter ones like lavender and eucalyptus if you want something fresh and clean.
How to Style It:
- Choose candles in neutral tones or glass jars to keep things minimal and elegant.
- Place one large candle or two smaller ones on a tray for balance.
- Pair them with a decorative lighter or a small ceramic match holder to make it look intentional.
Pro Tip: Always use non-toxic, clean-burning candles like soy or beeswax if you’re lighting them frequently — they’re safer and better for air quality.
And if you’re forgetful (like me), opt for battery-operated LED candles. They look real and you won’t have to worry about leaving them on.
When the lights are dim and the candles are glowing, even the simplest bathroom feels indulgent — like your own little retreat at home.
5. Add Decorative Jars and Containers
This one’s for those who love both beauty and practicality. Using decorative jars or containers on your toilet tank not only looks stylish but also gives you functional storage.
I personally use mine to hold cotton balls, bath salts, and small essentials — and it genuinely makes my bathroom look put-together.
You can use clear glass jars for a clean, modern vibe or go for textured ceramic or vintage-style containers for a more decorative look. The key is to make sure the jars complement the rest of your bathroom’s aesthetic.
How to Style It:
- Fill jars with everyday items like Q-tips, bath bombs, or mini soaps.
- Arrange them in groups of two or three for visual interest.
- Use labels or ribbons to add a personal touch — especially cute in guest bathrooms.
Pro Tip: If your bathroom colors are mostly neutral, try jars in tinted glass (amber or green) for a little color accent. They break up the monotony and add depth without overpowering the space.
This idea keeps your essentials handy while making them look intentionally displayed — no one needs to know that your “decor” also holds your daily cotton rounds.
6. Use Art or a Framed Print
I think every room — even the bathroom — deserves a piece of art. A small framed print or even a minimalist line drawing on your toilet tank can make the space feel thoughtful and curated.
When I first tried this, I used a small black-and-white quote print inside a simple frame, and it completely shifted the energy of my bathroom. It gave that tiny corner a sense of personality.
How to Style It:
- Choose small, lightweight frames that can sit securely on your tank.
- Go for moisture-resistant frames or acrylic options if your bathroom tends to get steamy.
- Mix art styles with other elements — for example, a print beside a candle or small vase looks perfectly balanced.
Pro Tip: Try rotating the art every few months. It keeps the decor feeling fresh and seasonal. During spring, I switch to botanical prints, and in winter, I go for soft minimalist line art.
It’s such a simple change, but it makes your bathroom feel like it’s part of your home — not just a functional space.
7. Incorporate a Woven Basket or Storage Box
If your bathroom leans more toward cozy, natural decor, a woven basket is a must-have. I discovered this trick when I needed a spot to hide extra toilet paper rolls but didn’t want them just sitting there.
A small rectangular wicker basket on top of the tank looked intentional and tidy — and no one realized it was practical too.
How to Style It:
- Choose a basket that fits perfectly on your tank — not too wide or tall.
- Line it with a linen cloth for an extra polished touch.
- Use it to store rolled-up washcloths, bath products, or spare tissues.
You can also use small lidded boxes if you prefer a sleeker, more modern style. I’ve even used a matte black storage box once for a contemporary look, and it blended beautifully with the rest of my decor.
Pro Tip: Keep the color of your basket or box in tune with your bathroom — natural beige for rustic spaces, white or black for minimalist ones.
This one’s perfect for renters or anyone who wants their bathroom to feel cozy without drilling or adding shelves.
It’s both cute and functional — two of my favorite things when decorating small spaces.
FAQs About Toilet Tank Decor
1. Can you really put decor on your toilet tank?
Yes, absolutely! As long as you don’t block the flush handle or make the lid too heavy, decorating your toilet tank is completely fine. It’s a great way to use vertical space and add personality to your bathroom without installing shelves or wall hooks.
2. What should you avoid putting on a toilet tank?
Try to avoid anything that’s too tall, heavy, or fragile. You don’t want decor items falling into the toilet (trust me, it happens). Stay away from open-top containers filled with water or anything that could mold or rust in humidity.
3. How do I make my toilet area look more aesthetic?
Start with a consistent color palette. Add small decor pieces like plants, trays, or candles that match your bathroom’s tone. Keeping it minimal is key — three to four well-chosen items can look far more elegant than a crowded setup.
4. Can I decorate my toilet tank in a small bathroom?
Definitely! In fact, decorating your toilet tank can help a small bathroom feel more styled and organized. Choose compact decor like a small vase, faux greenery, or a woven storage box — they add charm without taking up floor space.
5. How do I keep decor on my toilet tank clean?
Wipe down decor items weekly with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. Bathrooms collect dust faster than we think.
If you’re using jars or trays, lift them occasionally to clean the surface beneath. A little maintenance keeps everything looking fresh and hygienic.
Final Thoughts
I used to think bathroom decor was all about tiles, mirrors, and lighting — but decorating my toilet tank taught me that small details matter just as much.
That little space is now one of my favorite corners to style because it’s simple, quick, and makes such a noticeable difference.
Whether you go with plants, candles, baskets, or books, the goal isn’t perfection — it’s personality. Let your decor reflect your vibe, and don’t be afraid to switch things up every few months.
If you’ve been looking for an easy way to make your bathroom feel more polished without spending much, start here.
You’ll be surprised by how these toilet tank decor ideas can instantly make your space feel more inviting, cozy, and, yes — actually cute.
