It’s no secret that a cluttered bathroom can make an already busy morning routine feel more hectic than it needs to be. While most of us have the best intentions when it comes to keeping the space neat, some habits can derail even our best attempts. And it’s not just about putting things away—it starts with what you choose to keep in your bathroom in the first place.

We spoke with a professional organizer to find out precisely what highly organized people never leave out in their bathrooms. From hair tools to backup toiletries, discover what should go, what can stay, and where everything belongs if you want a cleaner, calmer space.

D’Nai Walker is a professional organizer and owner of D’Clutter by D’Nai.

1. Grooming Tools

If you often leave out your curling iron or electric razor, you’re probably immune to the cord chaos by now. However, these should be among the first things to focus on if you want to have a less cluttered countertop, according to professional organizer D’Nai Walker. “Things like hair dryers, makeup brushes, and tweezers make the space look messy,” she says. “It’s best to return these items to their designated homes when you’re done using them.”

Rather than giving these tools a permanent place on bathroom surfaces, use a designated drawer, bin on a shelf, or under-sink organizer for storage when you’re done with them. If you’re short on space, Walker recommends a practical solution: “Using a storage cart is another handy option, as it can be pulled up to wherever you need it and rolled aside, tucked away when not in use.” 

2. Daily Essentials

It’s tempting to leave out your favorite face cleanser, tried-and-true serum, and go-to deodorant, especially if you reach for them multiple times a day, but these small bottles, jars, and tubes add visual clutter and make your bathroom feel less spa-like and more like an overstocked pharmacy aisle.

“It’s also nice if you can tuck away your daily hygiene items, such as toothpaste and skin care products,” says Walker. “I recommend corralling them neatly into a container.” She notes that you don’t need to use fancy containers; a simple (or better yet, repurposed) tray or caddy can make all the difference. Choose one that fits your products without overflowing, and make it a habit to return the items to their home after each use.

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3. Any Jewelry

Your bathroom might seem like a convenient spot to remove your jewelry before washing your face or jumping in the shower, but it’s one of the worst places to keep it. “I advise against leaving jewelry in the bathroom,” Walker warns. “The moisture can cause damage, and no one wants to accidentally drop a diamond earring down the drain!”

Instead, create a drop zone outside the bathroom, such as a pretty dish on your nightstand or a dedicated jewelry drawer organizer in your closet. This will keep your pieces safe from harmful humidity or worse.

4. Expired Toiletries

Even the most beautifully organized bathroom can become a health hazard if it’s packed with expired products. According to Walker, tossing these items should be a top priority. “It’s best to toss out expired toiletries,” she says. “Not only do they lose their effectiveness, but some items can also make you sick.”

Check the expiration dates on old sunscreens, creams, medications, and cosmetics to avoid potential infections or allergic reactions. If you’re unsure of an expiration date, look for changes in color, smell, or texture, as those can all be signs it’s time to let go.

5. Backstock Toiletries

It’s easy to assume that keeping extra bottles of shampoo or multiple body washes in your bathroom is convenient, but the reality is that storing bulk products in here can eat up precious space, especially if you’re dealing with a small bathroom. It’s better to stash these things elsewhere to reserve room for the ones you’re currently using.

“I also suggest keeping backstock items in a basket or bin in the linen closet, so they don’t take up valuable real estate,” explains Walker. The idea is to keep only what you need in your immediate space. The extras can be neatly stored out of sight, allowing you to refill your bathroom shelves or drawers only when you run low.

Additional Items to Keep Out of the Bathroom

• An abundance of towels. Bath towels, hand towels, washcloths, and even hair turbans are needed daily in the bathroom, but stuffing every extra towel you own into the bathroom is one way to make it feel cluttered quickly. Aim to keep only one or two towels per category per person in the space, and rotate fresh ones in as needed from your main linen closet.
• An overflowing hamper. Having a laundry hamper in the bathroom is practical for many people because they often remove dirty clothes just before taking a shower. The problem arises if you consistently let it overflow, as it can make an otherwise organized bathroom appear messy. If you haven’t already, consider investing in a hamper with a lid and sticking to a regular laundry schedule. If space is limited, move the hamper to a nearby hallway or bedroom closet to free up visual space.
• Unnecessary decor. While a candle or some greenery can give your bathroom a cozy touch, too many decorative items can cause it to feel cluttered. Choose only a handful of intentional accents—preferably some that can serve as organizers, like a pretty apothecary jar for cotton rounds or a decorative tray for daily essentials and remove the unnecessary items to keep your space serene.