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Whether your daily shower is an energizing morning necessity or a relaxing evening ritual, the experience should be pleasurable, simple, and safe. Unfortunately, a slew of bath products on narrow ledges and slippery surfaces is messy at best and hazardous at worst. Enter the shower caddy.
These shelving units come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, but their general purpose is the same: to bring order to bathroom chaos. The best caddies conveniently organize all shampoos, soaps, and other products; keep them within easy reach; and are made of attractive rustproof materials.
We assembled a list of popular products and then chose caddies to test so we could find the ones that looked and performed best. They were installed, loaded, and heavily used the way the average person would—bumps, jostles, and all—to see how well they held up to the slippery confines and daily uses of the shower.
Depending on shower size and setup, one caddy may be better suited to a particular space than another.
Read on to get a handle on the styles and features available and to learn why the shower caddies tested and reviewed here rate high for safety, functionality, and quality.
- BEST OVERALL: Kincmax Multi-Usage Adhesive Shower Caddy
- RUNNER-UP: ODesign Shower Caddy Basket Shelf With Hooks
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Orimade Adhesive Shower Caddy With Hooks
- UPGRADE PICK: Kohler Large Shower Basket K-1897-S
- BEST HANGING: iDesign York Lyra Jumbo Hanging Shower Caddy
- BEST FREESTANDING: iDesign Forma 3-Tier Freestanding Shower Caddy
- BEST FOR SHOWER DOOR: mDesign 2-Tier Over Door Shower Caddy With Hooks
- BEST DORM-FRIENDLY: Terra Home Portable Shower Caddy
ALSO TESTED: Allzone Tension Pole Shower Caddy Corner Shelf
Types of Shower Caddies
To empower a shower, first consider the five main types of caddy: basket-shelf style, pole style, hanging, standing, and portable models ideal for dormitories. Shoppers will want to choose a style that meets their everyday needs and shower configuration.
Basket-Shelf Caddies
Easily installed via suction cups or hardware, basket-shelf caddies work in almost any shower stall. For placement, choose a hard, clean, flat surface inside the shower that is within reach but won’t cause bathers to bump their elbows or head. A single basket-shelf caddy can hold several large bottles, plus three to five smaller items. They come in a range of finishes, but most are chrome plated or stainless steel to avoid rust. If the caddy is attached via strong adhesive or hardware, it should stay put even when loaded with products.
Hanging Shower Caddy
Another no-installation option are hanging caddies that provide large to extra-large storage capacity for six or more full-size shower items. They either hang over the shower door or from the shower head (as long as it has a slightly extended neck). For an over-the-door caddy, make sure to measure the width of the shower door, since hangers need to slip over it easily yet fit snugly. With shower-head hanging caddies, the elongated metal hanger fits snugly around the shower head and attaches to the wall with suction cups. An issue with this style occurs when suction cups aren’t strong enough to hold a product-loaded caddy, slipping forward and interfering with the shower spray.
Pole-Style Shower Caddy
Those who have a free corner in their shower might consider a pole-style caddy that will stand relatively out of the way and won’t fall forward as a hanging caddy might. A metal tension rod is fixed between the ceiling and floor or tub rim—so a flat floor and ceiling are necessary. (Sloped ceilings are a no-go.) A pole caddy offers three to four tiers for storage and can hold 10 or more items. Pole-style caddies work in both walk-in showers and bathtub configurations.
Standing Shower Caddy
Standing caddies are typically designed to fit into a shower corner. There’s no installation required with a freestanding caddy, and they’re generally a larger option, offering more shelving and storage space. That said, they take up a lot of room so are best for large open-plan showers and are not intended for shower/bathtub combinations. Make sure to measure the space carefully before purchase to ensure a tight fit.
Dorm-Friendly Portable Caddies
Portable caddies are ideal for travel, gym visits, and dorm students—few of whom have the luxury of a private bathroom and would prefer to tote bathing essentials back and forth from the shower area. These are available in two main options: soft-sided totes and open plastic containers. Soft-sided totes are made from fast-drying materials and can collapse for storage. Hard plastic containers are useful for keeping products in place but don’t store easily. Look for caddies that combine the best of both styles, featuring zip enclosures to protect gear from water.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Shower Caddy
Analyze storage needs and shower space, and then look for a well-made caddy that will fit the bill.
Material
Most stationary in-shower caddies are made of 304 stainless steel. The most widely used type of stainless steel, it contains chromium and nickel for added durability and corrosion resistance. Some caddies are also finished with rust-resistant metallic coatings in a range of color options, including bronze, black, white, and brushed nickel. Pole-style caddies may also use plastic for shelving attachments.
Portable caddies are typically made of quick-drying polyester fabric or mesh—easy-to-store, machine-washable materials that won’t rust or invite mold. Hard plastic portable caddies can be rinsed easily and won’t stain, rust, or absorb odors. They can, however, develop grime and mold over time if not dried thoroughly after use and stored in a well-ventilated place.
Capacity
Depending on the style (basket, hanging, freestanding, pole, or portable), caddies come in a range of dimensions, which should be easily visible on product descriptions. As a rule of thumb, caddies should hold at minimum two to three large bottles as well as six to seven smaller items. Someone who likes a lot of lotions and potions in their shower should look for models that claim extra-large capacity.
Ease of Installation and Adjustability
Basket and pole-style caddies are height adjustable, allowing the user to position them at the desired level. With a basket caddy, secure the unit firmly to the wall with adhesive backing. To change the location, heat with a hair dryer to melt the bond and apply a fresh adhesive strip to reposition. Pole-style caddies are supported by a spring-loaded metal pole that collapses and expands, depending on the shower’s floor and ceiling height. Hanging caddies, freestanding caddies, and portable caddies are typically not adjustable.
Most shower-caddy options offer the simple adhesive-backing installation method. Adhesive backings are both very easy to install while also being extremely strong. Just make sure that the surface is smooth enough to accept the adhesive, or it will lose effectiveness.
Installation may also refer to simply hanging caddies from a shower head or door, while some models may permanently attach to the wall using screws or wall anchors. Hanging caddies that snap onto the shower head should never be overloaded with products, lest they break the shower head. These models aren’t typically adjustable and may not leave room for economy-size bottles of shampoo. A permanent caddy may require a few tools, including a drill and level, to make sure the basket hangs straight.
Additional Features
In-shower caddies may come with some bells and whistles for an optimal bathing experience, but portable caddies are unlikely to have any of the following frills.
- Hooks: A simple hook is ideal for washcloths, loofahs, sponges, and brushes. Basket-shelf–style and hanging caddies typically come with hooks, unlike freestanding and pole-style units.
- Soap dishes: Those who shower with bar soap may find a separate soap dish to be a helpful feature. It will keep soap from being wasted and messy by preventing it from sitting in water in the caddy. Basket-shelf caddies sometimes include a small soap-dish option in addition to larger shelves for products.
- Suction cups: Plastic suction cups that help hanging caddies adhere are especially important to shower-head styles, ensuring a firm grip between the caddy and the wall. Otherwise, hanging caddies are known to tilt forward at an unstable angle.
Our Top Picks
The shower caddies that made this lineup were chosen with the above key features and shopping tips in mind. All are made of high-quality materials and boast functional design in a range of styles for every shower configuration.
Best Overall
Kincmax Multi-Usage Adhesive Shower Caddy
Pros
- 4 removable, adjustable hooks are included to hold additional items, allowing users to configure the setup to their needs
- Installation takes mere minutes; no tools required
- Strong adhesive can hold 20 pounds; 5.5-inch sides keep economy-size bottles secure
Cons
- Very strong adhesive can be hard to remove
A flawless design, high-quality materials, and low-impact installation make the Kincmax basket shelf an asset to the shower. Its extra-large capacity is perfect for big bottles of shampoo and other in-shower products, and hooks are included. We filled it with economy-size bottles of shampoo and conditioner and hung a wet washcloth on it. It held beautifully, even after a few bumps.
Made of 100 percent rustproof 304 stainless steel, the Kincmax caddy is scratch- and bacteria-resistant to keep it looking great after years of water exposure. No drilling or tools are required to install. The caddy secures firmly via strong, traceless adhesive strip that won’t damage the shower wall. While the adhesive can be used only once, a second adhesive pack is included should the user opt to reposition the unit.
Note: The caddy hangs on a set of hooks within the adhesive strips. When installing, be sure that these hooks face upward to avoid positioning the caddy upside down.
Product Specs
- Type: Basket shelf
- Material: Stainless steel
- Installation: Adhesive strip
Get the Kincmax shower caddy on Amazon.
Runner-Up
ODesign Shower Caddy Basket Shelf With Hooks
Pros
- Versatile configurations—including a 2-basket setup with a soap holder—allow for customization
- 4-inch sides are tall enough to contain economy-size bottles securely
- Caddy is well built and durable with a strong, ample adhesive strip
Cons
- Some consumers complained of adhesive failure when using large pump bottles
Versatility is the hallmark of ODesign’s shower caddy, letting the user choose from one-, two-, and three-tier configurations. Its large capacity will store plenty of products, and its smart design includes a soap/sponge holder and three hooks for items such as a loofah or sponge. Made of sturdy 304 stainless steel, this rust-resistant basket-shelf caddy will stand up to everyday wear and tear.
The unit comes with two sets of strong one-use-only adhesive, but supplies, including additional adhesive strips, can be purchased separately. With a classic rectangular look, ODesign fits into almost any bathing space—traditional or contemporary.
This caddy performed well, held economy-size bottles without a problem (thanks to the 4-inch sides), and stayed put. Installation took only a few minutes. We liked the extra hooks and the height of the basket sides, which worked well for our extra-large bottles of shampoo and conditioner. Though some users complain of adhesive failure when using large pump bottles, that wasn’t our experience.
Product Specs
- Type: Basket shelf
- Material: Stainless steel
- Installation: Adhesive strip
Get the ODesign shower caddy on Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Orimade Adhesive Shower Caddy With Hooks
Pros
- Sold as a 2-pack; offers double the storage of some caddies, making it even more affordable
- Installation is quick and easy—simply measure and press the adhesive strip in place
- Minimalist appearance will suit a host of different bathroom decor styles
Cons
- Large bottles can fall out because of the short basket sides
Strength and good looks at a bargain price make this high-quality basket-style caddy shelving an excellent way to organize a shower. Two shelves can be especially helpful for couples, housemates, and families, as they help keep different users’ products separated and organized. The elegant rectangular shelves are made of 304 stainless steel and are fitted with two side hooks and three front hooks for washcloths and other accoutrements.
Strong adhesive easily affixes to a shower wall made of tile, marble, tempered glass, solid wood, and solid metal (but not textured, painted, limed-plaster, concrete, or wallpapered surfaces). We had no trouble getting this shower caddy in place. Users can reposition shelves with the extra adhesive included (or purchase more separately).
The only issue we experienced was in the 2.5-inch sides of the basket, which allowed standard tall bottles (not economy-size jugs) of shampoo to be easily knocked over. The dimensions reported by the manufacturer say 3.15 inches, but that’s the height of the back piece that connects to the adhesive strip, which is 0.75 inch taller than the other sides.
Product Specs
- Type: Basket shelf
- Material: Stainless steel
- Installation: Adhesive strip
Get the Orimade shower caddy on Amazon.
Upgrade Pick
Kohler Large Shower Basket K-1897-S
Pros
- 6 attractive finishes available to suit various bathroom fixtures
- Sturdy but classic design fits with modern, traditional, and classic bathrooms
- Sturdy build and permanent installation make this a durable bathroom caddy
Cons
- Permanent installation is not renter-friendly
- Only holds 3 standard-size bottles
Kohler is known for quality and style, and this elegant shower basket is no exception. The small shelf fits neatly into a corner and holds three standard shampoo and conditioner bottles. The unit is attached via mounting hardware rather than adhesive, which makes the caddy look and feel like an integral part of the shower—not an afterthought. That said, installation requires a drill, bit, silicone sealant, and a level, and it took about 20 minutes in our test. Keep in mind that some shower-wall materials cannot be screwed into, and renters may wish to steer clear of this type of permanent installation.
The caddy is made of stainless steel and boasts a corrosion- and tarnish-resistant finish for durability. It comes in six different finishes to match or contrast with other fixtures in the bath. Though the caddy proved sturdy in our test, the sides are only 3 inches tall, so unfortunately standard-size bottles did knock over easily.
Product Specs
- Type: Corner shower caddy
- Material: Stainless steel
- Installation: Mounting hardware (included)
Get the Kohler shower caddy at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Kohler.
Best Hanging
iDesign York Lyra Jumbo Hanging Shower Caddy
Pros
- Hanging model is ideal for renters because there’s no drilling or adhesive required on shower wall
- 2 tiers and multiple hooks offer space for many self-care items
- Shallow lower shelf keeps soap out of the water stream yet easily accessible
Cons
- It can be difficult to hang straight
- Top shelf lies close to the shower head, so the unit can’t accommodate larger bottles
With two extra-wide storage shelves and 10 hanging hooks, iDesign’s caddy will keep shower clutter in check. The hooks are built-in for sturdiness and come in a range of sizes, so every family member can have a spot to hang essentials. Made of rust-resistant steel with a silver finish, the iDesign caddy will stay clean and bright, and the open-wire design has no hard edges or sharp corners to bump into.
The elongated design fits snugly over the shower head and sticks to the wall with strong suction cups—no installation, hardware, or surface damage to worry about. However, we found it a bit tricky getting it to hang straight at first. A more serious complaint is that the top shelf will be positioned very close to the shower head, so depending on the shape and size of the shower head, there may not be enough room for tall bottles.
Product Specs
- Type: Hanging shelf
- Material: Steel and polyvinyl chloride
- Installation: None (hangs from the shower head)
Get the iDesign hanging shower caddy on Amazon.
Best Freestanding
iDesign Forma 3-Tier Freestanding Shower Caddy
Pros
- Streamlined styling lends an upscale feel to the shower
- Unit comes out of the shower for easy cleaning from different angles
- Size of shelves makes them suitable for both large and small bathrooms
Cons
- Uneven surfaces like tile may cause wobbling
- Shelves don’t sit flush to the wall, especially if there are curved edges at the bottom of the shower
- Only 11 inches between the shelves; not enough space for economy-size bottles
This attractive three-tier freestanding caddy keeps a large assortment of bathing needs in reach. The steel wire is coated with a rust-resistant oiled-bronze finish likely to suit many decor settings. Although marketed as a corner caddy, the slightly curved design may not sit completely flush with the walls, but its sturdy shape will keep it positioned well without wobbling or tipping over.
In testing, this shower caddy proved to be very sturdy when loaded with standard bottles. However, the 3-inch-high shelf walls with only 11 inches of space between shelves doesn’t leave room for economy bottles, and when we put these big containers on the top shelf, they were easily knocked off. Bath items such as washcloths and creams fit just fine in the caddy. The unit sits fairly low to the ground, so users will have to bend to reach items from the bottom shelf.
Product Specs
- Type: Standing shelves
- Material: Alloy steel with vinyl coating Installation: None (freestanding)
Get the iDesign freestanding shower caddy on Amazon.
Best For Shower Door
mDesign 2-Tier Over Door Shower Caddy With Hooks
Pros
- Narrow design is well suited to small showers, while the elongated style holds extra-tall bottles
- Despite the compact size, there’s ample storage from 2 shelves and several hooks
- No installation required beyond fastening the string-holding suction cups
Cons
- It doesn’t fit all door thicknesses, so measure twice before buying
- Arms only extend 6 inches, which may make it inaccessible for shorter users
This over-the-door unit fits shower doors up to 1.4 inches thick and is suitable for stalls with sliding doors as well. It features two tiers of steel shelves plus two large and four small hooks. Plastic suction cups keep the caddy firmly attached to the shower door, with no installation. The elongated shape ensures that even tall bottles fit, and the widely spaced shelves allow for a soap dish and plenty of products. Its rust-resistant finish is available in six different color options.
We tried this model on a dual sliding-door shower and it didn’t fit, but it fit just fine in a shower with a single door. It remained securely in place and felt sturdy during use, and we loved that it is roomy enough for economy-size bottles. The only issue we had is that the arms, which only descend 6 inches from the top of the shower door, may make it challenging for shorter people to reach their products.
Product Specs
- Type: Hanging shelves
- Material: Steel
- Installation: None (hangs from a door)
Get the mDesign shower caddy on Amazon or at Target.
Best Dorm-Friendly
Terra Home Portable Shower Caddy
Pros
- Works in a dorm room or for travel when user might be carrying supplies to and from bathroom
- Small size hides the fact that it holds a lot of toiletries and keeps them organized
- Comes in 6 colors, providing options to match bathroom or personal style
- Affordable, budget-friendly price
Cons
- Fabric is less durable than metal shelves
- Requires regular cleaning and wiping down or it can start to smell
Sit the caddy on the shower floor or hang it from the shower head via its heavy-duty hook. Made of strong waterproof polyester, this zippered caddy is mildew-resistant and quick drying; it also features a front zipper pouch and two side pockets. It can tote up to four full-size bottles plus smaller items that won’t fall out or get lost, since the entire case zips shut. Ideal for college students, travelers, campers, and gymgoers, Terra Home’s portable caddy comes in turquoise, blue, and gray, and it is easy to wipe clean and dry with a towel.
We were pleasantly surprised by how many items this caddy can contain. It also features elastic holders throughout the interior that keep items organized—we even used a mesh pocket for a shower radio. The top zips closed securely for users who may wish to place it on the shower floor, but we found it better to hang just outside the shower rather than inside it. Even though the caddy is waterproof, there are areas where water could enter and potentially cause mold. If this caddy is set on the shower floor, make sure to sanitize regularly, especially the bottom where germs can multiply.
Product Specs
- Type: Hanging bag
- Material: Polyester fabric and mesh
- Installation: 1 large hook at the top
Get the Terra Home shower caddy on Amazon or Terra Home.
ALSO TESTED
Allzone Tension Pole Shower Caddy Corner Shelf
The Allzone Tension Pole Shower Caddy seemed like it would be a handy shower caddy, but assembly problems caused us to scratch it from our lineup. The directions were poor to start with, and even once we figured them out, we found it impossible to get the tension right. The instructions say to extend the rod 2 inches taller than the installation space, but the tension rod didn’t have enough tension to hold. It slipped and tipped, and items fell in the shower. We tried it in two different showers with the same results. Not only was it difficult to adjust the rod, but the caddy chipped paint off the bathroom ceiling.
Jump to Our Top Picks
Our Verdict
A chic, modern look was only one aspect that made the Kincmax shower caddy our Best Overall pick. This caddy installs very easily and is made of durable and rustproof stainless steel, with plenty of space for most bathroom essentials. Shoppers looking for a budget shower organizer with even more storage could consider the Orimade shower caddy, which offers two large shelves in a stylish metallic finish that’s very easy to install.
How We Tested the Best Shower Caddies
We looked at a range of shower organizers before choosing the models to test so that we could offer shoppers a wide selection of types, materials, and installation options. Depending on one’s bathroom setup, shoppers can find a suitable option from our top picks.
We tested the shower caddies over the course of a week. First, we installed them according to the instructions. (Note: Due to construction constraints of our test shower, we installed the Kohler model on wood using the provided hardware and manufacturer-suggested supplies and then placed it in the shower to judge its performance.)
Each caddy spent at least 2 days in the shower and was used twice a day to test performance during typical use—loaded with shower and bath products in wet conditions. We jostled, bumped, and jiggled the caddies to judge stability and sturdiness. Once we were done testing, we scored the caddies based on an established rubric.
FAQs
Now that you know how to identify the ideal shower caddy for your needs, consider these answers to common questions about care and maintenance. Even the best stainless steel caddies can rust over time, depending on the home and atmospheric conditions, so here’s how to prevent and remove oxidation to keep that caddy clean.
Q. How do I prevent my shower caddy from rusting?
A little clear nail polish works wonders! Rust often occurs in joints between wires in spots that can’t fully dry. Painting these joints with clear nail polish will help seal water out and prevent rust in the long term.
Q. How can I remove rust from my shower caddy?
Remove the caddy from the shower and take it outside or place it in the kitchen sink. Douse the rusted area in white vinegar, then dab baking soda on the rust spots. Scrub with a nylon pad or scratchproof sponge and repeat as needed until the rust is gone. Rinse clean and dry.
Q. How do I keep my shower caddy from falling down?
If using an adhesive pad or strip to hold the caddy, make sure the surface is clean and dry before installing. Also ensure that the surface is suitable for the installation method. For example, wallpaper is not ideal for adhesive pads.
Q: What’s the best material for a shower caddy?
Most good-quality shower caddies are made from stainless steel, which is durable and sturdy, especially for wet environments. Plastic is a more budget-friendly option that’s also durable and suitable for the bathroom but may crack or break over time.
