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Crafting a Rustic Bath Caddy from Reclaimed Wood

Create Your Own Rustic Bathtub Caddy from Scrap Wood

Transform your bath time into a luxurious and organized experience with a custom-made bathtub caddy! This DIY project is not only a fantastic way to utilize leftover wood but also adds a unique, personal touch to your bathroom décor. Follow our step-by-step guide to craft a beautiful and functional caddy that perfectly fits your tub and style.

Finished Scrap Wood Bathtub Caddy

This project is inspired by the book RECYCLED HOME: Transform Your Home Using Salvaged Materials by Rebecca Proctor. While her book provides a comprehensive guide to upcycling and repurposing materials, we’ve adapted the instructions to make them even easier to follow, especially if you’re using standard-sized tubs and readily available tools.

Materials You’ll Need:

  • Scrap wood (e.g., Ipe decking or similar durable wood)
  • Table saw (or hand saw, if preferred)
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Clamps
  • Stainless steel screws (for durability in a wet environment)
  • Drill with appropriate drill bits
  • Sandpaper (optional, for smoother finish)
  • Wood finish or sealant (optional, for added protection)

Step-by-Step Instructions: Building Your Bathtub Caddy

Let’s dive into the process of creating your own stunning bathtub caddy. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing result.

Materials laid out for the DIY Bathtub Caddy Project

1. Measure Your Tub

The first and most crucial step is to accurately measure the width of your bathtub. This measurement will determine the length of the main support piece of your caddy. Make sure to measure the outer edges of the tub where the caddy will rest. Add a little extra length (about 1-2 inches) to each side for a comfortable and secure fit.

Measuring the bathtub width for the caddy

2. Cut the Main Support Piece

Using your table saw (or hand saw), cut the main support piece to the length you determined in the previous step. If you’re using Ipe decking, a hardwood known for its durability, a table saw is highly recommended for a clean and precise cut. Ensure the wood is straight and free of any splinters.

[Note: We used leftover Ipe decking that measured approximately 6″ x 1″ (actually 5.5″ x 0.75″). The hardness of Ipe made the table saw an ideal choice for quick and accurate cutting. The entire project took about 30 minutes to complete!]

Cutting the main support piece with a table saw

3. Create Notches (If Necessary)

If your tub has a lip or edge that the caddy needs to fit around, you’ll need to cut notches in the main support piece. Measure the depth and width of the lip and mark these dimensions on the wood. Use a saw to carefully cut out the notches. This step ensures that the caddy sits flush against the tub.

[Note: Because our tub is a standard design, we didn’t need to create rounded edges or coping. We simply cut a notch to accommodate the edge of the tub.]

4. Cut the Support Strips

Next, cut several support strips that will run perpendicular to the main support piece, creating a slatted surface. The number of strips and their spacing will depend on the overall look you want to achieve. Aim for strips that are about 0.75″ x 0.75″ in size, providing adequate support while maintaining an open design.

[Note: We cut twelve 3/4″ x 3/4″ strips. This was determined by the width of our material, minimizing waste. Feel free to adjust the number of strips based on your design preference.]

Cutting support strips for the caddy

5. Assemble the Caddy

Now it’s time to assemble the bathtub caddy. Arrange the support strips evenly spaced across the main support piece. Use clamps to hold the strips in place while you pre-drill holes for the screws. Pre-drilling prevents the wood from splitting, especially when working with hardwoods like Ipe.

Assembling the caddy with clamps

6. Secure with Screws

Using your stainless-steel screws, securely fasten the support strips to the main support piece. Ensure the screws are countersunk to prevent them from protruding and scratching your tub. Stainless steel is essential for this project, as it resists corrosion in a wet environment.

[Note: We opted for stainless steel screws, which cost around $5. This small investment ensures the longevity of the caddy, preventing rust and corrosion.]

7. Sand and Finish (Optional)

Once the caddy is fully assembled, you can sand the edges and surfaces for a smoother finish. This step is particularly important if you’re using rough-cut lumber. Apply a wood finish or sealant to protect the wood from moisture and enhance its natural beauty. Choose a finish that is water-resistant and suitable for bathroom use.

8. Enjoy Your New Bathtub Caddy!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully built your own bathtub caddy from scrap wood. Now, place it across your tub, add your favorite bath essentials, and enjoy a relaxing soak in style!

Securing the support strips with screws
Finished Bathtub Caddy in use

Final Thoughts

This DIY bathtub caddy project is a rewarding way to upcycle scrap wood and create a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to your bathroom. By following these simple steps, you can customize the caddy to perfectly fit your tub and reflect your personal style. The use of stainless steel screws ensures its durability, making it a long-lasting addition to your relaxing bath routine.

[Ultimately, I adore this caddy and it suites our aesthetic much more than the costly chrome versions that will eventually corrode/rust. Thank you Rebecca and Laurence King Publishing!!]

Consider exploring more creative ideas in Rebecca Proctor’s book, RECYCLED HOME, Transform Your Home Using Salvaged Materials. It’s a treasure trove of inspiration for transforming salvaged materials into beautiful and functional pieces for your home.

You can find this inspiring book at various retailers, including Laurence King and Amazon.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted, eco-friendly bathtub caddy!