Redesigning your bathroom can bring so much more comfort and aesthetic appreciation to your home. Despite this, though, so many people make the wrong decisions, renovating their bathrooms in ways that just don’t make sense. This isn’t purely a matter of looks–sometimes, it can make using your bathroom a pain, which you wouldn’t want for your family. To prevent this, here is a list of bathroom renovations that you’re most likely doing wrong.
Choosing Style Over Functionality
We’re not going to deny that a sleek bathroom design can look stunning, but if it doesn’t suit your needs, you’ll quickly grow frustrated. As we mentioned in the introduction, so many people prioritize looks over usability, leaving them frustrated with a bathroom that just doesn’t make sense. To avoid this, find a balance between beauty and practicality, ensuring that every choice serves a purpose and fits seamlessly into daily routines.
Skimping on Storage Solutions
Bathrooms collect more items than you might think—cosmetics, toiletries, towels, and more. Therefore, ignoring storage options can make the space feel cluttered, so remember to prioritize incorporating functional storage elements like shelves, cabinets, or wall-mounted baskets. Trust us–this will keep things organized and accessible, so you’ll thank yourself later.
Skipping Proper Ventilation
If you don’t renovate your bathroom to include adequate ventilation, it will become prone to mold and mildew, which can ruin your hard work, lead to costly repairs, or even health issues. So, it’s essential to ensure that there’s a way to draw out moisture, whether with a quality exhaust fan or strategically placed windows. Without ventilation, even the most beautiful bathroom will quickly feel damp and unpleasant.
Choosing the Wrong Flooring
Bathroom floors see a lot of moisture and foot traffic, so you’re going to have to select materials that can withstand this. Yes, many luxury materials look great, but they often become slippery when wet, increasing the risk of falls. As a general rule of thumb, go for non-slip, water-resistant options like ceramic tiles or luxury vinyl to ensure safety and durability without sacrificing style.
Forgetting to Plan for Lighting Layers
It’s very common for DIY bathroom renovators to rely on a single overhead light for simplicity’s sake, but this can cast unflattering shadows and make tasks like shaving or applying makeup difficult. Instead, aim for a mix of lighting: overhead for general illumination, vanity lights for tasks, and maybe a soft light for ambiance. Layered lighting not only enhances visibility but also creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Using Low-Quality Materials
It should go without saying that if you can afford it, it’s better to choose high-quality materials for your bathroom whenever possible. In contrast, opting for cheap materials can lead to peeling paint, warped surfaces, and tarnished fixtures, especially considering that bathrooms are exposed to a lot of humidity. Sure, the initial costs may be higher, but later down the line, you’ll thank yourself for investing in quality materials.
Neglecting a Cohesive Color Scheme
A bathroom that mixes too many colors or patterns can feel chaotic rather than relaxing, and surely you don’t want that for your family and guests!? It’s much better to choose a cohesive palette that complements the rest of your home and brings a sense of calm to the space. Soft neutrals or earth tones are often a safe choice, but a pop of color here and there can add personality without overwhelming the room.
Not Measuring Carefully
Every bathroom requires precise measurements to ensure that everything fits comfortably–even the biggest and smallest ones. Sadly, so many people rush through this step, leading to doors that bump into fixtures, cramped countertops, and vanities that feel oversized. You should double-check all of your measurements to avoid this scenario, and you’ll have the peace of mind that every piece you bring in enhances the layout rather than crowding it.
Ignoring Accessibility Needs
A well-thought-out bathroom can make life easier for everyone, regardless of age or mobility. Small touches like grab bars, a curbless shower, or a wider entry door add comfort and safety without detracting from style. Think ahead and plan for accessibility because you will surely want to future-proof your bathroom.
Overlooking Proper Waterproofing
In a bathroom, it’s a big mistake to skip out on waterproofing. If you do so, you can expect to be plagued by water damage, mold growth, and other costly cleanups. Remember that waterproofing isn’t just for showers; it’s essential for walls, floors, and any area exposed to frequent moisture. It might cost a little bit more, but the amount you’ll save in future hassles is truly priceless.
Installing the Wrong-Sized Fixtures
You would be surprised at how many Americans install oversized fixtures into small bathrooms, cramping their space and making it uncomfortable to be inside. In contrast, others take this to the opposite extreme, installing overly small options that limit surface space and, therefore, also cause a sense of claustrophobia. Take some time to match your fixture sizes to the scale of the room, ensuring each piece contributes to a balanced, functional layout.
Focusing Too Much on Trends
Just like with any other aspect of your home, trendy finishes or colors may seem appealing now, but they can quickly become dated. Therefore, it’s best to avoid committing to extreme styles that might lose appeal over time. Instead, aim for classic choices with a few on-trend accents you can easily switch out because this way, your bathroom stays timeless while allowing for occasional updates.
Neglecting Small Details
Tiny elements like drawer pulls, towel hooks, and light switches might seem minor, but they significantly impact the bathroom’s overall feel. You should put thought into choosing hardware that complements your theme, helping to tie everything together and create a polished look. As with many projects, it’s all of these small details that really add up to help your bathroom stand out.
Choosing Fixtures That Don’t Match
It’s never a good idea to mix metals or other stand-out styles into your choice of fixtures, as it can lead to a disjointed appearance. Sure, eclectic designs can work, but too much variety will end up feeling mismatched. Just stick to a consistent style or finish across faucets, showerheads, and hardware to create a sense of unity. When in doubt, speak to your local interior designer, and they’ll no doubt be happy to help.
Overloading with Accessories
Another bathroom design choice that people tend to get wrong is adding too many accessories. You might deem them as necessary initially, but just like miscellaneous kitchen appliances, they can clutter up the bathroom, making it feel cramped and busy. Less is often more, so try to limit decor to a few carefully chosen pieces and opt for functional decor that serves a dual purpose–such as stylish soap dispensers or a decorative mirror.
Skipping on Mirror Space
Speaking of mirrors, installing a small mirror or one in an awkward spot can make a bathroom feel less functional and visually smaller. This is because mirrors not only help with everyday tasks but also reflect light, creating a brighter, more open feel. If you’re not sure where to start, go for a mirror that suits the size and layout of the bathroom, ensuring it’s as practical as it is attractive.
Overlooking Temperature Control
Bathrooms that are too cold or too humid make getting ready in the morning less enjoyable, so why not consider installing underfloor heating, towel warmers, or a bathroom heater? They really can make a huge difference in keeping the room comfortable, especially in colder months. Ultimately, temperature control isn’t a luxury; it’s an investment in creating a more welcoming, usable space year-round.
Disregarding Water Efficiency
Along with temperature, people often forget to consider water efficiency when renovating their bathroom. These days, modern fixtures come with water-saving features that are not only eco-friendly but can also reduce water bills. Yes, eco-friendly pieces such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads may be more expensive, but over time, you’ll save money by using them, all while helping the environment.
Forgetting About Cleaning Ease
Perhaps the most common mistake that people make when renovating their bathroom is forgetting to consider how easy it will be to clean. As we’re sure you know, bathrooms are very useful, so designing with easy cleaning in mind can save you time and hassle. Smooth surfaces, grout-free walls, and accessible fixtures make maintenance simpler and faster, and without this, you’ll probably put off bathroom cleaning, making it less comfortable and beautiful to be in.