When redesigning your bathroom, it’s essential to focus on practicality and elegance. Interior designers share their top tips for what should be avoided, ensuring your space remains functional, fresh, and stylish. Here are the 10 things you no longer need in your bathroom.
1. Oversized Bathtubs
Large, built-in bathtubs were once a luxury staple, but they are no longer the go-to option. Designers recommend ditching bulky corner tubs, as they consume valuable space and are harder to clean. Instead, opt for a sleek, freestanding tub or undermount styles that provide a more modern look while being more accessible and easier to maintain. These options also create a more spacious feel, even in smaller bathrooms.
2. Open Shelving for Storage
While open shelving can be stylish in kitchens, it’s not the best choice for bathrooms. It often leads to clutter, with toiletries and towels on display. Instead, choose built-in cabinets or sleek vanities that offer hidden storage and help maintain a tidy, organized space. Accessible storage ensures your bathroom remains clutter-free, contributing to a more calming atmosphere.
3. Fitted Carpets
Carpets in bathrooms should be a thing of the past. They trap moisture, leading to potential mold growth and unpleasant odors. Additionally, they are difficult to clean and maintain in a damp environment. Replace carpets with tile or vinyl flooring, which are more hygienic, easy to clean, and better suited to the humid conditions of a bathroom.
4. Wall-Mounted Towel Warmers and Towel Bars
Towel bars and mounted towel warmers have fallen out of favor due to their impracticality and inefficiency. Designers suggest replacing these with towel hooks, which are easier to install and more versatile. For a more luxurious option, consider underfloor heating, which provides an efficient and comfortable way to keep towels warm and dry.
5. Outdated Lighting Fixtures
Gone are the days of harsh, unflattering Hollywood-style lighting. Modern bathrooms need soft, natural lighting that enhances the ambiance. Consider adding a large mirror with adjustable, dimmable lighting to provide the perfect light for tasks like shaving or applying makeup. Wall sconces are also a great alternative, offering both style and functionality.
6. Heavy Drapes or Shower Curtains
Thick curtains and heavy drapery can contribute to mold and mildew buildup in a bathroom. They absorb moisture and can quickly show signs of damage. Instead of using fabric curtains, opt for Venetian blinds or internal shutters. These materials are more durable and practical for the bathroom’s humid environment, while still providing privacy and style.
7. Laundry Hampers and Drying Racks
While convenient, laundry hampers and drying racks clutter up your bathroom and detract from its serene, spa-like atmosphere. If you want to create a relaxing space, remove dirty laundry from the room. Store hampers in a closet or laundry room, and avoid drying clothes in the bathroom to keep the space clutter-free.
8. Old Towels and Bath Mats
Worn-out towels and bath mats lose their absorbency and can harbor bacteria and mildew if not properly dried. Replace old towels with high-quality, soft fabrics and ensure they are washed and dried regularly. This simple update not only improves hygiene but also enhances the overall luxury of your bathroom.
9. Faux Plants
While plants can add a refreshing touch to your bathroom, faux plants are not the best option. They tend to collect dust and lose their visual appeal over time. Instead, choose living plants that thrive in humid environments, such as ferns or spider plants. These plants help purify the air and add natural beauty to your space.
10. Cluttered Countertops
Toiletries and cosmetics can quickly turn a bathroom countertop into a cluttered mess. Instead of leaving items out in the open, store them in drawers or cabinets to keep the space organized. If you need to keep some items on display, choose elegant containers that conceal them while adding to the overall aesthetic of the room.
Keep It Simple and Sophisticated
A bathroom edit is an opportunity to create a space that is both functional and beautiful. By eliminating these outdated and impractical elements, you can focus on timeless design choices that contribute to a more organized, luxurious environment. Whether it’s opting for a sleek bathtub, ditching open shelving, or replacing old lighting, these changes will elevate your bathroom to a new level of sophistication and comfort.
