The bathroom is a place that gives people a lot of relief and peace (or it should anyway), yet it may be neglected when it comes to interior design. How do you create a calming yet functional water closet? Many people accidentally clutter their bathrooms with useless items, which can detract from both the functionality and aesthetic of the space.
Interior designers emphasize a minimalist approach to bathroom decor to maintain an organized and welcoming environment. By getting rid of certain items, you can transform your bathroom into a haven of simplicity and elegance. Bathrooms, too, should be practical and stylish, just like the rest of the house.
Maybe you’re ready to give your bathroom a fresh, updated look, but need to figure out exactly what to get rid of while you declutter. Here are the top items that you should consider removing from your bathroom to create a more pleasant space.
1. Unprotected Wood
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Wood adds warmth and texture to a room, but unprotected wood doesn’t belong in the bathroom. Bathrooms are environments with high moisture levels, and unprotected wood can quickly become damaged and warped. This not only affects the wood’s appearance but also its functionality.
Unprotected wood is also highly prone to mold and mildew growth, which can cause health problems. Keeping unprotected wood in good shape requires constant maintenance and sealing. Opt for tiles, vinyl, or sealed wood alternatives that are specifically designed to withstand moisture. Use waterproof sealants if you must have wood elements in your bathroom.
2. Clutter on the Counter
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A cluttered bathroom counter can make your space feel chaotic and disorganized. Too many items on the counter not only look messy but also make it difficult to clean and use the space efficiently. Cluttered counters are visually overwhelming and detract from the overall calmness of the bathroom.
Dust and dirt can accumulate around various items, making it harder to maintain tidiness. Cleanliness is essential for daily tasks like brushing teeth and washing hands, but clutter limits available space. Use drawer organizers and baskets to store items out of sight. You should also regularly declutter and assess whether each item needs to be on display.
3. Very Small Mirrors
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Mirrors are a functional and decorative element in bathrooms, but tiny mirrors do not serve their purpose well in this space. Small mirrors restrict the amount of natural light that can reflect around the room, which is crucial for creating a bright and open atmosphere.
Investing in a larger mirror will make your bathroom appear more spacious and allow more light to reflect around the room. Consider installing a medicine cabinet with mirrored doors or a large wall-mounted mirror to maximize both function and design.
4. Black Fixtures
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Black fixtures can look stylish, but they also show every speck of dirt and water spots. Although they may seem like a bold design choice, keeping them looking pristine involves constant upkeep. They also might not easily coordinate with existing bathroom elements.
Opt for brushed nickel or chrome fixtures, which are easier to maintain. Use black fixtures sparingly, perhaps as an accent rather than the main feature. If you choose to have them, regularly wipe them down to maintain their appearance.
5. Plastic Accessories
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Plastic accessories can cheapen the look of your bathroom. They are often less durable and can become discolored or cracked over time. Using higher-quality materials will enhance the overall aesthetic and longevity of your bathroom decor.
Besides, plastic is not the most eco-friendly option and can contribute to environmental waste. Choose accessories made from materials like stainless steel, glass, or ceramic. They will last longer and look better. Consider eco-friendly materials that are both sustainable and stylish.
6. Upholstered Furniture
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Upholstered furniture absorbs moisture and odors, making it a poor choice for the bathroom. While it might add a touch of comfort and luxury, it’s not practical for a space that experiences high humidity.
Fabrics can trap odors, leading to a perpetually musty smell. For bathroom seating, choose moisture-resistant materials like metal or plastic. If you must have upholstered pieces, use removable, washable covers.
7. Carpet
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Carpet or thick rugs in bathrooms are a big no-no. They retain moisture, become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, and are difficult to clean. While they may provide a cozy feel, they are highly impractical for a bathroom environment.
Bathrooms need to be kept clean, and carpets are difficult to sanitize. Wet carpets and rugs can develop unpleasant odors over time. Use machine-washable bath mats instead of decorative rugs. Choose rugs that are specifically designed for bathroom use and are resistant to moisture.
8. Heavy Shower Curtains
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Heavy shower curtains can make a bathroom feel dark and cramped. They also absorb moisture and odors, making them a less-than-ideal choice for a space that needs to stay fresh and bright.
Heavy curtains block natural light, making the space feel smaller and gloomier. Use light, airy curtains or blinds that allow natural light to pass through. You can also choose moisture-resistant materials that are easy to clean.
9. Dark Bathroom Walls
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Dark walls can make a bathroom feel closed in and uninviting. Bathrooms benefit from light, bright colors that maximize natural light and create a sense of openness. They may also make small bathrooms feel even smaller.
Choose light, neutral colors like whites, creams, or pastels instead of black or dark browns. Incorporate good lighting to enhance the bright, open feel of the space.
10. Matchy-Matchy Towels
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While coordinating towels can look neat, having everything match perfectly can lack personality and feel overly staged. It’s better to mix and match complementary colors and patterns to add interest and style.
A mismatch of textures and colors can add character and warmth. Too much coordination can make the bathroom feel like a showroom rather than a lived-in space. Mix and match towels in complementary colors and patterns, or use textured towels to add depth and interest.
11. Tiles With Grout on Countertops
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Tiles on countertops can be difficult to clean and maintain. Grout lines can trap dirt and grime, making it hard to keep the surface sanitary. Modern materials offer a more seamless and practical alternative.
Grout lines are notoriously difficult to clean and can harbor bacteria. Install solid surfaces like quartz, granite, or marble for countertops. Use large format tiles with minimal grout lines if you prefer a tiled look.
12. Matte Paint
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Matte paint may look sophisticated, but it’s not ideal for bathrooms. It’s difficult to clean and can show watermarks and stains more easily than other finishes. Bathrooms require durable, moisture-resistant paint.
Watermarks and stains are more visible on matte surfaces. Apply a semi-gloss or gloss finish to bathroom walls. These finishes are much easier to clean and maintain. If you prefer a muted look, opt for an eggshell finish instead of matte.
13. Old Towels
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Hanging onto old, worn-out towels isn’t doing your bathroom any favors. They can look unsightly and may not be as absorbent as they once were. Fresh, fluffy towels can enhance the overall appearance and comfort of your bathroom.
Old towels can look dingy and detract from the bathroom’s aesthetic. They may not be as absorbent or comfortable to use. Regularly update your towels to keep them looking and feeling fresh. Invest in high-quality towels that are durable and absorbent.
14. Bar Soaps for Handwashing
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Bar soaps can leave residue and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Liquid soap dispensers are a more hygienic and convenient option for handwashing in the bathroom. Bar soaps can leave a slimy residue on sinks and soap dishes.
Use liquid soap dispensers for handwashing. Choose refillable dispensers to reduce plastic waste.
15. Cleaning Supplies
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Storing cleaning supplies in the bathroom can take up valuable space and create unsightly clutter. If space allows, it’s better to keep them in a designated cleaning closet or under the sink.
Chemicals should be stored out of the reach of children and pets. Cleaning supplies should be stored in a designated cleaning closet or cabinet. Use baskets or organizers to keep them out of sight but easily accessible.