5 Things Your Bathroom is Trying to Tell You
Listen up! Stop ignoring this functional space.
We all do it, ignore the bathroom because it's a little boring to decorate (a shower curtain is as fun as it gets, after all) and not everyone has a renovation budget. But you use this room every day, so it should be pretty and, at thevery least, functional. Don't get stuck in dark, dingy despair! Our editors have simple tricks to transform your commode.
The Gripe: "I'm Not Fit for Two"
Design: Terracotta Design Build
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/128-superior-home-master-bathroom--photo-id149819
The Fix: Make space without adding square footage
Your morning bathroom routine can be hectic—we get it; there’s a lot that goes into prepping yourself for the day ahead. When your bathroom (and you!) is only equipped to fly solo, blending two schedules isn't always easy. So if you're upping the headcount in your home (and find yourself waiting in line for the bathroom), it's time to up your function game, too.
Make room for two with a double vanity (just right for simultaneous toothbrushing). In bathrooms where floor space is at a premium, consider adding a floating vanity or a double sink to the top of an existing large base. If a vanity reno is out the question, try creating a morning schedule with all who share the space, or storing your toiletries in two separate spots to avoid trying to be in the same place at the same time.
The Gripe: "I'm Damp and Dismal"
Design: Common Bond Design
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/cobble-hill--7c-bath--photo-id104322
The Fix: Lighten me up
Sure a cold, wet towel isn't very pleasant after a nice warm shower, but it could also be a sign of a bigger problem. Since many bathrooms are placed in the center of the home they often lack windows. Darkness, constant moisture, and poor ventilation all increase the risk of your bathroom being a perfect host for mold and general dampness (no thank you!).
While air flow problems can seem daunting, there are some quick fixes to help get your bathroom feeling fresh in no time. For rooms big and small, consider replacing the ventilation unit—or even removing the light cap and cleaning the dust from the inside of the unit to increase its functionality. If you need more air, add a fan, but don't expect it to do all the work. When you’re done showering, leave the bathroom door ajar to let out the moist, hot air. Also, consider trading in cotton towels for bamboo or linen ones, which dry faster, and buying a small air dehumidifier to run while you shower.
The Gripe: "Who Am I?"
Design: Terracotta Design Build
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/bedroom--photo-id107013
The Fix: Inject some personal flair
If you can’t put into words what your bathroom's style is saying, then it's probably not making much of a statement—and at the same time is telling you what your next update should be.
Take your space from blah to beautiful by adding personality-filled decor. Try bold step stools in a kids’ bath, eye-catching wallpaper in a powder room, or killer art and accessories in a master suite. Don’t silo this room off from the rest of the house either, pull style elements and colors from your abode into this space for a cohesive feel.
The Gripe: "I'm Disorderly"
Design: Speakman
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/speakman-lifestyle-14--photo-id129490
The Fix: Increase organization with storage
The daily grind can wreak havoc on your bathroom (and your morning routine) when essentials don’t have their own homes. If it's a struggle to find must-haves, we hear you and are here to help.
Navigation is key; give personal hygiene products a place to live either on wall-mounted shelves or in a cabinet stored in bins. Designate a space for each family member or roommate's belongings in order to easily organize where everyone’s things reside. If you live on your own, consider organizing by purpose (hair products, first aid, cleaning supplies, etc.).
The Gripe: "I'm Chilly"
Design: Susie Herr
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/fresh-pattern-bath-3--photo-id205184
The Fix: Warm it up
While all-white tile and stainless steel fixtures are sleek and chic, they can leave a bathroom feeling cold and separated from the rest of the house—especially in windowless one.
Show your bathroom some love! Add warm wooden accents that double as over-the-toilet storage, replace old towels with fluffy new ones, or bring in some life with fresh flowers and potted plants (try hardy bamboo). If your budget allows for it, consider upping the glow by swapping out a tired vent light for some new recessed lighting.
