Super-Practical Tips for Better Bathrooms
Small changes that Make Big Difference
Bathroom with a Round Washbasin, Ceramic Countertop and Cabinet with Drawers
I have done many bathroom renovations. Some were on a shoe-string budget, others on luxury one – and most of them allowed for a reasonable spend.
No matter what the money, I would like to share my super-practical tips that improve the look and functionality of any bathroom.
1. Slip-Resistant Floor Tiles
Most home accidents happen in bathroom. Bathroom floor, when wet or just moisty from air humidity, becomes extra slippery. Use porous tiles for the bathroom floor. There are myriads of excellent tile designs imitating timber, stone, mosaics etc, that have very slip-resistant surface.
2. Bathroom Door Should Open to the Outside
In some countries, this is a standard, but in others – including Australia – bathroom doors usually open to the inside of the bathroom. This is WRONG.
If somebody has a slip and fall in the bathroom, they may be blocking the bathroom door. The door that opens to the outside will be easy to open, especially if the door lock is of a modern privacy type.
3. Ceramic or Stone Washbasin Counter
Timber or plastic countertops may look great, but they fail fundamental functionality. You cannot put hot items on them, such as a hair iron or curler.
Ceramic or natural stone counters are excellent – and they are usually more water and scratch resistant.
4. Double Length Toilet Paper Hanger
In most households, or so it seems, there is only one person who can be bothered to replenish toilet paper on the roll. For this reason, I only install double-length holders. The new bathroom owners will have to spend half the time replacing toilet paper.
If I cannot get double-length hangers for toilet paper, I use a towel hanger of similar length. Just make sure the hanger is thin enough to go through the opening of the paper roll easily.
5. Drawers (Not Shelves) in the Washbasin Cabinet
I find a washbasin cabinet or a vanity cabinet with drawers seriously more useful than any cabinet with shelves or a shaving cabinet.
Drawers allow for easy access to any item without making a mess. Also, I keep our toiletries grouped in plastic containers in the draws. If I need, for example, hair accessories, I just take out the hair accessories container.
6. Say NO to Flat-Bottomed Washbasin
Washbasins that have flat bottom get dirty more easily. Curved or angled bottoms allow for better flushing of residue after each use of the washbasin. Vanities with flat bottom will frequently require a good wipe to stay clean.
7. Color-Coded Bathroom Towels
“Is this my towel?”- how often do you get this question?
One of the most useful ideas in my bathrooms are colour-coordination of the towels. Each person of the family has one, and only one, color of towels assigned to them. So, for example, I only use green towels, another member of my family uses only beige towels, and the third one uses only orange towels. No mistakes, no questions.
I also have a separate colour assigned to guest towels.
I also make sure the combined colours of towels in my bathroom looks great together, and it is related to the overall style and theme of the bathroom décor.
8. Bathroom Lights Can Be Features
How many bathrooms have daggy lights, lights that look like an after-thought, or a sad necessity of the space? Too many.
Bathroom – or as I like calling it: Bath ROOM – is a great place to relax and unwind. As such, it should not only be functional, but also appealing to our senses. Light is one of the best methods to create great atmosphere, right ambience or practical view – at a click of the switch. How easy is that?
Just one note: please always make sure your bathroom lights are safe. Bathrooms have special rules and requirements regarding electrical items. Always consult a licensed electrician before purchasing lighting for your bathroom – and absolutely always have it installed by a licensed electrician too.
9. USB Powerpoint in the Toilet
Yes, that’s correct. The amazement you see in the eyes of a young, or young-at-heart, person who discovers a USB powerpoint near the toilet… Priceless.
10. Smartphone Shelf above the Toilet Paper Hanger
Another WOW factor that will get you extra points in the eyes of avid smartphone users. These days you can even find combined toilet paper hangers with a small plate above them, just big enough to place a smartphone.
11. Place Your Toilet in a Hidden Nook of Your Bathroom
If you are looking where to place the toilet in your bathroom, remember we are all animals. Therefore we prefer more privacy while using this noble device. Keep it away from the door and not exposed. Expose other, more visually appealing elements, such as your bath or washbasin.
