How to Make the Most of a Small Bathroom
Savvy tips and tricks for a compact space.
Coming up with ideas for a small bathroom is a true test for even the most experienced designers. Whether you rent or own, we've got you covered with some easy tips and tricks for making your small bathroom functional and on trend. Check out our small bathroom designs and ideas below.
1. Choose a Worthy Mirror
A simple way to make your bathroom feel larger is to install a large frameless mirror. Not only does a big mirror give the illusion of more space, it also reflects more light, making the bathroom seem brighter.
A favourite small bathroom idea is to apply self-adhesive wallpaper. This wallpaper makes a bold pop, especially in small spaces like a powder room or tiny bathroom. Before you apply your wallpaper, just make sure to clean the surface with warm water and no chemicals or soap (the wallpaper won't adhere if there's residue on the walls) and let it dry for a few hours.
If an entire wall of wallpaper isn't quite up your alley, check out bathroom wall tiles instead. Adding a few tiles are great for small bathrooms because you don't need a lot of space to make a big pop.
A nesting table is an easy way to make a tiny bathroom work for you. When you want to soak in the tub, pull the second table out to set up your laptop for a little series binging. And when you need more space for getting ready in the morning, simply tuck it away and leave the essentials on top.
Adequate storage is probably the biggest challenge you've faced while searching for small bathroom ideas to help maximise your space. A quick way to add extra storage is to install floating shelves. Try to place them on an unused area of wall, like above your bathtub, toilet or door. Either store extra products and towels directly on the shelves, or place them in baskets for a clean and sleek look. Ladder bookcases work well for vertical storage as they don't take up a lot of floor space. Simply place wire baskets on the shelves and hang towels over the top steps.
Don't take up space in a tiny bathroom with a stand-up toilet paper holder. Instead place a few rolls into a basket or on an accent tray on top of the toilet or on the shelf behind it.
So while a tub might not work in every bathroom, it doesn't mean you have to give up on your dream of coming home to a soaking bathtub. Small tubs can run under 60", meaning you just might be able to fit one in your bathroom. And what these tiny tubs lack in length, they make up for in depth, so you can enjoy a nice, long soak and a glass of wine whenever you want.
An easy way to make sure your bathroom doesn't start to feel overwhelming is to stick with one design throughout the room. Think minimalist: lots of white with a matte black faucet, mirror and pendant light. Think Scandi: warm neutrals, candles and woven baskets for storage. Or think bohemian: a broken-line rug, a plant and an embroidered mirror.
9. Keep Decor Minimal
The easiest way to make your bathroom feel bigger? Clean it up. Too much clutter can make your bathroom feel messy, even if it's not. An easy rule to keep in mind is to limit yourself to one of everything you love: one piece of art, one rug, one plant, etc.
You know that a small bathroom needs to be brighter in order to feel bigger. But what if you don't have a lot of – or any – natural light? Then install wall lights. However, if you don't have room on the walls because of your shelving or mirrors, opt for twin pendants instead. You'll get the same added glow without taking up precious wall space.
If your counter space is itty-bitty like the above sink, roll in a bar cart. Place makeup and skin care products on top, keep spare towels rolled up underneath and pop toilet paper in baskets below. This is one of the most effortless tiny bathroom ideas to really maximize your surface area.
If you own your space and you're looking for more extensive small bathroom designs, consider swapping out your shower curtain for a sliding glass door. The clear glass will instantly make the room feel bigger. Just make sure to check whether the door slides left or right.
Tip: Explore more bathroom ideas and inspiration with:
- Your Guide to the Best Bathroom Towels Available
- 12 Ways to Update Your Bathroom Decor
- What to Consider When Buying a New Shower
