9 Bathroom Organization Hacks You’ll Be Sorry You Didn’t Know Sooner

Sometimes it seems no matter how big or small your bathroom is, you just can’t find a place for every item. A place for everything and everything in its place is more a matter of how you use your space than how much you have of it. 

These bathroom organization hacks will help you make the most of what you’ve got so you can finally enjoy a functional and beautiful bathroom.

Towers

In big cities real estate is scarce. That’s why they build skyrises. Use the same concept in your bathroom where space is at a premium. One way to do that is to invest in storage towers. 

A storage tower is a tall, slim portable cabinet unit you place in the bathroom to provide more storage. It has doors so you can conceal your unmentionables or simply keep a nice tidy look and feel.

Hooks

If you think you don’t have enough storage space in your bathroom, you’re probably thinking only about the drawers, cabinets, and shelves you have. There are many other ways to create storage. Look to the vertical surfaces in your bathroom for more storage.

Hooks on the walls give you a place to keep anything that you can hang: robes, curling irons, towels, etc. Place a hanging shoe holder on a hook and, voila, you have more storage space.

Shelves

Shelves are another way to use the vertical space in your bathroom to create more storage. They are great for stacking extra toilet paper rolls, towels, or keeping commonly used items on hand. 

Often, shelves can benefit from boxes, containers, and baskets to reign in items and make things look more tidy. This can also add some style if you get creative. Patterned boxes add color and design. A tiered stand can hold smaller items with panache. 

Labels

It’s one thing to get the bathroom organized, but keeping it that way is a whole different thing. That’s where labeling comes in. Everyone will know where things belong and maybe will be less tempted to put things back in the wrong places. 

Make sure your labels can be removed and won’t damage whatever you stick them to. You may find that you need to adjust where or how you store something and an easily removed label will make that job easier. A simple label maker or vinyl letter cutter are both excellent tools for the job.

Magnets

The bathroom becomes a landing pad for many tiny items. Earrings, bobby pins, tweezers, etc. get lost easily and tend to clutter up the bathroom. Magnets are a great way to keep smaller items in check. If it’s not already metal, you can add magnets or things you want to keep in place. 

Strips or button magnets can be placed on a wall or door to hold things vertically or they can be placed in the bottom of drawers to keep things in one spot. Magnetized dishes are excellent for the drawer or countertop.

Caddies

Caddies are the original bathroom organizer. They come in all shapes and sizes and are made for many different places. The shower caddy, for example, hangs in the shower and helps you keep shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other shower necessities organized.

Another style of caddy has a handle so you can easily move it from the cabinet to the countertop and back again. You can easily store and access things you use regularly and put them away easily to keep the vanity top clear of clutter. 

Niches are recessed cubbies in the shower and serve the same purpose as caddies. These have to be built into the shower wall so they may not be an immediate solution. If you’re planning a future renovation, be sure to include a niche in the shower.

Vanity Storage

The vanity is probably the biggest storage spot you have in the bathroom. Sometimes bigger doesn’t equal better though. There can be a lot of wasted space in a vanity cabinet or drawer. 

Make this storage space count by adding shelves, baskets, boxes, under sink caddies, etc. Separating the space into smaller units helps you maximize the space and find a spot for everything.

Add a new vanity to your bathroom to give your storage options a boost. There’s a vanity for even the smallest bathroom. 

Medicine Cabinets

Another bathroom organization hack you’ll love is to make use of spaces that are already occupied, like behind the mirror. Medicine cabinets have been around for a long time so you may have dismissed them a long time ago. But you’re missing out. 

Today’s medicine cabinets offer some high-tech solutions in addition to adding some storage space. You can get the time, weather, and calendar reminders from your mirror during your morning routine. You can get medicine cabinet mirrors that unfog themselves. You can get medicine cabinet mirrors that are lit to make applying makeup or shaving easier. 

As for storage, the medicine cabinet is the perfect place to store your most used necessities. Cotton swabs and balls, bandages, medicines and ointments, etc. all fit well in the medicine cabinet.  Learn more about the best stuff to store in the medicine cabinet. 

Take back your bathroom with these bathroom organizing hacks. You’ll be amazed just how much you can fit in your bathroom without feeling like it’s too cluttered or you can’t find anything. Next up, how to clean your bathroom better (and easier) than ever before. 

Visit our blog for more tips and tricks for the bathroom. 

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Things We All Hate In the Bathroom . . .

. . . and Bathroom Solutions

If you’ve fallen in the toilet in the middle of the night because someone forgot to put the seat down or found yourself with an empty toilet paper roll and no replacement within reach, this post is for you. 

There are a handful (or two) of things in the bathroom that can get annoying pretty fast. But, there are solutions. You might be surprised just how easy it is to fix most bathroom problems. Come with us and discover some simple and quick bathroom solutions to end your battles in the bathroom.

Loose Toilet Seat

A shifty toilet seat isn’t only irritating, it’s also a bit of a hazard. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to fix. All you have to do is tighten the nuts and bolts that hold the seat in place. 

Solution: 

Put the seat down and look for the two bumps at the back of the seat (these are covers for the bolts). Remove the covers then use a flathead screwdriver to hold the bolts in place while you tighten the nuts on the underside of the toilet bowl. Get more details in this article or video.

Now that you know how easy it is to tighten a toilet seat, if you ever want to replace your seat, you can make a Saturday DIY project of it. Shop for a new seat!

Toilet Seat Up

This is probably the worst thing about sharing a bathroom. Toilet seats in the up position don’t look good, nor do they help bathroom functionality.

Solution: 

Invest in a new self-closing toilet seat. Just like an auto-flush toilet, these seats close softly on their own (or by remote control). Check out your options.

Empty Toilet Paper Roll

It’s the stuff of nightmares: you’re left with no TP and there’s no replacement roll in sight. Whether you’re a guest or in your own home, this is a situation you want to avoid at all costs.

Solution: 

There are several simple solutions to this bathroom problem. Place a basket on the back of the toilet with refills. Add a small storage cabinet within reach of the toilet filled with toilet paper. Get a freestanding or wall-mounted toilet paper holder so you can buy the extra large rolls

Smells

Smells happen. Annoying as a lingering smell is, sometimes it doesn’t seem like there’s much you can do about it besides cover up the smell. Ready for a better solution?

Solution: 

Bathroom fans don’t cover up smells, they move them out. It’s essentially an exhaust fan for the bathroom. Now that’s a real solution. Shop for bathroom exhaust fans. 

Forgetting to Flush

There’s nothing more delightful than walking into your bathroom and discovering that somebody forgot to flush. Besides the yelling and threats, there’s something you can do to get rid of this problem forever. 

Solution: 

Auto-flushing toilets are a great solution. This is not the industrial version you’re familiar with in public restrooms. Residential versions are gentler, even water-saving but still get the job done. Many have bidet type features that keep the toilet fresh constantly. Check out auto-flush toilets.

Low Light

The bathroom is a place where plenty of light is needed for everything from removing a splinter to applying makeup. Even proper cleaning can be hard to do without enough light.

Solutions: 

Adding light to the bathroom has varying levels of complexity to install. If you simply add a lighted mirror to your vanity, that probably won’t require much time or money. Or you can install new sconces or vanity bars/strips, which will require some remodeling. If you’re doing a full remodel, consider skylights, so you always have some natural light. 

Not Enough Storage

If you have a small bathroom, you know the pain. Just enough room for the bathroom basics leaves you with nowhere to store towels, shampoos, etc. Not quite sure how to get more storage out of your bathroom?

Solution: 

Get a vanity with a cabinet beneath the sink. Or install a medicine cabinet. Wall-mounted cabinets or shelves are excellent over the toilet where you have unused space. If your issue isn’t necessarily space, but simply a lack of built-in storage, add a freestanding linen tower or shelves.

Badly-Placed Towel Rods

Not being able to reach towels from the shower or tub is the worst. Luckily the problem is pretty easily solved.

Solution: 

Moving or installing a towel rod involves placing a few screws and attaching the brackets—a fairly simple DIY project. Even easier is a freestanding towel rack. Hooks have a similar installation process to rods and take up barely any wall space. If you’d like to splurge a little, go for a towel warmer—not only will you be able to reach your towel, it will be nice and toasty.

Useless Bathtub

If you’re not much of a bath-taker, you may see the tub as wasted space. Or maybe you have an older jetted tub that you don’t dare use because who knows what’s growing deep in those jets?

Solution: 

Many people are getting rid of their bathtubs in favor of spa-like showers or wet rooms. This gives you the space to install multiple showerheads, luxurious rain showerheads, body jets, etc. Jetted tubs today don’t have the issues the older tubs have (they circulate air) so a new one may solve the problem. 

Whatever it is you hate most about your bathroom, now’s a great time to fix it. For little money and time, you can get rid of those pesky bathroom problems. 

Want more ideas for quick and easy updates you can make to the bathroom? 

Upgrades Under $100

Bathroom Trends 2023

Bathroom trends in 2023 center on personalized spaces that combine luxury and functionality. This extends into design as well with minimalism with pops of the ornate in a single design. Here are the details on the big trends in bathroom design this year.

Spa Sanctuary

The tendency toward spa-like bathrooms continues into 2023 and is only gaining momentum. Spa elements can be as simple as a rain showerhead or as ornate as steam and jet showers. It’s a concept that can scale up or down depending on your space and budget. 

One of the hottest 2023 bathroom trends is called cocooning. It’s the idea that the bathroom envelopes you in comfort. Everything from the design to the features is all about creating the ultimate sanctuary for body and mind. 

Bathrooms of 2023 are also embracing luxury and custom elements. Let the bathroom go all out with materials like marble, custom-look patterns like herringbone, and large-scale tile or stone slabs.

Another similar trend is the move toward brining living room items into the bathroom. From wood beams on the ceiling to furniture and fireplaces in the bathroom, these make the bathroom feel like another living space rather than a simply functional space. 

Statement Design

Bathroom design took a turn for the bold in 2023. Demure, minimal, white bathrooms gave way to elaborately designed spaces with rich colors and patterns. Size of the bathroom has no bearing on a bold design. Even powder bathrooms are in on the action. Everywhere you look, you’ll see something interesting. 

Large patterned wallpapers, bold colors, and rich textures are on trend. Big faucets in any metallic color draw attention. Bold elements shouldn’t compete so be sure there’s a golden thread that ties everything together. 

Custom-Look Fixtures

Take bathroom design to the next level with custom items, or items that look custom. A great way to do this is with your bathroom fixtures. From lighting to faucets, get the custom look by choosing hardware in unique colors and finishes. 

Chrome has been the favorite for bathroom faucets, showerheads, and handles. But 2023 made a turn toward something different in fixtures. Going right along with the penchant for bolder design in the bathroom, gold or dark fixtures make a statement. Likewise, unexpected shapes and lines stand out.

Black is an excellent go-to, but also consider colors like bronze, graphite, and pewter, all of which add the drama or custom design. Brushed or matte brass and copper can also have the same effect if you desire a little more warmth in your fixture color. 

Statement Lighting

Statement lighting aims to draw attention to itself and takes a leading role in the bathroom’s design. You’ll see this in the bathroom with chandeliers or unique sconces. Statement lighting is well suited to bolder design. Don't be afraid to let your lighting stand out in color, shape, or dimension.

Give your lighting plenty of consideration especially around the vanity. The vanity is often the visual center of the space with bold colors and patterns in wallpaper, tile, even stone. Be sure the lighting enhances the effect of the design and tops it off with finesse.

Natural Elements

Inviting natural elements into the bathroom is a hallmark of 2023 bathroom trends. More live plants are making their way into the bathroom. These create a sense of bringing the outdoors in and the wellbeing that comes along with that. 

Natural color palettes, materials, and textures are another way to bring this trend into your bathroom. They instantly introduce calm and comfort. Try a light colored and simple grained wood for the vanity, lots of stone, and plush beige towels and rugs. 

Luxury Bathtubs

What spa bathroom is complete without a luxury bathtub? Look for something that is both visually beautiful and offers a luxurious experience. Freestanding tubs are popular and come in many different styles from Victorian clawfoot to modern, clean-lined soaker tubs.

Bathtubs like this are meant to be a main feature of the room so don’t be modest in your selection. Go for something with ornate details, a splash of color, or an interesting shape.

Wall-Mounted Vanities

Sleek and clean, a wall-mounted vanity keeps the design fresh without sacrificing on storage. The wall-mounted, or floating vanity gives the space a more open and light feel. They come in many designs and materials and their simplicity is well suited to many styles. 

Wall-mounted vanities are great for small bathrooms because they come in the smallest sizes. However, they are also available in double vanity sizes for larger bathrooms. They do a good job of hiding plumbing and look great while doing it. They are the perfect selection for an on-trend bathroom in 2023.

Tech

Other luxury items finding their way into bathroom design in 2023 include tech. From smart toilets to time-telling mirrors, no modern bathroom is complete without tech. 

You can achieve some smart features with very little effort with a washlet toilet seat. High-tech toilets also are a great way to increase the eco-friendliness of your bathroom. Select a toilet with dual flush (two different settings for ultimate water efficiency). Some can even be set up to use reclaimed water.

A well-designed bathroom can be a haven and a place of functional efficiency and that’s what 2023’s bathroom trends are all about. Consider a reno for your bathroom this year. 

Get Ready for a Bathroom Remodel

Design a Pet-Friendly Bathroom

Fur babies are an important part of life.  They are members of the family and often receive equal consideration in all family matters. So why not the home’s design?

About 68% of American households have pets. It’s high time your pets figured into your design. The good news is, designers are starting to include features and spaces for pets in their plans. 

From a dog bed tucked into the kitchen island to bathing stations in the mud room, keep your pets in mind as you design your home. 

The bathroom is a natural place to include design features for your pets. With the right set up, you can have a place to clean your pet, feed your pet, even provide an inconspicuous spot for the litter box. Here’s our top ideas for designing a pet-friendly bathroom.

Fresh Drinking Water

Your pets love fresh, running water; that’s why they’re drawn to the toilet. The toilet is a continuous source of water. But if it drives you nuts that they’ve always got their little heads in the bowl, you should consider a bubbler.

A bubbler is a drinking fountain for pets. It’s connected directly to the plumbing and runs continuously offering that fresh water your pets love so much. 

The bathroom is the ideal spot for this since your pets are already accustomed to going to the bathroom to drink. It’s also the perfect place because the bathroom is ready to handle wet situations plus cleans up easily. 

Bath Time

Whether or not your pet loves a bath, you can make it easier on yourself with a designated space for pet bathing. Some make pet showers for these in the garage, mud room, or laundry room. Why not consider the bathroom? 

The bathroom is already set up with everything you need: hot water, hand shower, waterproofed shower space. You can either turn your shower into a multipurpose area, or make a separate space for your pet. 

Hand-held shower attachments are an absolute must in order to give your fur baby a thorough cleaning. Make sure the hose can reach your pet easily (you might want to install the handshower a little lower than usual).

Zero-entry shower and wet room layouts are perfect for pets and their humans. These are completely waterproof areas that are easily accessible (because they have no ledge to climb over). 

Soft Close Toilets

Trying to keep your pet out of the toilet? Maybe you worry they’ll accidentally slam the seat closed on themselves. Or perhaps you’re just tired of your pet drinking out of the toilet. You need to install a soft close toilet seat. 

The soft close seat has a control mechanism on the hinge that ensures it closes fully and softly every time. Some seats even come with automatic closing features. 

You’ll feel better about keeping your pets safe and your home tidy when the seat is down.

Temperature Control

Bathing your pet often requires your full attention and both your hands. Maybe you even need someone to assist you. Have you ever found yourself up to your elbows in suds and your pup threatening to  give a big shake and you’re missing something you need?

Maybe the water is too hot or too cold and you can’t reach the faucet to adjust it. This is where the temperature controlled hand shower comes in handy. You can adjust the temperature easily so you can always have the perfect temperature. 

Flooring Dance

Besides selecting a water-safe flooring, you should also take into consideration a few other factors for a pet-friendly bathroom.

Ceramic tile is an ideal choice for the bathroom floor, but it can also be slippery to little paws. Select surfaces on which your pet can move easily, and safely. A ceramic tile with a bit of texture does the trick.

Also consider durability when selecting a floor. One that will stand up to water and the demands of a pet. 

Hidden Litter Box

What better place to put the litter box than in the bathroom? You don’t run the risk of a mess that’s difficult to clean up. You can simply close a door against smells. Everyone can do their business in the privacy of the bathroom.

Hide the litter box inside a cabinet then add a door so your cat can have his own private space and you can keep it all behind closed doors until you’re ready to change out that litter. 

Make your bathroom a haven for your pet, as well as yourself. A few modifications and it can be a space that functions equally well for every member of your family.

More Bathroom Ideas

What Is a Wet Room?

Apart from being one of the trendiest bathroom designs today, the wet room is one of the most functional and beautiful. If you’re considering an update to your bathroom, you should definitely consider it.

What is a wet room? Simply put it’s a bathroom that is completely waterproof—everything in the room can get wet without getting damaged. It is generally covered in hard surfaces like tile or stone that slough off the water quickly. 

Wet rooms look different from a traditional bathroom. They are very open and have few, if any walls or other barriers. That’s because in an entirely waterproof room, there is no reason to keep water in designated areas. 

You won’t find showers with curbs. The shower head can go anywhere and take up as much space as you want it to. Freestanding bathtubs occupy the same space as the shower. The new look might take some getting used to, but it’s well worth it. 

Now that you have the basic idea, let’s talk about the details. Why are wet rooms so great?

Design Freedom

Aside from being the hottest trend in bathroom design today, the wet room is a favorite of designers for a plethora of reasons. 

Functionally, the entire space can be a wet room or just a portion of the space. The room can be open or partitioned off with glass or décor. There are lots of options for showers and baths like rain shower heads, body jets, steam features, and more. 

Design-wise, wet rooms are a dream for designers. The open format and need for waterproof materials often results in stunning style. Floor to ceiling stone or tile looks exquisite. Skylights or windows near the ceiling let in lots of natural light. Multiple showerheads can be installed for a luxurious and functional experience. 

Designers can also make wet rooms much more comfortable to navigate and use. Picture, built in shower benches, heat lamps, etc. More on that in a moment. 

Space Efficiency

The wet room is the most efficient bathroom design. Without the limitations of enclosed showers or poky shower/tub combos, designers are free to make the most of the space. 

A wet room tends to make smaller bathrooms feel larger and actually give more room to the most important aspects of the bathroom.

Many people opt to get rid of the bathtub entirely and go for an expansive wet room with shower only. Even in larger bathrooms, if you’re not a bather, it’s completely ok to get rid of the shower. 

Accessibility

Wet rooms are a shoe-in for accessibility design. Whether for a member of the family who is disabled or an elderly member of the family, the single-level bathroom removes potential difficulty and danger. 

A wet room needs no modification for wheelchair access. It has no curbs for the elderly to navigate. It bestows independence on its users. 

Wet rooms are also excellent for bidets or washlet toilet seats. These are excellent additions for accessibility and the waterproof room ensures they are safe to use.

Value

The wet room is an attractive feature with staying power. Long after their trend status has worn off, wet rooms will continue to be a functional feature that anyone can appreciate. Remodeling Magazine reports that a wet room is a “high-end addition” and that you might be able to recoup up to 65% of what you spend on a wet room when you sell the house.

A wet room is always a stunning design that makes the bathroom one of the best rooms of the house and a future selling point. It’s a design that works for all ages and types of families from a bachelor to a young family to retirees wishing to age in place. 

You can count on the wet room to add value to your home. In the short term you get to enjoy everything a wet room has to offer and in the long term, it adds value to your property.

Cleanability

Maybe it’s obvious, but we’ll point it out anyway. The wet room is super easy to clean. 

You could bring your dog into the wet room for a bath. Even if he shakes sudsy water all over the place, you can just hose everything down afterward. You can use the same cleaner on every surface (all your surfaces are probably similar in a wet room). 

With so many hard surfaces, you might be able to use tools, like a squeegee, to keep things looking their best all the time. Instead of being more work, the wet room makes your job easier.

A wet room is well worth the investment. Whether you are updating your current bathroom, doing a full remodel, or building new, the wet room should be a serious consideration. 

When you’re ready for the bathroom remodel, get our best tips here.

Bathroom Remodeling Tips

How to Get an Instant Fireplace

The Easiest Update You’ll Ever Do

You can’t beat the soft glow and cheery crackle of a fireplace on a winter night. The warmth and light are more than a physical environment, they are creators of mood and ambiance that you can’t get any other way. 

With winter approaching, if you’re still without a fireplace now’s the time to act. Go for an instant fireplace, aka, electric fireplace. It will be the easiest update you’ll ever do. 

You can achieve the beautiful, festive space of your dreams with the wide selection of electric fireplace types and styles available. Discover what you’ve been missing.

Instant Fireplace Installation

Adding an electric fireplace to any room of your home can be pretty much instantaneous. There are four options when it comes to installing an electric fireplace. 

Inserts, Mantels & Freestanding

This type of electric fireplace doesn't require any installation. You simply plug them in, turn them on, and you’re off to the races. Stand-alone options also include mantel packages, stoves, and consoles that include room for a TV or books.

Wall Mounted

This type of fireplace needs only to be secured to the wall. Use brackets that will support the weight of the unit and secure it directly to the wall studs. Voila! Instant fireplace.

Built-in

This type of electric fireplace is designed to be inserted into a surround (like a wall or hearth). Once installed they are flush with the wall or surround. The actual installation of the unit isn’t difficult or time consuming. What takes the most time is the building of the surround. 

Recessed

Recessed fireplaces are part wall mount and part built-in. They are partially inserted into a wall or surround but don’t sit flush with it once they are installed. 

Any way you look at it, installing an electric fireplace is one of the easiest DIY projects you’ll ever do. 

Electric Fireplace Styles

A traditional fireplace’s style comes mostly from the surround, hearth, and mantel. Electric fireplaces offer additional style elements.

Traditional

Classic styled fireplaces are more square in shape and usually have a log or coal bed. A mantel surround is another way to get the classic look.

Modern

Contemporary styling is where electric fireplaces excel. Fewer limitations mean electric fireplaces can offer many more interesting options. Go for a linear rectangle fireplace that spans across the wall. Select a unit that has flame color options. Try a bed of glass, crystals or rocks for a whole new look.

Rustic & Industrial

Cut from the same cloth, rustic and industrial use raw materials to create a fireplace style to complement the design in your space.

Heating

If you need to heat things up a bit right now, an electric fireplace is the quickest way to do it. Though the flames of an electric fireplace don’t produce any heat, these units usually come with a heating option.

Heat a small room (up to 400 square feet) or a larger space (up to 1000 square feet) with an electric fireplace. Most of the time you’ll use your electric fireplace as a heating supplement rather than the primary source. If you find you keep blankets around or have space heaters here and there, you’re a prime candidate for an electric fireplace. 

Add the one element your home is missing. An electric fireplace gives you a way to up the ambiance, the heat, and the style quick. Start your instant fireplace project today. 

Explore Fireplaces

Guests Coming? You’ll Need This Medicine Cabinet Supply List

Guests snooping through the contents of the medicine cabinet is the simultaneous joke and fear of every host. 

Beat your guests to the punch and turn the medicine cabinet into a guest’s dream come true. You’ll deprive them of some intrigue, but your guests will be amazed to find everything they could need right at their fingertips. 

Transform your medicine cabinet before your guests arrive with this medicine cabinet supply list.

Medicine Cabinet Supplies

First things first. Take all the stuff out of your medicine cabinet and give it a good cleaning. Don’t put your items back in. That’s exactly what you’re trying to avoid. Instead, opt to supply your cabinet with everything your guests could possibly need during their stay. 

Make your guests feel more at home by communicating to them that they are welcome to peruse and use the medicine cabinet and everything in it. 

Medicines

Your guests probably only brought their prescription medications with them. But it’s likely that they’ll need additional meds during their stay. Rich, late-night dinners often result in a little indigestion. When family drama erupts, it’s likely somebody will have a headache. 

Stock up with these meds for your guests.

Allergy, antihistamine

Antibacterial ointment

Pain reliever

Antacids

Some medicines your guests may hesitate to ask for, so think ahead and make sure you have some remedies to common maladies where they can get to them without bothering you.  

Decongestant

Anti-diarrheal

Anti-itch cream, hydrocortisone

Eye drops

Burn gel

Cough medicine

First Aid Supplies

From a band-aid to a cotton swab there are a few things guests often need but don’t often pack. These supplies are great to put in the medicine cabinet in small quantities.

Bandages

Sunscreen

Thermometer

Tweezers

Fingernail clippers

Cotton balls (a handful in a small jar)

Cotton swabs (a handful in a small jar)

Rubbing alcohol (travel size container or pre packaged wipes)

Hydrogen peroxide (travel size)

Extra Perks

Besides a well-stocked medicine cabinet, there are a few other things that your guests will appreciate. Whether it’s a personal item they forgot to pack like a toothbrush or an extra towel cause they dropped one in the sink, these items make their stay comfortable. 

Toothpaste

Floss

Toothbrushes (in the box)

Mouthwash

Bathroom cups

Extra soap

Shampoo/conditioner

Facial tissues

Extra toilet paper

Feminine hygiene products

Extra towels

With this medicine cabinet supply list, your bathroom will be all set to receive guests. They’ll quickly and easily find everything they need and you can rest easy knowing they are comfortable. 

With a tidy and well-stocked medicine cabinet, your guests might be reduced to snooping elsewhere. You might want to give the linen closet a once over before they arrive just in case. 

What Else Can You Do Before Guests Arrive?

Deep Cleaning Green Style

 5 Ideas to Help You Be More Eco-Friendly

Cleaning seems like it would be good for the environment. However, there’s a lot of waste when it comes to cleaning. Here we take a deeper dive into how you can achieve green cleaning.

1. Decrease Packaging

Many of the cleaning products you see on the shelf contain a lot of water, which increases the volume of the product. That increases the size of the packaging needed to contain the product. In the end, there is a lot of wasted space and resources because of water content. 

Many brands have turned to concentrated detergents and cleaners so they can decrease the size of their packaging or at least ensure you don’t have to buy it as often. You’ll generally use less of these than the products that contain more water. 

Other brands have turned to ultra-concentrates that you have to add water to before you use them. Still others manufacture powders that you can mix with water or simply use as is. 

2. Cleaning Implements

Did you know that 254 million tons of paper towels are discarded every year? That’s 51,000 trees cut down each year just to supply North America. Clearly there’s room for improvement with our cleaning implements too. 

Just like the cleaning products, there are paper towels designed to be used more than once or made so you don’t have to use as much. There are also alternatives like bamboo paper towels, which are a more sustainable choice than traditional paper towels. 

Reusable cloths and brushes that can be washed and reused are some of the best choices for green cleaning. Recycling old t-shirts and toothbrushes is a great way to go. Microfiber cloths do a good job if you need streak-free and scratch-free cleaning. 

3. Make It Natural 

The natural world is full of potential cleaners. You probably have ingredients in your house right now that you can use to mix up a number of different cleaning products of your own. You know exactly what’s in it and can completely avoid chemicals that are harmful to the environment. 

The minerals and chemicals that you have on hand (or can easily get at the grocery store) can either act as powerful cleaners by themselves or in a mixture. Vinegar, for instance, is a mild acid that’s great as a natural disinfectant and degreaser. It also breaks down mineral build up from hard water. 

Baking soda absorbs odors and is a gentle abrasive for tough cleaning. Borax (like baking soda on steroids) is a mild natural bleach and great for removing stains. Citrus oils or peels add a nice, natural smell and cut grease. Hydrogen peroxide is a great disinfectant. 

Castile soap makes an excellent deep cleaner and is 100% natural. Rubbing alcohol mixed with water can be used to inhibit mold growth. Minerals like limestone, feldspar, and soda ash are also used in natural cleaners. These are generally used to change the pH level. Acids and bases are excellent cleaners for tough jobs like cleaning the oven. 

4. Mixing Up Your Own Cleaners

Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok are filled with tutorials on how to make your own green cleaning products. It’s easy, cheap, and eco-friendly. 

Be aware that even natural ingredients can react chemically to one another and cause dangerous situations. For instance, never mix vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. It creates a gas (very similar to mixing ammonia and bleach) that is toxic. 

You’ll want to mix most of your homemade cleaners with water. Straight vinegar or hydrogen peroxide should be reserved only for very tough cleaning. These ingredients can pose a threat to some surfaces (like vinegar to a stone countertop) so proceed with caution. Borax alone can irritate skin, eyes, and throat so use carefully.

Mix vinegar, water and cornstarch for a perfect streak-free glass cleaner. Add tea tree oil (or any essential oil to any mixture for a bit of pleasant scent. Baking soda and vinegar will foam when mixed and make a great bathroom deep cleaner.

5. Avoid the Bad Stuff

If you’re not quite ready to start mixing up your own natural cleaners, there are plenty of green cleaners available off the shelf. It can be pricey but it will help you be more eco-friendly and save you time and effort. 

The key to purchasing environmentally-friendly products is to avoid the bad stuff. Harmful chemicals and materials are rampant in cleaning products. Simply avoiding them goes a long way.

Look out for these

• Phosphates
• Chlorine
• Artificial fragrances and colors
• Non biodegradable packaging
• Non recyclable packaging
• Non organic ingredients

Another good rule of thumb is to avoid things you cannot pronounce. Those long chemical names are a tip off that you’re probably dealing with a concoction that’s not friendly to the environment.

Change up your cleaning routine and shift to green cleaning products. You’ll not only do yourself a favor, but you’ll take better care of the environment. That’s an investment that’s always worth it. 

Read our comprehensive bathroom cleaning checklist.

12 Tips for a Clean Bathroom

Bathroom Upgrades Under $100

11 Cheap Updates to the Bathroom

Wish you could give the bathroom a remodel but don’t have the budget for it? Don’t let money stop you. There are many cheap updates to the bathroom you can make now with under $100. So what are you waiting for? Get started with some of these.

Dress Up What You’ve Already Got

One of the reasons fashion experts say everyone should have a little black dress is because it’s so versatile. Paired with some smart sneakers, it can do some daytime boutique shopping and lunch with the girls. Put it with some bedazzled stilettos and a statement necklace and you’re ready for a night out.

Same goes for your bathroom. Look around at what you’ve already got that could be dressed up for a whole new look:

• Put a frame around the mirror
• Swap out shampoo and lotion containers for glass bottles with pumps
• Paint, wainscot, or wallpaper a feature wall
• Spray paint your hardware for a new look
• Get a new shower curtain or towels
• Update the rugs

Swap the Faucet 

If you’ve been putting up with a leaky faucet, it’s time to change it out. Even simple faucets come in many styles so you can find something that you’ll love even if the budget is small. The simpler the better because you have a greater chance of being able to install it yourself if it’s not too complicated.

For maximum impact, choose a totally different metal color than you had before. It’s the easiest way to make things different without having to spend too much. 

Faucets

Add Some Life

Live plants are becoming increasingly popular in the bathroom. When you think about it, it’s pretty smart. Depending on how much natural light you have, the bathroom is a veritable greenhouse. In fact the bathroom may be the perfect place for plants that don’t do well in other areas of the house.

• Orchids (zero work if you take a warm shower daily)
• Begonias (which love it warm and humid)
• Philodendron (lover of high-humidity)
• Bromeliad (pretty low maintenance)

Another benefit of plants in the bathroom is their air purifying capabilities. If you have a musty bathroom, pets, or consistent odors, plants can be a game changer. You’ll wonder if you’re even in the same bathroom.

Update Bathroom Sink 

You’ll be shocked and amazed at the selection of sinks available for under $100 (single sinks). Simple white under counter, self-rimmed, and vessel sinks are quick (and cheap) bathroom updates. 

You might even find something unique like colored glass, or an unusual shape that can give the bathroom a custom designed feel.

Sinks

Shop Thrift

If you could find a name brand bathroom item you’ve had your eye on  for pennies on the dollar, you’d take it, wouldn’t you? That’s the beauty of thrift shopping. Put your best thrift shopping technique to work to help you update the bathroom for cheap.

Thrift shopping can be time consuming and sometimes you just have to wait for the right items to come along. But if you’re flexible, patient, and know what you’re looking for, thrift shopping can offer you some pretty solid wins. 

Consider sources that give home items a second chance, like ReStore, consignment shops, antique stores, and classified listings.

Install a New Shower Head or Tub Spout

Get the most for your dollars and go for something that not only looks new and fresh but provides an improved experience. 

For under $100 you can install a rain shower head or a new tub faucet spout. What better way to make the bathroom feel new than give yourself a little spa treatment?

Shower Head

Change Up Storage

You don’t have to make any cosmetic changes to your bathroom to change the way you feel in the space. Sometimes all it takes is some organization. If you have too much stuff out, it can easily make the bathroom a stressful place to be. 

Add some storage solutions in the form of drawer organizers, shower caddies, wall-mounted shelves, and free-standing linen closets. If all else fails, evaluate what’s really important to have handy and what you can do without. Move what you don’t need to storage.

Wall-Mounted Shelves

Clean It Up

A deep clean may be all you need to make your bathroom feel new again. You may discover that you don’t hate your sink faucets as much as you think you did. 

A little sparkle gives you a sense of accomplishment and brings new pride. Cleaning is also a good way to assess exactly what your bathroom needs for a reboot. There’s nothing like scrubbing grout to make you realize whether or not it needs to be replaced. 

Fix Functionality

Giving some attention to the functionality of your bathroom gives the space an update you can appreciate everyday. 

For instance, if your bathroom is devoid of an exhaust fan, you can install one for cheap. They help out with odors and humidity. If you have a few extra bucks, you can get one with a heating option too.

You probably won’t notice a new shower drain cover for its cosmetic appeal. But you will notice it if your drain is broken or not draining properly. Set aside a bit of the budget for a plumber if you have a drainage problem.

Shower Drain Cover

Boost Convenience

The items in the bathroom that make it more convenient to use, like toilet paper holders, towel bars, robe hooks, etc., are easy and cheap to update and have as much of an impact as replacing fixtures. 

You can add some pretty fancy convenience items and still keep costs under $100. These accessories come in many styles and can help you set the tone of the design. Gold finish makes a statement. Angular shapes add to a modern vibe. 

Towel Bar

Update Cabinets

Replacing cabinets is a huge undertaking. Give them a refresh instead. Painting cabinets gives you endless options for color or stick to clean white. 

Even easier, simply replace the cabinet knobs and pulls. This has the power to make things feel very different without having to modify your cabinets. You can do it yourself in an hour or less. It’s one of the easiest cheap updates to the bathroom there is!

Cheap updates to the bathroom can make it feel like a whole new space for under $100. Give your bathroom a refresh with a few of these ideas. 

For more ideas on cheap bathroom remodeling check out our blog. 

9 Cheap Bathroom Remodel Tips

Interior Design Based on Zodiac Sign

 Shower? Tub? Both? Let the Planets Decide

Ever considered coming up with your interior design based on zodiac sign? It can be a powerful way to understand what will make you consciously and unconsciously comfortable in your space. Let’s take a closer look at what your zodiac sign might tell you about the shower and bathtub you select for your bathroom.

Here’s the run down by each sign of the zodiac.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Aquarius likes to keep things interesting but wants to know they can count on the people and things in their life. They hate being bored and lonely. They are the first to embrace new technology. They’d be lost without a cause to fight for. 

The ideal bathing situation for an Aquarius is a wet room that includes multiple showerheads and a large bathtub so it can be an experience for more than one person at a time. They love tech features like thermostats and smart controls. An Aquarius will absolutely insist on water-saving showerheads.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Pisces values alone time but would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it. They love romance and relaxation and would never turn down a getaway.

Pisces perfect bathing situation is a spa-inspired bathroom where they can get alone time in a serene setting. Both a shower and bathtub are necessities and kudos if they are beautiful as well as functional. As you might expect, Pisces is a lover of water so a soaker tub is a must-have.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

For an Aries, comfort is a top priority. They have confident personalities and enthusiasm and they know what they want. They have no patience for lolligaggers and prefer to work alone or be the leader. 

The ideal bathing situation for an Aries is a simple, well-laid out bathroom that won’t hold them up in the mornings. A shower should be sufficient for the Aries. Ergonomic features and perks like temperature control will make them comfortable and happy. 

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

A Taurus is very tactile and sometimes sensitive. They are the most reliable and responsible people you will meet but have a stubborn streak. They like their own space and hate change.

A Taurus can share a bathroom but should have their own space. They have a taste for the luxurious so treat them to a shower panel with some perks like jets. Make sure they never run out of hot water with temperature control at the shower fixture in addition to a good water heater.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Kind, curious, and collaborative, Gemini are great friends and associates. However, they do like being alone in their cozy spaces. They prefer their well-worn routines but are adaptable.

A small, cozy bathroom and shower are ideal for the Gemini. A showerhead with simple operation is best—too many options will overwhelm them. Their fun-loving side will appreciate a rain showerhead. No hand showers, jets, or temperature control is necessary for the easy-to-please Gemini.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Cancer likes to be at home and/or near water. They love being with people and offer an imaginative perspective to the world. They are sensitive and sentimental and deeply involved in their home and family. 

Don’t even think about making changes to the bathroom without getting Cancer involved as they are passionate about their spaces, especially the bathroom. They are all about relaxing in the water so prefer large soaking tubs or even whirlpool baths. Spa design in the bathroom will help Cancer feel at home and calm their moodiness. 

Leo (July 23- August 22)

Leo’s are all about luxury and pampering. They are creative and generous, fun to be around until their stubbornness rears its ugly head. They love fun, colors, vacations, and adventures. They’re attracted to drama and sometimes make their own drama.

The bathroom’s of Leo’s are luxurious and colorful, full of top-notch products. They like things the way they like them so once you figure that out, make sure it’s a part of the bathing experience. A spa-inspired setting with a wet room and tricked out shower system and tub are a good place to start.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

A Virgo approaches the world mindfully and works hard (behind the scenes) to make the world a better place. They love health, nature, and cleanliness and hate rudeness and having to ask for help.

In the bathroom, a Virgo is most concerned with cleanliness. A white, no nonsense bathtub and chrome shower with simple lines is enough to make them happy. A Virgo can get behind the natural aesthetic of a rain shower too. Add some plants to the bathroom to increase their comfort. 

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Libras are cooperative and avoid conflict at all costs. They are constantly seeking balance and symmetry in both the physical world and their inner world. They love the outdoors and seek out companionship in everything they do. 

A Libra’s ideal bathing situation would include room for their significant other in a large shower with multiple showerheads. They focus on water-saving features and can do without the bathtub. A well balanced design in the bathroom will keep a Libra happy.

Scorpio (October 23- November 21)

A Scorpio values truth and despises hypocrisy. They are loyal and good secret keepers. They are passionate and fun loving. A Scorpio researches everything to ensure they have a good understanding of everything around them. 

The bathroom of a Scorpio is straightforward but has a passionate side. Their resourceful nature embraces bathroom tech like smart showers, temperature controls. They aren’t afraid to take on a complex shower panel or chromatherapy tub—they’ll do their research and own it as long as they are convinced of the value of the features. 

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Always in search of meaning and exploring the world, Sagittarius loves freedom and deep thinking. They can’t be bothered with the details but bring life and enthusiasm to everyone they meet. They sometimes over-promise and don’t have much patience. Give them their space and they’ll be happy.

The ideal bathing situation for a Sagittarius includes large showers, no bathtubs, and simple but reliable functionality. They do like to have options so a shower system may be just the thing to help them feel at home in their bathroom.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

A Capricorn is independent and self-disciplined. They can be negative but are realistic and good managers. They love tradition and status without being sobby. 

In the bathroom, Capricorn likes luxury but not opulence. They insist on quality craftsmanship. Being sure about the quality of showers and tubs in their bathroom will help combat misgivings about them that will probably come up in the future. 

Want more help designing your bathroom? Visit our blog for all the latest and greatest in design and inspiration.

8 of the Hottest Bathroom Design Trends for 2024

If there’s a new bathroom on your horizon in 2024, start with these trends to begin your planning. We’ve turned to cutting-edge design experts and the staying power of the trends of the last few years to curate the eight hottest bathroom trends you can expect to see in 2024 and beyond. 

1. Statement Lighting

Bathrooms in 2024 and beyond are all about a modern minimalist sort of vibe. That doesn't mean boring, however. Consider the vanity lighting, where one of the hottest trends is simple, yet stunning statement lighting that leans toward the modern style. 

Though simple, it's interesting and makes a statement that sets the stage for the bathroom aesthetic. Try something architectural that adds an interesting, yet not overstated shape. Choose unusual bulbs that stand on their own design merits. 

2. Smart Tech

Technology has seamlessly permeated every facet of our lives, and even the bathroom has not remained untouched. The integration of smart technology into bathroom fixtures and accessories is ushering in an era of unparalleled convenience and customization. 

Features like motion-activated faucets, touchless toilets, and programmable shower systems empower users to tailor their experience while concurrently promoting water conservation. Furthermore, the inclusion of smart mirrors equipped with built-in LED lighting, Bluetooth speakers, and voice-activated virtual assistants elevates the overall functionality of this space.

One of our favorites? The vanity mirror. A fancy mirror isn't just for a movie star's dressing room, they are for your bathroom too, according to 2024 design experts. It's a perk you definitely want in your bathroom.

3. Bold Color & Warm Color

The earthy, nature-inspired colors we've loved for so long are taking a backseat in 2024. Bold colors and patterns are coming forward on everything from the walls to the more permanent features of the bathroom. Warm colors are also popular in both your neutrals and accent colors. Sage, terracotta and bold blue all invite the calm you want for a relaxing bathroom environment but are much more interesting than naturals..

Don't forget to add metallics like copper, silver, or gold to add this ambiance to your space. 

4. Spa Features

The growing aspiration to recreate a spa-like ambiance within one's home has spurred a surge in the popularity of upscale bathroom fixtures. As we transition into 2024, homeowners are showing a interest in lavish amenities, such as expansive walk-in showers featuring multiple showerheads, standalone soaking tubs, heated towel racks, and integrated sound systems. Moreover, cutting-edge technologies like intelligent mirrors with built-in lighting and voice-activated temperature management are being integrated, ushering in a new era of opulent bathroom experiences. 

A unique bathtub offers a quick update that can have a huge impact on the bathroom vibe. Unique might mean an asymmetrical curve or clean-lined rectangular shape. It might mean a unique color or decorative elements. It might mean a unique materials like cast iron, copper, or stone. 

5. Mixed Materials

The trend of using opposite materials and textures together is rapidly gaining traction in the realm of bathroom design. The fusion of elements such as concrete and brass accents, marble paired with matte black finishes, or the marriage of glass with natural wood, culminates in a bathroom space that is both diverse and visually captivating. 

Texture is artfully introduced through the inclusion of patterned tiles, textured wallpapers, and distinctive mirrors, infusing depth and personality into the overall bathroom design.

6. Spacious Layout

Big bathrooms are in. Be sure to give your bathroom a large footprint if you are building a new home. If you have to deal with the space you already have, there are ways to make your bathroom look and feel bigger. 

Use a light color palette and introduce lots of light (natural and electric) to expand the space visually. You can further enhance this effect by choosing reflective materials for your bathroom. Glossy finishes shiny metallics, and large mirrors go a long way to trick your brain into thinking your space is bigger than it is. 

7. Statement Fixtures

Another hot bathroom trend in 2024 is statement faucets. Not only are these the centerpoint of functionality in your bathroom, they also attract a lot of attention visually. Those are both good reasons to make sure they perform optimally in every sense.

Making a statement with your faucets may be about introducing top-of-the-line technology like voice activation or touch activation. It might also be about how they look. Opt for clean-lined, angular designs or tall curving goose-neck style faucets. Of particular note in 2024 is the spout style faucet.

8. Sustainability

As we step into 2024, homeowners are displaying a growing awareness of their environmental impact. Sustainable bathroom design has assumed a paramount role, with eco-conscious fixtures, water-conserving attributes, and energy-efficient lighting taking center stage as essential elements. 

Low-flow toilets, LED lighting, and water-saving showerheads are not only beneficial for the planet but also contribute to reduced utility expenses, offering a dual victory for both the environment and homeowners.

Bathroom design trends of 2024 introduce luxury without being fussy and simplicity without being spare. Let your bathroom benefit from these trends that will add value to your home and panache to your everyday life. 

Need more ideas for your bathroom remodel? Here are more tips. Or go to our blog to find the perfect aesthetic and products for your remodel. 

Bathroom Ideas