Bathroom Buying Guide

Are you looking to spruce up your bathroom? Whether you are renovating, or just need a few new items, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what products and fixtures you should purchase.

This guide will provide an overview of the different types of bathroom products available on the market, helping you make informed decisions when buying for your home. From cabinets to toothbrush holders and shower curtains, this guide will provide all the information needed for creating a functional yet stylish bathroom space.

Coordinating your Bathroom

Coordinating your bathroom can be a fun and creative experience, as well as a great way to ensure all the elements come together harmoniously.

When it comes to choosing the overall look of your bathroom, the key is to find the right balance between cosy comfort, practicality and style. Start with selecting a colour palette that reflects your taste and complements the existing features in your bathroom and the rest of your home. You may want to choose a few colours that work well together or create a tone-on-tone look by sticking with different shades of one main colour. Once you’ve established the base colour palette, you can add different textures and materials to give depth and interest to the space.

Choosing coordinating fixtures such as baskets, cabinets, shower curtains and lighting will tie everything together for a unified look. Try playing around with shapes and sizes that fit the scale of your bathroom so that it doesn’t feel too cramped or empty. If you are looking for more modern appeal, opt for minimalistic pieces without intricate details; if you prefer something more classic in feel, then select items with more ornate finishes and ceramic, stoneware or wooden finishes.

By combining all these elements in an intentional manner, you should be able to create a beautiful space that exudes personal style while remaining comfortable and practical at the same time!

Bathroom Furniture:

Bathroom Mirror:

Bathroom Mirrors are one of the most important pieces when it comes to creating a stylish and functional space in your bathroom. Not only do they provide a place to check your appearance each morning, but they can also help create a sense of openness and light in even the smallest of bathrooms.

When selecting a mirror for your bathroom, think about the size and shape that will best fit your space. Consider both decorative and functional elements, such as size or the ability to move or rotate the mirror. For larger spaces, consider adding multiple mirrors to make the room appear bigger while still creating an attractive look.

From rotating wall mirrors to makeup mirrors to hand mirrors, there are many options when it comes to choosing the right mirror for your space and personal grooming.

Bathroom Stools

Bathroom stools are an essential piece of furniture for any bathroom, not only do they provide a place to sit and relax, but they also offer a practical place to store extra towels, toiletries, and other necessary items.

When it comes to finding the perfect bathroom stool, size is key. Your bathroom should be able to comfortably accommodate your chosen stool, allowing enough room for people to move around it without feeling too cramped.

The materials used for your bathroom stool will also contribute to its aesthetic appeal as well as its durability. Wood stools can add a classic feel while metal ones can help create a more modern look with their sleek design.

You should also think about what features you need the most; whether it's extra storage space or just something comfortable to sit on whilst getting ready in the mornings.

Towel Rack & Bathroom Hooks

A towel rack or hook is an essential item to have in any bathroom. Not only do they help keep your towels organized, but they can also add a decorative touch to the room. Towel racks come in many different styles and designs, ranging from classic stainless steel models to modern rails to towel ladders. With the right towel rack, you can create a stylish and efficient storage solution for all your bathing needs.

Towel racks are also great for saving space, as you can hang multiple towels at the same time on one hanging rod or several individual towel hooks. This makes it much easier to keep track of which towels are clean and which ones need washing. The open design of these storage options also allows for air circulation around the towels, helping them dry faster and reducing the risk of mildew growth.

Having a designated spot to store your towels also helps with hygiene by preventing them from becoming damp or soiled if left lying on the floor or shower railings. Having a separate area where you can quickly grab dry towels after every bath also reduces clutter and keeps wet towels out of sight.

Washing & Sanitary Products:

Bath Mats, Bath Robes & Towels

Bath Mats:

Bath mats are a necessity for any bathroom, providing comfort and safety for users as they step out of their showers or bathtubs. Not only do bath mats provide a soft, cushiony surface for your feet to step on, but they also help keep the bathroom floor dry by absorbing excess water.

When it comes to choosing the right bath mat for your space, it is best to look at the area you wish to place it. The size of the mat should be proportional to the scope of not only the bathroom as a whole, but the shower or bathtub it is placed against. A mat that is too big can overshadow the shower or bathtub while one that is too small may not look right or protect your flooring from the water of the shower or bathtub.

The material used is also important - some mats absorb moisture better than others, so think about how often you use your shower or bathtub before committing to one type of material. Cotton is one popular choice as it is quite absorbent while still being lightweight and easy to clean. Microfiber is another good option as it dries quickly and is resistant to mould growth.

Finally, think about decorative details such as colour or pattern when selecting your bath mat, this can help add personality to your bathroom while still providing comfort and safety at the same time. Whether you choose plain white or something with more vibrant colours, there are plenty of options available to suit any aesthetic!

Bath Robes:

Bathrobes are a must-have for anyone looking to make their bathroom experience more luxurious and comfortable. Not only do they provide an extra layer of warmth, but they also keep you feeling relaxed and cosy after coming out of the bath or shower.

Bathrobes come in a variety of fabrics, from lightweight cotton to waffle pique. Depending on your preference, you can choose between sumptuous softness or breathable comfort. When selecting a style, look at the weight of the fabric – heavier bathrobes tend to be warmer than lighter ones and offer more coverage. You may also want to look at other features such as pockets, which can be useful for carrying items like your phone while you relax.

Another factor to consider is how often you use your robe, if you plan on wearing it every day then it’s worth investing in one that will stand up to regular washes and won't wear out quickly. If you're looking for something more luxurious that's only used occasionally then it's best to go for a higher-end option that can withstand occasional washes without losing its shape and texture.

When choosing colours or patterns, remember that these should complement your bathroom décor and not clash with it. Bright prints or bold patterns are great for adding a touch of personality while still looking elegant in any bathroom setting. However, if you prefer something simpler, pastel hues or neutral shades are usually a safe bet too.

Whichever style or material you choose, make sure it fits your needs perfectly so that each time you step out of the shower or bathtub, you can enjoy the luxurious comfort of your bathrobe!

Towels:

Towels are one of the most essential parts of any bathroom, offering comfort and convenience after a shower or bath. With so many various colours and designs, there is a towel for every style and budget.

When shopping for towels, it’s important to consider several factors like size, absorbency, texture, and durability. Towels come in many sizes, from hand towels for quick drying off, to large bath sheets for maximum coverage. Also, consider the length of the towel’s fibres, longer fibres mean more softness, while shorter ones are more durable over time.

Finally, think about the desired look or style of your towels as you'll want to coordinate them with your bathroom décor. If you have a neutral colour palette then go for subtle shades like white or grey; alternatively, bolder prints and patterns can help inject some personality into your bathroom space too!

No matter what kind of look you’re going for in your bathroom space, finding the perfect set of towels is as easy as determining which type best matches your needs.

Hand Sanitiser

Hand sanitiser has become an essential item in both home and public spaces alike in recent years. Not only does it make sure that your hands are clean and free from germs, but it can also provide a layer of protection against the spread of viruses such as COVID-19.

When shopping for hand sanitisers we recommend finding the scent you love most.

Shower Accessories

Shower Accessories are a great way to upgrade your bathroom experience and make it even more comfortable and enjoyable. These items help keep your shower clean & organised through the use of squeegees, shower baskets and duckboards.

Squeegees:

Squeegees are a fantastic addition to any shower, helping to remove excess water from surfaces and keep the area safe and hygienic. This can be especially important when using a bathtub with no lip or hand shower.

Shower Baskets:

Shower baskets are a great way to keep all of your showering essentials safely organised and easily accessible. This includes items such as shampoos, conditioners, soaps, razors and much more.

Duckboards:

Duckboards are an essential item for any shower space, as they provide a safe, non-slip surface for you to stand on. Duckboards are usually made from wood and make entering and exiting the shower much easier and safer by providing extra grip to stop someone from slipping.

Shower Curtains

Shower curtains are a vital part of any bathroom, providing privacy and helping to keep the entire space clean by containing any water and mess inside the shower.

For those looking for something lightweight that won’t take up too much space, polyester or nylon shower curtains are ideal. These materials can be easily wiped down, making them especially hygienic and easy to maintain. They also offer plenty of options when it comes to colour and design, so you can find something that perfectly complements your existing decor.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, then heavier fabrics such as cotton or linen might be the way to go. Not only do these materials provide more coverage for extra privacy but they also help absorb moisture from the steamy air in the bathroom – meaning that it will remain cleaner and fresher for longer periods of time. Plus, they look beautiful too!

When selecting a shower curtain, think about what size you need – both lengthwise and widthwise - in order for the curtain to contain the potential mess and not look foolish.

Lastly, consider what kind of pattern or design you want? Even though shower curtains are often simply white, there are plenty of other options out there too! From fun prints with bright florals to subtle stripes or geometric shapes – there's definitely something out there to suit every taste.

Soap & Their Accessories

Soaps:

Soap is one of the most essential items in any bathroom space, necessary for keeping the skin clean and healthy. It comes in many forms, including bars of soap and liquid soaps. Soap works by breaking down dirt and grease, allowing them to be washed away with water. There are a variety of different ingredients used to make soaps, which can contain moisturising elements as well as antibacterial properties – helping to protect against germs and bacteria while providing softer, healthier skin.

Traditional bar soaps are made through the process of saponification: a chemical reaction between an acid (such as lye) and fat (like vegetable oil). This creates a salt-like substance called sodium stearate, which helps to bind together the other ingredients as well as create that characteristic lather when mixed with water. In addition to this basic recipe, various fragrances, colours and other additives can be added in order to give each bar of soap its own unique characteristics.

Liquid soaps are usually made from synthetic detergents rather than fats, meaning that they don’t require the same saponification process that bar soaps do. This makes them generally easier to formulate and produces a much lower pH than traditional soaps – meaning that they won’t irritate sensitive skin like some bar soaps might. Additionally, liquid soaps often contain emulsifiers which help keep the oil and water separate - making them better at cleansing oily skin than traditional soaps too!

Soap Dishes:

Soap dishes make for an interesting & contemporary addition to a bathroom space, providing a holder for soaps and other items that might otherwise get lost in the shuffle. Though small in size, soap dishes can make a big difference when it comes to the overall look and feel of your bathroom.

When selecting a soap dish, there are several things to consider: size, material, design, and function. You want something that is large enough to hold all of your items without taking up too much space - ideally one that has good drainage so water won’t pool around your soap. As far as materials go, ceramic is a popular choice due to its durability and elegant appearance while plastic or metal can also work well depending on what aesthetic you’re trying to achieve.

Soap Dispensers:

Soap dispensers are a potential alternative to bars of soap, as they offer a convenient way to keep soap within reach at all times. They are usually made of either plastic or metal, though more modern designs can come in ceramic too. The most common types of soap dispensers are countertop variants though wall-mounted dispensers are available too.

When selecting a soap dispenser, it is important to consider the size and capacity of the unit. If you have limited counter space or do not live with many others, a smaller dispenser may be the best option. Larger units that hold more soap will be helpful for families or those who go through soap quickly though.

Once again you'll want to choose one that matches your existing decor and fits in with the rest of the surface that the dish has been placed on. It's also important to make sure that the pump mechanism is easy to use though most soap dispensers will require a few extra pumps on the first few uses in order to draw the soap into the mechanism.

Toilet Roll Holders

Toilet roll holders are another essential piece of any bathroom, providing both convenience and style.

The most common type of toilet roll holder is the free-standing version. These consist of two main pieces: a base and an arm. The base is usually weighted or anchored down in some way, ensuring that it won’t tip over when the arm is loaded with multiple rolls of toilet paper. The arm itself can vary in length depending on how many rolls of toilet paper you want to store - from short arms for single rolls to longer arms for multiple rolls. The design of the arm usually also features side or back fins which help to keep the roll in place as well as secure it against accidental drops.

Wall-mounted toilet roll holders are another great option if you’re looking for something more discreet and out-of-the-way. These are typically made from metal, plastic or wood with either screw or adhesive mounting options available, allowing you to easily fix them into your wall without any major structural changes necessary. Some Wall mounted holders have a basic spring-loaded mechanism which allows you to easily remove or add new rolls of toilet paper when needed while others simply let you slide the rolls of toilet paper on or off the holder.

No matter which type you choose, there are plenty of different ways to make sure that your bathroom is well-stocked with toilet paper while also maintaining a stylish appearance!

Toilet Brush Holders

A toilet brush holder is yet another important piece of bathroom equipment. It keeps your toilet brush neat and tidy, out of the way, and prevents the spread of germs or cross-contamination between surfaces.

When selecting a toilet brush holder, size and capacity are important factors to consider. You'll want something that can hold your brush securely without taking up too much space in your bathroom. Plastic or metal models may be more affordable but ceramic versions tend to look nicer in a more modern or upscale bathroom setting.

In terms of design, there are both wall-mounted and countertop versions available. Wall-mounted toilet brush holders are usually made out of metal but can also be found in more elegant materials such as ceramic or even wood for those looking for something truly unique. These models typically use screw or adhesive mounting options which make them easy to install onto any wall. Both types come in a variety of shapes including round, square, rectangular and oval designs with either stainless steel or stoneware finishes depending on the look you're going for. Additionally, some countertop models may also include a lid so you can easily contain any odours emanating from the brushes when not in use.

No matter which type of toilet brush holder you choose, it’s an essential accessory for keeping your bathroom clean while still maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

Toothbrush Holders

A small but important bathroom accessory, these holders help to keep toothbrushes and their accompanying accessories organized, neat and hygienic. Toothbrush holders are predominantly made from stoneware, plastic or metal ensuring any style can be matched and any budget kept within.

Tissue Boxes & Holders

Tissue boxes and holders are a great way to add convenience, style and organization to any bathroom. Not only do they keep tissues from getting scattered around the room, but they also help keep them dry and make them easy to access when needed. If you want to add that extra bit of hygiene, tissue boxes and holders are the perfect accessory.

Bathroom Storage & Waste Disposal:

Bins

Bathroom bins are essential for keeping your bathroom tidy. They provide a convenient place to store used tissues, paper towels and other waste until it can be disposed of properly. Plus with the lid most bathroom bins come with, you can protect your space from foul-smelling odours.

Bathroom Cabinets

Bathroom Cabinets are an essential part of the modern bathroom, providing both style and a practical storage solution for all of your bathroom storage necessities. With their sleek design, these cabinets can provide much-needed storage space without compromising on the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom.

When selecting a bathroom cabinet, there are many factors to consider including size and material. Generally speaking, larger cabinets can help maximize storage space but may also take up more visual real estate in your bathroom. Alternatively, smaller cabinets might take up less room but offer limited capacity for any items you need to store away tidily.

As for materials, wood is often seen as the most versatile option when it comes to these cabinets due to its durability and ability to be stained or painted according to your preferences or the style of the rest of the bathroom. Metal or glass cabinets are also available if you prefer something more contemporary or modern in feel.

Laundry Basket

Laundry baskets can be great accessories for any bathroom as they provide an easy way to not only keep clothes off the floor but also collect and store dirty clothes until they can be washed.

Capacity is an important factor when selecting a laundry basket, especially if you have multiple people using the same bathroom in your home. If you’re looking for something large enough to hold a lot of laundry in one go, opt for a model with a generous capacity. For smaller spaces, smaller or even collapsible laundry baskets may be ideal as they can be folded away neatly when not in use. It should also be made from a material that won’t break easily under pressure from heavy loads.

When it comes to the look, there are many different options available including classic woven models or contemporary & stylish designs. Some even come with lids to prevent any odours or dampness emanating from the hamper if it's left open too long.

A good quality laundry basket should last for years and should also be easy to carry around thanks to its robust handles or built-in carrying straps. You may even want to purchase two separate models; one larger one for the family’s weekly wash and a smaller one for individual items that need washing more regularly such as towels, bedding or gym gear. This will save on energy costs while ensuring everything is kept neat and tidy at all times!

Bathroom Lighting:

When it comes to bathroom lighting, there are several key properties to keep in mind. The first is the purpose of the light. Do you need it for general illumination, or do you need task lighting for specific activities, such as shaving or putting on makeup?

The second is that not all lighting can go in bathrooms as the moisture in the room can damage the light and become a hazard, this means you should only consider getting lighting with an IP Rating of 44 or above, though this can change depending on the Bathroom Zone the light is placed in.

There are 4 bathroom zones, lighting in Zones 0-2 should be at least IP44 or more while fixtures in zones 3 can be IP20, though a higher rating is still advised in order to ensure safety.

For a more detailed look into lighting, check out our IP Ratings Explained & Lighting Buying Guide blogs.

Common errors when purchasing bathroom accessories

1. Not checking a light fixture's IP Rating

When purchasing lighting for a bathroom or other location exposed to liquids & moisture you should always check the IP Rating of the light to make sure it has the proper protection and will not malfunction or become a safety hazard, typically a rating of IP44 or above should be adequate. To ensure this standard we recommend only looking in our Bathroom Lighting section

2. Purchasing items that don't fit in scale with the bathroom size

We recommend always measuring the spaces where to wish to place bathroom accessories to make sure they match, nothing looks more awkward than a soap dish hanging off the side of your sink because it's too long!

3. Ignoring aesthetic balance and failing to create a unified look

While using varied colours & materials has the potential to create an aesthetically pleasing interior, we recommend mostly sticking to one particular style in order to ensure your accessories don't clash with each other.

4. Skimping on storage solutions like baskets, cabinets, etc

A good bathroom offers plenty of storage options for everything from toilet rolls to shampoo to dirty clothes, a lack of storage can quickly lead to a messy-looking bathroom. Plus storage pieces such as a cabinet or laundry basket can be great ways to fill out previously empty spaces!

5. Neglecting safety features such as nonslip mats or grab bars

Neglecting products like bath mats can be a big safety risk due to the trip hazard of a wet bathroom floor, to avoid this we recommend purchasing safety products.

6. Forgetting to consider fixtures/accessories that are easy to clean and maintain

While not strictly necessary, we'd recommend using products that are easy to clean such as polyester or nylon shower curtains in order to save time when cleaning your bathroom as well as cleaning equipment such as squeegees to keep your bathroom as clean and good looking as possible.