Ever walk into someone’s bathroom only to find that it is cramped, decorated in an odd fashion, or just not a place you want to be? Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect their guest bathroom, and it is a place that could use some touchups.
When you have guests over, they already may feel out of place. After all, home is home and being in someone else’s home can conjure up feelings of anxiety or even uneasiness as you must utilize their space and their things.
Fortunately, you can create a welcoming guest bathroom for your guests that will allow them to relax and feel like they can freshen up with ease and without discomfort. Check out these essentials that you should ALWAYS include in your guest bathroom.
Clean and Clear Space
Before you head out to the store and start to pack the bathroom full of different items, take a step back for a moment. One of the keys to creating a welcoming guest bathroom is to keep it clean and clear. You want to remove any personal items of your own as you do not want your guest to be overwhelmed by your items being in there. You should remove any prescription medications that may be in the cabinet as well. Anything you would not want to share with a guest – remove it.
You also want to make sure they have room to unpack their things and a place to put it. While adding a bunch of shampoo, conditioner, and soap to the counter and shower stall can be helpful, they may bring their own. You do not need to flood them with a bunch of items and simply take a moment to just clear out the space for them.
Never Forget Storage
How many times have you walked into a bathroom and needed to set something down only for there to be no place to do so. It can be frustrating. Don’t let this be your bathroom. Once you have minimized and removed your clutter from the area, take some time and make sure there is ample storage space for your guests.
You can utilize wicker baskets, plastic bins, and other small boxes or storage options to help create additional space. You can even label these storage options to help ensure they feel comfortable using them and know what they are used for.
If you have an area that is void of anything, consider adding a shelf or over the toilet cabinet it create more room and space for not only your guests, but for you as well once they are gone.
Keep the Style Simple
Being too overambitious when decorating can actually have a negative impact on your guests. You wouldn’t want to walk into a bathroom that is dizzy or too busy with colors and patterns and neither do your guests.
Comfort should always be the number one factor when you are designing your guest bathroom space. Take some time to flip through magazines or even go on the Internet to get some inspiration. You do not need to overdo it and actually underdoing it may be better.
In essence, remember to choose things that are easy to care for as well such as countertops that can be wiped down and flooring that can be swept up.
Don’t Get too Fancy with Materials
Yes, we all love a beautifully decorated and fancy bathroom but it is not always practical. Splurging on materials in your guest bathroom is generally not recommended. In fact, it is best to remain conservative. You want your guests to be comfortable using the bathroom not afraid to use it because if they break something it will cost them too much to replace it.
Think accessible and convenient as you choose the different materials. For example, instead of opting to replace your bathtub, consider having it refinished. Or give your vanity a faux marble counter as opposed to actual marble.
You want materials that clean well and will still provide a nice and modern look.
Lighting and Layout Are Important Factors
If you are not keen on design, you may want to hire a designer to assist you, but if not, as you create a nice guest bathroom space, think about the layout of the space itself and the lighting.
If you are creating a new guest bathroom, choose a layout that makes the most sense. Do not cramp the toilet in one area and leave guests feeling like they have no room. If you already have an existing bathroom, changing the layout can be tricky. Simply do what you can and work to make the area look roomy and larger than what it is.
Keep things as basic as possible. Lighting should be plentiful and accessible. You should make sure that you have a good mirror and lights throughout the bathroom. A dark bathroom is not one that anyone wants to be in and one that is too bright can cause headaches. There is a balance and you will need to see what works best in your space.
You should try to opt for ambient, decorative, and accent lights all in one to create the perfect look and mood.
Accessorize and Decorate
Once you have hit the basics and have the style, lighting, and space under control, you can move onto accessorizing and decorating the space.
As we have mentioned before, keep it simple and make it cozy. You can add a candle or two to help add some ambiance should the guest want to take a bath. You can also hang a robe from the bathroom door for them to use.
You should keep pictures and other decorative items of that nature limited. Of course, one or two items is not going to be a big deal, but you do not want to overcrowd or clutter the space with decorations that are not necessary.
Supplies – Don’t Forget Them
Okay, we are finally to the supplies portion of the bathroom. Now is the time where you can add some essential and needed toiletries such as toilet paper, hand soap, and anything else you deem necessary for your guest.
You do want to make sure you keep plenty of wash cloths, towels, and other linens in stock and plentiful while they are there. Always have a basket or hamper available in the bathroom as well as a trash can for them to dispose of items.
Consider adding a non-slip mat to the tub to prevent any slip and fall accidents and a rug with grips on the bottom outside the shower or bath to prevent slips getting in and out.
Need some ideas of toiletries to have on hand?
- Towels
- Washcloths
- Toilet paper
- Wipes
- Over the counter medicines
- Disposable razors
- Hairbrush
- New toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Soaps
- Lotions
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Deodorant
Lastly, always have some cleaning supplies in the bathroom for them to use as well. You do not need a bunch of supplies, but keeping some disinfectant wipes, spray, and a sponge can do the trick. It will also allow them to clean up any messes or spills that happen.
Get Your Guest Bathroom Guest Ready
Now that you have a good idea of how to style and stock your guest bathroom, it is time to get to it. Remember, your guest is away from their home and wants to feel as though they are a part of yours. Making the bathroom a comfortable, inviting, and cozy place can achieve that for them.
To help you better visualize and design your guest bathroom, think about what it is you would want if you were a guest and had access to a guest bathroom.