Home & Gardens

Bathroom Renovation: Dos and Don’ts for a Seamless Makeover

photo of woman on bathtub

Transforming your bathroom into a stylish and functional oasis can feel like a puzzle with a thousand tiny pieces. Because it’s a tricky space, the process often feels more overwhelming than exciting, from selecting the right layout to choosing materials that stand up to moisture. If it’s done right, you’ll love the result, but if things go wrong, you’ll be reminded of the fact every single day.

The good news is that knowing what works and what doesn’t can make the process much easier. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, understanding the key dos and don’ts can save you from common mishaps and help you create a practical and inviting bathroom.

DO Prioritise Quality Bathroom Supplies 

When renovating your bathroom, the best thing you can do is not skimp on quality. Whether shopping for a vanity, bath, shower head, shower fittings, basin, or toilet, always prioritise well-made products. Many assume this means splurging on the most expensive fixtures, but that’s not always true. You can easily find high-quality, designer bathroom equipment and supplies without breaking the bank. 

Investing in durable supplies can save you money in the long run. When you have a reliable vanity, showerhead, and basin, you’ll have fewer repairs to worry about and won’t need replacements as often. Quality materials can handle daily wear and tear, making your bathroom not only more functional but also more cost-effective over time.

If this is your first time renovating a bathroom, it’s tricky to determine which supplies are made from quality materials. Visiting bathroom showrooms is a great way to get a better idea of what works for your space. You’ll get to see and feel the products in person, which makes deciding much easier. Plus, if you’re unsure about your options, the knowledgeable staff can guide you through the choices and offer helpful advice. This extra support can save you time and make the process smoother, ensuring you pick supplies that are durable, stylish, and right for your bathroom.

washroom interior with sink and tap on counter near mirror
Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn

Choosing bathroom equipment is about finding the right mix of style, durability, and practicality. You should prioritise materials that can handle moisture, like ceramic or stainless steel, and look for warranties—they’re usually a good sign of quality.

 Also, look for water-efficient taps and showerheads to save on bills and make sure vanities and cabinets have enough storage and are made to resist moisture. Consider testing fixtures to see if they feel sturdy and easy to use. And don’t forget to match the finishes to your design to achieve cohesion and tie everything together.

DON’T Skimp on the Storage

Storage is one thing you don’t want to overlook in a bathroom. Without enough of it, your space can quickly feel messy and unorganised. That’s why you should think about where you’ll keep towels, toiletries, and other essentials.

A vanity with drawers or a shelved cabinet can make a big difference. Wall-mounted units or floating shelves are great for smaller spaces. Clever storage solutions not only keep everything tidy but also add to the overall look of your bathroom. It’s always better to have extra space than to struggle to find room for your everyday items.

DO Budget for the Unexpected

Budgeting for a renovation isn’t just about the obvious expenses. Older homes, in particular, can come with surprises like hidden water damage or poor ventilation. A leaky shower pan or a running toilet could lead to costly repairs, so it’s smart to keep a cushion of 10-15 % in your budget. 

If nothing unexpected comes up, you’ll have extra funds for another project or to put back into savings. This also helps reduce stress, knowing you’re prepared for anything. It’s not just about money—it can also keep your timeline flexible if delays pop up.

DO Consider Lighting

bathroom with large window and white clean bathtub

Good lighting is essential for a functional and comfortable bathroom. You need enough light for tasks like shaving or applying makeup, and for those moments when dealing with minor first aid. Overhead lights work well for general use, but they can cast shadows. Adding vertical fixtures, like sconces on either side of the vanity, helps create a more balanced and functional lighting setup.

Recessed lights work well in shower areas, but make sure they’re rated for wet zones. Combining task, ambient, and decorative lights helps create a practical and inviting space. 

DON’T Forget About Ventilation

Don’t forget about ventilation in your bathroom. It’s common for older homes to have poor ventilation. This ultimately leads to mould, mildew, and damage to finishes. Even if your home is not old, hot showers create a lot of moisture, and an open window isn’t always enough to deal with it. 

That said, a powerful exhaust fan is your best option to keep moisture under control. Here’s a useful tip: ensure the exhaust vents to the outside, not into the attic, to avoid structural damage. Proper ventilation protects your bathroom’s surfaces and keeps the air fresh. 

DO Hire Professionals

It’s also important to know your limits when tackling a bathroom renovation. While DIY work can save money, it’s crucial to recognise which tasks require professional expertise. Removing old fixtures or doing the final paintwork are great DIY options. However, jobs like plumbing, electrical work, or tiling are best left to experienced tradespeople. Mistakes in these areas can lead to costly repairs down the line. 

Hiring a skilled professional ensures everything is done properly, giving you peace of mind. It’s an investment that pays off, as you’ll avoid common pitfalls and end up with beautifully finished space.

DON’T Rush the Project

Another thing you shouldn’t do is rush your renovation project. It’s easy to get excited and want everything done yesterday, but rushing leads to mistakes and extra costs. Poor planning can mean redoing work, and nobody wants to pay for the same thing twice. 

Take your time to explore ideas, whether browsing design inspirations online or creating a Pinterest board for tiles, fixtures, and layouts. Accurate measurements are a must, so don’t cut corners there. While it’s exciting to imagine your new bathroom, allowing enough time for the process will lead to a space that’s well-designed, functional, and worth the wait.

Discover more from

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading