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A bathroom that doesn’t look finished can appear bare, uninviting, and lacking in personality.
It may have walls or surfaces that are plain and devoid of any decorative elements, such as artwork or shelving. The lighting may be harsh or dim, making the space feel unwelcoming.
The bathroom fixtures may be outdated or mismatched, giving the impression of a space that hasn’t been fully updated. Additionally, the bathroom may lack storage solutions, leaving toiletries and towels scattered around and creating a cluttered appearance.
If this is the state of your bathroom currently, then it’s about time you made it ‘look finished’ using these 15 bathroom finishing touches. These items will make your bathroom look and feel finished, inviting, and uniquely yours.
1. Start with Essential Bathroom Accessories
When it comes to finishing a bathroom and making it look complete, there are a few essential accessories that are a must-have. These accessories not only add functionality but also add style and personality to the space. They include:
(a) A Shower Curtain
A shower curtain is an essential accessory that not only adds privacy to your shower area but also protects the bathroom floor from getting wet.
When choosing a shower curtain, consider the color, pattern, and material. A colorful or patterned shower curtain can add a pop of color and personality to the space, while a neutral-colored curtain can create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
The good thing about a shower curtain is that it is a very affordable way to add a touch of luxury to the bathroom. You won’t, thus, need a more expensive shower enclosure.
(b) Bring in a Bath Mat
You also need to bring in a bath mat to the bathroom. It not only provides a non-slip surface so you don’t have a slipping hazard after a shower but also protects the bathroom floor from water damage.
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(c) Add a Soap Dispenser
Yes, soap can get messy on the counter, especially if you’re using bar soap as it can leave soap scum and residue on the countertop, which can be difficult to clean. Liquid soap can also leave a mess if it spills or drips.
While using a soap dish or tray can help contain the mess, it can still leave marks or stains on the countertop over time.
This is why using a soap dispenser is a great solution to help minimize any potential mess to your countertop. Plus, a soap dispenser adds a touch of elegance to the bathroom.
(d) Have a Toothbrush Holder
You wouldn’t want to always move to the bathroom with your toothbrush, especially if you live in an apartment, right? This is where a toothbrush holder comes in.
This convenient and hygienic option for storing your toothbrushes helps keep your toothbrushes organized and easily accessible while also protecting them from germs and bacteria that may be on your bathroom counter or in the air. You need one!
When selecting a holder, make sure it provides enough space for each toothbrush you plan to put in the holder, you don’t want to cram as many toothbrushes as possible into one holder.
Also, opt for an open holder that allows for air circulation, unlike a closed one that can actually create a moist environment that encourages the growth of bacteria.
Finally, remember to place the holder in a dry area of the bathroom. If the toothbrush holder is constantly exposed to moisture, it can also encourage the growth of bacteria.
(e) Install a Towel Holder
Without a towel holder, such as a towel rack, towel hook, or towel rail, you may be tempted to throw your wet towels over the shower curtain rod, which can lead to a damp and humid environment. This can cause musty smells and even damage to your bathroom fixtures over time.
Fix this by installing a towel rack to help keep your towels organized and off the bathroom floor, providing a clean and organized look.
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2. Bring in Storage and Organization Solutions
A bathroom that is cluttered and disorganized can feel chaotic and unfinished but by incorporating storage solutions such as shelves, baskets, and cabinets, you can create a more cohesive and put-together look.
When items are stored in an organized manner, it makes it easier to find what you need, when you need it. This can save you time and frustration when getting ready in the morning or getting ready for bed at night.
More so, factoring in storage and organization solutions also shows attention to detail and care for your space so you have a sense of pride in your bathroom, and it becomes a more enjoyable place to spend time.
While keeping a bathroom organized can be a challenge, especially if it’s a small space, these few solutions can make it possible to create a functional and stylish bathroom.
(a) Use a Decorative Vanity Tray
If you have a lot of items that you use daily and want to keep on your bathroom counter, a vanity tray can help keep them organized and in one place. It can also help protect your counter from spills and stains.
Use one to provide a designated spot for items such as perfumes, lotions, jewelry, makeup, and brushes, making them easily accessible. A tray with compartments can help separate items and prevent them from rolling around.
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(b) Build Wall Shelves
Whether you have limited storage space in your bathroom or no movable storage at all, wall shelves can help create new storage space or maximize the space you already have.
Wall shelves can create extra storage space in a bathroom without taking up floor space. They can be used to store items like towels, toiletries, and decorative objects.
Floating shelves are a popular choice because they give the illusion of more space. There are also shelves with hooks or towel bars attached, which can be useful for hanging items like towels or robes.
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(c) Provide Over-the-Toilet Storage
Over-the-toilet storage is a great way to utilize space that would otherwise go unused. It can be in the form of a cabinet, shelf, or ladder, and can be used to store items like toilet paper, towels, and cleaning supplies.
Some over-the-toilet storage options also have built-in cabinets with doors, which can be useful for storing items that need to be kept out of sight.
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3. Now, Add Decorative Touches
To truly finish off a bathroom, adding some decorative touches can make all the difference.
Decorative touches also help tie together the overall design and create a cohesive look. They can also add personality and character to the space, making it feel more inviting and comfortable.
Here are a few ideas to consider:
(a) Plants and Greenery
Adding a touch of greenery can help to bring life to any boring bathroom.
Use a small plant or two on a windowsill or countertop. Plants like succulents or ferns can thrive in the humid environment of a bathroom. Alternatively, hanging plants like spider plants or pothos can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.
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(b) Artwork and Mirrors
Artwork and mirrors can help to add a personal touch to any bathroom.
Consider hanging a piece of artwork that complements the color scheme of the room. Alternatively, a large mirror can help to make a small bathroom feel more spacious. A framed mirror can also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.
(c) Upgrade with Candles and Diffusers
Adding a candle or diffuser can help to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere in any bathroom.
You want a scent that complements the color scheme of the room. For example, lavender or jasmine can help to create a calming and soothing atmosphere, while citrus scents can help to energize and invigorate.
Now, you have a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing!
4. Get the Lighting Fixed
Bad lighting in a bathroom can have a negative impact on its overall look and functionality.
Insufficient lighting can make the bathroom feel cramped and unwelcoming, while harsh lighting can create a sterile and uncomfortable atmosphere.
Poor lighting can also make tasks like applying makeup or shaving more difficult, as well as create safety hazards by making it hard to see potential hazards like wet floors.
Additionally, outdated lighting fixtures can make the bathroom appear old and outdated, detracting from its overall finished look.
Because lighting is an essential aspect of any bathroom design, as it can make or break the overall ambiance of the space, these two types of lighting will help upgrade and finish off your bathroom look.
(a) Install Vanity Lighting
For providing ample illumination for daily grooming tasks, such as shaving and applying makeup, you want to place vanity lighting on either side of the mirror, at about eye level, to avoid casting shadows on the face.
When choosing vanity lighting, consider the size of your bathroom and the style of your decor. For smaller bathrooms, a single fixture with multiple bulbs may be sufficient, while larger bathrooms may require multiple fixtures and layering of light.
There are various types of vanity lighting available, including sconces, pendants, and flush mounts. Each type offers a different look and feel, so choose the one that best suits your personal style and bathroom design.
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(b) Finish with Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is a great way to add some extra visual interest to your bathroom. It can be used to highlight architectural features, artwork, or decorative objects.
One popular type of accent lighting is recessed lighting, which is installed into the ceiling and provides a soft, diffuse glow. Another option is wall sconces, which can be used to highlight specific areas of the bathroom, such as a piece of artwork or a decorative tile backsplash.
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5. The Final Touches
No bathroom is complete without the finishing touches. These small details can make a big difference in the overall functionality of the space. The two essential final touches to consider for your bathroom are:
(a) A Toilet Paper Holder
Without a toilet paper holder, rolls may end up sitting on the floor or on top of the toilet tank, which can be unsanitary and make the bathroom look cluttered and unfinished.
So, a toilet paper holder is a practical item that can also add a touch of style to your bathroom.
(b) A Trash Can
You definitely need a trash can in your bathroom! It is essential for keeping your bathroom clean, organized, and free of unwanted odors.
Without one, your bathroom will look cluttered and disorganized, with tissues, cotton swabs, and other waste items scattered around.
Also, there may be unpleasant odors, especially if you don’t dispose of used tissues or hygiene products immediately. Additionally, flushing certain items like facial wipes or cotton balls down the toilet can cause plumbing problems in the long run.
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Whether you’re renting an apartment or in your own home, these finishing touches are essential items that can make a big difference in the functionality and overall look and feel of your bathroom.
Disclaimer: These images are courtesy of Bodes_Studio, Coastal Shower Doors, Mj Harris Group, HIB Bathrooms, Mandarin Stone Official, Mitchell__Black, The Blue Snowdrop Art, Dach.Interior_Design, Wewnetrzu, 100 Years in the Making, IKEA, Marina_Ky, HW Interiors, Saneux Bathrooms, and Lazienkowy.Pl on Instagram.
