I'll let you into one of my best kept secrets - a towel refresh is one of the fastest (and most budget-friendly) ways to update a bathroom scheme. And M&S' trusty towels are the most effective ways to achieve it.

It can be hard to know how to refresh a bathroom without undergoing a full renovation project, and if you're in a rented home, this is made even more challenging by uninspiring bathroom designs that you can't change.

So, often the extent of a bathroom update is left to the small things we can change. Bath mats and bathroom storage ideas can add some much-needed character to a space, but the best towels are my favourite way to inject colour and personality in one fell swoop.

M&S has some of the most stylish towels I've seen in a long while, which has inspired me to update my own this summer. With guests staying in the upcoming month, it's the perfect time to hit buy on these picks.

Interiors trends are always reflected in small ways through towel designs, so it's a great way to try out a trend without investing too much time or effort.

Frills have been seen in so many different formats in 2026. Whether on the bottom of a sofa for a kitsch living room look or on a cafe curtain to add flair to a window, frills are a small touch that add a vintage-inspired look to any interior.

M&S' selection of trend-inspired towels doesn't stop there either. This cream blanket stitch towel adds subtle interest to the edge, creating a look that is a little bit different to your normal plain towel.

Colourful, checkerboard-patterned towels have been a big trend in 2026, but I'm leaning towards more pared-back styles with small embroidered details for the next season.

I'm predicting that this spotty embroidered towel will also be a huge hit for autumn. It comes in so many colours to suit any bathroom colour scheme, and I'm personally eyeing up the white and blue colourway to match my coastal countryside aesthetic.

Not only are they bang on trend, but these towels are also great value for the quality. These picks are all pure cotton and start as low as £6 for a hand towel and go up to £30 for a bath sheet, so you don't have to break the bank to purchase a full set.

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Looking for a bigger bathroom project? Colourful shower trays are showing that 70s style is set to be back in a big way, but if you can't invest in a full colourful bathroom overhaul, there's always the option to go big with your towels or bath mat.

Pattern is often used in abundance elsewhere in the home, so why isn't it as common in a bathroom? Well, decorating a bathroom is more complex than other areas due to the wet, humid environment impacting materials that can be used, so creating a pattern-packed space requires a bit more planning.

In 2026, bathroom trends are all about using colour and pattern to create a space that feels more akin to the lived-in rooms elsewhere in our homes. A wash space can still be practical and relaxing with colour and pattern, and actually, this often helps to create a space that inspires you from morning 'til night.

There's an art to using pattern effectively in a bathroom, and layering it will create a premium look that feels carefully curated. Here's how you can achieve it.

'I like pattern to earn its keep. In a bathroom, it can do far more than decorate a surface; it can pull attention towards the best part of the room or make an awkward layout feel much more purposeful,' explains Lesley Taylor, interior designer and founder of Baked Tiles.

Bathrooms are often small rooms, and the inclination can be to opt for neutral colour palettes and plain surfaces to enhance the sense of space. The consensus is that often pattern needs to be used in larger spaces so that it doesn't look too cluttered or busy, but you can avoid this by playing with scale in a bathroom.

Similarly, drenching a space in just one pattern can actually create a look that feels too clinical and considered, rather than a naturally lived-in look.

So, how do you go about layering different patterns in a bathroom?

'Pattern layering does not have to mean putting two decorative prints next to one another and hoping they get along,' says Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Some of the most interesting bathrooms build pattern in less obvious ways, perhaps a floral or geometric tile on the wall with the movement of marble underfoot, or a checkerboard floor against a wall tile with an uneven glaze. One gives you a clear motif, while the other brings a softer kind of variation, so the room has plenty going on without becoming exhausting,' she adds.

As Grazzie explains, the trick is to pair patterns together that you wouldn't initially think would match. It's important to find a common thread between the patterns, such as a bathroom colour scheme, and then play with smaller and larger scale prints to prevent a cluttered look.

While you ought to be careful with soft materials in a bathroom, utilising patterned linens through an undersink curtain, a hand towel or a roman blind gives you more opportunities to layer different patterns.

On a larger scale, tiles will be the ultimate solution for bringing in distinct patterns on a floor-to-ceiling scale, while also protecting your walls. There is so much potential to be creative with even the most simplest of subway tiles, too.

As Grazzie explains, 'We tend to think first about what is printed on a tile, but the laying pattern matters just as much. A plain rectangular tile laid in stripes, a herringbone or a basketweave can sit brilliantly alongside something more decorative because it adds detail through structure rather than another competing image.'

While bathroom floors and walls can look particularly effective when decked out in contrasting patterned tiles, you don't need to layer pattern on every surface to still get the look.

'I would also resist making every pattern equally busy. You still get plenty of character, but the bathroom does not feel as though every surface is trying to tell the same joke,' Lesley concludes.

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Don't be too precious about choosing patterns to pair together. As Grazzie explains, 'The bathroom should not look as though every tile came from the same collection. It is far more personal when there is a slight surprise in the mix.'

The more unexpected, the better.

Colour is reigning supreme in bathrooms as of late, but being brave with bold colours might be a step too far for many of us. Neutral bathroom colour schemes have long been the popular choice for a wash space, creating a serene atmosphere to relax in. However, colour has powerful benefits to our wellbeing, and utilising it in a small room is a great way to experiment.

A low-contrast colour scheme is the perfect solution to bridging the gap between a colourful interior and a more pared-back ambience. Rather than opting for pops of colour that have a distinct variation from lighter shades in the space, a low contrast design is all about choosing colours that are more similar in tone.

Here's how to try it in your bathroom.

The great thing about this bathroom trend is that it can be adapted to suit any taste. If you prefer a neutral scheme, you can opt for a low contrast neutral palette that has plenty of depth while sticking to a pared-back look.

Alternatively, you can use a low-contrast colour variation to achieve a bolder look, by choosing tones within the same brighter colour family.

'The appeal of low contrast colour schemes, especially in bathrooms, is that they create visual layers instead of physical ones,' explains Michael Rolland, managing director of The Paint Shed.

'As bathrooms usually boast fewer furniture items, textiles and other decor elements, they can seem a bit bare to a keen decorating eye. Layering tones in this space, by using varying shades on the doors, the trims, maybe even the different walls and the ceiling, creates a more interesting and appealing environment,' he adds.

You don't want to decorate a bathroom like the other rooms in your home. Having too many decorative objects on show or an abundance of soft furnishings just creates clutter in a bathroom, and often the materials aren't well suited to a wet and humid environment.

So, to achieve the same level of depth, interest and expression, you need to get creative by using colour. A palette that is inspired by tonal variations creates a design that has dimension, without it feeling difficult to decide on complementary colours to pair together.

'A low contrast colour scheme transforms and adds depth to one of the more functional spaces of a home. Popular colour schemes for bathrooms include earthy browns and beiges, which you can recreate with shades like Farrow & Ball's Scallop, Little Greene's Split Pink, and Madeleine,' Michael adds.

A low contrast colour scheme is particularly effective in a neutral bathroom. Cream and white shades are popular in spaces like this but also tricky to make interesting, so opting for tonal variations such as linen, mushroom and taupe shades create a much more interesting look.

Equally, this colour theory is a handy way to make a statement colour scheme work. If you're drawn to bold shades of red, for example, but you don't know what to pair it with, then choosing paler pink hues or terracotta accessories will tie the colourful look together.

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Want to take a low-contrast tonal colour scheme one step further? These colourful shower trays are a fabulous way to bring colour into every corner of your bathroom.

Trends always come back around eventually, and in recent years, we've seen the 70s colourful bathroom suites once again grow in popularity.

Colourful baths were the first contemporary foray into this bathroom trend that we saw, with homeowners opting to make their bath a statement feature in their wash space. However, the trend is ramping up a notch with colourful shower trays that can be matched to any colour (yes, any) you desire.

While avocado bathroom suites might still be greeted with a shudder, there are now so many ways to make colourful bathroomware, and showers in particular, look stylish — and these brands are leading the way.

When you're shopping for the essentials in a bathroom renovation, the basics — shower trays, shower screens, basins — can often feel uninspiring. Colour is in abundance when it comes to tiles and paint, but why isn't it easier to incorporate colour into the core bathroom design elements too?

Well, Matki and Tissino heard our cries, and are now creating custom colourful shower trays using any Pantone shade.

What really caught my eye about these new releases isn't that they're just colourful, but that you can match them to your preferred paint shade, creating a contemporary fully colour-drenched scheme.

'Colour drenching has been one of interiors' most enduring trends, and it was only a matter of time before it reached the shower floor. We're seeing enormous appetite for colours that feel grounded and liveable rather than bold for boldness's sake,' explains Nicholas Cunild, managing director at Matki.

The trend for colour drenching isn't going anywhere. In fact, we're getting bolder with our bathroom choices than ever before. What was once considered as a room for neutral bathroom colour schemes is now becoming a place for experimentation with colour, pattern and texture.

Richard Eaton, design manager at Tissino, adds, 'The shower tray is a good example of how bathroom colour is changing. For years, it was treated as a purely practical surface, often specified in white by default. By opening it up to bespoke colour, it becomes part of the design language of the room. It can recede, it can connect, or it can create a stronger contrast depending on the scheme.'

You can have these shower trays matched to any tile sample, paint colour or Pantone shade that you desire, so the options for an entirely bespoke look are there in abundance. What strikes me is the opportunity to indulge in one of the most 'it' paint shades, such as those from Farrow & Ball, to create a bathroom design that is based off one popular colour.

'Farrow & Ball's Setting Plaster brings a warm, mineral softness that pairs beautifully with brushed brass brassware and natural stone. Whirly Bird — a sage green with real depth — works wonderfully against slate-effect tiles and matte black fittings. Yellow Ground is for the more adventurous: paired with warm timber accents and white metro tiles, it brings genuine joy to the space,' Nicholas recommends.

If you're still feeling a little perturbed by the thought of full 70s coloured suites being back in, there is a trick to styling them for 2026. Drenching the walls to match a shower tray, rather than having only sanitaryware coordinating, will bring a contemporary touch to the look.

Similarly, keeping the rest of the scheme pared-back will subdue the impact of the shower tray.

'The key to styling a coloured tray well is restraint elsewhere. Let the floor lead, keep the surround calm, and the result is a bathroom that feels intentional from every angle — not just the walls up,' says Nicholas.

So which colour should you go for? For a softer look, opt for tonal, neutral shades that offer variation and interest without overwhelming the space. Alternatively, you can really make an impact with deep berry reds and retro-inspired oranges.

'This is where softer forms of colour are particularly valuable. A warm neutral tray can sit beautifully with stone-effect tiles, a deep green vanity can be balanced with brushed brass, while a muted blue, clay or brown-toned surface can give definition to the showering area without making the room feel busy,' Richard adds.

Shop colourful bathroom accessories

Not yet ready to commit to the shower tray trend? No worries — these colourful bathroom accessories will inspire a more joyful scheme with less commitment.

When trends come back around, it's an evolution of the look rather than a direct replica. Don't be put off by reminiscing on those avocado bathroom suites — this new take on the colour trend has so much potential.

A space that feels calm, tranquil and relaxed is a description that many of us would put at the top of the wish list when describing our dream bathroom. And there are a few styles that capture this serene, spa-like aesthetic quite so well as the Scandi style bathroom ideas.

Characterised by clean lines, minimalist design, and the use of natural materials, Scandi-style bathrooms embrace simplicity and functionality, with a natural warmth and colour at their heart. And no Scandi bathroom would be complete without the inclusion of wood somewhere in the scheme, whether timber panelling used liberally throughout or subtle accents of wood picked out more sparingly on furniture and accessories.

Whether planning a bathroom renovation or simply refreshing a tired scheme, incorporating a few core elements and Scandi bathroom style is an easy look to recreate. Keep things pared-back and understated, and it’s hard to go wrong…these are the key ingredients you’ll need.

1. Sleek fittings

Clean lines and a pared-back aesthetic are core elements of any Scandi scheme, so when it comes to bathroom fixtures and fittings, simplicity is key. Minimalist, free-standing baths in curved or angular designs take centre stage, alongside shapely counter-top basins and functional fittings in warm brushed metals or contrasting matt black.

2. Streamlined storage

Keeping surfaces clear and clutter-free is a must, with only a few thoughtfully-chosen pieces out on display. Floating vanities and wall-hung fittings provide ample storage for toiletries and towels and keep floors clear to enhance the sense of space. Or choose sleek fitted furniture that can also conceal unsightly plumbing work.

3. Natural light

Using bright whites and reflective surfaces in small or dark bathrooms can be a great way to compensate for a lack of natural light. Keep windows bare or go for light-filtering sheers to maximise what natural light there is.

4. Spacious shower

The shower takes top priority in any Scandi bathroom, and should be as large and spacious as the room allows. Large-format, colour-matched tiles on walls and floors create a seamless look and will give an enhanced sense of space.

5. Natural wood

Wood is at the heart of Scandinavian design, including for bathroom schemes. From sauna-style, tongue-and-groove panelling and simple plywood cladding, to wood-effect tiles that offer a more durable and waterproof finish, wood brings natural colour and warmth to the bathroom, preventing it from looking and feeling too clinical.

6. Warm accents

Bringing in warm colours and tactile textures helps soften the mood without sacrificing the calm Scandi aesthetic. Plants and greenery will also add life and natural colour to the room.

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I know what you might be thinking - red in a bathroom? Really? It's a bold and seemingly shocking bathroom colour scheme, but hear me out, the risk will pay off.

Most bathrooms fall victim to an all-white look. In a room where practicality, cleanliness and relaxation comes first, opting for neutral colours has long been the obvious choice.

However, as we make our homes more colourful than ever before, we learn that colour has powerful properties for improving wellbeing, and our bathrooms shouldn't be left out.

Red is one of the biggest colour trends for 2026, and a bathroom might be the best place to try it out.

The unexpected red colour theory was how I first came across using this bold shade within the home. The practice involves using the colour sparingly as a pop of colour, whether on a window frame or even just through a table lamp.

This is particularly effective in living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms as a larger room benefits from unexpected touches that add a point of difference to a design. However, in a bathroom, decorative touches are less common, so you can afford to go bold with the overall colour scheme.

'Red is experiencing a resurgence in interior design. Not only in its softer, muted, earthy tones but also in its electric shades. Used in the right way, a pop of red can add instant vibrancy and personality to a scheme. Equally, drenching a space can have spectacular effect,' explains John Law, creative director of interiors at Woodhouse & Law.

'Be it in the form of a feature bath tub, or vanity, or a rich drenching treatment over walls and ceilings to create a cocooning feel,' he adds.

In 2026, bathroom trends are focussed around creating a wash space that feels like an extension of our living areas, so the more colour, texture and warmth the better.

When it comes to using red in a bathroom, texture is everything. We're seeing a resurgence in gloss paint finishes and it's especially effective in a small bathroom to reflect light and make it feel larger.

Ideal Home's Editor-in-Chief, Heather Young, has used a dramatic coral-red shade in her downstairs cloakroom in a matte finish, but the contrast of the curtain fabric adds plenty of dimension to the design.

'Combining reds in a gloss or lacquered finish with more textural, matte finishes adds depth to a scheme as well as a sense of fun,' John adds.

If you're not ready to go all in on red, you're in luck - it's a versatile shade that works so well with other bright colours.

'Don’t be afraid to use red with pink! People tend to think it’s a total faux pas but in fact it can really lift a pink scheme and avoid a saccharine look,' interior designer, Laura Stephens, adds.

Red also works exceptionally well with pale blue, and it's a clever way of adding light back into a look if you don't have an abundance of natural light in your bathroom.

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There is so much to gain from indulging in colour in a bathroom - you'll leave every bath soak and speedy morning shower feeling creative and inspired.

Bathrooms often fall to the bottom of the renovation agenda. Whether it's that money has run out or you're lacking inspiration for this very practical space, it often ends up as a bit of a blank canvas. However, bathrooms deserve joy and colour too, so these tricks to add character to your space without needing to open a tin of paint will provide plenty of inspiration.

While paint is a powerful tool, it can be a faff to repaint a bathroom or an expense if you need to call in professionals. Luckily, there are many ways you can incorporate some of the very best bathroom colour schemes and latest bathroom trends without needing to even touch a paintbrush.

Whether you have a weekend to spare or just an evening, these three tips will inspire you to be creative with your bathroom design.

1. Switch out a shower curtain

If you have a shower over a bath then you're in luck, because this is an incredibly easy way to switch up the entire look and feel of a bathroom.

Shower curtain ideas are a handy way to make a practical and essential purchase feel a little bit more exciting. You can choose a fun pattern that has hints of colours you want to incorporate into the design, as seen above, or you could choose a block colour.

The perks of colourful shower curtains are that they don't age as fast as a pure white curtain will, meaning they will last for longer.

2. Trial click-fit tiles

If you don't want to repaint, then it's unlikely that you want to retile either, but there are some modern adaptations that mean that new tiles or flooring aren't as far away as you might think.

'Colour does not always need to come from a paintbrush or a full re-tile. In a bathroom, the floor can be a wonderfully expressive place to begin, especially if the existing tiles are perfectly serviceable but no longer quite you,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Minerale is designed to be laid over suitable existing tiles, with click-no-stick technology that means no adhesive, no grout and no waiting around for everything to dry before the bathroom feels usable again. For a small space, that makes a huge difference,' she adds.

This clever technology means you don't have to rip up floors to get a new look, and there are also peel and stick options via Amazon, like this checkerboard style, for a more affordable alternative.

3. Add plenty of art

Art is always a focus elsewhere in your home, but bathrooms often don't get treated with the same creative freedom. Experimenting with colour through art allows you to try different colour palettes without overspending, particularly if you choose a print.

'Hanging artwork creates a strong focal point and detracts the eye from areas which you may not be able to change, this will give your bathroom a quick update that won't break the bank. One large print in the middle of a wall will look great, but even better if you have space to hang two or three prints together, in a colour that complements the rest of the room,' explains Sarah Weare, co-founder of Beach House Art.
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'Our top art prints for bathroom are watery, fluid shapes of seaweed or coral - for a more nautical feel try beachy shells, knot art prints or beach photography - choose something that makes you smile and feel happy. The bathroom is where we start and end each day,' she adds.

A kitchen can be just as difficult to update without needing to undergo a proper renovation project - these tips for adding colour to a kitchen without painting will provide an inspiring weekend DIY task.

My bathroom is one of the most neglected rooms in my home. Storage and practicality came first, and somehow the pretty extras I always wanted to add just never quite happened. However, now is the time to change that, so I've hunted down some of the chicest bathroom accessories on a budget to zhuzh up my wash space.

It's easy to see why decorating a bathroom falls to the bottom of the to-do list - it's rarely seen by guests, and you don't spend much time in there. However, adding some decorative touches will go a long way in making a bathroom feel like a more inviting destination in your home, rather than a forgotten room. It also might shock you that you can source many items on Amazon from the comfort of your sofa with next-day delivery.

You don't need to spend a lot of money or undergo a renovation to make this happen, either. Small touches like towels, shower curtains and storage trays all make a huge difference to how a bathroom looks and feels. In a bid to stick to a budget, I've hunted out some of the very best bathroom finds on Amazon that just might shock you.

From top brands like Christy and Neom to Amazon brands that look far more expensive than they are, these picks will make a bathroom feel brand new. Plus with the Amazon Prime Day sale kicking off next week, now is the time to snap up some bargains.

Looking to add more colour to your wash room? These bathroom colour schemes will offer you plenty of inspiration for any taste, whether bold or pared-back.

Looking for the next big thing in bathrooms for 2026? This is where you'll want to source your inspiration. The Ideal Home Bathroom Award winners encapsulate exactly what it means to be market-leading in bathrooms for the year ahead, from clever tech to beautiful, colourful designs that will make your wash space sing.

Judged by our panel of expert editors with a fine eye for evaluating what's hot versus what's not, this selection of winners is truly impressive.

For 2026, we've judged everything from modern and classic bathroom ranges (there's something for everyone) to clever tech that upgrades your showering experience - you won't even want to book a spa day once you've invested in this kit.

You'll also find plenty of bathroom ideas for inspiration, too. No matter your taste or budget, there are plenty of fresh styles that you can take into your own home, whether you're looking for small updates or a complete renovation project.

Bathroom of the Year: Utopia Furniture Ltd HeyU Collection

The best bathrooms are those that offer flexibility and versatility in their design, which Utopia Furniture's HeyU Collection has in buckets. In 2026, bathrooms are more colourful than ever before, and the 14 shades in this collection offer a unique look for every home.

‘A winning combination of texture and colour, the HeyU collection allows you to create a customised solution that makes personalising your space easy. With four designs – Smooth, Linear, Wave (pictured) and Ripple – in 14 different finishes, the collection includes everything from storage to wash basin units,' says Heather Young, Editor-in-Chief.

Highly Commended: The Tap End - Pretty in Pink, Kallums Bathrooms - A Luminous Heaven

Best Classic Bathroom Range: Wickes Bayswater

Classic doesn't have to mean boring. The Wickes Bayswater bathroom range has high-end finishes that don't cost the earth and make the range feel super special, down to every small touch.

The traditional design elements will elevate any space and are sure to stand the test of time.

‘Wickes’ array of affordable bathroom ranges means there’s really something for everyone - your dream bathroom is closer than you think,' adds Heather.

Best Modern Bathroom Range: Vado Safari

Colour and texture is the easiest way to spruce up a bathroom and Vado’s Safari collection has this aplenty. It will instantly upgrade a contemporary wash space.

Fluted effect bathroom storage has been a big trend for the last few years, but in 2026 we're seeing a slightly different approach to texture with unique shapes, as seen on Vado's Safari range.

Highly Commended: Calypso Firova

Best Basin: Victoria + Albert Lussari Back to Wall Basins

A bathroom basin has a bigger impact on your overall design than you might think. Victoria & Albert's Lussari basins are subtle enough to blend into the background, whlie creating beautiful curves that soften any bathroom scheme.

The ergonomic edge has a contemporary look, while the straight back edge means you can make the most of every inch of vanity space. This basin offers so much flexibility too as it can be painted in any colour to match your scheme.

Best Bathroom Storage Solution: Vonhaus The Chester range

Good storage is essential in any bathroom, but without going for built-in solutions, it can be tricky to create enough room for organisation.

Vonhaus’ Chester range shows how you can fit bathroom storage into any size space. It's affordable and freestanding, offering so much flexibility to fit storage into any spare gap in your bathroom.

Best Bathroom Lighting: Corston Claremont Wall Light

Lighting is the finishing touch to any bathroom - and it deserves special attention. Designed and engineered in the UK, Corston’s Claremont wall light adds a high-quality finish to any bathroom.

‘We love Corston for high-quality products that show meticulous attention to detail. The Claremont’s hand-blown fluted glass shade delivers a soft, diffused glow that’s just what you need to create a warm and calming atmosphere in your bathroom,' Heather adds.

Best Bath: Victoria + Albert Kerid Bath

Wellness-inspired bathroom trends are ramping up in 2026, and it's possible for us all to create a spa-like setting within our own homes.

'With bathrooms getting smaller and smaller, Victoria + Albert's Japanese ofuru-inspired Kerid bath is ideal for compact, contemporary living.'

'This design features a small footprint, but with higher sides and an integrated seat so you can fully submerge yourself for a long hot soak,' says Ginevra Benedetti, Deputy Editor.

Highly Commended: BC Designs Sculptura Bath

Best Bathroom Surface: B&Q Triton Wall Panelling

Natural materials are the best way to add warmth to a bathroom scheme, and B&Q's Triton wall panelling is a simple way to achieve a design full of texture and interest. Not to mention it’s highly practical with a waterproof finish that is easy to wipe down.

Highly Commended: XL Offset, Multipanel

Best Bathroom Tap: Aqua by Frontline Bathrooms Mineral Flute brassware collection

The textural fluted detail of Aqua by Frontline Bathroom’s Mineral Flute collection adds interest to the smallest elements of a bathroom design, creating a tactile nature that wears well with use.

Tying in fluted details across your entire bathroom scheme will make the space feel highly curated and design-led.

Highly Commended: Booth & Co, Vado

Best Bathroom Tiles: B&Q x Ca’Pietra Exclusive Portare Range

B&Q’s collaboration with Ca’ Pietra takes the premium quality of the latter brand and makes them accessible for a range of budgets - from floor tiles to small-scale wall tiles, there really is a style for everyone.

'When two of our favourite brands collaborate, you can be sure that the results are going to be stellar. From plains and patterns for walls and floors, there’s something for everyone in this chic collection, all with a great value price tag,' adds Ginevra.

Highly Commended: The Wilding collection, Marlborough Tiles

Best Shower Enclosure: The Shower Lab

Flexibility is key in any bathroom design, particularly in a small space, and The Shower Lab’s double-hinged bifold panels make this possible. They also aid accessibility which is key for multi-generational living.

'The perfect addition to a small bathroom, these glass panels tuck away against a wall when not in use, opening the room up completely. They’re also an excellent choice for people with mobility issues, too, allowing them to access their shower easily and without complication,' Ginevra adds.

Highly Commended: Flair Verve PRO 8 collection

Best Use of Colour: Frenchic Chalk Wall Paint

Choosing a bathroom paint requires more than just deciding on a colour palette - durability is just as vital, which Frenchic have nailed with their chalk wall paint that has a water-resistant finish.

‘It’s resistant to damp and can be scrubbed or wiped down. There are 159 colours to choose from, so you don’t have to compromise style for durability,' adds Heather Young.

Genius Bathroom Innovation: Aqualisa S Range shower system

‘Allowing you to set specific temperatures for different people, this is bathroom tech at its best,' says Ginevra, of Aqualisa's winning S Range shower system.

With an eco mode that reduces water flow by a third and the ability to set specific temperatures for every household member, this shower system will instantly upgrade any bathroom experience.

Highly Commended: GROHE Sensia Pro WC, SURI Sonic Toothbrush 2.0

Best Bathroom Linen: Scooms Egyptian Cotton Towels

No bathroom is complete without high-quality towels to cocoon you once you hop out of the bath.

‘Soft, thick towels are a must for adding a sense of pure luxury to a bathroom, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with these super-plush Egyptian cotton from Scooms. In an impressive range of 22 different colours, they even have handy hanging hooks,' Heather says.

Best Shower Head: Methven's VJet Minimalist

A satisfying bathroom experience comes down to finetuning the small details, like a shower head. Methven's VJet Minimalist shower head looks sleek and unobtrusive, but provides plenty of power.

'A total gamechanger if you want a better shower without the expense of plumbing in a new suite. This screw-on showerhead allows you to switch between a gentle spray and an invigorating one, all while reducing water flow,' says Ginevra.

'One Small Step' For Sustainability: B&Q GoodHome Taps

Sustainability should be at the core of any bathroom design, and B&Q's GoodHome Taps make sure this is a priority.

'Durable and built to last, many of B&Q's taps feature built-in water-saving regulators to help reduce water and energy consumption. It’s these clever design elements that, even though these taps aren’t expensive, make sustainability more accessible for all,' says Ginevra.

Retailer of the Year: Wickes

‘Wickes’ array of affordable bathroom ranges means there’s really something for everyone - your dream bathroom is closer than you think,’ says Heather.

Saving the best until last, Wickes has won first place for the best bathroom retailer of 2026, thanks to its extensive range that prioritises both affordability and excellent design.

This pink design summises the best bathroom trends for 2026 - ample colour, textured tiles and plenty of storage.

The Judges

From bathroom tiles to spa-ready shower ideas, our judges are pros when it comes to bathroom design.

Each year we're eager to see what the world of bathroom design will offer up. This year has seen clever tech, colourful, patterned designs and space-saving solutions - we can't wait to see what 2027 holds.

After nearly a decade living overseas in Southeast Asia and America, Meabh and Peter decided to move to Scotland to put down roots. ‘We bought a draughty, poorly insulated 1970s flat-roofed bungalow, and planned to do a simple renovation and energy-efficiency upgrade.'

The outdated bungalow was knocked down and replaced with an eco-friendly new-build design. The couple's new en suite bathroom is at the back of the house, but generous windows give the room an expansive outlook.

‘A skylight above the shower was a must-have for me, as were twin basins and a loo and bidet combination,’ says Meabh.

'I was very inspired by the architecture that we saw on our travels in Australia and New Zealand, and have tried to translate the bungalow we bought into something similar,’ says Meabh.

‘I only wanted a bath for aesthetic reasons,’ she admits. ‘I prefer a shower, but actually in the end, I’m enjoying baths more than I expected, so I’m pleased that I included one.’

Meabh designed the room herself and gave it a lot of thought. She originally wanted terrazzo wall tiles with concrete floors, but couldn’t decide on the grout colour and never felt confident in anyone locally who could lay concrete. So she decided to look at micro cement instead. ‘It kept catching my eye during my research and I started to realise it was a very practical solution for a wet room.’

She approached a micro cement company called Forcrete and met the recommended installer, James Preston of Dynamic Surface Design. ‘He was so helpful, and extremely flexible in what he could do. Realising that I had been looking at terrazzo wall tiles, he said he could add chips to the micro cement for a similar effect.’

Meabh requested this for the wall behind the bath, but otherwise the walls, floor and ceiling are a uniform shade of soft white. ‘I am delighted with the results!’ she says. ‘It’s exactly what I had been hoping for.’

Take the tour of Meabh and Peter's minimalist bathroom

'The room faces north so I planned the lighting to make it feel warmer. All the lights are controlled by a Lutron panel, which you can easily adjust for practicality or atmosphere – whatever you want.’

‘Both the floors and walls have the same micro cement finish, which gives the space an open, modern feel.’

‘I love terrazzo tiles, and it’s brilliant that we’ve managed to get the look using micro cement.'

'The effect was achieved by adding Jesmonite chips to the finish, and it makes a wonderful feature of the bath.’

'The large mirror conceals handy built-in storage, while reflecting light around the room.’

‘I sourced the taps and shower fittings from the same company, and wanted the shower screen to tie in with them.'

'Fortunately, I found a great match for the dark bronze finish I’ve gone for throughout.’

'A handheld bidet spray is an unmissable part of your hygiene routine in many parts of the world. We got used to this when we were living in Asia and now there’s no going back.’

'The micro cement finish continues into the shower enclosure, providing a seamless look, with no jarring change of surface.'

'Thanks to its inherent combination of strength and waterproofing, the finish is ideal for a wet room-style shower. Plus, there’s no grout to clean!’

Copy Meabh and Peter's bathroom style

Wet rooms are one of the most functional ways to make a small or awkward bathroom layout work in your home. No matter the size of the bathroom, it can be difficult to find a way to squeeze everything you need into the layout, and shower enclosures just make that even trickier.

This is why wet room ideas are a genius way to include a shower in a small space. Removing a shower tray and a chunky frame means that even in a WC or ensuite, you can find a way to add a shower alongside other sanitaryware.

If you're faced with an attic bathroom or a poky loo, these three examples of stylish and clever wet rooms will give you plenty of inspiration.

1. Work with sloped ceilings

When it comes to bathrooms with sloped ceilings and poky corners, a wet room is a smart way to squeeze a shower in - particularly if you're a tall household.

'The lowered pitch in this bathroom has been used intelligently to shape a built-in ledge that doubles as both a seat and a place for everyday essentials, along with a recessed shelf for storing additional toiletries,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'What makes the layout particularly effective is the balance between openness and gentle division. The fixed glass screen introduces just enough structure to contain the shower without interrupting the flow of the room, allowing light from the window to travel freely, while maintaining that sought-after wet room ease and look,' she adds.

By keeping the visual interest to the floor tiles, the wet room looks much more expansive and draws the eye upwards.

2. Use tiles to enhance the sense of space

There's so much potential in a wet room to go bold with pattern and colour. In this wet room, Ca' Pietra striped tiles have been used to lengthen the room and make it feel larger.

'Rather than introducing a separate material within the shower area, the tiles continue the decorative language, allowing the wet room to feel integrated rather than set apart. The vertical and horizontal shifts in the stripe direction also help define different surfaces,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'The layout has been carefully arranged to allow the bath and shower to sit comfortably alongside one another without competing for space. By positioning the shower within its own partially enclosed zone, the room maintains a clear sense of function while still feeling open and connected. The half-height walls provide a clear boundary to contain water spray, while keeping the area visually and physically open,' Grazzie adds.

3. Work with a compact ensuite

En-suites are perhaps the trickiest rooms to design. They have the proportions of a WC, however, homeowners will often want to include a shower within it.

A fixed glass partition was introduced to subtly divide the room, allowing the shower area to function as a true wet zone while protecting the WC and vanity from water exposure. This small intervention makes a significant difference — maintaining openness and light but providing just enough separation to make the space practical,' explains interior designer, Lucy Van der Gucht.

'Material choices also play a key role in defining the layout. I used vertical panelling painted in Little Greene ‘Ambleside’ to wrap the vanity wall and visually anchor it as a distinct area. The shower area is kept lighter with simple but elegant tiles from Claybrook and Douglas Watson Studio,' Lucy concludes.

While this space functions as a wet room, visually, there are clear divides between zones, which help with functionality.

Seeking more inspiration? These bijou wet rooms make a serious case for ditching a shower tray for good.

Many of the bathrooms I come across as an editor are inspiring in so many ways, whether that be through colour, layout or pattern, but they still feel like bathrooms. I know you might be thinking, that's the point! But in 2026, bathroom trends are centred around making the space feel as cosy as your living areas, rather than a practical spot to wash.

The founder of Bert and May, Lee Thornley, has achieved just that. As the founder of a tile company, I was expecting big things in terms of how bathroom tile ideas are used around his home, but I wasn't expecting to find a warm, inviting space that feels more like a living room than a wash space.

It's simple and neutral, yet anything but stark. Here's how to take inspiration from Lee's design.

Bathroom trends for 2026 are quite different to those we've seen in previous years. When it comes to colour, more is more - homeowners are becoming increasingly confident in going for bold bathroom colour schemes. In turn, this has made bathrooms a destination rather than a solely practical room.

'People want to linger. We are seeing bathrooms designed with seating areas, dressing zones and even fire or sauna features built in. The growth in size is not about excess, as a larger footprint allows light to flow, materials to breathe, and the bath to become the sculptural focus it deserves to be,' Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Design explains.

This couldn't be more evident in Lee's bathroom.

With a large floorplan to work with, Lee was able to maintain the quirks and historic charm of his period property while still having plenty of room available for bathroom essentials.

'We restored fireplaces and kept the exposed original beams to celebrate the beauty of the building’s irregular shapes and features. This wasn’t an easy task. We poured a lot of time and care into this, to reveal the beautiful bones of the house and honour the craftspeople that built it,' Lee explains.

Situated next to a dressing table, the dedicated space for a log burner turns the bathroom into a wellness experience, as well as feeling like an extension of the house's living areas. It's no longer just functional - it's a space to spend time in rather than rushing to return to a relaxation room.

This neutral, rustic feel forms the foundation of the bathroom design, but there are bursts of colour that create a clever separation between zones.

'With the bathroom having a natural, rustic feel I wanted to create a bold and inviting statement in the shower cubicle. My daughter’s brief was to create a ‘glamorous space’ and pairing our Green Herringbone Honed Marble Tile with the geometric Majadas tile creates a rich, contemporary look to the room. I also wanted to ensure the space felt authentic and sympathetic to the period property, and the natural rich green tones of these tiles work well in rustic interiors,' Lee continues.

As with decorating any room in a period property, paying careful consideration to the balance between old and new is how you achieve a scheme that feels authentic. Lee has achieved this through clever use of colour and tile patterns that combine contemporary and antique styles.

'I bought the washstand from The French House York. What I love about this vintage pine washstand is the worn-down paint that adds a sense of history to the piece. The uneven surface and visible imperfections add texture to the bathroom and complement the harder surfaces and modern accents,' Lee adds.

'Choosing a palette of earthy tones set against natural terracotta, limewash, and real wood creates a fluid dialogue between the existing cottage and the newer design elements.'

Shop the look

Bathrooms that feel like an extension of the rest of your home will make you want to relax - lots of natural materials, texture through tiles and colour will transform a space.

Petite bathrooms are notoriously difficult to decorate. A downstairs WC is tricky enough to create a practical layout, but when it comes to a tiny main washroom, it's a whole other ball game. In 2026, however, we've been seeing a trend for small wet room ideas that revolutionise the practicality of a compact bathroom.

Wet room ideas are one of the easiest ways to include a shower in your small bathroom ideas when you're struggling for floor space. It turns the entire room into a wet zone, so you don't need to worry about fitting in shower trays or enclosures that take up precious square feet.

Finding inspiration for stylish wet rooms that aren't the size of a living room is no mean feat, which is why I've compiled these three chic, bijou wet rooms that make a serious case for ditching a shower tray for good.

1. Stick to neutrals

In a small wet room, choosing colours and materials that enhance the sense of space is the key to creating a spa-like experience, no matter how compact the room may be.

In this wet room featuring Ca' Pietra tiles, a neutral bathroom colour scheme has been offset by texture that makes the colour choice anything but boring.

'Start by thinking about tiles as the base of the whole scheme, as in a small wet room, they have a big impact on how the space feels. Running the same tile across the floor and walls is a simple way to create continuity and make the room feel more open,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

If you can't decide on just one tile to use, using two different styles and textures in the same tone will help with continuity while adding dimension to the space.

2. Ditch the shower tray for a raised edge

While we're pro no-shower-tray in a wet room, it's important to design with practicality in mind, particularly in a small space where containing water is key.

'A slight lip or raised threshold can be a really effective way to manage water in a smaller wet room without closing the space in. It allows you to keep that open, walk-in feel, while giving a clear point of containment so water does not travel too far into the rest of the room,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'It is a subtle detail, but it also helps to define the showering area without the need for full screens or enclosures, which can feel heavy in a compact space. Keeping that transition low and well-integrated into the flooring ensures it does not interrupt the flow, so the room still feels cohesive and easy to move through,' she concludes.

3. Transform an attic space

Attic bathrooms are notoriously difficult to work with, but a wet room is the ultimate solution. Rather than fussing with a custom shower enclosure to fit in a space with awkward proportions, a wet room makes every inch of room available.

In this Victorian semi-detached home, owner Katy Walters and her husband Jason set out to maximise their bijou ensuite for family life.

‘We kept the bathroom walls white to let the light bounce off them. We spent more money on some areas, like this floor, for a more luxurious look,' Katy explains.

Layout is everything in a super compact wet room, and by placing the toilet under the rooflight, you can enhance light without losing head height.

Wet rooms are a gamechanger for making the most of every inch of space in a small bathroom, but tile choice matters more than it would in any other washroom. Choose practical finishes that are anti-slip for a safe design - these bathroom tile ideas will help get you started.

There is so much scope to experiment with colour in a bathroom, but so often we stick with all-white schemes in a bid to achieve a serene environment to relax in. But what if I told you that colour could be calming too? With the right shades, you can achieve an inspiring and restorative wash space - and a vanity is the perfect place to put this into practice.

Choosing the right bathroom storage ideas can be a weighty decision, especially if you're opting for a more expensive built-in vanity. So understanding the best colours to choose both for mindfulness and peace of mind that it will stand the test of time, are key.

I spoke to bathroom design experts to drill down into the best colours for a bathroom vanity, to take the guesswork out of the decision.

What is the best colour for a bathroom vanity?

'From a BK Eleven perspective, there is no single ‘best’ colour for a bathroom vanity, as it should always reflect personal taste and the overall character of the space,' explains Adam Wollerton, bathroom design manager at BK Eleven.

'A vanity is often one of the most visible pieces in the room, so it needs to feel in tune with the materials, the light, and the atmosphere you want to create, rather than simply following a trend.'

In short, there is no cookie-cutter vanity colour that will be perfect in every bathroom. It depends on your own personal taste, the light in the room and existing decor, but there are a few colours and materials that are trending in 2026 and offer a new, inspiring look.

One of the biggest vanity trends I have seen coming through in 2026 is the increased use of earth colour palettes and natural wood materials, particularly when combined with texture such as fluted surfaces.

'Earth-led tones are becoming increasingly influential within bathroom design, particularly when used on vanity units, where they bring a grounded, reassuring presence to the space. Warmer shades such as terracotta, clay, deep caramel or muted rust introduce a richness that feels both comforting and quietly distinctive, moving away from cooler palettes that can sometimes feel stark,' explains Richard Eaton, design manager at Tissino.

'What makes these colours so effective in a bathroom is their ability to soften the overall scheme while still adding depth. They work beautifully alongside natural materials such as stone, terrazzo and timber.'

If these tones aren't quite to your liking then don't worry - classic bathroom hues of white and blue still have a place in 2026.

'Blue remains one of the most dependable and versatile choices within a bathroom setting. It carries an inherent sense of calm and freshness, which sits naturally alongside water, while still offering enough depth to bring definition to the space. When used on a vanity unit, blue has a way of quietly drawing the eye, allowing it to act as a focal point without overwhelming the room,' Adam adds.

Whichever shade you choose, continuing it through to wall paint, tile choices, flooring and accessories will help to create a more cohesive look where the vanity helps to tie the design together.

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Ready to get started on shopping for your next vanity? This handy shopping edit will give you plenty of inspiration.

Designing the perfect bathroom scheme often feels a little bit like playing Tetris. Making sure each piece of sanitaryware not only fits but is accessible and functional for a daily routine is no easy task - particularly when you consider the fact that most bathrooms are on the small side.

But there's one fundamental bathroom design feature that makes this simpler: the floating vanity. It's time to draw attention to this underrated bathroom storage hero that adds practicality without taking up valuable floorspace.

Small bathroom or not - here's why you should consider a floating bathroom vanity in your next project.

I previously thought of floating vanities as more of a contemporary bathroom style, and as someone who favours traditional interiors, I had all but written them off as a bathroom storage idea. However, that belief couldn't be further from the truth - floating vanities aren't the super sleek style they once were, and there are now so many variations to fit any scheme.

But back to the practicality pull. Finding enough storage for bathroom product overflow, extra loo rolls, and cleaning products is a real challenge, particularly in a small bathroom. A floating vanity often has ample space in the deep drawers or cupboards, but also frees up space underneath, so the design doesn't feel heavy and cramped.

'A floating vanity is one of those choices that really changes how a bathroom feels to use, not just how it looks, because lifting the unit off the floor immediately opens up the space and brings a sense of ease, which is especially noticeable in smaller rooms, but it also has a knock-on effect on how everything comes together visually,' explains Richard Eaton, design manager at Tissino.

Opening up the floor beneath the vanity is what makes a floating vanity so effective. As Adam Wollerton, bathroom design manager at BK Eleven adds, 'It also opens up more opportunities from a design point of view, as the space beneath becomes part of the overall scheme rather than something you overlook, whether that means allowing a strong floor finish to carry through uninterrupted or introducing a soft layer of lighting that adds atmosphere in the evening.'

'That clean, uninterrupted line along the wall also helps everything else sit more comfortably, especially when you are working with a mix of materials or adding more distinctive details, as each element has the space it needs without the room feeling busy.'

A floating vanity is particularly revolutionary in a small bathroom. From a storage perspective, it provides one significant go-to spot for housing products that then don't clutter up the sink and bath area, but it improves the flow of the room.

'In smaller bathrooms, a floating vanity can make a remarkable difference to how the space is perceived, because allowing the floor to continue uninterrupted beneath the unit draws the eye further across the room, creating a sense of openness that is often hard to achieve in more compact layouts,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'It is a subtle shift, but one that changes the atmosphere of the room quite significantly, as the space feels lighter and more generous than its actual footprint might suggest.'

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If you're looking to plan a new bathroom layout, getting the storage right is the one thing that will transform how functional your space feels on a daily basis.

Bathroom storage is an integral component of any design, but sometimes sink storage can be bulky and unattractive. Vanity units with built-in cupboards and drawers offer an abundance of useful space, but these are often hard to squeeze into the floor plan of a small bathroom, whereas pedestal sinks take up much less room.

Pedestal sinks offer a simple, unobtrusive look, but they can be tricky to add bathroom storage ideas to. While stand-alone units are useful for slotting under a pedestal sink, they often aren't the most stylish option. A sink skirt is the ultimate trend-led hack that will add character to a bathroom while also hiding all of your bathroom products.

Cafe curtains are a trend we've been fans of for a while on the Ideal Home desk. Whether used as a bathroom window treatment or in a kitchen to hide away large appliances beneath cabinetry, it's an easy and affordable way to add flair to a design while solving a practical problem.

Bathrooms can be particularly cold, stark places where functional wipe-clean surfaces are chosen in lieu of soft furnishings, so reintroducing texture, pattern and movement through a sink skirt will help to add warmth to the scheme.

'A sink skirt is a clever way to reclaim the often-wasted space beneath a pedestal basin, turning what is usually exposed pipework into a discreet and surprisingly practical storage zone,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'By enclosing the area with fabric, you create a concealed pocket that can house everything from cleaning products to spare toiletries, keeping the room feeling calm and uncluttered without the need for built-in cabinetry.'

Adding a skirt to a pedestal sink is useful in more ways than one - it conceals storage but also allows you the opportunity to introduce another colour or pattern into the scheme.

While the outside of a pedestal skirt adds personality to a bathroom, the interior matters too.

'There is also an opportunity to tailor what sits behind the fabric, whether that is simple baskets, stacked containers, or more structured organisers, ensuring the space works as hard as possible while remaining hidden from view,' Keeley adds.

'In this way, the skirt is not just decorative but quietly functional, offering a considered balance between practicality and a softer, more layered aesthetic,' she says.

Choosing the right storage behind a sink skirt is essential - a tiered shelf that can house individual boxes will help to keep things in order so that you can easily keep things organised behind the facade.

Unlike kitchen cupboard skirts, which have started to pop up through various high street retailers, like this affordable option from Dunelm, to achieve a pedestal sink skirt, you'll likely have to DIY your own or work with a professional.

With the right amount of fabric, velcro and hemming tape, it's easy enough to create your own, but there are also so many options on Etsy if you can't bear adding another DIY project to your weekend to-do list.

Bathroom vanities are one of the most important components of a bathroom design; a space to house all of your products to keep the space neat and tidy. However, choosing the right material and bathroom colour scheme for your vanity can be a challenge. Should it match the walls to create a colour-drenched scheme or is a contrast more on trend?

I've asked bathroom experts whether a colour-drenched approach is still trending for bathrooms (I love the cosy feel it provides) or whether we're going bolder in our homes with contrasting materials and textures in 2026.

Here's what they had to say.

Should your bathroom vanity match your walls?

Bathroom colour schemes can be difficult to decide on. Typically, homeowners tend to veer towards neutral schemes in their washrooms to create a relaxing environment, but vibrant colour schemes are being used increasingly more often. Colour drenching a bathroom in a more playful or earthy shade instantly makes the space feel cocooning and lived-in, which makes a joyful difference to a plain white design.

Colour drenching has also taken a step further with some homeowners choosing to match furniture to their wall colours. In a bathroom, the main furniture choice is the vanity, which can really add to an overall look.

But should it match the walls or stand apart from them?

'A vanity unit does not need to match the wall colour exactly in order to feel cohesive, and in many cases a more tonal approach creates a far more interesting and comfortable space,' explains Richard Eaton, design manager at Tissino.

'What tends to matter most is the relationship between undertones, as working within a shared palette - whether that leans warm, chalky, or softly cool - allows the room to feel connected without appearing overly uniform or predictable.'

When choosing a bathroom vanity, make sure it works in cohesion with the rest of the space. A direct contrast might make the room look jarring, rather than soothing, but a vanity is the perfect way to add slight visual interest to the design.

'A vanity does not always need to sit in contrast to the walls in order to have presence within a bathroom, as a tonal approach can create a far more immersive and atmospheric result when handled with care,' agrees Adam Wollerton, bathroom design manager at BK Eleven.

'In schemes like this, the focus shifts away from obvious colour variation and instead looks to the subtle interplay between tone, texture, and finish, allowing each surface to contribute something slightly different while still belonging to the same overall palette,' he adds.

So, which colours and styles should you choose to achieve this look? As Richard Eaton explains, 'A warm taupe vanity set against a soft limestone wall, or a muted clay tone paired with pale neutral tiles, introduces a gentle shift that brings depth without interrupting the calm.'

If you want to go bolder than a neutral scheme, look for dark wood vanities with fluted fronts and set these against deeper, earthy colour schemes such as terracotta and burgundy.

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Rather than going for an off-the-shelf matchy-matchy look in 2026, cresting a stylish scheme is all about a subtle, tonal approach. Earthy hues and fluted surfaces are a big bathroom trend and two looks that work particularly well are used in conjunction.

If you're looking to get started on your new project and a new vanity is in order, these are the best 5 places to shop for a bathroom vanity.

Every functional bathroom needs the right storage, and the desire to hide away as much as possible has led to years of medicine cabinets dominating our bathroom schemes. But in 2026, are medicine cabinets still the best bathroom storage idea to go for?

Doubling up as a mirror and storage unit, it's clear to see why medicine cabinets are such a popular choice. However, they're an arguably uninspiring design feature that puts practicality first and style last.

So should you invest in a medicine cabinet for your bathroom storage or is there a better style out there to choose from? I spoke to the experts to find out.

Are medicine cabinets going out of style?

Most uninspiring rental bathrooms of the homes I've lived in have had variations of mirrored medicine cabinets, which has always led me to believe that they're a slightly outdated choice.

However, there's no denying how much valuable storage my medicine cabinet has provided, with space to store skincare and extra washroom essentials.

Keeping bathroom products housed in a cabinet on the wall helps to free up floor space, which is crucial in a small bathroom where square footage is at a premium.

There are also some stylish medicine cabinets out there - so I'm not entirely writing them off. As you can see above, the simple black curved unit adds an industrial edge to a bathroom without being too harsh, and frees up space underneath the sink.

However, in the wrong environment, medicine cabinets can look heavy, plain and clinical. Bathroom trends for 2026 are all about creating a lived-in feel in a washroom that reflects the atmosphere of the rest of your home, which has led to a rise in more aesthetic bathroom mirror choices that feel traditional and decorative - like it would look in a living room.

Gone are the days of a minimal mirrored medicine cabinet with no visual interest. More interesting bathroom storage, such as antique dresser units, cupboard curtains, and open shelving will give a bathroom a more interesting look without losing valuable storage.

However, this doesn't mean that medicine cabinets are totally out of the equation. If you have a particularly compact bathroom and need as much storage as you can get, a medicine cabinet can work for your room - just ensure it has a little bit more interest, whether through the shape or material.

'Rather than disappearing, medicine cabinets have evolved into far more refined, design-led pieces that respond to the way bathrooms are now used, where storage, lighting and atmosphere are expected to work together rather than sit as separate elements,' explains Richard Eaton, design manager at Tissino.

'Storage is no longer something to be hidden away entirely, nor is it something that should disrupt the visual calm of the space. Instead, it is being designed as an integral part of the bathroom architecture, contributing to a more streamlined, clutter-free environment while still delivering the practicality that everyday use demands.'

While medicine cabinets aren't completely out of the picture, we're seeing people turn to design led options to ensure that every bathroom choice adds to an overall aesthetic.

Whether it's through interesting use of colour, shape or material, adding visual interest will turn your storage into something to find joy in.

Shop stylish medicine cabinets

Gone are the days of purely practical storage solutions - using your medicine cabinet as a way of injecting more personality into a bathroom scheme will make the whole room work cohesively.

Small bathroom? Cluttered cabinets? Chaotic windowsills? I know the drill — I've got a tiny en-suite, and every inch of floor and wall space in this room needs to be used to its maximum potential.

I need to store cleaning products, my skincare saviours and all of the other bits 'n' bobs that I end up forgetting about as they slowly slither to the back of my cabinet and collect dust. How exactly do you store all of these things without making your bathroom look cluttered? That's where the real heavy lifting comes into play, as nailing small bathroom storage ideas is no easy feat.

'When it comes to small bathrooms, smart design is everything,' claims Jorge Hernandez, Head of Design at Bathroom Brands Group. 'The right combination of furniture, fittings, and lighting can completely transform a smaller space, making it feel larger, more organised, and more intentionally designed,' she adds.

I've found some small space savers at Amazon, designed for the tiniest bathrooms — whether you're struggling with a small downstairs loo, a tight family bathroom or a minuscule en-suite.

Jorge Hernandez says the items you'll want to make use of in a tiny bathroom include: 'under-sink units with pull-out drawers, shelf dividers, and wall-hung vanity units,' she says.

All these storage-savvy Amazon buys can be delivered to your doorstep in days, and don't forget the Amazon Spring Sale is currently live, so there are timely discounts to be had too.

Amazon storage saviours

Storage isn't the only way to refresh your bathroom for spring soon? These are the best bath towels, as tried and tested, and our favourite reed diffusers for a pleasant-smelling loo.

But an organised space will go a long way in helping your home feel happier and calmer.

It's not the most glamorous purchase, but finding the best bathroom vanity unit is essential for making sure your beautifully designed space stays just that - without allowing clutter to close in.

Bathroom designs face many conundrums, the biggest being how they're often small spaces that have to do a lot. Squeezing in all of the necessary bathroom features isn't easy and leaves us with little room left, which is how bathroom storage ideas often get forgotten.

This is why shopping for the best bathroom cabinet is more important than ever. I don't know about you but I have bathroom products coming out of my ears, and I don't want them all constantly on show. From wall-hung vanities to freestanding options that will transform your bathroom design, these are 5 retailers to start shopping from.

1. Dunelm

What they're known for: Affordable, trend-led choices

If you've slowly realised that your bathroom storage isn't quite up to scratch, then it's likely you will be looking for a system to add retrospectively. This leaves you with freestanding bathroom cabinets as the best option, and high street retailer Dunelm has the best bunch to pick from.

While incredibly affordable, Dunelm also has its finger on the pulse of the latest bathroom trends. Their storage units look so much more expensive than they are and often have sink cut-outs so you can recreate the built-in look without committing.

It's almost impossible to choose a favourite, but I love the dark wood of the Tatum marble vanity unit, which looks remarkably like some Soho Home styles.

2. B&Q

What they're known for: Functional, affordable storage options

B&Q isn't just for paint and DIY tools, the brand's furniture is one of its hidden gems and the price point is always spot on. You might not find the most trend-led bathroom vanities here, but if you're trying to squeeze something into a small space or find a practical wall-hung style then this is where you should shop.

Whether it's for a cloakroom or an en-suite, B&Q has so many small vanities that will enable you to add storage even in the pokiest of rooms. You can't put a price on that.

3. Drench

What they're known for: Rainbow-inspired colour palettes and modern styles

Drench first came onto my radar when judging the Ideal Home Bathroom Awards and I was instantly wowed by the playful use of colour and modern style. Often, bathroom vanities are light wood or bamboo and while I personally love this look, I appreciate it isn't for everyone.

Drench has so many on-trend bathroom vanity options and the prices are incredibly reasonable - they start at around £200 for smaller wall-hung styles and go up to £650 for larger double vanity options.

4. Victorian Plumbing

What they're known for: Go-to shopping destination for everything you need to refurb your bathroom

Victorian Plumbing has quite literally everything you need for a bathroom renovation - vanities included. If ease and variety is what you're looking for in your hunt for a bathroom vanity then it's well worth exploring Victorian Plumbing's range.

They stock many different options from other retailers so there is truly something for everyone. Whether you need a simple, affordable cloakroom vanity unit or a more style-led double sink vanity, there is so much to choose from.

5. daals

What they're known for: Trend-led, affordable bathroom furniture

Daals is one of my favourite places to shop for affordable bathroom furniture. They always have their finger on the pulse of what's on trend and it won't break the bank. For freestanding bathroom vanities this is one of my favourite places to find tall units or under sink cabinets that fit perfectly around the sink for a built-in look.

Most of their collection has a modern, rattan look which might not be for everyone, however, at on average under £100 per unit, it's the ultimate budget-friendly bathroom update.

It can be easy to think you want as much bathroom storage as possible, but this can cause issues with the overall layout, so think carefully about what you actually need to store within the room. Perhaps towels can be stored elsewhere to free up space for other bathroom features, helping to create a more relaxed, fuss-free scheme.

Bathrooms are very rarely the 'right' shape. Whether your washroom is too small or just awkwardly shaped, it can be so tricky to find a layout that includes everything you need and still leaves enough space. Instead of letting your small bathroom cause too much frustration, take inspiration from these interior designed spaces that make the best out of a bad layout.

I spoke to three interior designers who have grappled with pokey bathrooms, difficult sloping ceilings and complicated briefs that muddy a bathroom design.

Every bathroom is unique, but you can take inspiration from the small tricks they used to create beautiful designs, that most importantly, make for practical wash spaces.

1. Attic en-suites

The sloping ceilings of attic bathrooms makes them inherently difficult to design, from finding space to fit the loo without hitting your head to ensuring you have enough storage and space to shower. Limited ceiling height will be the biggest issue you'll face in an attic bathroom, and this is how interior designer Melissa Hutley sought to overcome this common conundrum.

'With sharply sloping ceilings, limited head height and a narrow footprint, there was very little ‘standard’ wall space to work with. In awkward bathrooms like this, every centimetre counts, so the layout had to be carefully planned around where you can actually stand comfortably,' Melissa Hutley, interior designer & co-founder of Hutley&Humm explains.

'We tucked the shower beneath the skylight to maximise head height and flood the space with natural light, which instantly makes it feel larger and more uplifting. Rather than fighting the angles, we celebrated them - running the tile neatly into the eaves so the architecture feels intentional. Access was another challenge, so we opted for a stable door instead of a full swing door. It takes up far less room, improves flow and adds charm, proving that practical decisions can still feel characterful and considered,' Melissa adds.

2. A multi-use washroom

Some of the trickiest bathrooms to design are those where there isn't a clear use case. It might be that it acts as a go-to bathroom for the kids and guests, with differing needs. This was the case for Sophie Pringle, who needed to design a bathroom for her clients that had multiple uses.

'The layout was challenging as this compact basement bathroom needed to serve guests, the media room, and the gym, so incorporating a generous shower was essential. Using a single pane of glass with a continuous floor and wet-room grate, and integrating a long wall niche that runs from the shower through above the loo, we maximised space while keeping the room feeling cohesive and considered,' Sophie Pringle, interior designer & founder of Pringle & Pringle explains.

3. The downstairs cloakroom

A cloakroom is one of the trickiest places to decorate and plan for. They're pokey and often squeezed beneath staircases, but you still need them to function well for everyday use.

'Downstairs loos are often some of the most awkward spaces to design as they’re typically compact, lacking natural light and full of practical constraints, yet they’re also rooms guests always use, so they present a wonderful opportunity to create impact,' explains interior designer, Laura Stephens.

'In our N4 project, the footprint was incredibly tight. We leaned into the intimacy rather than trying to disguise it, wrapping the walls in a deep lacquered red to create a jewel-box effect that makes the room feel intentional rather than compromised. A wall-mounted basin freed up valuable floor space, while integrated shelving allowed us to introduce storage and personality without adding bulk. Using vertical panelling helped draw the eye upward, visually elongating the room, and warm brass details bring softness and contrast against the bold colour. The result is a small space that feels confident, playful and surprisingly generous despite its size.'

Awkward bathroom layouts don't mean that you're destined to have an impractical bathroom - it just means you have to be a bit more creative in how you design the space.

If you can squeeze an en-suite or supplementary bathroom upstairs, you can add between three and six per cent to the value of your home. Typical outlay starts around £3,500 (depending on size, fittings and work needed).

However, the added value and improved household functionality only work if you have enough room to accommodate an en-suite without seriously compromising the size and functionality of your bedroom.

'Successful small bathrooms and en-suites are shaped by proportion and restraint, rather than size alone. There’s no fixed rule about what must go into a space - it’s about deciding what you really need and what can be optional,' says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds. 'The practicalities should always be guided by an experienced plumber or contractor, who can advise on drainage, heating, lighting and ventilation. That said, thinking creatively early on makes a huge difference.'

How small is the minimum for a bathroom?

The question of ‘how small is too small’ is up for debate.

‘The smallest space I’ve worked with was around H2600mm xW850mm x D1900mm,’ says Matthew Kallum, founder of Kallums Bathrooms. ‘This was only really functional as a wet room and contained a wall-hung toilet, wall-hung basin and underfloor heating. I also had an option with a bath in this room using one of Bette's 1050mm x 650mm squat baths with a shower over it.

The minimum size is really dictated by what you want to contain within the room and how much flexibility you have in terms of layout.'

Not only is wall-hung sanitaryware – such as this wall-hung toilet from B&Q – a great space-saving option, but, by keeping more of the flooring visible, it can also make your bathroom feel bigger.

What are the best measurements for an ensuite?

For a clearer size guide, Soma Pillay, bathroom specialist at Bathroom City, recommends ‘a floor space of 0.7m x 1.3m for a compact cloakroom with a toilet and small basin, but 0.8m x 1.4m offers a more comfortable layout, particularly where doors open outwards or slide neatly out of the way.'

'For wet rooms, the absolute minimum is around 1.5m x 1m, allowing enough clearance for safe movement and effective drainage,' says Soma Pillay.

'In its purest form, a wet room has no internal separations, meaning the entire space is exposed to water during showering - something that’s particularly common in more compact layouts,' adds Luke, designer at Ripples Tunbridge Wells. 'Walk-in shower ideas , by contrast, introduce a glass screen or partition to create a clearer sense of separation. As a general guide, for shower rooms aim for a footprint of around 1700mm x 900mm, with the door centred on the longer wall, which allows for a comfortable and well-proportioned showering space.'

If you want to include a shower or bath, look to create a room of around 2m x 2m. This will give you enough space to navigate the room and will ensure that fixtures and fittings don't feel crammed in.

What size fittings should I buy?

Keeley Sutcliffe highlights the importance of focusing on how the space functions once the fittings are in place, rather than becoming obsessed with square footage.

‘Basins around 350 to 400mm wide remain practical for everyday use without overwhelming the room, while showers are generally most comfortable from around 800mm sq, even though smaller options exist,’ she says.

‘Baths can be reduced to around 1500mm in length, provided the surrounding layout allows safe access and movement, but you can get models as small as 1360mm,' says Keeley from BC Designs. BC Designs' Penny – available from Robert Dyas – features a generous slipper design but has a footprint of just W750mmxD1360mm.

Smaller models are available, but practicality becomes compromised. Wherever possible, visit a showroom – especially when purchasing showers and baths – so you can judge the size in relation to yourself.

How to design an ensuite to maximise space?

‘Thoughtful planning can unlock surprising flexibility in a small bathroom layout, from introducing subtle partitions to reworking how different zones sit next to each other,' says James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds.

Once you’ve got your proposed room size, Soma advises ‘laying everything out to scale on paper, or using masking tape on the floor, helps to visualise how the space will actually feel, not just how it looks on a plan. Allow at least 600mm in front of toilets and basins, and consider door openings, towel rails and storage early on.’

For added versatility, companies like Renovate with Reno offer digital tools that allow you to get a feel for the space and rearrange essentials. They can also help you play with colour combinations and finishes.

How to save space?

Don’t overlook the choice of door, as even a few saved inches can make all the difference. Pocket doors slide apart rather than swinging into the room, allowing you to make the most of the available space on either side of the door are many kits available that can be integrated when building stud walls.

Barn-style doors – like this from B&Q – are easier to install retroactively and bring a country-style aesthetic to the room. Or forgo a door altogether – a curtain can screen a bathroom entrance and has luxurious appeal for the en suite to an adult bedroom. However, this is not an option that’s compatible with wet rooms that don’t have a shower screen to contain water splashes.

As well as maximising physical space, design choices can also make a small bathroom look bigger. Mirrored walls and splashbacks can visually double the sense of space, making even the most compact room feel less claustrophobic. This effect is amplified by the way the mirrors will reflect light (whether natural or artificial) into the room. Other design choices, such as glass shower screens – like this from B&Q – rather than solid walls or curtains, and floating basins and toilets, promote a sense of openness by keeping all available floor space visible.

En-suites can be tricky places to decorate, and often fall at the bottom of the priority list in favour of family bathrooms and WC's that guests more frequently use. However, an en-suite bathroom is your own personal oasis, and its close proximity to your bedroom means that it holds significance as a place where your mind resets and relaxes.

Choosing an en-suite bathroom colour scheme is only part of this problem, and as I've seen firsthand in my own home, the temptation to leave it white (and therefore well-suited to any bedroom design) is tempting. But in 2026, colour is a superpower in our homes, and quite frankly, our en-suites deserve better than being an uninspiring blank canvas.

It can be tough finding a colour palette that sits harmoniously with your bedroom, but my advice is to treat your ensuite as its own oasis. Have a bit of fun with colour and add character to what is often a compact room - here's what the bathroom experts recommend.

1. Choose down to earth terracotta

One of the biggest bathroom trends for 2026 is earthy colour palettes. Gone are the days when white reigns supreme - instead, we're making our bathrooms feel like retreats, and en-suites are no different.

'Earth-led colours work particularly well in an en-suite because they introduce warmth without increasing visual noise, and shades such as terracotta, soft clay, peach and muted pink carry a natural depth that prevents the room from feeling stark, which matters in a space used first thing in the morning and last thing at night when lighting is softer and more directional,' explains Adam Wollerton, bathroom design manager at BK Eleven.

These earthy shades work particularly well together as a tonal look or with wood accessories, adding lots of depth to a design. Adam adds that, 'even a limited application such as a vanity unit, tiled splashback or a single wall can shift the perception of the room by removing the sharpness often associated with pale bathrooms.'

2. Lean into teal

Teal is a colour that has quietly crept back onto the scene. It's being used increasingly as a trending tone in kitchens, but I think an en-suite bathroom is where it truly belongs. Forget what you might be thinking about a coastal scheme - these blue hues are now being used in a more grown-up fashion.

'In an en-suite, blue-based colours work differently to whites and greys because they soften the atmosphere rather than brighten it. Teal, mineral blue and deep aquatic tones absorb light slightly, which reduces glare and makes the room feel quieter and more private, something particularly suited to a bathing space rather than a main family bathroom,' says Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'These shades also reference water in a subtle way, so the room feels connected to the act of bathing without relying on obvious motifs.'

3. Go for rich hues

While an ensuite naturally feels connected to a bedroom, I prefer making it feel like its own oasis, with a separate mood. As we have seen across kitchen and bathroom trends, rich hues like burgundy and dark brown aren't going anywhere, and they're perfectly suited to a bijou ensuite.

'Depth comes from darker, warm shades rather than grey. Browns like cocoa, chestnut or oxblood anchor the room and make it feel enclosed in a comforting way, which is often more appropriate for a private ensuite than an airy spa look. Using that colour on a ceiling, vanity or framed tile area keeps the scheme grounded without reducing the sense of space,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'To stop the palette becoming heavy, introduce a muted mineral note such as sage, celadon or weathered teal through tiles or detailing. These colours read clean but not cold and sit naturally alongside veined stone because they echo the subtle tones already present in the material,' she adds.

If a neutral en-suite colour scheme is what you're rooting for, then don't worry - there's definitely still room for this look. However, there is a way to still add character to a white scheme.

'Pale tiles still have a role, but they should be soft off-whites rather than pure white, ideally with texture or tonal grout so they bounce light gently rather than glare,' Grazzie explains. 'When layered together, warm stone, deep brown and softened greens create a bathroom that feels fresh yet comfortable, showing that colour in an ensuite is less about bold contrast and more about selecting neutrals with warmth and variation.'

One simple and affordable swap can take your en-suite from uninspiring to a really special spa-like environment.

Trading your en-suite door for a curtain is an affordable yet luxurious en-suite bathroom idea that instantly transforms a standard bathroom into the sanctuary of your dreams.

There has been some debate about whether you should replace your bathroom vanity doors for curtains, but what about the room's actual door? This easy DIY project is sure to inspire.

Why trade your ensuite door for a curtain?

Recently, we've seen interior designers trading the traditional solid wood doors for flowing curtains – bringing both aesthetic and practical benefits.

'The beauty of choosing a curtain partition is that it offers another opportunity to introduce warmth and texture, while softening hard lines associated with doors and door frames. It's also a great way to bring colour, pattern and personality into the space, allowing the ensuite to feel more integrated and cohesive in design with the bedroom. The curtains can also be easily updated over time, allowing you to change up the look and feel without any costly structural changes, making it a really versatile solution,' says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director at Kelling Designs.

If you're trying to maximise light in a bathroom, a curtain door might be the perfect antidote to your windowless bathroom woes. Leave the curtain open in the day to increase natural light and a sense of space in the bedroom, and close it for a warm and cocooning bathing experience.

Lending a dramatic entrance to an en suite, the curtain also introduces a sense of femininity to this functional space, counteracting the hard surfaces that are essential in this space. Plus, it can be achieved for less than £100 – a brilliant budget bathroom idea.

Getting the look is surprisingly easy. Simply install a standard curtain rail a few centimetres over the door frame – ensuring there's enough room on either side to gather the curtain out of the way. Adding a metal tie back – we love Dunelm's wide array – provides a pretty yet practical finishing touch.

Space saving solution for small bedrooms

Where space is tight, either in a small bathroom or a petite bedroom, trading your bathroom door for a curtain could be a game-changer.

'Swapping a standard ensuite door for a curtain is a clever way to zone a dressing area without permanently breaking up the space. It creates separation when you need it, but keeps the overall bathroom layout feeling open and relaxed,' says Melissa Hutley, interior designer and co-founder of Hutley & Humm.

'From a practical perspective, you free up valuable wall space. Without a door swinging open or sitting back against joinery, you gain more room for mirrors, hooks or additional storage, which can make a real difference in smaller spaces. Our top tip is to line the curtain properly so it hangs beautifully and provides the privacy you need.'

Choose the right curtain

Curtain choice is also vital if embracing this bathroom trend. Look for a light material that will dry quickly.

Linen is a great option due to its hygroscopic and anti-fungal properties, meaning it can tolerate some moisture and humidity. Linen fibres are also hollow, meaning it also dries more quickly than other fabrics. They are also easy to keep clean – simply unhook and throw them in the washing machine every month or so. A more affordable linen cotton blend is also a viable option if you're looking to make your bathroom look luxurious on a budget.

Avoid heavier fabrics, such as velvets, as these will harbour moisture and promote mould growth.

When not to use a curtain instead of an ensuite door

Of course, curtains aren't waterproof, and plastic shower curtains won't bring the same aesthetic benefits as a traditional fabric design.

For this reason, curtains should not be used in wetroom en-suites. Here, traditional doors are your friend. If you're still looking for ways to soften the space, opt for decorative patterned tiles and bathroom houseplants rather than fabric.

Would you give this trend ago?

Choosing the tiles for your bathroom can be a daunting prospect. There are so many choices of colour, texture and layout, and how do you make sure you pick something you'll still love in five years' time? To help you avoid the overwhelm, Ideal Home has partnered with Topps Tiles on a 20-piece capsule tile collection of timeless designs.

This capsule collection focuses on the classic tiles that form the foundation of any stylish look, from statement marble look tiles like the Bellingham to the zellige-inspired Tanjin tiles available in six colours. The beauty of this collection is that while the tiles are all classics, they offer endless opportunities for you to get creative with your tile pairings and layout.

I've been writing about interiors for over six years now, and what I've learnt in that time is that the most stylish bathroom tile ideas aren't about going bold with the tile itself, but being creative with how you use the tiles. Whether that is tile drenching a space or using a herringbone layout. When choosing your tile scheme, head to a Topps Tiles store and play around with the different tile combinations in the Ideal Home collection to get an idea of how they look and fit together.

As a starting point here are three creative and original ways you can turn these classic and timeless tiles into an original bathroom scheme that will look stylish for years to come.

1. Play with scale

The large marble-effect Bellingham tiles are perfect for wrapping around a shower enclosure to create the illusion of a grand and luxurious marble wall. However, throwing in a block of the Tanjin tiles in Olive adds texture and a pop of colour.

The beauty of the Tanjin zellige-inspired tiles is that their small scale and undulating finish create a variety of green shades depending on how the light hits them. Keep the grout colour and layout consistent across the large and smaller tiles so as not to detract from the beautiful marble finish and that pop of green.

2. Go for stripes

The small square zellige-inspired tiles are incredibly versatile for creating different geometric designs. Stripes are a timeless look that will never go out of fashion, and this simple layout of blue and white Tanjin tiles, tiled 3mm apart, will still look as striking in five years.

The Tanjin tiles are available in gold, white, blue, forest, sand and olive, so the potential combinations are endless. Alternatively, for a sleeker look, you could try the Principle, a glossy design available in white, amber, blue and green, or the Briks, arranged in a stripe formation.

3. Try a herringbone layout

Tile drenching is a huge trend at the moment, and it can look incredibly effective when done with a statement tile like Statements Capello in forest green. However, the secret to this look's success is the pairing with a green rectangular tile, which creates a focal point around the mirror.

The Principle tiles are very simple but are instantly elevated by their layout. Recreate this look by laying them in both a stack around the edges and in herringbone to fill the box. These different layouts add texture, visual interest and make a feature of how the light can change the colour of the tiles.

But you're not limited to a stack or herringbone, be adventurous and try a basket weave, or a windmill layout.

You can find the new range instore at Topps Tiles, and to celebrate the launch of the Ideal Home collection Topps Tiles is offering Ideal Home readers a one-time 20% discount on all finishing touches (from grout to trims) until 31st August. To get the discount online add code IHXTT2620 at checkout.

The concept of a carpeted bathroom usually elicits screams of horror from whoever remembers this design feature making its initial entrance into our homes, but all trends eventually cycle back around, so could 2026 be the year we see carpeted bathrooms back in fashion?

Soft, carpeted flooring is one of the most controversial bathroom trends, largely because of how impractical it is seen as being. But moisture aside, it made a room out of a wash space - one that feels enjoyable to relax in, rather than stark and clinical.

Bathrooms that feel like living spaces are one of the biggest trends for 2026, which is seen through the rise of tactical textures, plenty of colour and seating zones in our washrooms - but are carpeted bathrooms about to join the ranks? I'm convinced this alternative is the perfect compromise instead.

Are carpeted bathrooms coming back in style?

The immediate reaction when talking about carpeted bathrooms is to recoil in horror. But when you stop to think for a second about the merits of this bathroom flooring choice, you'll find that there are some.

Carpet isn't ideal within close proximity to water, but bathrooms are all about relaxing, switching off from a long day and feeling cosy in the mornings and evenings. Carpet does an excellent job of helping to achieve this ambience, rather than cold floors that feel frighteningly freezing underfoot. But whether this outweighs the practical downsides is the bigger question.

'We do not see carpeted bathrooms returning as a meaningful trend in the UK, largely because they sit at odds with how bathrooms are now used and maintained,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Hygiene expectations have shifted, and homeowners are far more aware of moisture management, ventilation and long-term cleanliness than they were when carpeted bathrooms last had a moment. Even with modern underlays, carpet struggles in a space that is routinely exposed to humidity, splashes and temperature changes, which can lead to trapped moisture and odour over time,' she adds.

Hard flooring, whether it be laminate, tile, or engineered wood, is much more practical and offers longevity, which is essential when spending a lot on a renovation.

However, there's still a clear desire to make our bathrooms feel warm and inviting, and often hard flooring doesn't lend itself to this.

'What we are seeing instead is a desire for warmth and comfort delivered through materials that are designed for wet environments. Textured porcelain, stone-effect tiles and surfaces with softer tonal variation allow bathrooms to feel welcoming without compromising on practicality,' Grazzie continues. Adding underfloor heating to one of these styles will also avoid the cold feet problem that is so prevalent with hard flooring.

Adding more warmth is then left down to accessories, like bath mats and Moroccan-inspired rugs that make a bathroom feel more lived-in.

'Upgrading mats to stylish bathroom-approved rugs is steering the way for 2026. While some might shy away from placing a rug in the bathroom, choosing a synthetic material that withstands moisture could be an ideal solution for those who want something softer underfoot,' explains Kirsty Barton, brand storytelling manager at Alternative Flooring.

For those who are adamant that carpet can indeed work in a bathroom, then all hope is not lost. While bathroom designers will advise against using carpet in the entirety of a washroom, there are ways to incorporate it while still balancing practicality.

Keeping tiles around wetter areas of your bathroom will save carpets from getting immediately sodden, while a waterproof subfloor underneath carpet will give you some extra peace of mind.

Synthetic fibres will also dry out faster, so stick to 100% polyester or polypropylene. They're much more resistant to moisture.

Shop bathroom rugs

Trend cycles always come back around but some do deserve to be left in the past. Adapting is all about finding new styles that work for modern life, which is why I'm rooting for bathroom rugs in 2026.

Choosing a design-and-fit approach was the perfect solution for Patsy and Lyndon when it was time to upgrade their dated en suite.

‘The bathroom was designed around a badly thought-out 1990s re-fit, the main issue being that the doorway from the bedroom looked straight onto the toilet,’ explains Patsy.

Having previously been told it wasn’t possible to move the bathroom fittings because of the concrete floor, she was resigned to looking at the loo when she went to bed. But after a design meeting with Sophie Harrold, director at Simply Bathrooms and Interiors, Patsy realised they were on the same wavelength.

‘The first thing Sophie said when she saw the room was that the toilet should be moved!’ says Patsy. ‘Sophie suggested we could reposition the bath and loo under the window and install a washbasin unit and barely-there walk-in shower opposite the bedroom door, while boxing in the new plumbing to create a streamlined look.'

'I loved her way of thinking, and when she perfectly captured the look I was after in a CAD drawing, with cement-effect bathroom tiles and a pink vanity unit, we decided to ask her to see the project to completion.’

When it came to choosing fittings, Patsy went for brushed brass to add a touch of luxe and prevent the room from feeling stark, which Sophie leaned into by suggesting the use of four different tile styles to introduce texture, depth and gentle variation in tone. And because the company project managed the whole build, Patsy barely had to worry about it.

‘The en suite was out of action for three weeks so we moved into a different bedroom,’ she says, ‘but the whole project was virtually stress-free.’ Though she does admit to a slight worry when the bath arrived: ‘I didn’t think the fitters would get it through the bedroom, but luckily the en suite door is fairly wide.’

Now she’s moved back into her bedroom, Patsy loves the new en suite. ‘The level of planning and detail that went into the project was huge, and Sophie came up with clever design ideas,’ she says, ‘so now it’s just a case of getting in there before my daughters!’

The Greenwood's double-ended bath feels freestanding and allows for comfortable soaking at either end, while the fitted back and side help conceal pipework.

‘My husband was initially cautious about going for a wet-room style shower with the frameless shower screen, but it’s completely sturdy and the adjustable arm adds extra strength,’ says Patsy.

‘The wall-hung toilet offers the updated, sleek, minimalist design I wanted and is practical as it’s easy to clean underneath and makes the room feel more spacious,’ says Patsy.

Get the look

‘One of the ideas I particularly loved was the boxing in behind the vanity unit because not only does it frame the tiled wall, creating a focal point, it also conceals the pipework, and as the vanity unit has been recessed slightly, it’s created a better walkway to the loo, making the room feel bigger,’ says Patsy.

Here, the dark tiles in the recess cleverly frame the bespoke pink vanity and create a feature of the area.

‘The boxed-out shelf runs the full length of the wall, creating a sleek ledge perfect for displaying pictures and plants,’ says Patsy. The design company mirrored the recess in the shower with the bath niche.

‘I assumed the towel rail would also be brushed brass, but I preferred the mushroom coloured design that was included on Sophie’s CAD drawing, which compliments the concrete-effect tiles,’ says Patsy.

The New Year always inspires us to try fresh looks in our homes, and bathroom tile trends are one small element that can have a big impact. Whether you're undergoing a bathroom renovation or just need to update a small area of the space, switching out your tiles to something a tad trendier will rejuvenate the whole look.

Bathroom tile ideas are one of the most important components of a design - essential for creating waterproof surfaces and slip-proof areas that are actually practical for everyday life. And they also offer so many opportunities for creating colourful, creative patterns that change the entire look and feel of your space.

If you're over plain white subway tiles, then these bathroom trends for 2026 will be for you. Think rich colour palettes, texture and playful expression - I can't get enough.

1. Handcrafted designs

Bathroom inspiration in 2025 and going into 2026 had one thing in common: handcrafted, imperfect tiles. Subway tiles, although practical, are no longer top of the trends list and instead, handmade tiles with natural texture and uneven finishes are being used to add dimension to a design.

'Rather than flat, uniform finishes, we are seeing a strong appetite for tiles where the glaze shifts across the surface, pools gently at the edges or settles differently from tile to tile, because those nuances bring a sense of life and tactility that feels particularly suited to bathrooms, where light and reflection are constantly at play,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca' Pietra.

Zellige tiles work particularly well for this, and when placed in an enclosed shower, they create an authentic spa-like experience that will feel utterly luxurious.

2. Rich colour palettes

Rich colour palettes are a big trend across bathroom and kitchen trends, helping to add warmth and character back into our homes. Tiles are a great way to execute this, as you can choose to focus on a small area of your bathroom as a way of subtly injecting more colour. Burgundy, brown and rust shades are all trend-led choices that will add plenty of moodiness to a design.

'Home owners are loving burgundy because it adds depth and character to rooms, making them feel cosy and welcoming,' explains Isabel Fernandez, director at Quorn Stone.

'A wonderful way to achieve a burgundy interior is with tiles – try Zellige-style red wall tiles for bathrooms to provide a rustic, earthy look, or unique burgundy marble chequerboard tiles in a hallway for a refined and elegant appearance.'

3. Expressive formats

Sometimes it isn't what tile you choose, but rather how you use it. Laying your tiles in a specific area makes them much more impactful, especially if you don't have the budget to tile a large area.

'Bathrooms are increasingly being designed around one dominant tiled element, chosen for its format rather than its decoration, and given enough presence to define the room,' explains Grazzie.

'In practical terms, this means large-format slabs with pronounced veining, arched or curved mosaics, and distinctive tile shapes being used deliberately as focal points, most often within shower enclosures, behind baths or across a single uninterrupted wall. The rest of the bathroom is then resolved around that choice, with simpler surfaces allowing the primary tile to lead.'

This trend is all about being intentional with the tile choice you make - less is certainly more, just make sure it's designed in a thoughtful way.

If these trends are anything to go by, 2026 is a year destined to be defined by playful interiors that bring joy to even the most practical of spaces.

I don't know about you, but my bathroom is in need of a major refresh. The drawers are bursting at the seams, and there's something about the New Year that makes everything look a bit grubbier - but luckily H&M Home's new Spring collection provides the perfect inspiration.

Like many people, I'm also dreaming of sunnier climes and luxury holiday escapes, which is exactly what H&M Home has sought to replicate in its new bathroom collection.

From dark wood accessories that look like they're straight out of a Maldivian villa to stripy colourful towels that make the ultimate joyful (and affordable) January bathroom update - here's what caught my eye.

It can sometimes be tricky to know where to start with giving your bathroom a facelift. Unless you're up for swapping out tiles, getting out a paintbrush or renovating the entire space, it's tough to create that 'brand new' allure.

The secret lies in bathroom accessories. You shouldn't overlook the power of a new storage tray or towel hook, and swapping out these smaller details has the potential to change the direction of your design.

H&M Home's spring collection features lots of these decorative accessories that you didn't know you were missing. Bathroom trends for 2026 are all about warm, dark wood tones that look rustic and lived-in, and this is exactly what H&M has achieved with their bathroom storage accessories. The straw laundry basket is a standout for elevating a practical, often ugly bathroom essential.

And of course, in one of the bleakest months of the year, a pop of colour is needed. Instead of committing to one colour through your tiles or paint, incorporating a new shade through towels is much more affordable and flexible.

The affordable H&M striped towels continue a trend we saw in 2025, instantly adding an in-the-know touch to your bathroom.

My own bathroom is all-white and feels very clinical, so I'm planning on investing in some of the dark wood accessories like the £12.99 wooden tray to help bring warmth back into the look. It's an easy way to replicate the interior design of Mediterranean villas that rely on neutral stone surfaces for the core design, and are then made inviting by softer accessories.

These are my picks on what is worth picking up - the pieces that will make the biggest impact for the least money.

Shop the collection

I've got my eye on the wooden tray to hold some of my bathroom products, which will add much-needed contrast to an all-white scheme. The bathroom towels are also such a good price for an affordable refresh this spring.

The recent nostalgic trend of looking back 10 years to 2016 suggests that was the year we were all living our 'best lives', but can the same be said for our homes? Trends tend to evolve in 10 year cycles and can in theory inspire our interiors today, which is why I've combed through the Ideal Home archives to discover how our bathrooms looked 10 years ago.

While many of us likely still have the same bathroom design from 10 years ago, these designs show just how dramatically our tastes have changed in recent years.

The question is, are 2016 bathroom trends set to return or are we leaving them firmly in the past? For those seeking inspiration or simply a trip down memory lane, here are some of the trendiest bathroom designs from 10 years ago, along with the lessons we could learn.

1. All white palettes

The last few years have felt like a colour explosion when you compare current inspiration to that from 2016. 10 years ago, all-white bathroom colour schemes were reigning supreme and were seen as the go-to option for curating a relaxing, zen space.

'Looking back to 2016, the British bathroom was defined by a very clear set of rules, with all-white schemes dominating everything from walls to sanitaryware, chosen not so much for character as for their ability to feel clean, bright and universally acceptable,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

Current bathroom trends veer more towards colour drenching in more playful shades such as baby pink, blue and green, so this isn't necessarily a trend that has held up. For super neutral spaces in 2026, more emphasis is placed on adding texture through fluted surfaces and dramatic stones.

2. Chrome, chrome and more chrome

This is one 2016 trend that I could get behind in 2026. While recent years have seen brass hardware take first place in kitchens and bathrooms, we're now seeing a shift to cooler-toned metals that were big 10 years ago.

'Chrome taps, showers and accessories were seen as the default rather than a design decision in 2016, paired almost instinctively with glossy white tiles and sharp-edged baths and basins to create bathrooms that felt orderly and efficient, even if they lacked warmth or individuality,' Keeley adds.

This trend is taking off more in bathrooms than in kitchens in 2026, and works perfectly to curate a hotel-inspired washroom that looks and feels premium. However, it will look different. Keeley explains, 'What is interesting now is how chrome is beginning to reappear, not as the only option, but as a conscious choice, used with more confidence alongside softer finishes, texture and colour.'

3. Textured neutral tiles

It's safe to say that the bathroom trends of 2016 were all about neutral colour schemes, but when white feels slightly too stark, beige took over.

Large-scale floor and wall bathroom tiles in calming neutral shades were a big trend in 2016, creating an inviting look that still feels clean and bright. Sandstone and limestone effect tiles were popular at this time, adding texture and intrigue to bathrooms without going bold with colour.

While these styles of tile aren't often seen styled with all white in 2026, they're still an excellent choice for a wash space. Instead, pair with tonal neutral colours and contrasting textural surfaces for more depth.

While I don't foresee bathrooms in 2026 becoming quite as stark white as those in 2016, certain clean design elements are set to make a comeback. Incorporating chrome finishes into spaces with warmer colour palettes and textured white tiles is a great way to bring styles from 10 years ago into today.

When Hannah and Dan moved into their two-bedroom Victorian terrace in Cheltenham, they knew they’d need to ‘steal’ a bedroom to create their dream bathroom. ‘We had to walk through the kitchen to get to the original bathroom,’ explains Hannah. ‘Also, the existing tub was a short, half-length design, not good for relaxing in, and the shower was tiny.’

The couple had already decided to incorporate the downstairs bathroom into a large kitchen-diner with a bedroom above, which meant in the long term they would get their second bedroom back. So it seemed sensible to work on the new bathroom first, while the old one was still in place.

However, the project was bigger than it initially seemed because the room had to be completely taken back to brick so it could be tanked and waterproofed. ‘We also had to reroute all the plumbing to install the bath, basin and loo,’ says Hannah.

The couple began planning the space, old-school style, on a piece of graph paper, with a freestanding bath and the largest walk-in shower that could fit being top of their wish list. Luckily, the layout came together easily.

‘We didn’t want the shower near the window, so it had to go in the corner, which naturally led to the bath going under the window,’ says Hannah. ‘And I didn’t want the loo to be the first thing I saw when I opened the door, so we put the washbasin by the chimney breast.’

When it came to the decor, the couple leaned into the period style of the property while adding contemporary touches. ‘I was aiming for a timeless rather than traditional look, but I also wanted it to be fun, so the green floor tiles were the start of the scheme,’ says Hannah.

Luckily, being a builder and carpenter, Dan was able to do the majority of the work himself, including making the wooden vanity unit. ‘I love the vanity unit that Dan made; it cost a fraction of high-street designs and is completely bespoke,' says Hannah.

‘Dan loves to have a bath every night, so we went for the biggest one possible, and this showstopper design is lovely and deep.’

‘We couldn’t remove the chimney breast because of the fireplace in the living room below, so we made the most of it by creating a niche, which has given us handy storage in the shower space.’

The finishing touches came next, with Hannah choosing sleek brass hardware. 'I was determined that all the finishing touches would be brass, even down to the loo handle. We have brass everywhere else in the house, and I wanted to encourage a flow and cohesion in our home.’

'We love Victorian style with a modern twist, and the traditional radiator and fun fish print follow this “rule” we’ve set ourselves perfectly.’

‘I wanted the space to feel fresh and bright as well as warm and relaxing, and the mix of contemporary touches with wood accessories and brass fittings has hit that brief.’

Get the look – Luxe brass fittings

Choosing a style of shower is a decision that is surprisingly complex. From walk-in, wetroom designs to over-bath shower heads that double up on space, there are so many ways to create a practical wash space that's also stylish. And the conservatory-style shower is our favourite yet.

You might be wondering how feasible it really is to fit a conservatory into a bathroom. In the UK, even our family bathrooms tend to be on the smaller side, but fear not - a conservatory shower isn't a huge installation that requires an expansive space, but rather a design that creates an enclosed, greenhouse-inspired feel.

It's all about creating a sanctuary for your showering experience so that you can truly switch off at the end of the day, and wake up in a light-filled space in the mornings. This is why you should incorporate this bathroom trend in 2026, and how to achieve a conservatory shower design.

What are conservatory showers?

Fully enclosed shower cubicles aren't as common in the UK as they are further afield, but they're a great way of creating the feeling of a separate room for showering, akin to Turkish and Moroccan hammams.

A conversatory shower takes inspiration from this, with the added bonus of glass-fronted doors and windows around the shower, creating a greenhouse-inspired design that has plenty of light flooding in.

A conservatory-style shower is a glass-walled, light-filled, nature-inspired shower space that brings the outdoors in, merging the serenity of a greenhouse with the luxury of a high-end bathroom and creating a calm, restorative, spa-like atmosphere,' explains Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

'The main benefits of a conservatory-style shower are increased natural light, a greater sense of openness and a stronger connection to nature, helping bathrooms feel less purely functional and more like rejuvenating retreats that are light-filled, calm and wellness-led,' Louise continues.

If you have a larger bathroom where fitting this style of shower is possible, creating an enclosed shower room will add to a high-end feel, allowing you to step in and truly shrug off the day.

How to create a conservatory shower

You might be wondering what goes into creating a conservatory-style shower for yourself. There is a lot of variety in this design and you can either opt for fully glass walls and doors or just a panel of glass, depending on how moody or light-filled you want it to look.

Bathroom tiles and accessories with plenty of texture work perfectly in a conservatory shower. Colourful Zellige tiles will add to a Moroccan-spa inspired scheme, while limewash paint and neutral textured tlies will create a zen zone.

As part of the wider scheme, Louise recommends looking towards textural details and natural wood tones.

'Materials that feel light, bright and slightly architectural work beautifully, including painted metal frames, textured or reeded glass, reflective surfaces that bounce light around the room, off-white or muted pastel tones, natural woods for warmth, and polished brass or soft metallic details that add a gentle glow reminiscent of sunlight hitting metalwork,' she adds.

Don't worry if a conservatory-style shower isn't quite within reach though; you can take inspiration from the design through panelled shower doors and using plenty of reflective surfaces. The result will be a bright, inviting space that feels like a treat to start and end the day in.

I’ll happily talk tiles all day, I’ve written enough about bathroom tile trends to bore even the most tile-obsessed homeowner, but grout and sealant? Absolutely not my favourite subject. They give me the ick. In every house I’ve ever lived in, the grout is the first thing to betray me. It turns a suspicious beige, then a properly grim black, usually right in the corners where I can’t reach it. Not even with my husband’s toothbrush!

Silicone is worse. Once that rubbery stuff gets grubby, there’s no hope. I’ve never found a product that truly shifts mildew out of silicone. Not once. You scrub, you bleach, you swear, and still the black spots hang on in there.

Over the years, I’ve accepted that the only real solution is to rip out the grout and silicone and start again – a job that somehow always slips to the bottom of my to-do list, below cleaning the oven and decluttering the ‘everything drawer’. It’s even worse in small shower rooms where moisture hangs around like a bad smell, and you cannot get the air to clear.

So, in this house, I’ve doubled down: better ventilation, yes, but also far less visible grout and sealant in the first place. If I can’t stop mildew from forming, maybe I can at least stop myself from seeing it. Here’s everything I’ve tried in my quest for a grout-and-sealant-lite life so far...

1. Tile trim around the basin

In my en-suite, I opted for a fully decorative look and used a brass tile trim around the basin area. Partly because I love a little metallic accent, but mostly because it brilliantly disguises what would otherwise be yet another bead of silicone and a neat row of grout.

The trim sits around the tile edge and creates a clean, purposeful border, so you barely need anything else to finish the junction between tile and walls. There is a thick line of silicone at the back of the basin to stop splashes getting in behind, but I tiled down over with a thin line of grout you can barely see.

Tile trim is such a simple solution; I’m not sure why I didn’t think of it sooner, and it has definitely reduced the visible grout and silicone ratios around my basin area. I’m sold.

2. Rectified tiles in the shower

Rectified tiles are my new best friend. Unlike handmade tiles with their wobbly edges, they’re machine-cut, so the sides and corners are crisp and uniform, meaning you can install them with very tight joints. And tight joints mean less grout.

In my en-suite shower, where moisture lingers no matter what I do, this has made a huge difference. The grout lines are so minimal that they hardly register visually, which means far fewer nooks for mould to colonise. I also went for the biggest tiles I could get up the stairs, which again reduced the grout levels.

I still keep a stylish squeegee from Victorian Plumbing in there and do my half-hearted post-shower swipe, but, overall, it’s dramatically reduced the amount of visible maintenance. If you’re planning a bathroom and grout gives you the sweaty-dreads, rectified tiles are worth a punt.

3. Coloured grout

In the family bathroom, I went the opposite direction: if you can’t beat it, hide it. Above the basin, we tiled in a rich dark green, and I paired it with black grout specifically so it wouldn’t show the grime. It’s probably the most successful camouflage exercise I’ve ever pulled off in a bathroom. Black grout stays looking smart even when faced with damp-loving spores, children brushing their teeth like they’re mixing cement and the general discolouration of time.

Around the bath, which has a shower over it, I again colour-matched the grout to the tiles, this time in a pale grey, and that’s worked well, too. Any grout that isn’t Celebrity Teeth white is going to be much more forgiving if you're not great at day-to-day grout care. If you are great at it, I salute you – and direct you to how to clean grout in tiles, because clearly you’d benefit from that level of know-how.

If you don't want to go through the faff of regrouting your bathroom, an easy way to update your bathroom tile ideas on a budget is using a black grout pen, which you can buy on Amazon.

4. Under-tile silicone-covering trim

Now we get into the more experimental option – the jury is still out on this one. On the advice of my tiler, I invested in this under-tile trim from Tilerite, a product that’s designed especially to cover the silicone seal around a bath or shower tray. It’s a little more flexible than the rigid tile trim that edges tiles, so it can cope with the movement of a bath full of water and a bather.

It tucks behind the tile (you tile down onto it) and creates a neat edge that covers over silicone. In theory, it should eliminate that dreaded black mould line that forms where tiles meet baths and shower trays. In practice? It’s pretty good. We used it around the bath and along the shower tray, and while it was a bit fiddly to install – akin to wrestling a tantruming toddler into a car seat – the finish is much nicer than naked silicone.

Sadly, it doesn’t stay spotless forever. The corners do get a touch mildewy, especially in the shower, and there’s sometimes a streak of blackness seeping out (grim). But compared to traditional silicone, it’s a game-changer. Once silicone goes black, you’re screwed and need to redo it. This trim is much easier to clean. I’m not sure if it’ll hold up forever, but I feel like this trim has bought me a decent holiday from the silicone gun.

Other things that (slightly) help

As much as I want to rely entirely on clever tile hacks, general bathroom habits matter too. Ventilation is key, I have installed decent extractors that vent out through the ceiling via powerful loft-dwelling motors, but it’s hard to beat the practice of swinging the bathroom windows wide open during or right after a shower to clear the steam.

Then there’s the old “wipe your shower dry” advice. In theory, brilliant. In practice, who has time for that? I try to at least drag the squeegee over the worst bits and encourage the rest of my family to do the same, but nobody in my house is up for drying tiles after every use, especially not me!

Other maintenance bits I’ve learned to love include keeping the shower door open post-shower so air can circulate, scrubbing any visible grout every few months (ok, maybe twice a year), and dealing with small black spots when I spot them, rather than waiting until they’re visible from space and/or growing fungi.

Alternatives to tiles if you truly hate grout

If you want to swerve grout entirely, there are a few bathroom tile alternatives, and they’ve come a long way. Shower panels, for example, have massively improved in recent years, although I still get faint static-caravan vibes from some of the more plasticky designs. The newest textured and stone-look ones are better and, crucially, have far fewer joints to scrub.

Waterproof wallpaper is another route I’ve eyed up but haven’t tried yet. Conceptually, I love it. No grout, no cold tiles, loads of pattern potential. If anyone has lived with it long-term, I’d love to know how it holds up on the mildew front.

Then there’s Tadelakt, the polished Moroccan plaster you see all over Pinterest. I had a go with this in our last doer-upper and, while the finish was beautiful, the hairline cracks were not. Those tiny fissures are absolute magnets for mildew, and once it’s in there, you’re in trouble. So, while it’s technically grout-free and undeniably dreamy, it's also higher-maintenance than I’d like. Consider your tolerance for a buffing routine before committing.

Grout and sealant are necessary evils if you like tiles, but we can outsmart them. Minimise the amount you use, disguise it where you can, and give moisture fewer places to loiter.

Have I eradicated mildew from my life? Sadly not. But have I reduced the number of times I need to put “bleach the bathrooms” on my to-do list? Yes, I have, and that’s enough for me. On the plus side, I generally take my glasses off when I bathe or shower, which means if there’s a tiny bit of mildew lurking, at least I can’t see it – being blind as a bat has some advantages.

If, like me, you're house proud and love to host, prepping to have guests round usually involves making your home look as un-lived in as possible. It's a challenge, when of course you have to live in it, so finding small ways to keep signs-of-life hidden are key - and a bathroom is my favourite place to start.

Let's face it, toilet roll isn't the most chic item to have on display, but it's essential and even more so when you're hosting guests. You don't want to have people frantically hunting for an extra roll, so keeping it on hand but not visible is the trick to master.

This one simple bathroom storage idea will have your bathroom looking much more sophisticated for hosting over the holidays, but still as practical as it needs to be.

How to hide toilet roll in your bathroom

Bathroom storage can be hard to come by, particularly in a downstairs cloakroom that is most frequently used by guests. Finding innovative solutions that still look pretty is key - you don't want a clunky storage unit in a space that has already been carefully designed to make the most of a small bathroom.

Toilet rolls are commonly stored in a rattan basket atop a cistern, or carefully placed on the floor next to the sink. While this makes them easily accessible, it's just another thing to have on show, and makes for a bit of an unsightly design.

One of my favourite ways to hide clutter in a bathroom is by fixing a cupboard curtain around a sink, or to a shelf near the floor. These are commonly used in kitchens to hide large appliances and also take the place of a door, adding softness to a scheme while still keeping clutter at bay.

This is the perfect way to hide away toilet roll. You can shove any clutter in your bathroom beneath this curtain, whether it's cleaning products or a bumper pack of loo roll to see you through the festive period, and the space will still look homely and full of character.

You can easily make a curtain yourself if you fancy some pre-Christmas DIY, but Dunelm's £15 curtain is a no-brainer alternative.

If a curtain isn't quite in your lane, however, a rattan storage container is a handy way of storing toilet roll aesthetically. Opt for a darker rattan shade for a more expensive look and tie into other wood tones throughout your bathroom design.

Shop the look

This is a small little adjustment that requires very little investment but will result in your bathroom looking significantly chicer.

'Tis the season for hosting, and while nothing beats having a bustling house full of the people you love, there's no hiding that it takes a lot of effort to prep for having guests to stay.

From stocking up on their favourite snacks to cleaning every inch of your home, there are so many things to do before guests arrive that will result in you abandoning the one small thing that has a lasting impact: your bath towels.

When you have multiple guests staying, you usually have to start rummaging around at the back of the airing cupboard for enough towels to cater for everyone. And if there's one thing that back-of-the-cupboard towels have in common, it's that they're often frayed, stiff and crusty - not the impression you want to make. Upgrading to some of the best bath towels before your guests arrive will push your home to hotel status in one swift purchase.

My secret to hosting well isn't to have fancy canapes and drinks (although that helps), it's upgrading the essentials that provide that hotel-like wow factor. And it couldn't be easier with a fresh set of towels.

There's nothing worse than having to run from the bathroom to your room in someone else's home wearing a towel that barely covers you, and it's also miserable drying yourself with a scratchy towel. Investing in a bundle of new towels will make your guests think you've gone to extra effort just for them, or that you always live like royalty with wonderfully plush towels.

I'm guilty of only having enough towels to use for myself and perhaps one guest, so in a bid to up my hosting game and ascend truly into adulthood, I invested in a couple of affordable, but not cheap, sets of towels.

These towels are reserved solely for guests, so they stay free of makeup stains and fluffy for longer. Now is a great time to follow suit and upgrade your towel game, as there are a few sales on, like Christy, which has 50% off and an additional 20% off orders over £100 with code 'GIFT20'.

I always recommend buying guest towel sets in a slightly different colour or pattern to your personal towels, so that you can easily tell them apart and they look intentionally chosen.

I would even trial a more 'out-there' pattern, like these checked towels from John Lewis, for a fun decorative touch to leave at the end of your guests' beds. These are some of my favourite towels to purchase ahead of hosting season.

Shop bath towels

Trust me, the most impressive touches are the underrated ones.

As we head towards the final few weeks of the year, I'm turning my attention to looking ahead at the interior trends that will dominate our homes in 2026. Bathroom trends are more important than ever before during this time of year, a place to enjoy long soaks in the bath and warming showers that start the day right, so you'll want to incorporate the trends that make this space feel special.

2025 bathroom trends saw coloured vanities, earthy colour palettes and statement tiles take over, and while many of these trends are still trickling down, we're ready for some new inspiration in 2026.

I spoke to bathroom design pros to learn exactly which styles they're seeing rise in popularity, and what homeowners are choosing for their bathrooms right now. There's truly something for everyone in these trends for 2026, whether your taste is classic neutrals, retro-inspired or super sleek and contemporary.

1. The spa-throom

The beauty of designing your own bathroom is that it can feel like a high-end spa, and your home, all in one. Keeping your bathroom colour scheme neutral but adding tonal soft furnishings will create a cosy yet sleek spa-like space.

'The main trend that will be seen across bathrooms in 2026 is creating a spa-style environment at home. The bathroom is where you start and end the day, so it should be a place where you feel relaxed and are able to wind down,' explains Emily Robertson, bathroom expert at Mira Showers.

'We will see a shift away from stark white bathrooms, and instead, we will see people move towards tonal design choices that will help to create a more calming atmosphere,' she adds. 'Adding wooden accents in lighter tones, along with tonal soft furnishings like bath mats and robes and accessories like candles and diffusers, will give you the perfect finishing touches.'

2. Sleek brushed nickel

Brushed brass has been a popular metal choice around the home for the last few years, but there's a new tone on the scene for 2026.

'You can’t go wrong with metallics in the next year, and beyond – they are the perfect finishing touch and can really make a scheme ‘sing’. We do have a prediction for 2026 and that’s Brushed Nickel,' explains Sally Bettison, design manager at Tissino.

'It has a lovely soft finish that moves us away visually from the stark finish of chrome and is warmer to the eye than brushed brass. Colours that look great with brushed nickel are muted tones like gray, soft creams, pale pink and taupes, and also darker shades like forest greens, indigo blues and shades of orange like terracotta.'

3. Turning texture up a notch

In a space where relaxation is key, colour schemes often take on a subdued approach. However, in 2026, it's all about adding texture to these pared-back spaces via bathroom tile ideas, creating a dynamic scheme.

'Texture is stepping forward as the defining bathroom trend for 2026. We are seeing a growing desire for spaces that feel expressive and grounded without relying on strong colour or decorative pattern, and tiles are becoming the quiet storytellers of that shift,' explains Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca' Pietra.

'Homeowners are responding to finishes that feel worked by hand; surfaces with soft ridges, subtle plaster-like variation or an earthy, tactile quality that immediately softens a bathroom. Whether the surface is gently rippled, slightly weathered or naturally irregular, texture adds personality in a way that endures.'

4. Natural timber tones

Each year brings with it a new wood tone that comes to the fore. While darker tones are reigning triumphant in our kitchens, it's warm, rich tones that will be a hit in bathrooms in 2026.

'Natural wood is becoming a major material trend for 2026 because it answers the growing desire for warmth, tactility and visual comfort in bathroom design,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'Improved moisture-resistant finishes now allow oak, walnut and ash to be used with far greater confidence, and that technical shift is opening the door to more expressive applications: fluted vanities, architectural panels, integrated shelving and even subtle ceiling cladding. Timber helps bathrooms feel less clinical and more connected to the wider home, which aligns with the new design direction centred around calm, cohesive spaces,' Keeley adds.

5. Bathrooms that don't feel like bathrooms

While pared-back spa-like spaces are a big trend for 2026, so are bathrooms packed with character, colour, and well, maximalism. While carpeted bathrooms are a while off coming back into vogue, washrooms that reflect our living spaces more closely are gaining in popularity.

'People want to linger. We are seeing bathrooms designed with seating areas, dressing zones and even fire or sauna features built in. The growth in size is not about excess, as a larger footprint allows light to flow, materials to breathe and the bath to become the sculptural focus it deserves to be,' Keeley adds.

'In homes where space is more limited, the same sense of generosity can be achieved through design: reducing visual clutter, using continuous flooring, or framing key features such as the bath or vanity.'

6. Sunny, sky blue shades

It's no secret that blue is a popular colour choice for a bathroom, but sky blue is the latest shade taking over. Rather than making a bathroom feel cold and clinical, this classic mid-tone blue somehow creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

'Blue is set to make a true comeback in bathroom interiors. From soft cerulean accents to deep navy cabinetry, blue offers both tranquillity and depth and is a colourway that can transform a functional space into a retreat. It also pairs beautifully with anything from warm metals or natural woods, meaning almost any aesthetic can include it in a space,' explains Rikki Fothergill, bathroom style expert at Big Bathroom Shop.

Small blue bathroom ideas work particularly well for a bright and characterful space that still looks large and inviting.

7. Cosy lighting

Kitchen lamps became a huge trend in 2025 and will continue to be in the New Year, so it was about time that bathrooms follow suit. A bathroom is about finding comfort after a long day, and so much of that is down to creating an ambience that makes you want to linger.

'It's time to say goodbye to harsh overhead fixtures and instead welcome soft, ambient light to create your own private retreat. Adding a rechargeable lamp to a shelf or windowsill will help you reduce the glare in your bathroom and create a relaxing atmosphere without having to rewire the whole room,' explains Emily Robertson, bathroom expert at Mira Showers.

'This trend is especially friendly for renters as it requires no physical changes to your bathroom. Even for those with more than one bathroom, who don’t want to invest too much, buying a portable lamp means you can easily set the mood in whichever bathroom you desire,' she adds.

Whether you prefer a maximalist look or a spa-inspired scheme, there truly is something for everyone in these 2026 bathroom trends. They're guaranteed to reinvigorate your washroom for bright mornings and relaxing, cosy evenings in the New Year.

Habitat has just started stocking Double Wall Mounted Pumps (£60 for two) for showers, and shoppers are raving about these handy storage buys, which have reduced their shower clutter.

Showers are areas of your home that can easily accumulate clutter. With half-empty bottles of shampoo, body scrubs, soaps, razors and loofahs (and the rest), it’s easy to run out of storage in such a small space- which is why we hold small bathroom storage ideas in such high regard here at Ideal Home.

The Simplehuman Double Wall Mounted Pump is designed to remove some of this clutter. The large vessels are designed to hold your shampoo and conditioner so you can do away with messy bottles completely - and shoppers can’t seem to get enough of them.

If you’ve been looking for ways to organise your bathroom, the Simplehuman Double Wall Mounted Pump can help streamline your shower space. Its simple design is similar to what you might spot in a hotel, but its practical features are what make it worth investing in.

The shower dispensers are designed so that you have everything you need within easy reach. It has a hook to hold your razor, loofah and other accessories, while the ergonomic T-bar lever works with your natural grip for one-handed dispensing.

The shower dispenser can be attached to your show wall via double-sided tape, which is included with the product and is ideal if you’re renting, or you can screw them directly into the wall for more secure installation. They come with a manufacturer's 5-year guarantee, and are made from durable, rust-resistant materials, so you don’t have to worry about discolouration.

Not to mention they have received some excellent reviews with shoppers left impressed by how much liquid they hold, as well as how good they are at dealing with shower clutter.

‘This is so much easier than baskets and hanging things and clutter in the shower. They fix to the wall, dispense what you want, and they are not in your way,’ said one.

‘Although expensive, I found them to be of excellent quality. They have really tidied my shower area up. I also love the fact that you can see when your product needs refilling. I can definitely recommend them.’

If the idea of shampoo, conditioner and shower gel bottles littering the floor of your shower or bathroom is a bit of a turn off for your dream bathroom ideas, these handy pumps are a practical and stylish solution.

I've also spotted the single Simplehuman dispenser is on sale for £31.96 at Amazon, and you can also pick up the set of three for £86.03. And I’ve tracked down a few more stylish solutions to tidy and neaten your shower space.

Would you invest in these handy shower dispensers?

Gone are the days of sterile bathrooms. They might be practical rooms, but there's no reason that they can’t also be a space to unwind and decompress after a busy day. In fact, bathrooms have quickly become centred around creating a space for total relaxation.

But what do you do if you don't have space for a traditional, relaxing, spacious bath? That's no problem, as Ofuro baths, a traditional Japanese bathtub style, are becoming a popular way to emulate that spa-like feel, and they're the perfect small bathroom idea.

‘An Ofuro bath is a traditional Japanese soaking tub created for deep, restorative immersion,’ says Natalie Bird, brand marketing manager at Roca. ‘Unlike long, low Western-style baths, Ofuro tubs are compact, upright and much deeper, allowing the water to surround the body fully while using far less floor space.’

At the start of 2025, fitted baths seemed to be back in fashion, but now there is a growing appetite for these deep, free-standing tubs. With a composition more reminiscent of a hot tub than a bath, Ofuro-style tubs are the perfect way to steal a moment of calm. ‘In today's fast-paced world, people crave moments of calm and self-care,’ explains Rikki Fothergill, bathroom style expert at Big Bathroom Shop.

‘Ofuro baths are becoming popular ways of creating the feeling of a mini-retreat within the homes. As they are so compact, and rely on the feel of natural materials rather than size, they work well within both small and large bathroom spaces,’ adds Rikki.

The benefits of Ofuro tubs

While Ofuro-style tubs might look like a normal bath at first glance, there is more to them than first meets the eye. ‘Ofuro baths offer a blend of comfort, functionality and efficiency. Their deep, upright structure allows for complete immersion while taking up less space than a conventional bath,’ says Natalie.

‘The benefits of Ofuro baths are endless,’ adds Rikki. ‘They are a great option for high stressers, who can relax their muscles and soothe tension in the warm, deep water. The ritual experience surrounding the Ofuro also encourages a moment of pause and mental reset, much like the feeling of calm that you would typically feel in a spa.’

The ritual experience of Ofuro refers to the traditional Japanese practice of washing the body before entering the Ofuro tub and soaking without distraction. That’s right – no screen time, music, or even books.

This quiet time should aid a sense of reflection and calm while you soak, encouraging you to focus on the sensation of the hot water and the soothing texture of the bath itself, leaving you feeling completely relaxed.

In fact, Heather Young, Ideal Home’s Editor in Chief, has put the Ofuro tub to the test and can confirm it’s just as soothing as it sounds. 'My uncle and aunt lived in Japan for a couple of years and they put an Ofuro tub into their house when they came back to the UK, which worked brilliantly in their smaller-than-average bathroom,' says Heather. 'Having a bath in it was one of the things I most looked forward to when I used to go and stay with them – the depth of the water feels really indulgent, and I found it a lot more relaxing than a regular tub.'

How to style an Ofuro tub in your home

Not only are Ofuro tubs great for promoting a spa-like feel, they’re also an aesthetic addition to your bathroom scheme. Japandi style bathrooms have become increasingly popular for their practical approach to cosy relaxation, and Ofuro tubs fit right in.

‘Japandi is all about simplicity, natural materials and purposeful design,’ says Mark Tones, founder of luxury bathroom brand Aquaroc. ‘Ofuro baths fit perfectly: their clean lines, compact shape and calming aesthetic make them an ideal centrepiece for a minimalist, Japanese-inspired space.’

Traditional Ofuro baths are typically made from wood, but many bathroom retailers have mimicked the design so that you can enjoy the experience in your own home. Roca’s Oval free standing bath, for example, even includes a seat for added comfort. ‘It’s crafted from Stonex® composite, a durable, warm-to-the-touch material. It also features an integrated seat that supports a comfortable, grounded posture to elevate the overall bathing experience,’ says Natalie.

The composite or acrylic finishes that you can expect to see on Ofuro-style baths will likely fit seamlessly into your existing bathroom scheme. And you don’t need anything groundbreaking – as long as your bath is compact and offers a deep soak, like this option from Victorian Plumbing, it should be enough to replicate the feeling.

Most deep soak, Ofuro-style tubs are freestanding, so keep the rest of your decor minimal and make the bath the star of the show. ‘Many people want their homes to support their wellbeing, and the bathroom is increasingly seen as a place to unwind rather than simply a functional space, so soothing design elements are becoming more desirable,’ says Natalie.

Add stress-relieving house plants, soft lighting and organic textures alongside your Ofuro bath for the ultimate approach to relaxation.

Complete the look

When you put your Christmas decorations up, do you think about decorating every room in the house? More specifically, do you ever think about decorating your bathroom? Well, it seems more and more of us are, as interior design experts have revealed a spike in Christmas bathroom decor, and even bathroom Christmas trees!

Yep, you heard me right. Decorating bathrooms and even bathroom Christmas trees are an emerging Christmas trend this year. But even I’ll admit, it’s a rather charming way to ensure the festivities fill your whole home.

If you love the festivities, this is the place to add one of the smaller best artificial Christmas trees. It’s a decorating trend gaining momentum, too. It’s up to you to decide, however, whether you think it’s genius or bonkers.

What's the trend?

Every year, Christmas decorating gets bigger and bigger. Gone are the days of simply hanging baubles and tinsel from your tree. Now, we have garlands, bedding, outdoor lighting, crockery, tableware and even Christmas towels to contend with. And bathroom Christmas trees seem to be the icing on the cake.

‘This Christmas, Brits are embracing the idea of transforming everyday spaces into little pockets of luxury, whether it’s through the Ralph Lauren-inspired heritage trend or, surprisingly, by decorating the bathroom! Research from Balsam Hill reveals that more than one in ten Gen Zers now add festive touches to their bathrooms. But as this is a high-traffic, functional space, knowing how to style a bathroom tree safely and beautifully is key,’ comments Whinnie Williams, Interior Designer and Trends Forecaster for Balsam Hill.

In fact, experts at Balsam Hill found that one in 10 of us were planning to decorate our bathrooms this Christmas.

‘It’s no wonder bathroom Christmas trees are trending, with Kim Kardashian sharing her decorated bathroom with millions of followers every year. The bathroom Christmas tree trend is the next evolution of the ‘every room gets a tree’ trend,' says Alex Woods, bathroom expert at Victorian Plumbing.

'We’ve seen Christmas trees in people’s living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, so why not the bathroom? Not only does it add comfort and warmth, but it ties the bathroom into the house’s overall Christmas decor theme.'

How to style bathroom Christmas trees

Now, if you’re coming round to the idea of decorating your bathroom for Christmas with a festive tree, it’s important to know there is an art to styling them, as well as some materials you should never use.

‘As with anything you introduce to a damp environment, safety should always come first. Avoid pre-lit trees, as moisture can get into the lights and cause a hazard. I’d also recommend steering clear of glass baubles that might break,’ says Whinnie.

‘Instead, opt for an unlit tree and decorate with lightweight, shatterproof ornaments or natural accents. Miniature trees are ideal for bathrooms, so try placing one on a vanity, cupboard, or plant stand to bring festive cheer without overwhelming the room.

‘If your bathroom doesn’t have space for a tree, you can still weave in seasonal charm. A few subtle sprigs of greenery or berry picks in a vase and paired with candles, can offer a gentle nod to the festive season while keeping the look spa-like.’

You could also try using IKEA’s iconic peg tree to hang your towels and robes as a festive, yet practical nod to Christmas. Alternatively, here are a few more styles to get your bathroom in the festive spirit.

Considering how often we use our bathroom, it makes sense to have a little festive decor. What do you say? Yay or nay to bathroom Christmas trees?

When I renovated my third home, a small barn conversion with an equally small guest en-suite, a wet room seemed the obvious solution. Stylish, space-saving, easy to clean… what could possibly go wrong? Plenty, as it turns out.

I’d seen so many serene spa-style wet room ideas on Pinterest and assumed the look would translate effortlessly. The idea of one continuous floor with no clunky shower tray or grimy enclosure felt modern and practical. Plus, in a space that wasn’t exactly spacious, going barrier-free promised to make the room feel larger and more luxurious.

We did get a specialist in to ensure the tanking, floor gradients, and drainage worked as they should, reasoning that it would be cheaper than fixing any DIY disasters! ‘We always recommend using a professional design and installation company that specialises in wetrooms,’ says Yousef Mansuri from C.P Hart. ‘Not using a professional can come at a hefty price if there are resulting leaks in the rest of the home. It could also nullify any insurance claims.’

But despite doing our best to get everything right, reality was, well, wetter than expected! It was the first bathroom we tackled so, once done, it was in daily use while we worked on the family bathroom. Within weeks, I realised that while wet rooms photograph beautifully, they’re far less forgiving IRL.

I’m not saying it was a total disaster – it looked gorgeous, and our guests were always full of compliments – but living with a wet room taught me a few tough lessons about practicality, comfort, and the fine line between spa-like and soggy. Here’s what I learnt and what I’d do differently if I were ever tempted to travel the wet room road again.

1. Ventilation and heating are non-negotiable

The first thing I discovered is wet rooms stay wet. I guess there’s a clue in the name! Even with a decent extractor fan, our little wet room never felt like it truly dried out. After each shower, condensation clung to every surface, the toilet roll curled up like papier mâché, and the air felt damp long after the steam had cleared.

It didn’t help that the room was windowless, but I thought the extractor would compensate. Turns out that ventilation in a wet room needs to work harder than in a conventional bathroom, as I discovered after chatting to bathroom designer Lisa Kyme, owner of Ripples Bathrooms in London.

She recommends an extractor rated for continuous operation, paired with a humidity sensor so it runs automatically after showers. ‘A lot of steam and moisture is created in a shower room, so you want to ensure it is cleared as quickly as possible and ventilation is key,’ she explains. ‘Heating will also help, especially underfloor heating, which will help dry the tiles off much quicker so that you don't potentially end up with limescale residue on the tiles where they get wet.’

If I was doing it again, I’d fit both electric underfloor heating (I’ve used Devi electric heating mats in our current en-suite and really rate them) and a dual-fuel towel rail that can run in the summer (using our solar panels) when we don’t have the central heating on.

I’d also consider going for a more powerful extractor fan than the size of the room requires to ensure the air is being cleared more frequently. Think of a wet room as a constantly damp environment and design every element to help it dry as quickly as possible.

2. Layout is everything

We made the rookie mistake of placing the toilet a little too close to the shower area. Not only did this result in soggy loo roll but, if the showerhead wasn’t tilted at a specific angle and the lid was inevitably left up, the loo seat would get sprayed, too. Unpleasant.

In a wet room, decent floor gradients will help stop water migrating where it shouldn’t underfoot, but shower spray is much harder to control – especially if you are lucky enough to have a high-pressure water system and large showerhead. ‘Ideally, you want a minimum 1.4m distance between the shower head and other bathroom fittings, like the WC or basin,’ says Lisa. ‘It's generally more body spray than water coming directly out of the shower head that causes problems.’

In a small space, Lisa says a short, fixed glass panel with a hinged panel can be really useful as it can be rotated to extend the length of the screen or angled inward to keep the water more contained. ‘If you're using a much larger wet room screen, remember to bear in mind how to get that piece of glass into the property and up the stairs,’ she adds.

If I were considering a redo, I’d position the toilet diagonally across from the shower or behind a simple screen, like Merlyn’s 10 Series Frameless Wetroom Shower Screen. And I might also invest in a toilet roll holder with cover like with one from Victorian Plumbing and some contained storage, perhaps within a vanity unit or wall-hung cabinet, to keep spare toiletries away from any errant spray or excessive moisture.

3. The finish needs to flex

When it comes to surface finishes, I learned that minimalism has its downsides. We went with micro-cement polished plaster walls for a seamless, grout-free look. This was about 10 years ago now, so I felt very fancy and fashion-forward! But a few months in, fine hairline cracks began to appear, particularly around corners and door frames.

We were told this was perfectly normal, and it is, but it ruined the seamless finish I was after, and my OCD didn’t cope well. The problem was that micro-cement naturally develops micro-fissures as your house expands and contracts, and it was a very old house, originally a hay shed, which didn’t help matters. As the cement is built up in many thin layers, there was no cause for concern on the water damage front, but it didn’t look great.

My solution for our current en-suite, which isn’t a wet room but does have a generous showering space, was large-format porcelain tiles from Topps Tiles with rectified edges that enabled minimal grout lines. Each one is 60cm x 120cm, which our tiler did not appreciate! We colour-matched the grout so it’s barely visible, so the aesthetic is very similar, but the surface is much tougher and still very easy to clean.

For floors, I’d choose textured slip-resistant tiles, available from Tile Mountain, over polished concrete. ‘Slip-resistant tiles are measured on an R scale (ramp test) with R9 offering minimal slip-resistance to R13 providing the highest slip resistance. Aim for tiles with a slip rating of at least R11 for maximum safety on wet room floors,’ says tile expert James Bacon, from Tile Mountain.

4. Wet rooms look cool – but can feel exposed

Aesthetically, our wet room was a solid win. The textural cement, slick concealed shower controls and smart slotty drain created exactly the modern, open feel I was channelling. But in actual use, stark naked, I felt weirdly exposed – even when the door was firmly locked! I missed the cosiness of a shower enclosure vs a wet room, and how they warm up quickly and keep out any sneaky drafts.

I also learned that a fixed showerhead, while beautiful, isn’t the most practical because you can’t dodge the water if you don’t want to wash your hair. And I regretted not having a handshower for rinsing the area down when cleaning. This isn’t really wet room specific, but I’d never choose a shower without the addition of a handset on an adjustable riser again.

In my latest shower, I was very happy to return to a regular enclosure and low-level tray, with sliding doors from Victorian Plumbing so I don’t lose any space inside or out – and of course I went for an overhead and handheld shower set-up.

5. Maintenance is easy but more involved

If there’s one thing I did appreciate, it was how easy the wet room was to clean. With no mildew-ridden silicone sealant or grubby grout lines, I could simply mop the floor and give the walls a quick wipe-down to keep the wet room dry. The channel-style drain never clogged, and the tanking held up perfectly.

However, the uncontained shower spray and higher moisture levels affected more than I’d anticipated. From the toilet cistern to the underside of the wall-mounted vanity, everything needed more frequent attention. Water spots, mildew and soap scum showed up fast if I didn’t get in there and dry the surfaces swiftly after showering.

I’d recommend investing in a good shower squeegee (this Keuco glass wiper from QS bathroom supplies is brilliant and can be hung on the shower controls as a massive hint to guests!). I also rate Vileda’s turbo spin mop from Amazon for speedy mopping and surfaces that dry quickly after.

What you'll need if taking on a wet room

Would I rule out wet rooms completely? Well, I haven’t attempted another yet but I’m not completely over the idea. If there is a next time, I’ll go in with my practical head firmly on. They can be stunning and practical when carefully planned, but, especially in small spaces, precision matters more than Pinterest popularity.

We're all for DIY on Ideal Home. Anything that saves money and elevates our home is a win in our book. However, some projects, like tanking a bathroom to create a wet room, should never be attempted by a casual DIYer.

While it is technically possible to tank a wet room on a DIY basis – there are plenty of kits available online, like this Thermopanel kit from B&Q – the risks are incredibly high. Tanking involves making the entire bathroom waterproof. A single gap or crack and the water will seep through the floor or walls, causing damp, rot and mould, and potentially affecting the structural integrity of your home.

Hiring an expert to tank your wet room not only ensures a professional finish, but a professional's work will also be guaranteed. This means that should something go wrong with the tanking of your wet room, you will be financially compensated – something that is not the case with DIY.

What is tanking a bathroom?

Creating a wet room is one of the most involved bathroom renovation projects, as it requires the entire space to be gutted and then made waterproof. Waterproofing is achieved through tanking, which comes in two forms: liquid and membrane. Liquid waterproofing is rolled over walls and floors to create a waterproof surface, whereas a membrane is a physical barrier placed between the bathroom flooring or walls and tiles.

This might sound straightforward, especially if you know how to tile a bathroom, but you need to be 100% confident that the space is waterproof, as even a tiny gap can be catastrophic. Unless you're willing to risk thousands of pounds on your DIY skills, most experts agree that this is a job best left to the professionals.

There are also additional considerations when it comes to bathroom layouts that you wouldn't need to consider in classic bathroom renovations.

‘As well as tanking the room, you will also need to factor in creating a gentle gradient in the main shower area so that water flows easily into the waste,’ says Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs.

‘Hidden tray systems, which fit under the floor tiles and take care of drainage gradients, are the most popular choice and blend into the aesthetics of the rest of the room. Because of the extra specialist building work required to tank a wet room, you are looking at a 20 per cent increase in costs compared to other walk-in shower ideas.’

A shower enclosure is a significantly more affordable alternative, like this Sundaze design available from B&Q, and can still deliver a spacious showering experience.

Why should you never try DIY bathroom tanking?

When creating a hotel-style wet room, the whole space needs to be totally waterproofed, as even making a small mistake when tanking your bathroom can prove costly – a small leak may require you to rip out your newly renovated wet room, then hire a professional to fix the problem, potentially have to repair structural damage and finally, you'll need to refit your bathroom. So even though the cost of hiring a professional to install a wet room is high, it is a fraction of the cost of the repairs should something go wrong.

'Wet rooms aren't a cheap budget bathroom idea or a quick fix,' says Lee Reed, head of marketing, Easy Bathrooms. 'Unless you’re a very experienced DIYer, installing a wet room is a job best left to the professionals. The best plumbers and tilers will — and should — charge a reasonable fee for their work. You can expect to pay at least £5,000 for this.'

However, you can expect a professionally installed wet room to add value. 'In some cases, a high-quality wet room can boost a home’s value by 2–5%,' explains Jack Malnick, MD of Sell House Fast.

When choosing a professional to install your wet room, look for someone who is qualified in fitting wet rooms and who offers a guarantee on their work. Trusted Trader has a list of recommended wet room installers. You should also ask to see examples of wet rooms they've installed and customer testimonials.

'Ultimately, the key to a successful tanking is good workmanship. As long as the workmanship is of good quality, there should be no problem,' says Natalie Bird, brand marketing manager at bathroom company Roca.

How to save money when building a wet room

Most people undertake DIY projects because it saves money, allowing them to renovate on a budget. Completing projects yourself can be the difference between you having the home of your dreams or not. So, while you shouldn't DIY bathroom tanking, there are some renovation jobs you can undertake yourself when planning a bathroom.

These include stripping out the old bathroom by removing the old bathroom suite, taking tiles off the walls and lifting up the flooring. These are time-consuming tasks but very easy to do yourself – all you need is a tile chisel like this from Amazon and a hammer.

Once the tanking is complete, you could fit the new bathroom appliances on a DIY basis if you are confident in your skills.

Another way to save money on a new bathroom is to use bathroom tile alternatives. Solid wall panels, like this Splashwall stone effect panel from B&Q, are cost-effective, hygienic and easy to install, making them ideal for wet rooms.

‘Installing a panel system, like a Showerwall, is six times faster than tiling, which keeps labour costs down and speeds up your renovation,’ says Steph Harris, product manager at Showerwall. ‘As it has no grout, it is also easier to keep clean and mould-free than tiles.’

Can I have a wet room upstairs?

It is a misconception that wet rooms can only be installed on the ground floor of a property – they are a luxurious alternative to an en-suite, regardless of whether you live in a bungalow or at the top of a block of flats.

‘As long as you are working with an experienced specialist who is familiar with wet floor installations, you shouldn’t have any problems at all,’ says Faye Young, senior designer at Ripples. ‘If installed correctly, the tanking and waterproofing material used in wet rooms makes the whole area completely watertight, so it doesn’t matter whether they are on the ground floor or the third.’

A bathroom is a room that can be tricky to design. It requires practicality above all else, and often this means steering away from more 'fun' design choices - particularly when it comes to bathroom lighting. It's safe to say I'm an interior design maximalist with a more is more approach, but the bathroom is one place I've had to succumb to minimalism.

If, like me, you want to inject colour and personality into your wash space (and have a zealous attitude towards print and chintz), the thought of paring it back might be a foreign concept. However, there is a great argument for sticking to minimalist interior design choices with bathroom lighting, and instead allowing other parts of the room to do the talking.

Don't believe me? I've also asked the experts - here's why it might be best to steer clear of maximalist lighting with your bathroom ideas.

When designing a bathroom, careful attention must be paid to balance functionality (through waterproof surfaces and carefully considered layouts) and style. You don't want a bathroom to feel stark and clinical, so creating continuity from other areas through to the bathroom will make it feel like a comfortable space to spend time in.

Bathroom lighting ideas can be one of the trickier parts of a design; there are specific rules around where you can position lighting in a bathroom so this will largely dictate what types of fittings you go for. I love going bold in a bathroom, making it feel like a joyful place to start and end your day, but this doesn't extend to lighting.

'In a bathroom, lighting should enhance the space rather than compete with it. Maximalist fittings, however striking, often compromise practicality, particularly when it comes to moisture levels, ceiling height and light distribution,' explains Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

In a kitchen, I love using wall lights with fabric shades to add whimsy to a practical space, and dramatic pendant lights are fabulous for defining a kitchen island and adding illumination in abundance. But in a bathroom, going big on these smaller features adds unnecessary faff to a scheme.

'Steam and shadows are not a good combination, and large decorative shades can distort how light falls around mirrors or basins,' Louise continues. 'The most effective schemes use discreet fittings in layered zones: ambient ceiling lighting, task lighting for grooming, and softer, dimmable options for bathing. The aim is to create light that flatters the space and the person using it.'

However, interior design is always subjective, and there's always a place for nuance.

As Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs, explains, 'bathrooms do not have to be minimalist to feel calm.' If you're set on making a moment out of a dramatic light fixture, then there are some ways around it.

'The key is to choose a feature piece that works with the room’s proportions and sits outside the splash zone, so it still meets the required IP ratings. For example, a chandelier over a freestanding bath can transform the space into something far more atmospheric, provided it is installed safely and supported by subtle background lighting. In the right setting, maximalist lighting is not a distraction but adds a visual statement,' Keeley adds.

I'll still be sticking to minimalist fittings both on the walls and ceilings, but a dramatic ceiling light is a sure way to add flair without impeding on the practicality of the space.

Shop minimalist bathroom lighting

When we bought our first family home – a three-bed barn conversion with a small, awkwardly shaped bathroom – I was thrilled it had a beautiful antique roll-top bath already in place. Cast iron, double-ended and perched on ornate ball-and-claw feet, it was the sort of statement piece you see in boutique hotels. I’d never even bathed in one before, let alone owned one. I loved it instantly, and it was one of the main features that swung the purchase for me.

It looked gorgeous, full of character and charm, but I soon discovered living with it wasn’t quite so jolly. The bathroom’s pokey proportions didn’t do it any favours, and what started as a dream focal point for my small bathroom ideas quickly became a lesson in why fitted baths are making a comeback.

Between the cleaning contortions, lack of storage and the sinking realisation that I’d fallen for style over substance, my love affair with that poor roll top faded fast. If you’ve got your sights set on a freestanding tub, especially a traditional roll top, here’s what I learned the hard way about why a freestanding bath is best avoided in a family bathroom, and why the fitted bath trend makes a lot more sense to me now.

1. They are awkward to clean around

There was a gap of about 10cm between the tiled wall and the back of the bath – just enough to squeeze freestanding bath/shower mixer taps, and for dust, water splashes and the odd rubber duck to disappear forever.

It sat too tightly into the corners at each end, but the real issue was underneath. It was fine when standing, but any time I was sat on the loo (sorry, TMI), I could clearly see a layer of fluff, dirt and who knows what else gathering like tumbleweed underneath – major ick! The only way to clean it properly was on my hands and knees with a flattened microfibre mop, and even then, I couldn’t quite get to the back. If you have the same issue, if I were still cleaning the same bathroom, I'd try something like Lakelands Flatmate Long Flat Duster (£10) to reach the back.

Not all freestanding designs are this impractical. Bateau styles, for example, sit on a plinth that runs to the floor, which will save you from some of the mop acrobatics. If you are lucky enough to have the space to walk around your bath, things will also be a heck of a lot easier on the cleaning front.

But in small bathrooms where everything is a bit tight, a freestanding bath’s open undercarriage doesn’t make the bathroom feel bigger; it just provides somewhere for spiders to hide.

2. Splashes are not contained

Before children, a few splashes weren’t an issue. After children (specifically, the toddler years), the floods were Biblical, especially when daddy was on bathtime duty, and they got their cheeky little mitts on the hand-shower! In fairness, the installation wasn’t ideal. Our freestanding bath was completely detached from the wall, so there was no sealed join between bath and wall to keep splashes contained. But it wasn’t quite far enough from the wall to allow us to mop up spills with ease. In good news, the wall was tiled, but the grout became discoloured, and the floor beneath was permanently damp and a bit smelly.

If you have the same issue, you could try a bathtub splash guard like this one on Amazon, but in truth, a back-to-wall style freestanding bath would have been a far better solution. It feels slightly like you’re cheating on the full “centre-stage” freestanding trend. But you still get the sculptural look, just with the added benefit of a watertight seal between the bath and splashback.

3. It took up too much space

That beautifully curved roll top rim was also its downfall. Double-ended roll top baths tend to be around 175-180cm x 80cm, whereas a built-in bath is more likely to be 170cm x 70cm. Those extra centimetres are generally taken up by the wide rolled rim, which is nice to hold when getting in and out, but guzzled up precious space in our already cramped bathroom.

Nowadays, you can get more compact freestanding baths than our antique number, but because they don’t sit flush to the wall, there will be wasted pockets of space at either end that can’t easily be used for shelving or bathroom storage ideas.

By contrast, built-in, back-to-wall and corner baths are all brilliant space-savers. They can be boxed in, tiled tight against the wall, and some even include clever under-bath drawers or built-in niches. You can conceal the plumbing completely and still have easy access for future repairs.

4. No ledge for toiletries

And by toiletries, I absolutely mean a glass of wine bigger than my head! My roll top had nowhere to rest anything, and while the wooden bath rack I bought from Amazon looked cute on my Insta, it was constantly sliding into the water or being deliberately upended by the kids. I also tried perching a stool nearby like this Dunelm £49 version, but it was always slightly out of reach when reclined, and a little precarious when loaded with shampoo etc.

A built-in bath naturally creates that useful tiled ledge for candles, soap and your beverage of choice. You can also add storage niches or a shelf above, with hidden bathroom lighting ideas to help create a relaxing atmosphere.

Would I ever go freestanding again?

Not unless it came with the property, and even then, I’d seriously consider a swift replacement the minute funds allowed. My old cast-iron roll top might have looked timeless, but it was cold, heavy, and utterly unforgiving on the kids’ tender skulls.

When we later moved to a property that needed a total overhaul, I went straight for the Ebb fitted bath by Waters Baths of Ashbourne, which is flush to the wall on two sides so we could fit a shower above, but open at the end to provide that lovely freestanding look. It is really comfortable and has a watertight silicone edge and hidden pipework. I’ve never looked back.

3 buys to make a fitted bath more luxe

There are so many ways to give a fitted bath the luxe look of a freestanding tub. Here are a few buys I'd recommend.

If you are still hell bent on a freestanding bath, I urge you to consider a design with a flat rim that can be sealed against the wall. For most homes where bath time is super-splashy and space is in short supply, the fitted bath trend has real merit.

Freestanding might look fantastic on screen, but built-in delivers on that day-to-day ease.

Bathrooms are often the darkest rooms in a house, so if you want to create a light, bright and expansive atmosphere, then you'll need to employ some clever design tricks to maximise the available natural light.

Whether you're looking at decorating a small bathroom upstairs or a cloakroom off your hallway, creating a space that feels inviting and as bright as possible will make everyday ventures a little bit more enjoyable.

After speaking to interior designers, I discovered this one simple (and affordable) styling trick that instantly enhances the look and feel of your bathroom - here's what they had to say.

A mirror often feels like a natural inclusion in a bathroom design, from a practical point of view. However, what you might not choose a bathroom mirror for is the clever visual illusion it helps to create in a small space.

'A brilliant trick is to install a large mirror opposite or adjacent to a window; it doesn’t just reflect the light but also amplifies the sense of space and can even double the view outside,' explains interior designer, Laura Stephens. 'It’s a simple, elegant way to make a small or dim bathroom feel instantly brighter and more uplifting.'

When you're in the bathroom design process, consider planning your layout so that the mirror and vanity area is situated closely next to the window. This will ensure the natural light from the window reaches the mirror, bouncing off it and, in turn, making the bathroom feel larger and brighter.

If you want to enhance this look even further, you don't have to stop at an actual mirror. Carina Raymond, interior designer and founder of Studio Raymond, explains 'If your bathroom is particularly dark, try adding mirrored surfaces or pale gloss tiles opposite the window — they bounce light around and make the whole space feel brighter without any harshness.

'Frosted or reeded glass is another subtle trick; it softens direct light, creating a gentle glow that feels calm and spa-like,' Carina adds. The trick to making a small bathroom feel larger is to still ensure that there's plenty of texture and visual interest in the design - even though you want to maximise natural light, this will add a soft and dappled effect.

'When a bathroom is short on natural light, the materials you choose can work harder to make every bit of daylight count. Tiles are brilliant for this because their surface can completely transform the way light moves through a space,' Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, adds.

'When a bathroom relies on a small or angled window, the key is to think about how tiles capture and scatter light. Glossy or glazed ceramics, especially in pale or mid tones, will help bounce light around the room without it feeling sterile, while hand-glazed or lightly rippled finishes scatter light in a way that feels far more natural.'

Every design choice in a small bathroom counts. Whether it's adding gloss tiles, choosing a tactfully placed mirror or adding glass shades to your bathroom lighting ideas, all of these features combine to create a much more open look and feel.

Shop bathroom mirrors

Will you be trying this light-enhancing trick?

When you're planning a bathroom renovation, the big things - the toilet, sink, shower or bath - are often the things you think about first. But I'm here to suggest that shouldn't be the case, and the often forgotten bathroom lighting is one of the core parts of your design to consider early on.

It can feel like the parts you pick last, but without them, you won't have a functioning space (at night, at least). Lighting is crucial for so many reasons, whether it's for functional illumination so you can use the space, stylistic adornment to your walls and ceilings and of course, creating ambience for evenings spent relaxing in the bath.

Knowing where to buy bathroom lighting is the first step to getting this design decision right. After scouring shops and encountering endless inspiration of beautiful bathrooms on a daily basis, I've rounded up the top four places to shop for bathroom lighting, for any budget or taste.

1. Dunelm

What they're known for: Affordable, trend-led designs

A bathroom light can make a surprisingly big difference to the overall style of a room, so it makes a handy affordable update if you don't want to undertake a full renovation. And Dunelm is the best place to shop for it.

Known for their trend-led designs that are super well-priced, Dunelm has so many different styles to match any design. If you prefer a Scandi-inspired space with terrazzo surfaces and pops of colour, this Elements ceiling light is a guaranteed win. Alternatively, if you're aiming to achieve a hotel-inspired, luxe look, there are plenty of wall lights that will look chic flanking a mirror. I love these shell glass wall lights.

2. Victorian Plumbing

What they're known for: A go-to destination for bathroom-ware, with lighting from practical options all the way to on-trend styles.

Victorian Plumbing is a one-stop shop for bathroom-ware, so if you're undergoing a renovation, it's somewhere you can use to find everything from your spotlights to your shower screen. They have a huge range of vendors, so there truly is something for every style and budget, and many options come in multi-packs to ensure you have enough for the job.

What I love about Victorian Plumbing's range of bathroom lighting is that there are just as many practical-first products as there are fancy pendants. In truth, you need a balance of both to achieve a well-lit, functional bathroom design, so ensuring you have plenty of task lighting around your space is key.

3. Pooky

What they're known for: Luxe lighting with chic marble finishes and lots of colour.

If a hotel-inspired bathroom design is what you're aiming for, Pooky will hold the answer. The British brand is well known for its rechargeable lamps and colourful, pleated ikat shades, but its bathroom lighting is just as good.

Part of what makes Pooky's bathroom lighting so chic is the metal finishes. Chrome is having a resurgence in bathrooms, but if you're a fan of an antique brass finish, Pooky's styles look perfectly weathered and authentic. If you're on the hunt for wall lights in interesting shapes, styles like the Helios will be sure to create visual intrigue and a design-led look.

4. Dar Lighting

What they're known for: A huge variety of different styles and brands

Där Lighting is a family business based in Banbury that started out as a very small retailer and has blossomed into one with a huge array of different lighting options. They have a big collection of their own bathroom lighting designs, whether that's flush ceiling lights or wall lights, but they're also home to Laura Ashley Lighting.

When Laura Ashley briefly disappeared from the high street, there were cries heard loud and far. However, their classically chintzy lights are now available via Där Lighting and we think they're ideal for a cosy, timeless bathroom design.

Where else to buy bathroom lighting

• Drench: I've long been a fan of Drench for bathroom goods, particularly as they stock Crosswater. I love this sculptural pendant light.
• John Lewis & Partners: This household name doesn't need introducing. John Lewis truly has a style to suit any bathroom design, from flush ceiling lights to dramatic pendants.
• Habitat: Mostly coming in under the £50 mark, Habitat is perfect for those on a budget. I particularly love these pretty glass wall lights for just £35 each.
• Dowsing & Reynolds: Dowsing & Reynolds embodies moody, industrial trends with a bit of edge. If you want to make a statement in your bathroom and love dramatic brass finishes, it's the place to shop.

Do you have any favourite bathroom lighting brands we need to know about?

Upon walking into my bathroom a couple of days ago, I audibly shivered. Without quite realising it, we've descended into official 'slippers-needed' weather, particularly when walking on cold bathroom floors so, as a result, I decided that I needed to make the space a bit cosier. Upgrading some of my bath towels was the best place to begin.

Over the summer months my bathroom became somewhat of a minimal space, however now this simple decor feels stark against the colder weather so I've been on the hunt for autumnal decor to update it with.

In a bathroom, decor must add functionality in addition to offering style, and towels fit this brief. A bathroom towel is an essential part of a practical space but if chosen carefully, they're a clever way of adding colour, pattern and indulgence to a design. The high street has had many covetable bathroom towel designs of late but after spotting M&S' new gingham style, I knew it was just what my bathroom needs for a cosy-season shake up.

While we love joyful bathroom colour schemes, choosing them can often feel daunting. A bathroom design will last for years and is a significant investment, so it's understandable if you want to choose a more pared-back look. Instead, you can add seasonal and on-trend updates through accessories, and towels are the perfect place to start.

Checked towels have been a big bathroom trend lately, with John Lewis featuring some of the very best in stylish shades of green and yellow.

While gingham features heavily on picnic blankets throughout the summer months, M&S's collection of gingham towels are in particularly autumnal shades, making them the perfect cosy addition to a bathroom.

'I don't think it's possible to have enough gingham, whether that's in your wardrobe or at home and I'm definitely eyeing up some patterned towels as my next bathroom buy,' says Molly Cleary, Ideal Home's Kitchen Appliances Editor.

'I've wanted the (rather expensive) Piglet in Bed ones for a long time, but after spotting a much more affordable dupe at M&S I can get a set without breaking the bank as well!''

Burgundy is a huge colour trend this autumn and will add depth to a bathroom, creating an inviting and cosy feel that is made for evenings spent soaking. Pale blue and burgundy is also a combination we've seen paired together a lot recently, so you could create a trendy two-tone effect by mixing up bath sheets and hand towels.

Do you like the cottage-core inspired gingham look or is there another pattern you have your eye on?

A soft, fluffy towel is a bathroom essential if you ask me. After all, there’s nothing less luxurious than drying yourself with an old, rough, ratty towel. But if you plan on reaching for the fabric softener to give your towels a refresh, laundry experts have revealed that this is a big no-no.

There’s an art to washing towels, and it differs from your normal laundry routine. While our clothes can benefit from fabric softener to feel smoother and smell fresher, if you were wondering, ‘should you use fabric softener on towels?’ The answer is no.

Laundry experts have revealed that using fabric softener on towels can have quite the opposite effect to what you were aiming for. And if you’re looking to provide fluffy towels for your guest bedroom ideas or to improve your own bathroom experience, this is everything you need to know.

Should you use fabric softener on towels?

Fabric softener is a conditioner for your clothes, but when it comes to your towels, it can reduce the absorbency of your towels and even make them feel greasy and stiff.

Fabric softener coats the fibres of your towels, and can become caked to your towel - this becomes even more tacky and stiff as it dries.

'While it may be tempting to use fabric softener on your towels, this should really be avoided. Softener leaves a waxy coating on your towel’s fibres, which reduces its absorbency over time and ruins its chance of drying properly,' explains Katy Roberts, laundry expert at AO.com.

'Your towel relies on open loops of cotton to help soak up water – fabric softener clogs these same fibres, which will leave them less absorbent and prevent you from soaking things up effectively.'

How to get soft, fluffy towels

Instead of reaching for the fabric softener, one of the best ways to fluff up and clean your towels is with white vinegar. White vinegar is the unsung hero of cleaning, and if you still haven’t stocked it in your cleaning caddy, we recommend Miniml’s Wild Rhubarb White Vinegar (£8.25 at Amazon) as it smells amazing.

‘Using white vinegar once every 6 weeks will remove any detergent and fabric softener residue that has built up,’ says Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of Scooms, explaining how to revive towels that have fallen victim to fabric softener.

‘First, wash your towels on a normal wash with detergent. Then run a second wash cycle with 1 cup of white vinegar.’

For soft, fluffy towels, Emily and Jonathan recommend investing in some dryer balls (£7.49 at Amazon). Not only are these great for softening clothes without fabric softener, they are also very energy efficient and reduce drying time in your tumble dryer.

‘The best way to dry your towels so that they regain their cosy softness and fluffiness, is to use a tumble dryer on a low heat setting. High heat can damage the cotton fibres,’ they say.

‘Once dried, don't leave your towels sitting in the dryer. Take them out straight away and give them a shake to fluff them up.

‘Adding wool dryer balls can also help. Wool dryer balls create air gaps between your towels as they dry, which reduces the drying time. The natural lanolin in wool also helps soften your towels. We suggest using 4 wool dryer balls each time.’

What you need

Next time you go to wash your towels, don't feel tempted to reach for the fabric softener. The last thing you'll achieve is soft, fluffy towels if you do.

We've all heard of colour drenching, but there's a new paint trend on the block, and it's perfect for small bathroom ideas. Colour capping is a slightly more subtle version of the statement colour trend, and it's perfect for making small spaces look larger and ceilings taller.

Small bathrooms are notoriously difficult to decorate. A practical space, such as a bathroom, must feel sanitary and include easy-to-clean surfaces, but it shouldn't be void of personality. Paint is the easiest and most affordable way of injecting character into a compact room, and this trend of graduating the colour to the top of the room creates a tonal look that is light-enhancing and effortlessly stylish.

Here's how to make the colour capping trend work in your bathroom.

Why you should try colour capping in small bathrooms

You might be wondering what colour capping is, exactly. It feels like the sibling of the bathroom colour-drenching trend, which involves painting a whole room (ceilings, architraves and skirting boards included) in one shade - often a dramatic dark colour or a fun, playful primary shade. The effect is that it feels enveloping, inviting and full of character, but understandably it can feel like a big commitment to some people.

'Colour capping is quickly becoming a key decorating technique in bathrooms, as it offers a way to manipulate how a room feels. By continuing the wall colour onto the ceiling in a lighter or deeper tone, you can elongate the walls and create the illusion of greater height, which is particularly effective in smaller or more enclosed bathrooms,' explains Louise Ashdown, head of design at West One Bathrooms.

Colour capping uses the same shade with a tonal variation and graduates it up the length of the wall. It can be graduated to a light or dark shade, but doing so makes the walls feel longer and adds lighter tones into the look.

'Using paint in this way almost tricks the eye, creating the illusion of height and space, it’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to transform a small bathroom,' adds Tash Bradley, director of interior design at Lick.

There are, however, some mistakes to avoid if you're looking to try out colour capping in your bathroom.

'What you don’t want to do is leave the ceiling brilliant white, because that actually draws attention to the ceiling height and can make the room feel lower. By wrapping colour onto the ceiling or shifting tones near the top of the wall, you blur the edges, open the space up and instantly make it feel taller and less boxed in,' Tash continues.

While bright white often feels like a safe choice, particularly in a bathroom where sanitary design choices are key, it doesn't always actually make a room feel larger.

Instead, opting for more 'out-there' bathroom colour schemes will make a small bathroom look interesting and feel joyful on a daily basis.

'What I love most is that colour capping lets you be braver with colour in a small space. You can bring in personality and contrast, but because the tones are working together it still feels calm, timeless and serene rather than too busy or trend-led,' says Tash.

While paint is an easy design choice that enables you to switch up a small bathroom colour scheme with limited faff, it's not the only way to embrace colour capping.

'In the bathroom, colour capping doesn’t have to stop at paint, bathroom tile ideas can be used in exactly the same way to create definition and atmosphere. By running a single colour or finish up the wall and across the ceiling, you envelop the space and draw the eye upwards, while a change of border or decorative band creates the ‘cap’ that frames the room,' explains Keeley Sutcliffe, design manager at BC Designs.

'It’s also incredibly practical in a bathroom, since tiles are moisture-resistant and long-lasting. Using a tonal variation, or mixing a plain field tile with a patterned frieze, allows you to play with proportion and detail in ways that paint alone can’t.'

Shop bathroom paint

Will you be trying out this trend or sticking firmly to colour drenching?

A downstairs cloakroom can be tricky to decorate. Often a super small room with no natural light, finding enough space for a toilet and sink can be the biggest challenge, which makes any additional decorating fall by the wayside.

However, sometimes the pokiest of rooms offer the most potential; the opportunity to be bold, and get creative and look for innovative solutions for small bathrooms. Which brings us on nicely to my latest style find for a cloakroom - the rechargeable lamp.

Rechargeable lamps have quickly become a common homeware find in kitchens and living rooms over the last year, offering flexibility to move them around your home and add light to dark corners far away from plug sockets. So it's surprising it's taken us this long to consider adding it to our bathroom lighting ideas, too - here's why you need one.

There are many design dilemmas associated with a small downstairs cloakroom. In many homes, they are the smallest room located in an entryway and if you're lucky, you might have a window - however, this is rare in Victorian terraced properties.

This makes decorating tricky. Aside from limited space, you'll have to consider damp and light when making design choices. Downstairs toilet wallpaper ideas are a popular way of injecting ample character into a tiny space, and while bold colour palettes are great for making an impact, they can make a cloakroom feel dark.

This is where a rechargeable lamp comes in. It's unlikely that you'll have a plug socket in a cloakroom, so opting for a cordless option will offer the flexibility you need.

'If your downstairs cloakroom isn’t in daily rotation, the lamp doesn’t have to be neglected: you can easily whisk it away to illuminate a corner elsewhere, then return it to its post when guests arrive. They glide from room to room, making every spot feel that little bit more welcoming,' adds David and Sarah Ross, co-founders of Addison Ross.

Surfaces are limited in a downstairs cloakroom, but a window ledge or shelf above a sink is the perfect place to position a cordless lamp.

The ability to quickly tap a cordless lamp to turn it on makes it super fast to create ambience in your bathroom. The downstairs loo is primarily used by guests, so when you're hosting, using a lamp to create a soft, glowing light is the ideal alternative to a harsh overhead light. It will allow you to recreate a hotel or restaurant ambience in the comfort of your own home.

You'll want to be careful when choosing a style of lamp in a bathroom, though. While cordless lamps with fabric shades are perfect for adding warmth to a sanitary space, they can be a magnet for germs and could be damaged by water splashes. Just keep them further away from a sink or toilet and you'll still be able to inject character through a lamp.

'They offer the perfect opportunity to add a dash of personality to a small but important space, by mixing and matching bases and shades you can create a look that feels completely in tune with your home,' explains Jo Plant, chief creative officer at Pooky.

Alternatively, sleek brass cordless lamps will look right at home in a cloakroom inspired by luxe hotel interiors. It adds a dose of glamour to an otherwise practical room.

Shop rechargeable lamps

Would you add a lamp to your cloakroom or would you stick to wall and ceiling lights?