The Ten Bathroom Essentials Every Household Needs
Whether you’re moving into a new house, striking out on your own for the first time, or even looking to just downsize the number of things you own, you might be wondering what items are essential for the perfect bathroom.
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different bathroom accessories, storage items, and more. But what do you really need? Consider this your ultimate guide to shopping for bathroom essentials.
Number One: Trash Can
You might be wondering why a trashcan is coming in at number one on our list and the truth is very simple...this list is not ranked in order of importance. But, if it was, a trash can would probably still be pretty close to the top! There are a few things to consider when selecting a bathroom trash can:
- What size do you want it to be?
- Where will it go? Are you okay with it sitting out in the open, or will you want it small enough to fit under the sink or in another hidden area?
- Do you want a lid or no lid?
Depending on where you end up putting this trash can, you can likely find a basic inexpensive one at most larger stores. If you’re looking to have a matching bathroom theme, it may take a little searching to find the perfect match.
Number Two: Mirror
It’s fairly likely that whatever space you’re moving into or updating already has its own mirror, but you may want to invest in a new one. Mirrors are important staple pieces in bathrooms and can either add a lot to the look or hold it back.
Plus, you may use your bathroom as the primary place you get ready before work or in time for that first date! You’ll need a mirror that can help you look your best.
Be sure to choose a mirror with the rest of your bathroom in mind. How wide can it be? Will you want lighting on either side or above it? Do you have space for more than one? These are just a few of the questions you should think through as you decide what to do with your bathroom space.
Bonus Tip: bathroom lighting is key, so make sure you choose good lighting to go along with your mirror.
Number Three: Towels
A good set of towels is the cornerstone to any great bathroom. There are a few different types of towels that you should always have on hand:
- Bath towels: These are the towels you’ll use after a shower or bath.
- Hand towels: For drying your hands after you wash them (for at least 20 seconds!).
- Washcloths: Smaller towels are used for washing your face or doing a quick body scrub.
With so many different towel options out there, here are some things to keep in mind when trying to pick the perfect kind:
- Size: How big do you like your towels? Do you prefer to be able to snuggle up in your bath towel, or are you okay with a standard size?
- Material: Do you want cotton towels, bamboo towels, or another type?
- Color: Are you trying to match your towels to your bathroom decor?
- Quality: Is it well made? Is there anything that sets it apart from other brands?
If picking and choosing from a million different types of towels seems overwhelming, we have your back. Check out our Miracle Towel Set for the perfect start to your bathroom towel collection.
Number Four: Wall Hooks
Bathroom storage is a big deal, and wall hooks or an over-the-door rack can make a big difference when it comes to hanging towels or other bathroom items. Think about the number of people you expect to share the bathroom, and then add one to that number.
Then, make sure you have that amount of hooks available for towels, robes, swimsuits, or anything else you may need to hang to dry. Double-layered hooks can be a great solution for bigger families or shared homes with lots of roommates.
Number Five: Bath Mat
A non-slip bath mat can help you avoid a whole world of hurt in the bathroom! Most of us can think of a time when we’ve experienced a little slip or even a big fall on the bathroom floor or in the shower because of a slippery surface. Find a bath mat that matches your decor.
The key is to make sure it has a lot of grip on the bottom and won’t slide across the floor when you step onto it. You may even consider getting a non-slip mat for inside the shower. This is especially helpful if you have young children or are elderly.
Number Six: Plunger
This one feels pretty self-explanatory. Be sure to be proactive about having a plunger on hand so that you don’t find yourself facing a bathroom emergency without the right tools.
Number Seven: Cleaning Supplies
Some of your household cleaning supplies can be carried over for use in the bathroom as well, but there are a few different bathroom-specific supplies you should start out with. This list will get you started, but there may be more that you discover are helpful as you use your bathroom more.
- Toilet Cleaner
- Toilet Brush
- Tub and Tile Cleaner
- Cleaning Towels
- Rubber Gloves
- Floor Cleaner
- Glass Cleaner
- Mop
- Sponge
Surprisingly, your bathroom isn’t the dirtiest room in your house (that honor goes to your kitchen). But it is still home to plenty of germs and bacteria, and a good cleaning can make all the difference to keep them at bay.
Number Eight: Toilet Paper Holder
If your bathroom doesn’t already have one attached to the wall, a toilet paper holder is a good addition to pull things together. Having a specific space to keep the in-use toilet paper roll (plus a few extras) will make your bathroom feel extra organized.
There’s nothing worse than leaving your toilet paper roll on the toilet tank or the edge of the sink; that’s just asking for disaster to strike. No one likes soggy toilet paper.
Number Nine: Toiletries
What would a bathroom essentials list be without the essentials! This list will look different for each person, but here is a basic guide to starter toiletries:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush holder
- Floss
- Mouthwash
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Bodywash
- Face wash
- Makeup remover
- Deodorant
- Feminine hygiene products
- Razor
- Shaving cream
- Hand soap
- First aid kit
Number Ten: Storage
You don’t have to get too crazy with bathroom storage; you just need to make sure you have enough room for the essentials we’ve covered above. If you have a vanity with storage underneath, that can make a great place for your cleaning supplies and trash can.
A tall linen cabinet is perfect for your extra towels and some toiletries. There are many different shower storage options for your shampoos and soaps, too.
Bathroom Bonus Tips
Once you have all your essentials, your bathroom should be ready for use! If you’re looking to go above and beyond to make your bathroom one of the best spaces in the house, we have a few extra thoughts.
Consider Your Guests
Do you often host guests at your home or apartment? Would you like to? A good host always has some extras on hand to make sure their guest has everything they need. Consider getting an extra bath towel set, more washcloths, and some basic toiletries.
Not sure where to start? Think of everything a hotel might offer you during your stay. Then, provide those items for your own houseguests in your main or guest bathroom. This is also a good rule of thumb if you’re planning to rent out your space on Airbnb or VRBO.
Mitigate Bad Smells
The bathroom can be notoriously smelly. Thankfully, there are quite a few different ways to make sure your bathroom smells clean and fresh, not dirty or mildewy.
- Invest in an essential oils diffuser
- Get towels that prevent odors
- Put an air freshener or toilet spray where guests can see it
- Burn a luxurious candle
Clean Often
While cleaning the bathroom isn’t a very fun chore, it is a very important one. There are many surfaces that get dirty easily, especially your sink (which you should try to wipe down as often as you can remember). Try to schedule a deep clean of your bathroom at least once a week.
One Last Check
Now that you’ve gone over our bathroom essentials guide, take a few moments to think about anything else you may want or need for your space. Mentally walk through your bathroom routine. Take a look in your space. Got it? Great!
Now you’re ready to go shopping. Feel free to print this list before you leave to make sure you don’t forget anything important.
Sources:
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Why You Really Should Wash Your Hands After Using the Bathroom (Every Single Time!) | Cleveland Clinic
-
The Dirtiest Spots in Your Home | Insider
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How Often You Should Clean Your Home, According to Science | NBC
