A new year offers a fresh start and an opportunity to make positive changes in your life. Why not resolve to give your bathroom an upgrade in 2023? Here are some inspirational new year’s resolutions to create a dream bathroom that promotes relaxation, organization, and self-care.
Deep Clean and Declutter
The start of a new year is the perfect time for a deep clean of your bathroom. Go through all your cabinets, drawers, and storage spaces and get rid of any expired products, extra towels, or other clutter. Give every surface a thorough scrubbing – from the tub and shower walls to the sink and counter. Consider using green cleaning products that won’t leave behind harsh chemicals. A sparkling clean bathroom provides a blank slate to organize and add decorative touches.
Get Organized
Once you’ve decluttered, invest in some new organizational tools like bins, shelves, or drawers to keep bathroom essentials tidy. Group like items together – hair care products on one shelf, medicines in a drawer, etc. Spend time optimizing the storage so everything has a designated spot. An organized space will make your daily routine more efficient. For extra credit, label bins and baskets so other household members can easily put things away.
Upgrade Storage
Lack of adequate storage is a common bathroom headache. Shelving, cabinetry, hampers, and other storage solutions can help maximize every inch of space. Consider having a carpenter install new shelving between wall studs or above the toilet. Repurpose a closet or cupboard into towel storage. Add a freestanding shelving unit or armoire for linens and toiletries. Check reviews and buy storage that is moisture-resistant and made to withstand the humid bathroom environment. Proper storage reduces clutter and makes cleaning easier.
Add Greenery
Plants can bring life and fresh air to your bathroom. Varieties like orchids, ferns, and succulents thrive in humid bathroom environments. Strategically place plants in corners, on windowsills, or mounted on the walls. Avoid direct contact with water to prevent root rot. If you have limited natural light, invest in an LED grow light. Remember to water and mist plants regularly. Greenery infuses a natural element and purifies the air.
Install New Lighting
Proper lighting can make a noticeable difference in your bathroom. Swap outdated fixtures for new ones that provide ample, soft illumination. Consider installing fixtures like a lighted mirror or vanity strip lighting to make grooming tasks easier. Under-cabinet lights also provide helpful task lighting. If your bathroom lacks windows, solar tube skylights or recessed lighting help create natural ambience. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the mood. Lighting helps create a relaxing oasis.
Add Luxurious Textiles
Replace old towels and shower curtains with new ones that align with your bathroom’s style. Stick to 100% cotton or bamboo towels that are ultra-soft and absorbent. Hang towels on hooks or bars that don’t clutter counter space. Curtains or shower liners made of water-resistant fabric prevent mildew and mold. Coordinating bathmats tie the look together and prevent slips. Roll up washcloths and add pretty soap pumps for a spa-like feel. Quality textiles lend comfort and sophistication.
Give Walls a Fresh Coat of Paint
Painting is an easy, affordable way to transform the look and feel of your bathroom. The new year offers a chance to experiment with soothing hues like sky blue, sage green, or tranquil gray. Use 100% acrylic or other mold-resistant paint recommended for high-humidity areas. Paint the ceiling white to give the illusion of height and space. Add character with textured or removable wallpaper on one accent wall. A fresh coat of paint enhances the atmosphere.
Upgrade Fixtures and Hardware
Replacing fixtures and hardware is a great way to update the look of your bathroom without a full remodel. Swap out an old faucet, shower head, and towel bars for new ones that match your decor. Look for water-efficient faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads. For a cohesive look, choose matching metals like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze. Update cabinet knobs and drawer pulls for easy facelifts. Modern fixtures lend a sleek, high-end feel.
Add Spa Elements
Transform your bathroom into a relaxing home spa sanctuary. Invest in a plush bath rug, scented candles, essential oils, or a Bluetooth speaker to play spa music. Use your favorite eucalyptus shower spray after bathing. Explore DIY spa treatments like hydrating face masks. Display greenery or add low lighting to set the mood. A little pampering time helps melt away stress.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
To keep your bathroom in tip-top shape all year long, schedule seasonal maintenance. Check for leaky faucets and showerheads twice per year and replace washers and gaskets as needed. Clean exhaust fans and heat vents to improve air circulation. Deep clean surfaces and grout lines to prevent mildew and mold growth. Taking preventive steps keeps your bathroom functioning properly for years to come.
Conclusion
This new year, vow to make self-care and organization priorities by transforming your bathroom into a soothing, clutter-free oasis. Investing a little time and money into storage solutions, home spa elements, fresh paint and decor, greenery, and other upgrades can make your daily routine more pleasant and efficient. Maintain the space by decluttering regularly and attending to repairs. With some resolutions and elbow grease, you’ll be well on your way to a bathroom that promotes relaxation and renewal all year long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I add storage to my small bathroom?
Some great options to add storage in a small bathroom include over-the-toilet shelves, wall-mounted shelving between studs, rolling storage carts, space-saving corner shelves, and medicine cabinets with mirrors to serve dual purposes. Also consider converting unused spaces like under the sink or above doorways into extra storage space.
What colors make a bathroom look bigger?
Light, neutral colors like white, beige, gray and pale blue can make a bathroom feel more open and spacious. You can also paint the ceiling white to give the illusion of height. Add visual interest with crisp white trim, plants, textiles and artwork.
How can I make my bathroom feel more like a spa?
Some easy ways to make your bathroom more spa-like include using essential oils or scented candles, playing relaxing music, displaying fresh flowers or greenery, using fluffy towels and robes, taking relaxing soaks with bath bombs or oils, and keeping the space clean and decluttered. Himalayan salt lamps, dimmable lighting and extra mirrors also help set the mood.
How often should I deep clean my bathroom?
Ideally, you should give your bathroom a thorough deep clean about once per season, or 4 times per year. This includes cleaning surfaces, scrubbing the tub and tile, washing windows and mirrors, scouring sinks and fixtures, mopping floors, and emptying cabinets for a total refresh. Spot clean as needed between seasonal deep cleans.
What type of paint should I use in a bathroom?
Look for mold- and mildew-resistant latex paints made specifically for bathrooms. Semi-gloss or gloss finishes can withstand humidity better. Make sure to prep surfaces properly before painting. Use 100% acrylic or epoxy paint for best moisture protection on surfaces like ceilings and tile.
