Introduction
Bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in any home. They provide a private space for taking care of personal hygiene needs. With people spending more time at home lately, many have been looking to upgrade their bathrooms and make them more of a relaxing sanctuary. From striking tile designs to high-tech shower systems, there are many exciting new trends for bathrooms. If you’re looking to give your bathroom a fresh new look, read on for the top 10 new bathroom trends right now.
Luxury Bathtubs
Soaking in a warm bath can be one of life’s great pleasures. Today’s luxury tubs are designed to provide the ultimate bathing experience. Many feature air jets that deliver thousands of bubbles to massage and pamper the body. Others have heating systems that keep the water nice and warm. Some even include chromatherapy lighting to set the mood. High-end options like freestanding soaking tubs and spacious corner tubs give bathrooms a spa-like vibe. Upgrading to one of these luxury bathtubs is a worthwhile splurge for those who enjoy long, relaxing soaks.
Why Are Luxury Bathtubs Trending?
- Improved hydromassage technology provides targeted massage and pain relief
- Built-in heating keeps bath water warm for longer periods
- Elegant freestanding tubs make a bold style statement
- Corner tubs maximize bathing space
- Chromatherapy lighting enhances relaxation
What To Look For In A Luxury Bathtub
- Size – Consider how much space you need to stretch out and relax. Larger tubs may require bathroom remodeling.
- Jet placement – Strategically placed jets target sore muscles in the back, neck and shoulders.
- Material – Cast iron and acrylic are durable options. Natural stone tubs offer elegance.
- Cleaning features – Look for tubs with antimicrobial, scratch-resistant surfaces.
- Styling – Freestanding tubs make a dramatic statement. Alcove tubs fit neatly into small spaces.
Top Luxury Bathtub Brands
- Kohler – Offers a wide range of soaking tubs with innovative BubbleMassage jet technology.
- American Standard – Known for durable, easy to clean acrylic and enamel bathtubs.
- Jacuzzi – Leading manufacturer of whirlpool tubs with targeted hydromassage jets.
- Maax – Provides soaking tubs with Airmassage, a silent air jet system.
- Woodbridge – Maker of contemporary freestanding tubs at affordable prices.
High-Tech Showers
Once seen only in fancy hotels and resorts, high-tech showers have gone mainstream. With customized spray patterns, lighting effects, and digital controls, today’s showers feel like luxury spa experiences. Rainfall shower heads are a top choice. These large shower heads replicate the feeling of bathing in a summer downpour. Body jets provide a concentrated massage on aching muscles. Meanwhile, digital interfaces allow users to pre-set their preferred water temperature and flow settings. High-tech showers make every day feel a little more special.
Why High-Tech Showers Are Hot Right Now
- Rainfall and body spray jets offer a spa-like experience.
- Pre-set digital controls eliminate temperature guessing.
- Customized settings suit individual preferences.
- Low-flow options help conserve water.
- LED lighting sets the mood.
Key Features To Look For
- Rainfall shower head – For full-body coverage. Optimal size is 8-10″.
- Body spray jets – Look for adjustable directional jets.
- Digital interface – Controls temperature, flow, lighting and more.
- Low-flow – Saves water without sacrificing pressure.
- Space – Reserve room for accessories like benches and caddies.
Top High-Tech Shower Brands
- Kohler – Offers shower systems with ambient lighting, music and steam.
- Grohe – Leading brand of rainfall shower heads and handheld sprayers.
- Moen – Provides customizable and app-controlled shower systems.
- Delta – Combines beautiful design with innovative shower technology.
- Hansgrohe – Known for superb engineering and performance.
Spa-Inspired Bathrooms
Today it’s easier than ever to recreate a relaxing home spa bathroom. From serene color palettes to rejuvenating amenities, there are many ways to infuse spa style into any bathroom remodel. Soft neutral hues like beige, gray and seafoam green help create a zen atmosphere. Natural stone surfaces and wood accents add to the earthy spa vibe. Install a luxurious soaking tub, rainfall shower and high-tech toilet with bidet. Add touches like fluffy towels, scented candles, and a bluetooth speaker for spa music. With the right design choices, you can make your bathroom a daily escape that promotes wellbeing.
Elements That Create A Spa Bathroom
- Soothing colors – light greens, tans, grays
- Natural materials – stone tiles, wood finishes
- Plush towels – robes, slippers, and soft towels
- Decor accents – candles, plants, art
- Aromatherapy – essential oil diffusers
- Bathtubs – soaking tubs, air baths
- Showers – overhead rainfall showerheads
- High-tech toilets – heated seats, bidet
Tips For Designing A Home Spa
- Focus on relaxation – Include spaces to sit, relax and unwind.
- Reduce clutter – Limit storage and accessories.
- Create a focal point – Use a beautiful bathtub or decorative sink.
- Use lighting layers – Mix overhead, accent and natural light.
- Enhance acoustics – Install sound-absorbing surfaces.
- Provide privacy – Use window treatments and space dividers.
Heated Bathroom Floors
For those chilly mornings, heated bathroom floors can be a delight. Through electric or hydronic systems, radiant heat gently warms tiles or natural stone flooring. Stepping out of the shower onto a heated floor is a luxurious sensation. Heated floors aren’t just comfortable, they’re practical too. The warmth prevents puddles from forming, cutting down on dangerous slips. Heated flooring has energy-efficient benefits as well. By warming people directly, it allows the thermostat to be lowered a degree or two. The easiest installs use electric mats under tile floors. Hydronic systems with hot water pipes offer the highest output. Treat your feet to toasty floors on cold days!
Benefits of Heated Bathroom Floors
- Provides soothing warmth on feet
- Reduces risk of slipping on wet floors
- Allows lower thermostat setting
- Hygienic and easy to clean
- Energy efficient – heat radiates up
- Long lasting when properly installed
What To Know Before Installing
- Works best with tile or stone flooring
- Electric mats easiest for DIY installs
- Hydronic systems offer highest heat output
- Requires concrete or self-leveling underlayment
- Professional install recommended for hydronic
- Adds to construction costs
Tips For Choosing Heated Flooring
- Pick floor covering suitable for radiant heat
- Determine heating needs – electric vs hydronic
- Install insulation under system
- Use thermostat with floor sensor
- Opt for multiple control zones
- Look for energy efficient system
Voice-Activated Bathrooms
Imagine entering your bathroom and saying, “Alexa, turn on the shower to 100 degrees.” Voice activation makes this handy scenario a reality. With smart tech integration, bathroom features can be controlled with simple voice commands. Digital shower systems allow temperature and spray settings to be activated hands-free. Toilets with bidet functions can be told to open or close. Faucets turn on or off according to verbal prompts. Devices like Google Home and Amazon Alexa make the bathroom more convenient than ever. Voice control also helps homeowners with limited mobility. Hands-free operation allows independence and flexibility. The days of fumbling for switches and knobs are over in the voice-activated bathrooms of the future.
Benefits of Voice-Activated Bathrooms
- Hands-free control provides convenience
- Easy operation for those with limited mobility
- Flexible lighting settings through voice commands
- Adjust shower temperature without touching controls
- Provides a cleaner, more hygienic environment
- Fun, futuristic appeal
What To Know Before Converting Your Bathroom
- Requires smart tech devices like Google Home or Alexa
- Necessary to purchase compatible bathroom fixtures
- Professional installation recommended
- May require bathroom electrical and plumbing upgrades
- Tech glitches can disrupt operation
- Privacy concerns over smart devices
Tips For Creating A Voice-Activated Bathroom
- Start with the essentials – shower, lights, music
- Integrate one smart device for voice access
- Choose fixtures with smart tech capabilities
- Use waterproof speakers and surfaces
- Add luxury features like a heated bidet
- Customize with voice cues for family members
Makeup Vanities and Dressing Tables
For those that love applying makeup and styling their hair, a dedicated dressing table or vanity provides the perfect prep station. Sitting at a vanity table allows you to see your reflection up close in the ideal lighting. Organizational drawers and compartments keep beauty tools and cosmetics easily accessible yet out of sight. Contemporary designs take up minimal space, with narrow countertops and compact footprints. Corner vanity units are a creative way to utilize awkward angles and openings. Adding an ornate mirror and bench completes the elegant ensemble. While dressing tables used to be reserved for master suites, they now have a place in family bathrooms too.
Benefits of Adding A Bathroom Vanity
- Comfortable seated usage for makeup application
- Task lighting illuminates face for precise makeup
- Provides organized storage for toiletries
- Drawers keep countertops free of clutter
- Narrow sizes fit in modern bathrooms
- Corner units optimize small, oddly-shaped spaces
- Can add stylistic flair with ornate designs
What To Look For When Selecting A Vanity
- Comfortable bench or seat
- Countertop space and depth
- Full length mirror
- Electrical outlet for appliances
- Task lighting – side lamps or lit mirror
- Drawer and cabinet organization
- Easy to clean surfaces
Vanity Styling Tips
- Modern – Clean lines, neutral colors, floating style
- Traditional – Ornate wood, curved details, marble top
- Rustic – Distressed wood, farmhouse sink, wire baskets
- Contemporary – Glossy color, geometric shapes, metal accents
- French Provincial – Carved wood, painted finish, skirted bottom
Bidet Toilets
Once found mainly in Europe and Asia, bidet toilets are catching on across North America. A bidet toilet has water jets integrated right into the seat. At the push of a button, these jets direct a stream of water to cleanse private areas. Users experience improved hygiene comparable to a full wash and dry cycle. High-tech models have options like heated seats, warm air dryers, and adjustable water pressure. For those with limited mobility, bidets provide independence and dignity. Caregivers also appreciate the assistance a bidet provides. While bidet toilet seats were once considered a luxury, prices have come down. More budget-friendly models now make this transformative bathroom upgrade accessible to all.
Benefits of Bidet Toilets
- Enhanced personal hygiene
- Patented warm air dryer feature
- Adjustable water temperature and pressure
- Self-cleaning capabilities
- Handheld control options
- independence for users with limited mobility
- Reduces dependence on paper products
What To Consider Before Installing A Bidet
- Require access to electrical outlet
- Involves replacing standard toilet seat
- May need some DIY plumbing work
- Look for easy maintenance features
- Compare options like air drying, heated seats
- Consider user needs like mobility, water pressure
Top Rated Bidet Toilet Brands
- Toto Washlet – Industry pioneer with advanced features
- Brondell – Affordable quality with intuitive controls
- Kohler Novita – Superior engineering and customization
- Bio Bidet – Hygienic with adjustable settings
- Tushy – Budget-friendly attachment style bidet
Touchless Faucets
In today’s germ-conscious world, touchless faucets are increasingly in demand. Rather than using a manual handle or knob, these faucets turn on when hands are placed in close proximity. Water flow stops when hands are removed. Touchless operation reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses by eliminating contact with shared surfaces. Today’s touchless faucets are equipped with smart sensor technology that responds quickly and reliably to hand movements. Many models allow users to adjust the water temperature and flow settings. For public restrooms, touchless operation also provides accessible activation. Home chefs appreciate touchless models when cooking to avoid cross contamination and messes.
Benefits of Touchless Bathroom Faucets
- Reduces the spread of germs and bacteria
- Convenient, hands-free activation
- Easy for children and elderly to use
- Ideal for busy cooking areas
- Sleek, modern styling
- Promotes hand washing hygiene
- ADA compliant models available
What To Know Before Installing
- Requires unobstructed sensor view
- Needs electric supply for power
- Batteries provide backup during outages
- Filters recommended to reduce splashing
- Not compatible with all sink basins
- Troubleshoot sensor range sensitivity
Leading Touchless Faucet Brands
- Delta Touch2O – Reliable touch technology, 5-year battery
- Moen Brantford – MotionSense activates water flow
- Kohler Sensate – Clean, integrated design
- American Standard Colony – Affordable touchless option
- Pfister Marielle – User-friendly with helpful LED light
Smart Toilets
Get ready to meet your new smart toilet! Intelligent toilets with built-in technology are paving the way for the bathroom of the future. These innovative commodes feature amenities like heated seats, automatic lid opening, hands-free flushing, integrated lighting, and automized cleaning. High-end models include built-in bidets with temperature controlled water for cleansing. Some toilets now even analyze waste! Bluetooth connectivity allows them to track usage and detect potential issues. Motion activated lids create a hands-free experience from start to finish. While smart toilets come at a premium, their automation enhances comfort and hygiene. Your dream toilet awaits!
Why Smart Toilets Are Trending
- Automated features like lid opening for hands-free use
- Integrated bidet seats improve hygiene
- Heated seats provide comfort and warmth
- Water saving features conserve resources
- Analyzes usage and detects potential issues
- Advanced cleansing functions improve health
What To Look For When Selecting a Smart Toilet
- Hands-free experience – Motion-activated lid and flushing
- Heated seats – Warm seats improve comfort
- Water-saving options – Eco-mode, dual flush
- Integrated bidet – Adjustable temperature and spray
- Design – Sleek contemporary styling preferred
- Connectivity – Remote operation and health tracking
Leading Smart Toilet Brands
- Toto Neorest – Highly advanced with waste analysis
- Kohler Numi – Futuristic style with full automation
- Brondell Swash – Affordable option with bidet
- Woodbridge – Modern design, personalized spray
- Duravit SensoWash – Open lid sensors, premist cleansing
Water Efficient Fixtures
With environmental awareness on the rise, water-saving fixtures are in demand. Low flow showerheads and faucets greatly reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance. Toilets with dual flush options provide light flushing for liquids and full flushing for solids. Touchless faucets eliminate drips and leaks too. Many homeowners are also harvesting rainwater for reuse in toilets and irrigation systems. Water efficient fixtures benefit the environment while cutting utility bills. Plus, low-flow plumbing innovations have advanced tremendously, delivering superb water pressure and experience. By upgrading to eco-friendly fixtures, you can do your part to be water wise while enjoying modern convenience.
Benefits of Water Efficient Bathroom Fixtures
- Conserves water resources
- Reduces utility bills and environmental impact
- Low-flow without sacrificing water pressure
- Meets LEED and other green building standards
- Easy upgrade for existing bathrooms
- Promotes sustainable household practices
What To Look For
Toilets – Dual flush, low gallons per flush
Faucets – Flow rate under 1.5 gpm
Showerheads – Flow rate under 2.0 gpm
Certifications – EPA WaterSense, CALGreen
Design – Minimalist styling, metal finishes
Tips For A Water Efficient Bathroom
- Install low-flow showerhead
- Upgrade to WaterSense certified toilet
- Choose touchless faucet
- Use water-saving programmable thermostat
- Consider rainwater harvesting system
- Limit baths and cut shower times
Heated Towel Racks
One indulgence that can make any bathroom feel like a five-star resort is a heated towel rack. Much more than a way to showcase towels, these small appliances gently warm towels and robes for ultimate comfort and luxury. Towels warm on heated racks will be toasty and relaxed, perfect