How To Choose Bathroom Fixtures That Boost Functionality

Shower, sink, and toilet.

At the bare minimum, a typical bathroom should have these things to be considered one. But as far as modern homeowners go, such a bathroom is anything but “bare minimum.” Budget permitting, they’re inclined to add more stuff for a more inviting and unique look.

Additions are always welcome, but it’s important to ask yourself: “What purpose will they serve?” Nothing says a sound investment for a bathroom like a fixture that’s as functional as it’s fashionable. Here are some tips on choosing bold fixtures that fit the bill.

Get Multipurpose Bath Fixtures

Whether or not your bathroom has room to spare, getting a wide range of fixtures that fulfill multiple roles is always a great idea. They save precious space that you can turn into future opportunities to make your bathroom more awesome.

Case in point: a heated towel ladder can do more than just hold towels. It features a built-in heating element that keeps towels warm, especially in cold weather. Depending on the model, they can be connected to the house’s HVAC system or plugged in like an appliance. Some variants even emit enough heat to warm the entire bathroom.

Or how about a toilet with a bathroom sink on top? The Japanese have been using such technology for their bathrooms for decades, helping them save water by storing and reusing the sink runoff for flushing. It might look odd—stupid, even—but as a famous saying on the Internet goes: “If it’s stupid but it works, it isn’t stupid.”

The list of compact fixtures goes on, and there’s no shortage of them at your local home improvement store. Due to the extra effort involved in their sleek design, expect them to cost somewhat more than their conventional cousins.

Ask Yourself The “Bathtub Dilemma”

Bathtubs continue to be a staple in American bathrooms, though recent data suggests that their popularity isn’t as decisive. Houzz’s survey of over 2,500 homeowners who performed bathroom renovation projects in 2022 found that almost a quarter had their tubs removed. Although more homeowners still kept and upgraded their tubs, this is saying something.

It isn’t hard to understand why people would get rid of their tubs in favor of larger showers. Their water usage leaves a lot to be desired: up to 70 gallons of water per bath (as per the Environmental Protection Agency). By comparison, a shower uses only two to five gallons per minute. Fancying a warm soak also adds to a household’s energy bill by way of heating.

That said, a bathtub is non-negotiable for those seeking relaxation in the bathroom. The stress relief a good, long soak in cool or warm water mixed with bath salts is too good to not need. It also serves a functional purpose for households with babies and children by providing a safe space for bathtime.

As much as you want a yes or no answer here, there isn’t really one. It boils down to how you use your bathroom now and in the future. Tubs aren’t a strict requirement for bathing unless you also wish to unwind after a long day.

Because tubs take up considerable space, consider multifunctional models to maximize its use. Some tubs provide storage space for bathroom cleaners and other items. In some cases, the tubs themselves serve as makeshift storage when not in use.

Don’t Leave Out Storage

Interior designers stress that many homeowners tend to not prioritize storage enough as an architectural design element. The problem with this mindset is that it risks visual clutter. Without enough storage space, you’ll be treated to the sight of disorganized toiletries. As a bathroom is a place of relaxation for many, such a bathroom design won’t do.

For this, you’d want to get really creative. Storage isn’t limited to the space you can see but also the space in hiding, such as behind vanity mirrors and underneath bathtubs. It doesn’t necessarily mean carving spaces on walls; many storage solutions can be added with little to no digging or drilling, such as:

• Repurposing a serving cart to hold bins for toiletries and towels
• Placing dividers inside bathroom drawers for organizing items
• Using a bath tray for holding easy-to-reach items while soaking
• Using old ladders as improvised towel bars
• Installing pocket organizers for storing lightweight everyday items

The possibilities here are virtually endless. Try getting a good look at every nook and cranny of your bathroom and visualize your solutions in certain spots. Don’t be afraid to use every square inch of bathroom wall or floor.

Takeaway

Be it a master or guest bathroom, improving a bathroom’s functionality conveys its own charm. An elegant fixture becomes more awe-inspiring when you learn that it’s useful as a towel rack or storage for skincare products. Be clever in your choice of bathroom fixtures.