8 Bathroom Décor Ideas That Should Stay in the Past

There are bathroom trends that have had their moment, but now they belong in the past. What might have seemed like a great idea years ago no longer fits with modern design standards. Over time, certain décor choices just lose their appeal. If you are looking to update your bathroom, it is time to say goodbye to these outdated trends. Let’s explore which ones should be left behind.

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Excessive Wallpaper

Wallpaper once seemed like a great way to add personality to a bathroom. However, its tendency to peel in high-moisture areas makes it a poor choice for the space. It is difficult to maintain, and the patterns can quickly look outdated. Opt for more durable and easy-to-clean paint or tiles that provide long-lasting appeal and are better suited for the humidity of a bathroom.

In addition, wallpaper requires constant upkeep. It can discolor or bubble over time, especially in damp conditions. These issues make wallpaper a choice that is best left in the past. Modern design prefers simple, sleek finishes that do not require constant attention.

Outdated Floral Shower Curtains

Floral shower curtains were once a popular choice for adding a touch of charm to a bathroom. However, they can often look dated and out of place in modern designs. The bold patterns can overpower the space, making it feel cramped and cluttered. It is better to choose solid-colored or neutral shower curtains that complement your bathroom’s color palette.

Floral designs tend to date quickly, and the busy patterns can clash with other décor in the room. Additionally, they often feel more suited to a country-style bathroom rather than a contemporary one. For a more modern look, try a minimalist shower curtain that enhances the overall atmosphere of the room.

Over-the-Toilet Storage Units

While practical, over-the-toilet storage units often make bathrooms feel cramped. They can be bulky and create visual clutter in a space that should feel open and airy. These units also make cleaning around the toilet more challenging. Instead, consider installing floating shelves or a sleek cabinet for a more organized and streamlined look.

Over-the-toilet storage can also look out of place in a modern bathroom. The style tends to be more traditional, which contrasts with minimalist or contemporary design trends. Opting for smarter storage solutions can elevate the space without overcrowding it.

Carpet in the Bathroom

Carpet in the bathroom was once a common feature, but it is no longer a practical or stylish choice. The moisture in the air from showers and baths can lead to mold and mildew growth in carpet fibers. It is difficult to clean and often becomes stained or soggy over time. Hard flooring such as tiles or vinyl is much more hygienic and easier to maintain in a bathroom setting.

In addition to its lack of practicality, carpet can make a bathroom feel less clean. It is harder to keep fresh and sanitary compared to hard surfaces. For a cleaner, more modern look, replace carpet with materials that can stand up to moisture without compromising on style.

Outdated Ceramic or Plastic Soap Dishes

Ceramic or plastic soap dishes have been a bathroom staple for years, but they can now look outdated and clunky. They often attract soap scum, requiring regular cleaning, and take up unnecessary counter space. For a more streamlined and modern approach, consider using a sleek soap dispenser or a soap dish with a more contemporary design. This simple change can elevate your bathroom and make it feel more refined.

These soap dishes can make a bathroom look cluttered and less organized. With better alternatives available, it is time to let go of the ceramic and plastic options. Minimalist accessories are the key to achieving a clean, modern look in your bathroom.

Matching Bathroom Sets

While matching bathroom sets of towels, rugs, and accessories once seemed like the perfect way to create harmony in a space, they can now feel predictable and boring. A perfectly coordinated set lacks the depth and character that a more eclectic approach can offer. Mixing different textures, colors, and materials adds personality and dimension to the bathroom, making it feel more unique.

Additionally, matching bathroom sets often come across as too staged. They can make the space feel impersonal and less lived-in. Moving away from a strictly coordinated look will help your bathroom feel fresher and more modern.

Cluttered Vanity Tops

Cluttered vanity tops filled with too many items can make your bathroom feel chaotic and unorganized. A clean, minimalist approach to your countertop will not only create a more serene space, but it will also make the room appear larger. Keep only the essentials on display, and use sleek storage solutions to hide away the rest.

Having too many visible items can also contribute to a sense of messiness. A clutter-free countertop provides a calming atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding. Reevaluate what needs to be kept on display and put away anything that doesn’t add value to the design.

Outdated Brass Fixtures

Brass fixtures were widely used in bathrooms in the past, but they have since fallen out of favor. The bright gold tone can feel heavy and dated, especially in modern bathrooms. Opting for matte finishes such as black, brushed nickel, or chrome will give your bathroom a more contemporary, stylish feel.

Brass can also tarnish over time, making it harder to maintain. The shine fades, and the material can lose its luster, contributing to a worn-out appearance. Newer finishes not only look fresher but also require less maintenance, making them a smarter choice for a bathroom upgrade.

Shower Stall with Carpet Flooring

A shower stall with carpet flooring may have seemed like a luxury feature in the past, but it is highly impractical for modern bathrooms. Carpet in wet areas leads to mold and mildew growth, making it difficult to maintain. It also creates an unhygienic environment that is best avoided. Choose tile, stone, or vinyl flooring for a bathroom that is not only stylish but also easy to clean.

Carpet in a shower stall is a safety hazard, as it can become slippery when wet. It is not ideal for a space that is meant to stay clean and dry. Modern bathroom flooring options are designed to withstand moisture while providing a sleek and polished look.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.