Choosing Materials and Features for a Bathroom

Choosing materials for your bathroom isn’t just about finding a look you like—it’s about picking things that can handle water, heat, daily use, and lots of cleaning. In this guide, we’ll break down the best options for every part of your bathroom so you can make smart choices that look good and last.

Flooring

Porcelain and ceramic tile are classics. They're strong, water-resistant, and come in tons of colors and finishes. Larger sizes like 12×24 help reduce grout lines, which means less scrubbing and a cleaner look. If you want something softer underfoot, luxury vinyl planks or tiles are easy to install, affordable, and hold up well in damp spaces. Natural stone like marble or granite gives a timeless feel but needs sealing and a little extra care. And if cold floors bug you, add radiant heating for warm toes in winter.

Walls and Wet Zones

Tiles aren’t just for floors. Use them on walls in porcelain, ceramic, glass, or stone. Larger tiles (like 18×18 or even 30×30) make smaller rooms feel bigger and are quicker to install with fewer seams. Just make sure to use proper waterproofing in shower areas. Painted walls work too—just go for a mildew-resistant finish that wipes clean.

Countertops

Quartz and granite are both great for bathroom counters. Quartz is low-maintenance and stain-resistant. Granite brings in natural texture. Keep the edge simple to avoid chips, and pair it with an under-mount sink for easy cleaning. Add a backsplash to catch splashes and protect the wall.

Showers and Bathtubs

Freestanding tubs make a big style statement and give you layout flexibility, but they need more room and can be harder to clean around. Built-in tubs fit tighter spaces and often include handy storage ledges. For showers, decide if you want a tile base or a pre-made one, and consider going curbless for a cleaner, more accessible look.

Cabinetry and Storage

Custom cabinets let you make the most of tricky spaces and choose every detail, from hardware to finishes. They cost more and take longer to build. Prefab vanities are budget-friendly and easy to install, but you’ll have fewer options. Whichever you pick, use organizers and smart drawer layouts to keep your daily stuff tidy and easy to reach.

Built-In Niches

Shower niches are perfect for holding bottles and soap without cluttering up the floor. You can match them to the tile or use a bold contrast for a design pop. Wall niches outside the shower add bonus storage for towels or decor and keep everything off the counters.

Plumbing Fixtures

Sticking with brands like Kohler, Delta, or Moen gets you reliable performance, long-lasting finishes, and easier access to replacement parts. They cost more, but they’re worth it. Lesser-known brands might save money and offer fun designs, but be sure to check reviews and warranty info. Brushed nickel hides fingerprints. Chrome is easy to wipe. Matte black adds bold contrast—just keep your finish consistent across all hardware.

Toilets

You’ve got choices. Gravity-fed toilets are basic and quiet. Pressure-assisted flush stronger and clog less. Dual-flush helps save water. Elongated bowls feel more comfortable. Round bowls work in tight spots. And if you want to cut water use, look for the WaterSense label.

Bidets

Bidets are becoming more popular—and for good reason. You can get an attachment, a full seat upgrade, or a separate unit. Look for features like heated seats, adjustable pressure, and built-in dryers. Many need a nearby outlet, so plan for power during your remodel.

Glass Options

Custom glass fits your shower perfectly and lets you pick the finish—clear, frosted, or textured. It costs more and usually needs pro installation. Store-bought glass is cheaper and faster to install but may not be a perfect fit for unique layouts. Add a water-repelling coating and keep a squeegee nearby to reduce water spots.

Lighting and Mirrors

Layered lighting works best. Use ceiling lights for overall brightness, vanity lights at face level for grooming, and accent lights in niches or under cabinets. LED options are energy-efficient and long-lasting. Standard mirrors work fine, but back-lit mirrors give soft, shadow-free light. Mirrored cabinets add hidden storage. Dimmers let you adjust the mood from morning to night.

Ventilation

Don’t skip the exhaust fan. Match its power (measured in CFM) to your room size. Look for quiet models with low noise ratings. Features like humidity sensors or timers help control moisture and prevent mold. Energy-efficient fans save on your power bill without giving up performance.

Final Details

Choose grout that matches the traffic and moisture level of the space. Seal natural stone and cement grout regularly. Match all your hardware—towel bars, hooks, faucets—for a polished look. Spend on the things you touch and use daily. Save with standard glass sizes, simple tile layouts, and prefab cabinets when they work. Balance is key.