Accessorise your bathroom: Smart tips and ideas for a fresh look

Once you've got a clear picture of the kind of accessories you want or require you can start looking at the size of your bathroom and thinking about what you can realistically place in your bathroom.

You can do this by measuring different areas of your bathroom where you may want to place accessories, and by asking questions such as:

• How much countertop and floor space do you have available?
• Can the walls in your bathroom be utilised better for additional storage or decorative elements?
• Is the space under your bathroom sink being maximised?
• Do you have any awkward spaces in your bathroom that can be turned into functional areas?

After addressing practical considerations, shifting your focus to aesthetics ensures that every addition complements the style of your bathroom. For example, if you have a coastal-style bathroom, then you might consider accessories such as towels and shower curtains in shades of blue or sandy beige, and storage solutions such as wicker baskets or bathroom cabinets that resemble driftwood.

You may also want to coordinate any new accessories with your bathroom's existing colour, or you might prefer new accessories to provide a nice contrast with your existing colour scheme.

High-quality bathroom accessories are an investment in your bathroom's present and future. The first factor you may want to consider is the material of the accessories you're considering. For common bathroom accessories such as towel bars, toilet paper holders, soap dishes, and robe hooks, you'll want to prioritise materials that resist moisture and corrosion, such as stainless steel, brass, or chrome.

High-quality bathroom accessories should exemplify precision in their manufacturing, ensuring that functional elements, such as bathroom taps, operate smoothly and align perfectly during installation. They should be solidly constructed, without any wobbling or parts that feel loose.

Staying within budget while outfitting your bathroom with high-quality accessories requires strategic planning. Begin by setting a clear budget that reflects both your financial constraints and your desire for quality. Break down your budget by item, prioritising essentials or pieces where quality is most critical, such as faucets or shower heads. Investing in a few high-quality items can be more beneficial in the long run than filling your bathroom with lower-quality pieces that may need frequent replacements.

Shopping around is essential to find the best deals and quality for your bathroom accessories. Don’t limit yourself to the first retailer or brand you come across. Explore different suppliers, including online marketplaces, specialty bathroom stores, and even second-hand options for unique or high-end items at a reduced price. Compare prices, read reviews, and look for sales or discounts. Sometimes, manufacturers offer direct deals on their websites that retailers can't match.

Choosing your bathroom accessories wisely involves balancing the problems you want your accessories to solve with the style you aim to create. For example, something like a toothbrush holder not only solves a storage problem but reduces clutter and keeps your counters tidy.

Ideally, every accessory you choose should serve a purpose, whether it's to add convenience, enhance storage, or contribute to the overall style of your bathroom. If you can avoid the temptation to over-accessorise, you will prevent clutter that can detract from the practicality of your space.

There are a lot of different bathroom accessories to consider; here are a few potential choices:

There are many different bathroom mirrors available to suit bathrooms of all sizes, shapes, and styles. Often, a mirror is placed above a bathroom sink, but you can also opt for a freestanding mirror for an alternative look. If you need your mirror to double as a storage solution, then consider bathroom cabinets with mirrors attached to them.

Related article: 15 stunning bathroom mirror ideas for Australian homes

Towel holders and rails play a crucial role in keeping your towels neatly hung, accessible, and properly aired out to dry. There are plenty of options available, from wall-mounted rails and freestanding holders to heated towel rails. To make the right choice, think about the number of towels you need to accommodate; double rails or multiple hooks can be ideal for families or guest bathrooms, while smaller choices are great for single bathrooms.

Soap dishes and holders are essential accessories that contribute to a tidy and hygienic bathroom environment. Whether you prefer bar soap or liquid soap, there is a variety of dishes and holders designed to suit your needs and tastes. Wall-mounted soap dishes can free up counter space, making them perfect for smaller vanities, while soap dispensers offer a convenient and mess-free way to access liquid soap. If you're after a more decorative approach, consider a soap dish made from unique materials like ceramic, glass, or even natural stone to add a touch of luxury to your bathroom.

The toilet brush holder, though a small addition, can still be stylish and plays a significant role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of your bathroom. Materials such as stainless steel or ceramic are popular because they are easy to clean. The design of the holder should ensure that the brush is discreetly stored yet easily accessible. Some holders come with a lid or cover, which further contains any odours and ensures the brush is not directly visible, thereby improving the cleanliness of your bathroom.

When you're choosing a toilet paper holder, focus on practicality and how it fits into your bathroom's layout and design. Choose a material that withstands moisture well, such as stainless steel, brass, or chrome. There are different models, such as freestanding or wall-mounted. The key is to find a holder that meets your functional needs while fitting in with the overall style of your bathroom.

Bath and shower shelves provide an ideal solution for storing shower gels, shampoos, razors, and other bathing essentials. Their advantage lies in their compact design, which allows them to seamlessly integrate into any existing shower or bath area without occupying much room.

There are plenty of bathroom storage options available, and they don't have to be purely functional. Stylish bathroom vanities often feature storage in the form of drawers and can easily be paired with a cabinet or a mirrored cabinet positioned above them. Tallboys are another solution, especially if you need additional storage alongside other bathroom cabinets or vanities you have.

Related article: 11 different styles and types of bathroom vanities

These tips should have provided you with some insights into what to consider when choosing bathroom accessories. Ideally, the accessories you select should help make your bathroom a more pleasant environment, simplify your bathroom routines, and add both style and substance.