Bathroom fixtures can make or break a bathroom; if you’re an older bathroom, they can refresh it beyond belief. Choosing the right fixtures for your bathroom must be done carefully to make it look the best it can be. What exactly constitutes a bathroom fixture? Well, a fixture is anything that is screwed or fixed via another method to the walls or ceiling, such as:
- Lights
- Towel Rails
- Soapdish/holders
- Toilet roll holders
- Towel hooks
- Toothbrush holders
- Bathroom Mirrors
I’m sure that there are many more than this, but you get the idea.
If you are at the stage of having just had your bathroom refitted and you are left with a blank canvas, you want to make sure that you keep a common theme running through your fixtures. This doesn’t mean you have to buy every item in a range. In some cases, this is a bad thing to do, as your bathroom can look more like a show home or catalog page than a real home.
So what do I mean by common theme? You have an oak light pull with a small chrome detail. If you were looking for a towel rail, you have three options: an all-oak towel rail, a chrome towel rail, or an oak and chrome towel rail to match the light pull directly.
The same would apply throughout all the other fixtures. The only exception to this may be the bathroom light fixture because this is on a different surface and, in reality, rarely gets looked at directly. You can get away with having something slightly different.
A bathroom is a somewhat hostile place for fixtures and fittings; at least once a day, they will be subjected to great humidity that wants to corrode poorly made fixtures. The materials that you choose are very important. Ironically, the material best suited to the bathroom is probably plastic, as it is unaffected by humidity and is nonabsorbent, but I have yet to see nice-looking plastic fixtures.
If you decide you would like chrome accessories, it is best not to skimp on them, cheaper chrome fittings will have very thin platting that can be chipped or even penetrated by water. If this happens, the steel underneath will start to corrode and bubble up the chrome plating on top. If you want metal-looking accessories for your bathroom, stainless steel is the best material. As the name suggests, it is stainless and will not corrode. Stainless steel is the material, not a coating like chrome plating. Therefore you can not chip it.
Wooden fixtures in the bathroom can look great. If you do decide to go for wooden fixtures in your bathroom, then do make sure that it is hardwood, such as oak, hardwoods are much more resilient to humidity. Although technically not wood, bamboo is becoming increasingly popular for interior furnishings; due to the humid climate that it comes from, it is ideal for use in the bathroom. On the side, not bamboo is much more eco-friendly than hardwood equivalents, partly due to the rate it can be grown at.
Advances in printing technologies now mean that some great fake woods are used in bathroom fittings, now, I wouldn’t recommend getting a fitting that was completely made from fake wood – it may be obvious. Still, if you wanted to go down the wood/chrome look, I think fake wood may be ideal. Used in small amounts, it would barely be noticeable.
As I mentioned previously, bathroom lighting fixtures can be treated differently from all others. There is a vast range of bathroom light fixtures available; make sure you choose a sort that is suitable for the location of the bathroom. If your light is more than a few meters away from any water sources, then you can use a light not specifically designed for bathrooms. You must choose a suitable light fitting if it’s closer than a couple of meters.
Bathroom lights have an IP rating, a term for how waterproof they are. Where you live will have different regulations, so check these carefully, as they may save your life. The sort of bathroom light fixture you choose will depend on your room’s style and height. If you live in a basement, your ceiling will likely be low, so maybe downlights would be the ideal solution.
Guide to Choosing Bathroom Fixtures
Bathroom fixtures are crucial to a bathroom’s overall aesthetic and functionality. From sinks and faucets to toilets and showers, choosing the right fixtures can make a significant difference in the look and feel of your bathroom. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing bathroom fixtures that are both stylish and functional.
Budget-friendly Bathroom Fixtures
Your budget is one of the most crucial factors when choosing bathroom fixtures. Bathroom fixtures come in a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury fixtures. When working with a tight budget, it’s important to prioritize the most critical fixtures and choose more affordable options for the rest.
Stylish Bathroom Fixtures
Another important factor to consider when choosing bathroom fixtures is style. Your bathroom fixtures should reflect your taste and complement the overall style of your home. Whether you prefer modern and sleek designs or traditional and ornate fixtures, countless styles can help you create the perfect bathroom oasis.
Size Matters
When choosing bathroom fixtures, size is a crucial consideration. The size of your bathroom fixtures should be proportional to the size of your bathroom. Choosing too large or small fixtures can make your bathroom feel cramped or unbalanced. Be sure to measure your space carefully and choose fixtures that fit comfortably within your bathroom’s layout.
Functional Bathroom Fixtures
Functionality is another key factor to consider when choosing bathroom fixtures. Your fixtures should be designed to meet your specific needs and lifestyle. For example, a dual-flush toilet can help save water and lower utility bills if you have a large family. Similarly, a shower with body sprays can provide a spa-like experience that helps you relax and unwind after a long day.
Durable Bathroom Fixtures
When investing in bathroom fixtures, choosing durable and long-lasting options is important. Opting for high-quality materials and well-made fixtures can help prevent costly repairs and replacements. Look for bathroom fixtures made from porcelain, stainless steel, or brass, known for their durability and longevity.
Low-Maintenance Bathroom Fixtures
Finally, it’s important to consider maintenance when choosing bathroom fixtures. Look for options that are easy to clean and require minimal upkeep. For example, a one-piece toilet can be easier to clean than a two-piece toilet, while a showerhead with a self-cleaning feature can help prevent mineral buildup and keep your shower looking and functioning like new.
Choosing the right bathroom fixtures is essential to creating a beautiful and functional bathroom. By considering factors like budget, style, size, functionality, maintenance, and durability, you can find fixtures that meet your needs and enhance your bathroom’s overall appeal. Whether you’re renovating your entire bathroom or simply updating your fixtures, keeping these key considerations in mind can help you achieve the perfect look and feel for your space.
