The Devil’s in the Details: 3 Types of Bathroom Accessories to Refresh Your Space
How often do you stop to take a closer look at your bathroom’s existing décor? How much attention do you actually pay to the smaller details that make up the bigger picture in that compact space? Chances are, you probably don’t give this a second thought.
Most people go in and out of their bathrooms several times during the day without thinking beyond the basic fixtures that serve a purely functional purpose. Even if the core elements of this corner of your home capture most of your attention, it’s the smaller details that turn this space into a home.
What Accessories Does a Bathroom Need?
Your bathroom’s personality is defined by more than just the type of shower or vanity you have — the smaller items can tie every piece together and form a cohesive, calming and enjoyable space to be in. While it mostly comes down to personal preference and requirements, there’s an assortment of bathroom accessories that effortlessly combine form with function in every situation.
Towel Rails and Ladders
Kicking off the list is quite an obvious yet often overlooked bathroom accessory — the rails and ladders you use to hang your towels on. Despite their purely utilitarian purpose, they act as the sculptural elements of the space that can soften or accentuate certain aspects of your bathroom, depending on its layout and design.
In most cases, you could choose one of four major types — single rail, double rail, heated or ladder-style towel racks. The first option is by far the most common one, as it features a — you guessed it — singular rail you can use to hang your towel on, which is why it’s such a classic option for many households. Their straightforward design means they’re generally mounted above the basin or alongside an open wall.
Next, double rail models usually have two parallel bars, which allows for a more organised display of several towels. The two rails normally have enough space between them so there’s enough breathing room for the towels you put on them, and come in handy in households with at least two members.
Next up, is an option that’s been all the rage in recent years — a heated rack that dries your towels as you put them back on the bars. This way, you have access to warm and fuzzy towels whenever you need them, which comes in especially handy during colder weather. Aside from their practical benefits and dedicated safety features, they often have a sleek and modern design that combines technology and luxury.
Finally, ladder-style models mimic miniature ladders with several rungs for draping towels. This option is suitable for larger families with several members thanks to its open structure which allows for easy access and air circulation for keeping towels dry. You can use this as a standalone décor piece in minimalist or industrial-style spaces, and it only requires a few simple tools and minimal hardware to install.
Shelves and Soap Dishes
Despite being seemingly simple additions, shelves and soap dishes carry a significant role in defining the character and utility of your bathroom since they can help you organise everyday essentials, avoid countertop clutter or subtly enhance the room’s design.
Their role goes beyond traditional storage and focuses on combining practical elements with personal tastes in subtle but effective ways. For instance, glass shelves offer a transparent, clean and minimalist appearance, which serves as a neutral platform where you can add colourful bathroom accessories. You could go for either frosted or clear glass to either soften the aesthetic or contribute to a minimalist design.
Next, brushed nickel models have a warm and understated finish that complements both modern and traditional settings. This particular material offers a hint of shine without being ostentatious, which allows other elements to get more attention. Nickel is quite durable and resistant to water spots, which means it’s more than suitable for a moist bathroom.
On the other hand, brass finishes combine retro and vintage aesthetics with more modern design elements and features. The material’s rich and warm glow can instantly make your bathroom feel more luxurious or inviting or serve as a statement accent that complements both bold and subdued interior designs.
Finally, chrome options bring a reflective surface and sleek designs to create a crisp and contemporary accessory that can amplify light and contribute to a brighter, more open feel. If you’re aiming for a clean and high-gloss finish, then chrome shelves and soap holders are exactly what you need. The material is resilient and resistant to corrosion, which means their shine will likely remain intact and they can integrate easily with existing home décor items.
Bath Caddies
When was the last time you gave yourself a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home? Imagine catching up on your favourite book or watching a comfort show while soaking in a nice and relaxing bath after a long day. Add to that a few refreshments or snacks within reach, and you’ve got yourself a splendid way to unwind and take a break from everyday stressors.
Most bath caddies fall into one of two categories — ones with a slight incline along the edges and others that are entirely flat from one end to the other. Both options serve the same purpose, with the main difference being in the way they fit on your bath and how you’d like to access your essentials once you’ve positioned the caddy.
Finishes for bath caddies also contribute greatly to their overall appeal. Solid-coloured finishes offer a bold statement and can inject a pop of colour into the bathroom’s neutral palette. These caddies often come in hues that can match or contrast with the surrounding tiles and fixtures, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Alternatively, wood-based finishes evoke a natural, earthy feel. The texture and warmth of wood introduce a sense of calm and can soften the hard surfaces typically found in a bathroom. Wood caddies, when treated properly, resist water damage and add a timeless quality to the space, reminding one of a spa-like retreat even in the comfort of home.
