Uncover the hidden secrets behind cluttered bathrooms. If you find your bathroom packed with items but can’t pinpoint the reason why, read on. Professional interior designers and organizers shed light on various factors contributing to a cluttered space. Despite the daunting task of organizing this area, the payoff is worth it. According to Elle Cole, founder of Elle Cole Interiors in Dallas, Texas, “A well-organized bathroom not only enhances aesthetics but also improves functionality, transforming the space into a tranquil retreat.”
Bid farewell to these seven types of items to create a spa-like oasis:
1. – Whitney Durham of Whitney Durham Interiors in Atlanta, Georgia, suggests storing beauty products under the cabinet or on a tray if no cabinet is available. Caroline Van Natta of Tidyish in Richmond, Virginia, advises against clear countertop organizers, recommending closed storage options instead. Catherine Ebert of Catherine Ebert Interiors in Washington, D.C., suggests adding receptacles inside cabinets or drawers for hair tools and toothbrushes to reduce cord clutter.
2. **Stacks of Towels on the Floor** – Mary Clair Cumbaa of Cumbaa Design Co in the Mississippi Delta recommends utilizing storage above the toilet or hanging towels on hooks on the bathroom door.
3. **Improperly Used Storage** – According to Elle Cole, bulky towel racks, exposed cords, and lack of concealed storage can contribute to a cluttered look. Wall-mounted cabinets, recessed shelving, or hidden drawers can create a streamlined appearance.
4. **Products You Don’t Use** – Lisa Malone, co-founder of You Have Arrived! in Glenwood, Maryland, advises getting rid of toiletry items you don’t use to free up space for essentials.
5. **Half-Finished Products** – Malone recommends finishing or discarding half-used products to prevent clutter buildup. Avoid keeping too many options in the shower to maintain a tidy space.
By eliminating these items, you can declutter your bathroom and transform it into a serene sanctuary.
“Visual clutter and potential mildew issues can arise when we have an excess of items in our shower space,” explains Lavender Menakaya, the founder of Lavender Organizes based in Alexandria, Virginia. Menakaya emphasizes the importance of streamlining and not hoarding multiple shampoos at once, stating, “We do not need three to five shampoos all crowding the shower simultaneously!”
Looking ahead, Menakaya advises individuals to practice restraint by refraining from opening new products until necessary and designating a specific storage area for surplus items. She notes that this strategy is especially beneficial for those who tend to purchase items in bulk, contributing to a more organized and clutter-free space.
Margie Kaercher, the innovative mind behind Hearth & Honey Homes in Tampa, Florida, shares her insights on the potential pitfalls of incorporating multiple metal finishes in bathroom decor. While Kaercher appreciates the aesthetic of mixed metals, she cautions against haphazard combinations that lack intentionality. “Mixing metals without precision can yield an uncoordinated look, particularly when the hues are closely aligned but not an exact match,” she warns. Kaercher suggests embracing a deliberate blend of metals to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing contrast, enhancing the overall design scheme.
Addressing the issue of bathroom mats, Kaercher underscores the significance of selecting appropriately sized and strategically placed rugs for both functionality and aesthetics. She stresses that bathroom rugs should serve a practical purpose first and foremost, cautioning against overcrowding with an excessive number of small mats that contribute to visual clutter rather than serving a meaningful function. Kaercher recommends opting for a single full-length runner instead of several small mats scattered throughout the space, advocating for a less cluttered and more cohesive bathroom layout.
Incorporating these expert tips and insights can help individuals elevate their bathroom design while minimizing visual clutter and maximizing functionality.
