Whether they’re spending the night, moving in, or simply over for an evening of wine, a well-stocked, welcoming guest bath is the mark of a great host.
Giving your guest bath some extra attention could be the thing to tie your entire home together. And what better opportunity to WOW guests with your bathroom design than when they’re staying over for the holidays!
Typically, guest bathrooms are small. Although your guests’ visit may be brief, there is no reason it should be uncomfortable. If you’re considering remodeling the space, our contractors can help. We will work with you to make the best plan, considering everything from space, storage, lighting, design, and of course, budget.
A few elements to keep in mind when remodeling your guest bathroom:
Increase space – Consider taking space from another room if needed. Even a few feet of can improve the level of comfort your guests experience when using your bathroom. Other tricks for increasing space include using mirrors or installing a pocket door instead of one that swings out.
Increase storage – Go vertical to maximize storage with vanity towers like this one we installed. You can also incorporate a closet or tall cabinets, or other organizers into your design. Using semi-custom cabinets will ensure they fit the space. Another tip is to recess the medicine cabinet into the wall, giving you more room at your sink without losing storage.
Update essentials – Does your toilet, sink, vanity, or mirror need an upgrade?
Update fixtures – Faucets, showerhead, towel bars, cabinet hardware, etc.
Update your vanity – Rethink the pedestal sink and give your guests extra space for personal items inside a new vanity sink cabinet. Provide drawers for even more storage. Don’t forget an updated mirror to match the new decor.
Fresh paint – Or consider wallpaper!
The right lighting – Especially important in windowless bathrooms.
Once your guest bathroom remodel is complete, take it to the next level by anticipating your guests’ needs. What makes a bathroom “guest-ready?” Put yourself in your visitor’s shoes. Is the space clean and organized? Are necessary supplies clearly accessible and easy to use?
There’s nothing worse than the universal dread that sets in when you find yourself in a bathroom that is lacking your needs - whatever those may be.
We’ve created a little checklist to get your bathroom in ship shape for the holidays (and anytime you have extra guests):
Make sure things are in working order. Test the flush, check the water levels, turn the sink on and off, test the lights. Trust us. It’s better to discover and repair issues beforehand than when you have a house full of people.
Deep clean! If nothing else, your bathroom should be as clean as possible before guests arrive. Before you stock up on amenities, give the space a deep clean. Break out the gloves, the beach, and your favorite holiday playlist, and get to work!
Once cleaning is done, leave supplies for maintenance, like cleaning spray and paper towels, under the sink or in a nearby linen closet for easy touch-ups.
Add a plunger and toilet brush for good measure next to the commode.
Stock up on toilet paper. Make sure backup rolls are accessible and obvious. Store under the sink, stack on top of the toilet tank, or use a free-standing TP holder.
Put out plenty of hand towels. Now’s the perfect time to impress Aunt So-n-So with your fancy Christmas towels. Don’t be afraid!
Speaking of towels… Have extras on-hand stacked under the sink or on the dresser of their guest room. Try rolling up towels and washcloths and arranging them in a basket like a bouquet-of-linens.
Remove personal items (like clothes, toiletries, etc.) to give your guests more counter space for THEIR stuff.
Refill or replace soap.
Provide an air freshener or matches. Get seasonal with a pine or vanilla spice diffuser or potpourri. The possibilities are endless.
Light it up! Our guest bathrooms don’t always get as much love as our others, add a candle, a decorative lamp, or some other mood lighting to spruce up the vibe. Don’t forget a night light for overnight guests!
Provide extra toiletries. Forgetting supplies when traveling is almost as inevitable as a stomach ache after Christmas dinner. If you’re hosting this season, make your guests feel at home by providing extra necessities, like travel-size shampoos, conditioners, or body wash, extra toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, and more. If you collect beauty samples, hotel soaps, and travel-size everything, put these items in a cute basket or container on the counter for your guests to help themselves.
For an extra special touch, consider adding luxurious lotions or hypoallergenic options. Put out the dental floss, mouthwash, and maybe some makeup remover wipes. Your house guests will appreciate that you went the extra mile!
Create usable storage for guests. Your visitors need a place to put their stuff! Incorporate furniture or accessories they can use, like a small chair, a jewelry hanger, or a small storage station.
Take a look at our gallery here for more ideas!
Decorate. ‘Tis the season to be extra! No one says the Christmas spirit has to end at the bathroom door. Add string lights, greenery, or other decorations to keep the whole house holly and jolly, even in the bathroom.
Don’t forget the laundry basket! Provide guests with a spot to put used towels and linens after their stay. It’s also nice to have a designated spot for dirty clothes if they have an extended visit.
Make sure you have backup supplies on hand of soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, tissues, etc.
Leave a note! Want to make an impression? Leave a short, personal note on a beautiful card on top of your stack of towels. Even a simple message like “Welcome to our home!” lets guests know they’re special and make them feel welcome.
Do these simple things to get your guest bathroom ready for the holidays (and any time of year!) For more tips to prepare for holiday visitors, check out Our Guide to The Perfect Holiday Kitchen.
We hope you enjoy the holidays and are surrounded by good food and friends. When you’re ready to renew your space, contact us below to get started.
