Small Bathroom Decor Ideas That Make It Feel Bigger
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Small bathrooms are tricky. There's barely room for the essentials, never mind decor. But a few smart choices can make a tiny bathroom feel bigger, brighter and much more pleasant to use.
Here are practical small bathroom decor ideas, most of which are cheap and renter friendly.
Start by clearing the counter
The fastest way to make a small bathroom look better is to clear the counter. Keep only what you use every day, ideally grouped on a small tray. Everything else goes in a drawer, cabinet or basket.
A good rule: if you don't use it daily, it doesn't live on the counter.
Choose a bigger mirror
A large mirror reflects light and makes the room look deeper. If your bathroom has a small builder-grade mirror, consider:
- A larger framed mirror over the existing one (check weight limits and wall type)
- A wide mirror that spans the vanity
- A medicine cabinet with a mirrored door for hidden storage
Round and arched mirrors soften a room full of hard lines and tiles.
Hang the shower curtain high
Just like window curtains, a shower curtain hung near the ceiling makes the room look taller. Use an extra-long curtain (often 84 or 96 inches) and mount the rod higher than standard. A tension rod works for renters.
Choose a light-colored or subtly patterned curtain for a bigger feel. A bold pattern can work as the room's one statement, if everything else stays simple.
The same "high and wide" logic applies to windows. See how to hang curtains to make windows look bigger.
Add vertical storage
Use wall space instead of floor space:
- Over-the-toilet shelving: freestanding units need no drilling.
- Floating shelves: for towels, a plant and a few nice bottles.
- Wall-mounted baskets: for toilet paper and hand towels.
- Hooks on the back of the door: for robes and towels.
- Tension pole caddies: in the shower for bottles.
Keep shelves tidy with matching containers or baskets. The same styling ideas used for open shelves work in bathrooms on a smaller scale.
Decant your products
Moving soap, lotion and cleansers into matching pump bottles makes a counter look calm and intentional. Amber glass, white ceramic or clear glass bottles all work. Label them simply.
Choose a cohesive towel color
Towels are one of the biggest pops of color in a bathroom. White towels look fresh and spa-like. If you prefer color, choose one shade that matches the shower curtain or bath mat. Mismatched towels make a small room feel busy.
Roll extra towels and store them in a basket or on a shelf.
Bring in a plant
Many plants enjoy the humidity in bathrooms. Good options for small bathrooms with a window:
- Pothos
- Snake plant
- Peace lily
- Boston fern (needs more light and humidity)
If there's little natural light, choose tough plants from this list of low-light indoor plants, or use quality faux greenery.
Upgrade the lighting
A single overhead light or a harsh bulb above the mirror can make a bathroom feel cold. Try:
- Warm-to-neutral bulbs (2700K to 3000K)
- Bulbs with a high CRI (90+) so colors look natural for makeup and grooming
- Sconces on either side of the mirror, if possible, for even light on your face
Renter-friendly updates
- Peel-and-stick floor tiles over dated vinyl (test first)
- A new shower curtain and liner
- Swapping the showerhead (store the original)
- Removable wallpaper on one wall, away from direct water
- New bath mat and towels
- Adhesive hooks for towels
For more temporary upgrades, see this guide on how to decorate a rental apartment.
Paint and color
Light colors help small bathrooms feel bigger. Soft white, pale grey, warm beige or light sage are reliable. Dark colors can also work in a small bathroom or powder room for a dramatic, cozy look, especially with good lighting.
Use paint labeled for bathrooms or with a satin or semi-gloss finish. These handle moisture better.
Small touches that make a difference
- A small piece of art or framed print
- A wooden or stone tray for daily items
- A candle or reed diffuser
- A stylish toilet brush and bin set
- A quality bath mat that fits the space
Keeping it fresh
Run the fan during and after showers to prevent mildew. Wipe down surfaces weekly. Wash bath mats and the shower curtain liner regularly.
Common mistakes
- Too many products on the counter
- A tiny mirror on a large wall
- A shower curtain hung too low
- Mismatched towels and mats
- Dark rooms with no light layers
Frequently asked questions
What color makes a small bathroom look bigger?
Light colors like soft white, pale grey or light sage reflect more light. Painting walls and ceiling the same color can also make a small bathroom feel taller.
How can I add storage to a tiny bathroom?
Go vertical: over-the-toilet shelves, floating shelves, door hooks and shower caddies. Use baskets to group small items.
Are plants good in bathrooms?
Many plants do well with bathroom humidity. They still need some light, so choose low-light varieties for windowless rooms.
How do I make a rental bathroom look better?
Change the shower curtain, towels, bath mat and accessories. Add a larger mirror and some storage. These changes are easy to take with you.
Read next: Kitchen Counter Decor Ideas That Stay Practical →