How to decorate a bathroom

Bathrooms may seem may suggest more of a utilitarian than aesthetic purpose, but they should still project an inviting, attractive image. A clean, well organized bathroom can make family comfortable and help guests feel welcome. Here are a few tips for decorating your bathroom.

1. Make sure the bathroom stays clean. This probably means a weekly scrubbing of the toilet, shower, tub, and sink. If you have well water that leaves a rusty stain, use a non-toxic cleanser that will remove it. A clean room is the first step toward making it appealing to others. Burn a candle as you clean to absorb odors and provide an aromatic touch. Don't leave the candle unattended, however, and do keep it out of the reach of children.

2. Choose a coordinating color scheme. Match colors to the rest of the house or link them in subtle ways. You don't want a pink bathroom if all the bedrooms are blue, for example. Get a bath mat, or set of bathroom throw rugs, that will go well with the prevailing wall color or wallpaper pattern. Ensure that the rugs don't clash with the floor style, but rather enhance it. Use non-skid rugs to prevent accidents.

3. Keep the fixtures in the same or a similar style. This may sound simple when first building and furnishing a home, but if you have an older dwelling and need to replace a leaking toilet, for example, you may not know the original style that was purchased for the home. Make a visual inspection to ensure that the new item will fit with those that remain from before. This includes the counter top, clothes hamper, and adjustable wall shelves.

4. Add wall accents that blend your major theme. If you have a beach, ocean, or country pattern, choose accessories to match. For example, for an oriental theme, you may want to hang up bamboo butterflies or paintings of lotus blossoms. Keep the decor simple and yet attractive, with towels that coordinate with rugs and wall colors.

5. Get matching bath towel, washcloth, and hand towel sets for special occasions or guests. These add a quality touch, especially when purchasing durable, heavyweight towels that feel soft and absorb moisture readily. If possible, choose a design that matches the bathroom theme. If you are unable to locate some like this, opt for neutral tones that accent existing decorator pieces.

6. Look for decorator items to go with the design. Special design soaps, soap dishes and dispensers, toothbrush holders, towel or tissue bars, and other miscellaneous items can spruce up the overall effect.

7. Have extra amenities available for guests. Shop for sample sizes of the usual needed toiletries, such as tooth paste, mouth wash, and dental floss. The next time guests come but forget something, you will be prepared, just like all the grand hotels.

A bathroom sends an important message to guests about the degree to which you value them and look to their comfort. Take a little extra time to make your bathroom look, smell, and feel comfortable for your family and possible visitors.