Bathroom Accessories: How Do I Add Style to My Bathroom?

Forget the idea that you need a big budget or hours of work to give your bathroom some fresh style. It's really about picking the right accessories and knowing how to use them. Even a plain space can pop with just a few smart choices—think soap dispensers that actually look cool or a bath mat that doesn’t scream college dorm.

Here’s what a lot of people get wrong: They grab random items just because they like the color or pattern. The trick is matching a few accessories so your bathroom feels put together, not cluttered. Sticking with a color theme or a certain material—like matte black finishes or warm wood—can upgrade the vibe instantly.

Want to make a small change that actually shows? Focus on what you touch and see every day. Swap out a boring towel rack for something modern. Add a tray or two for that hotel feel (bonus: it actually keeps stuff off your counters). It doesn’t have to be fancy, just intentional.

• Choosing the Right Accessories
• Easy Ways to Add Color and Texture
• Smart Storage Meets Style
• Finishing Touches That Pull It All Together

Choosing the Right Accessories

So where do you even start? The secret is in picking stuff that actually fits your space and your routine—not just what looks good in a catalog. Bathroom accessories aren’t just for show. They can totally change how you use the space. Let’s break down the basics you should think about before opening your wallet.

First off, measure your countertop and any shelves. There’s nothing worse than bringing home a soap dispenser only to find it hogs your sink. For most bathrooms in the U.S., space is tight, so compact and multipurpose accessories are your friend. Look for things like wall-mounted toothbrush holders or slim storage trays that add function without crowding things up.

The material matters. Plastic is easy to clean, but it can look cheap if it’s not done right. Glass and ceramic feel more high-end but watch out if you’ve got kids (or butterfingers). Lately, bamboo and wood are big in bathrooms for adding a bit of warmth. Stainless steel is a safe bet if you want something that won’t rust after a few steamy showers.

When choosing a style, stick with two or three finishes tops—like matte black, brushed nickel, or wood—so everything feels consistent instead of chaotic. This is especially important for bathroom accessories like faucets, towel bars, and hooks. You don’t want to end up with a jumble of chrome, gold, and bronze all fighting for attention.

“The easiest way to upgrade your bathroom is to swap out your old accessories for matching ones. Focus on hardware and containers you actually touch every day, like the soap pump, towel bar, and trash can.” — Emma Gunn, interior stylist for Apartment Therapy

If you’re aiming for practical upgrades, here’s a quick checklist that works for most people:

• Towel hooks or racks (bonus for double hooks that hold more)
• Soap dispenser and matching toothbrush holder
• Small trash bin with a lid
• Countertop trays for skincare and perfume bottles
• Wall-mounted shelf for extra toilet paper or guest towels

Need proof that these details matter? According to a 2024 Better Bathrooms survey, 72% of people said matching and upgraded accessories made their bathrooms feel “more relaxing” and “more organized.”

Easy Ways to Add Color and Texture

Your bathroom doesn’t have to be boring white on white. Color and texture can take it from blah to seriously impressive, and you don’t need to call in a pro. Here’s the thing: changing up color and texture is the quickest way to boost style, especially with bathroom accessories doing most of the work.

• Towels and Mats: This is the lowest effort, highest impact swap. Go for towels in bold colors, like deep green or navy. A textured or patterned bath mat instantly gives your feet—and your eyes—something to enjoy. Just skip the basic shag. Try something like Turkish cotton or waffle weave for a bit of luxury.
• Shower Curtains: Think of your shower curtain as a giant piece of art. Color-blocked or geometric patterns are a big trend and make the whole room feel more modern. Fabric curtains work better than plastic for texture, and you can machine-wash them.
• Accessories: Soap dishes, toothbrush holders, and trays aren’t just for storage—they’re style tools. Wood, metal, or stone finishes add variety. Match them for a coordinated feel, or purposely mix a couple of materials for a more relaxed look.
• Plants: Even the smallest bathroom can handle a splash of green. Spider plants or pothos are tough to kill and don’t need much light. A small potted plant on the counter or a hanging planter by the mirror adds color and a bit of life.

A quick fact: According to a 2023 survey by Houzz, nearly 60% of people who updated their bathroom’s color scheme said it made them feel “happier” in the mornings. So yes, mood counts as style, too.

If you’re not ready for a big change, start small. Swap one item and see how it looks. Four towels in a brave color? A little plant on the window? That’s how it starts.

Smart Storage Meets Style

There’s nothing stylish about clutter, especially in a bathroom where space is usually tight. The good news? It’s easy to boost both function and looks with a few clever storage solutions that double as bathroom accessories. Even if your space is small or awkward, the right picks can change everything.

Wall-mounted shelves are a lifesaver. They free up countertop space and make stuff easy to grab. Stick to simple lines or natural wood to keep it looking clean. Little baskets or bins work well, too, for hiding the toothpaste and hair products you don’t want on display. Don't forget hooks on the back of the door—ideal for hanging towels, robes, or even a little plant. You'd be surprised how much neater everything feels with things off the floor.

Drawer organizers are another game changer. Instead of rummaging through a pile of razors and makeup, you’ll find what you want fast. If you don’t have drawers, a tiered tray or a small cart beside the sink does the trick. These rolling carts are everywhere in home stores for a reason—they’re easy to move and surprisingly roomy.

• Wall shelves, whether floating or box-style, can hold extra rolls of toilet paper, candles, or some folded hand towels. Stick with two or three levels so it doesn’t look top-heavy.
• Try a towel ladder leaning against the wall. It’s trendy, doesn’t require drilling, and you can hang multiple towels without crowding.
• Magnetic strips in a medicine cabinet can keep bobby pins and nail scissors organized instead of lost at the bottom.
• If you’re low on space, stackable baskets under the sink are a no-brainer. Choose neutral colors for a cleaner look.

According to a 2024 survey from Houzz, more than 60% of people said they felt less stressed in a bathroom that was organized and clutter-free. When every item has a spot, your morning routine moves faster and feels less chaotic. No need to overhaul the whole room—just swap out old storage for pieces that pull double duty and look good doing it.

Finishing Touches That Pull It All Together

This is the fun part—small details that make your bathroom feel like an actual retreat, not just a spot you use in a hurry. One of the quickest ways to seal the deal is updating your hardware. Swap out old cabinet handles, drawer pulls, and even light switch covers. Choose a style and finish that matches your vibe, like brushed nickel or matte black. These small things seem subtle but add lots of visual punch when you walk in.

Artwork and plants are your friends here. Framed prints (even low-priced ones) can break up plain walls. Choose images or quotes that make you smile or relax. Houseplants, especially ones like pothos or snake plants, do great in humidity and bring life into the space. Research shows that people feel less stressed in rooms with green plants—even one or two make a difference.

Mirrors matter too. A bigger, well-framed mirror can instantly make your bathroom feel brighter and larger. If you already have a basic mirror, try adding a frame or stick-on edging for a fast upgrade. And don’t forget about scent—reed diffusers and candles give your bathroom that extra layer of "nice hotel" feeling. There are tons of fresh, clean scents to try, so pick one you like and stick with it.

Most folks don’t realize how much impact towels make. Pick out high-quality, color-coordinated towels and actually display them. Roll a few up in a basket or stack neatly on a shelf. According to a 2023 survey, more than 65% of homeowners said they noticed guests commented positively when towels matched or looked thoughtfully placed. Check it out:

Don’t overthink it—just remember that a few well-chosen, coordinated details can make your bathroom accessories stand out and help create a space you’re actually proud to show off. The extra five minutes you spend setting the scene are totally worth it for that finished look. There you go, the last few steps that pull everything together for a bathroom accessories refresh that’s simple and satisfying.