10 Essential Accessories You Need In Every Bathroom

May 29, 2023

Designers share their go-to accessories to elevate any washroom.

Photo by Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lydia Pursell; Products from The Southern Living Home Collection at Dillard's

From brushing your teeth in the morning to using a long bubble bath to unwind after a long day, a bathroom is one of the most important rooms of the house—morning, noon, and night. But, while the bathroom is naturally packed with practicality, weaving in the right accessories can give your space an upscale edge. “It’s a crucial final step in making your bathroom space feel fully complete and luxurious,” explains designer Ryann Swan Hackett, who works on projects in Austin and Charleston. “Little things can go a long way!”

With aisles (or webpages) packed with options, choosing the right bathroom accessories can be easier said than done. For Killy Scheer, it’s important to consider how you utilize your bathroom. “Getting ready can be quick and utilitarian or a slower, more ritual-heavy experience—and it may be different things for different people on different days,” the Austin-based designer says. “It's important that everything needed to get you out the door in the morning or to wind down at the end of the day is at your fingertips.”

While style and price point are certainly two factors to think through, you’ll need to figure out what your space needs first. Don’t worry, help is on the way. Below, several designers share their go-to accessories to elevate your washroom.

When it comes to your bathroom, the shower curtain is where form and function meet. Not only does the layer prevent water from splashing all over your floor, but it’s also your chance to bring a little bit of personality into your space. Stripes, flowers, or a bold hue—the sky (or, well, ceiling) is the limit.

Your bathroom and a set of towels go together like shampoo and conditioner—so they should always have a spot on your shopping list. While buying a bundle set can give you a comprehensive and cohesive set, there are so many styles, colors, and materials to choose from. To help, check out our guide for shopping and caring for your bathroom.

If you're decorating a pretty neutral space, consider adding a pop of color with your towel choice. Chances are, towels will be already be out, meaning it's an item that can easily do double duty as decor. Our HomeGrown for Southern Living Bath Towels come in 8+ colors.

There’s nothing more indulgent—and, quite frankly, well-deserved—than slipping into a plush bathrobe, after a shower, bath, or long day. But where do you put your dirty towel or clothes? “Every bathroom needs a hamper,” Houston-based designer Katie Davis shares. “We love an oversized basket for a more organic and polish look.” Or, if space is at a premium, consider a smaller option that can fit snugly in your corner.

Photo by Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lydia Pursell; Products from The Southern Living Home Collection at Dillard's

“Grab a jewelry dish to keep rings and necklaces safe before showering or bathing,” Scheer advises. But why limit this must-have to just jewelry? A small catchall tray is also great for loose buttons, a safety pin, or your daily vitamins.

Nobody wants to leave their toothbrush on a potentially dirty countertop, which is why a designated holder is essential. While coordinating your toothbrush holder with a soap dispenser will give your vanity a polished look, you can always embrace your maximalist by mixing and matching containers. “If you have a chargeable toothbrush, consider moving the cords under the sink, charging when necessary and using a cup or holder on the countertop,” Scheer recommends.

Cotton swabs and hair ties need a home, so why not make it stylish one? Decorative containers with lids are an excellent way to store those loose daily essentials you often need to grab on-the-go. While matching containers will help you achieve that quiet luxury of your favorite hotel, it’s important to find a setup that works with your storage limitations. “If surface space is limited, consider ones that stack, or store them in the drawers and cabinets below,” Scheer shares.

Photo by Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lydia Pursell; Products from The Southern Living Home Collection at Dillard's

Darker color containers—like these soapstone ones from Dillard's—are easier to see on white or light-colored surfaces. The dark shade also makes it easier to tell when you're almost out of cotton balls!

Here’s your permission to bring a little bit of style into your hygiene routine. “Unless they're a beautifully branded, refillable container from a high-end brand, ditch the plastic bottle and transfer liquid soap into a stone or ceramic pump dispenser,” Scheer shares. Since you won’t be purchasing disposable plastic bottles, a soap dispenser can help curb your waste, too.

Have a penchant for bath time? Since nobody wants to juggle all their soaking essentials mid-bath, consider adding an expandable bath tray to your roster. “They’re great for propping up whatever you want to bring into the bath with you,” Swan Hackett explains. “Like a glass of wine, a book, and so on.” The key, however, is to pick up a tray in a durable, water-resistant material like teak or bamboo.

Photo by Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lydia Pursell; Products from The Southern Living Home Collection at Dillard's

Once you have all the essentials, why not pick up something just for you? “An expensive candle can make your bathroom feel like a spa,” Davis says. Let this roundup of best-smelling candles guide you to your perfect match.

Speaking of your drawers, if yours don’t have built-in dividers, Scheer says drawer organizers are “essential.” Opt for spring-loaded dividers or modular organizers so you can customize your layout to fit your unique needs. But, regardless of how you structure your drawer organizers, your days of combing through your bathroom to find one tube of lip balm are officially over.

Ready to think beyond accessories? Check out these on-trend bathroom ideas to elevate your space.

Related: 15 Bathroom Items To Throw Away For Less Clutter

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