11 Outdated Bathroom Trends We’re Retiring In 2024

Is your bathroom the most dated room in your house? It’s probably time for a refresh.

Whether you’re planning for a major renovation or a simple refresh, the bathroom can be a tricky space for homeowners to tackle. It’s also one of the few rooms that can reveal the age of your house instantly. Bathrooms consistently see big trends take over, from bright pink everything to oversized jacuzzi tubs to wet rooms. For a long time, the bathroom was seen as a purely functional place, however, the recent emphasis on wellness has impacted decisions we make for the space. Today, designers and homeowners are emphasizing relaxation and infusing personality into every inch, which means a shift in design that leaves many trends looking dated and out of style.

But new trends don’t mean you need to immediately grab a sledgehammer. “There is no need to completely gut every bathroom if you are remodeling,” says interior designer Jennifer McKissick. “If the bones are good and the finishes are classic, making small cosmetic updates can really transform a space.” There’s no better time than the start of a new year to update your bathroom and give it a fresh facelift. Here are a 11 outdated bathroom trends we leaving behind in 2024.

Any Type Of Carpet

There are countless reasons carpet doesn’t belong in the bathroom, namely it’s a breeding ground for mold and mildew growth. Stepping out of a shower onto a soft surface is always nice, so when it comes to floor coverings, opt for bath mats instead. Not only are there tons of super-absorbent options available, but there are also many sizes, styles, and colors to choose from.

Dark Fixtures

Some things, like updating hardware, are an easier change than others. “For a while you saw a lot of white bathrooms with dark fixtures—matte black or oil rubbed bronze,” says McKissick. “I always encourage my clients to go with something that will never go out of style, like polished nickel or unlacquered brass. Even chrome in the right setting has a very classic look.”

Matchy-Matchy Toilets, Tubs, and Sinks 

There are some retro elements making a comeback, but not in the same manner as those found in your grandmother’s 1960s pastel pink bathroom. Give yourself permission to mix it up, and refrain from the “everything must match” approach. The concept of perfectly coordinating colorful vanities with tile flooring and walls is being replaced with one or two statement elements.

Wood Paneling

It might have been popular in the 1970s, but a dark wood paneled bathroom can easily reveal the room’s age. While this retro style still shines in other rooms of the home with its texture and cozy character, let’s keep it out of the bathroom.

Completely Gutted Bathrooms

Get creative with the existing bones of the space. Have an pedestal sink that feels outdated and lacking storage? Consider updating the hardware and attaching a skirt using a fabric to add personality and storage opportunity. Paint and textiles can also go a long way in steering the eye away from the older parts of a space. “In our children’s bathroom, we left the original tub and floors, updated it with new chrome fixtures, gave it a fresh coat of paint and a fun shower curtain,” says McKissick.

All White Everything

We might not be going back to Pepto Bismol pink floor-to-ceiling rooms, but we are moving on from stark, all white spaces. It’s time to give the bathroom some much needed attention, so start by incorporating splashes of color and pattern with wallpaper, tile, textiles, artwork, and hardware. “I think when done right, white bathrooms are classic and will never go out of style. But for a while, trends leaned a little too bare and minimal,” says McKissick. “I like to infuse white bathrooms with a sprinkling of color and texture that feels warm and inviting.”

Oversized Bathtubs

Don’t be alarmed, we’re not talking about beautiful, deep clawfoot tubs (those are always welcome), but rather the bulky built-in, jetted models. Also, anything jacuzzi-style is best to avoid in your bathroom.

Corner Tubs and Showers

If you’re making the bath your renovation project this year, carefully plan your layout with every inch in mind. While the idea of corner tubs and showers might be to maximize space, they can end up making the bathroom feel cramped and commercial-like.

Glass Block Windows

These dense windows managed to make a splash in the 1930s and 1940s, and were often solutions for concealing exterior eye sores, such as poorly designed architecture or unkept yards or gardens. Instead, bring in natural light and fresh air with a traditional double-hung style window.

Frameless and Bulb-Framed Mirrors

Your bathroom should be pretty and practical. It should not feel like a backstage dressing room or a sterile office bathroom. To make a modern day design statement, consider choosing decorative or antique mirrors for the bath. (Don’t overlook estate sales across the South, which can be great places to find these one-of-a-kind touches.) If you have a double sink, opt for a pair of matching mirrors rather than a single large one.

Overly Ornate Details 

For many, the bathroom is a sanctuary, which means a soothing, simple aesthetic can often be the ultimate goal. Beautiful antique vanities, unique sconces, and framed artwork will always have a place in our bathrooms. Embrace these thoughtful touches and move away from gaudy crown molding, crystal chandeliers, and overly-detailed millwork.

Cameron Beall