Decorating your bathroom might seem straightforward—pick a color scheme, add stylish towels, and you’re done. But before you dive into that Pinterest board, hold up. Some common decorating mistakes can turn your bathroom from a serene spa into a stress-inducing space. Avoid these pitfalls by exploring some key bathroom decorating mistakes.

Going Overboard With Themes

It’s easy to get carried away when inspired by a theme. You’re obsessed with the ocean, and before you know it, your bathroom looks like a scene from “The Little Mermaid,” with seashells, fish motifs, and an anchor shower curtain. While themes can be fun, moderation is key. A few well-placed nautical items can create a seaside escape, but too many will overwhelm the space.

How to Fix It: Choose one or two standout elements, like a framed vintage map of the coast, and pair them with soft ocean tones. Keep the rest of the decor neutral to avoid overwhelming the room.

Ignoring Lighting

Lighting in a bathroom is more important than you think. The wrong lighting can make your space feel dim or sterile, and bad lighting can make you look less than your best in the mirror.

How to Fix It: Use a mix of task and ambient lighting. Consider installing a dimmer switch to adjust brightness depending on your mood. Vanity lights on either side of the mirror provide even illumination, and overhead lighting brightens the room. Accent lighting around a beautiful bathtub or art piece can elevate the space.

Overcrowding the Countertop

We’ve all been there—a bathroom counter covered in skincare products, makeup brushes, and that fancy soap you only use for guests. A cluttered countertop makes the bathroom feel chaotic instead of calming.

How to Fix It: Invest in decorative trays to organize essentials and give your countertop a polished look. Wall-mounted shelves or a mirrored medicine cabinet can store items out of sight. Pare down to the essentials and stash the rest to keep things tidy.

Forgetting About Ventilation

Without proper ventilation, your bathroom can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew—not exactly the relaxing vibe you want.

How to Fix It: Ensure your bathroom has adequate ventilation, either through a window or exhaust fan. Use the fan during and after showers to keep moisture levels down. If your bathroom lacks ventilation, consider a dehumidifier or moisture-loving plants to help absorb humidity.

Choosing the Wrong Rug

The wrong rug can slip, slide, and even start to smell. Plus, it might clash with the decor or make your bathroom feel outdated.

How to Fix It: Choose a rug that’s stylish yet simple, especially if your bathroom already has a bold theme. A non-slip backing is a must, and materials like cotton or microfiber are both absorbent and easy to clean. Opt for a neutral color or subtle pattern that complements the overall design.

Using the Wrong Paint

High humidity levels in bathrooms can cause peeling and bubbling if you use the wrong paint. Your color choice might also look completely different under bathroom lighting.

How to Fix It: Always use moisture-resistant paint designed for bathrooms. Test a few color samples on your walls and observe them at different times of the day to see how they look in various lighting. Light colors can make a small bathroom feel larger, while darker shades add drama—make sure your lighting can balance it out.

Skimping on Storage

Storage is essential in a bathroom, yet many overlook it, leading to clutter and frustration.

How to Fix It: Get creative with storage solutions. Install floating shelves or tall cabinets to make the most of vertical space. Add baskets under the sink to keep things organized. For smaller spaces, multifunctional pieces like a vanity with built-in storage can be a game changer.

By avoiding these common bathroom decorating mistakes, you can create a space that’s both functional and stylish—without the stress.