Top 10+ Bathroom Trends Experts Say to Avoid in 2025

Overly Complicated Designs

There’s something tantalizing about a bathroom with intricate layouts, fancy built-ins, and unexpected nooks. But too much complexity can easily backfire, making the space feel cramped and difficult to use.

Experts point out that bathrooms are meant to be functional first and foremost—after all, it’s where you need to move around quickly on busy mornings. Complicated configurations can create bottlenecks and wasted space, leading to frustration instead of relaxation.

Instead, designers recommend sticking to simple layouts with clear flow, logical placement of fixtures, and easy access to storage. Clean lines and uncluttered spaces don’t just look good—they feel good, too, especially during those half-asleep mornings.

Excessive Use of Dark Colors

The allure of a moody, dark-hued bathroom is hard to resist. Deep blues, charcoals, and even black have become popular in recent years.

However, using dark shades everywhere can make bathrooms—often the smallest rooms in the house—feel like a cave. Experts warn that too much darkness can shrink a space visually, making it feel confining and even a little depressing.

It can also highlight every speck of dust and water spot, adding to your cleaning woes. Instead, professionals suggest reserving dark colors for accents or specific features, and pairing them with lighter hues to keep things fresh and inviting.

Even a single wall or a set of dark tiles can create drama without overwhelming the room.

All-White Everything

For years, the all-white bathroom has been the go-to for anyone wanting a “clean” aesthetic. But experts now say this trend can backfire, making spaces feel cold, sterile, and even a bit clinical—more hospital than home spa.

White-on-white also reveals every smudge, water spot, or bit of dust. Designers encourage mixing in color through towels, cabinetry, or even a pop of color in the tilework.

A little warmth or contrast adds depth and personality, turning a bland bathroom into a welcoming retreat. Even subtle earth tones or pastels can work wonders to soften the look.

High-Maintenance Materials

Gleaming marble counters and natural stone tiles look luxurious in glossy magazines, but in real life, they can be a headache. Porous surfaces like marble require regular sealing and are quick to stain or chip, especially in a high-use area like a bathroom.

Experts caution that chasing after the “wow factor” with delicate materials often leads to costly upkeep and stress. Instead, they recommend opting for durable, easy-care surfaces like quartz or porcelain, which offer beauty without the drama.

You’ll spend less time scrubbing and worrying, and more time enjoying your space.

Trendy Fixtures

That rose gold faucet or ultra-modern sink might look stunning today, but what about next year? Experts agree that hyper-trendy fixtures are one of the fastest ways to date your bathroom.

When the trend fades, you’re left with an expensive feature that makes the whole room look tired. Instead, professionals urge homeowners to invest in classic, timeless fixtures that blend seamlessly with a range of styles.

Think simple chrome or brushed nickel hardware, and fixtures with clean, unobtrusive lines. These choices not only last longer stylistically but also make it easier to update your bathroom with minor tweaks rather than a full overhaul.

Open Shelving

Open shelving has exploded in popularity, offering a way to display pretty towels and fancy soaps. But in the bathroom, this trend often leads to frustration.

Experts caution that open shelves demand constant tidying, as even a single out-of-place item can create a sense of chaos. Dust and humidity can also wreak havoc on exposed items, making them look worn out quickly.

Closed cabinetry, on the other hand, provides ample storage and hides the everyday clutter that’s inevitable in a busy bathroom. Designers recommend using open shelves sparingly, perhaps for a single decorative display, while relying on cabinets for real storage needs.

Minimalist Everything

Minimalism is all about stripping away the unnecessary, but experts warn that going too far can make a bathroom feel stark and lifeless. A space with bare walls, cold surfaces, and little color may look clean, but it can also feel soulless.

The best bathrooms balance minimalism with personality—think a simple design with a piece of artwork, a colorful rug, or a plant for a natural touch. These personal elements create warmth and make the space feel lived-in and welcoming.

Remember, a bathroom is a personal sanctuary, not a showroom.

Smart Technology Overload

Who doesn’t love a little tech in their life? Smart mirrors, heated floors, and voice-activated lights all sound amazing.

But experts caution against overloading your bathroom with too many gadgets. Each new piece of technology means one more thing to program, maintain, or troubleshoot.

When the tech fails, it can turn your relaxing routine into a headache. Instead, focus on a few key smart upgrades that truly improve your experience—like efficient lighting or a reliable, water-saving toilet.

The goal is comfort and convenience, not a science fiction experience that confuses guests and complicates your day.

Faux Finishes

Faux wood, faux marble, faux stone—these lookalike materials have become popular for their lower cost and easy installation. But experts say they rarely stand the test of time.

Faux finishes tend to wear poorly, revealing their true nature as they chip, fade, or peel. This can leave your bathroom looking cheap and tired before you know it.

Instead, designers recommend investing in real materials, even if it means using them more sparingly. A genuine stone accent or a small section of real wood brings authenticity and quality that’s impossible to fake.

Ignoring Ventilation

It may not be glamorous, but proper ventilation is at the heart of every great bathroom. Experts say this is the single most overlooked aspect of bathroom design—and the consequences can be disastrous.

Without good airflow, moisture quickly builds up, leading to mold, mildew, and even structural damage. This isn’t just a cosmetic problem; it can seriously affect your health and your home’s value.

A well-placed exhaust fan, an operable window, or a combination of both makes all the difference. Good ventilation ensures your bathroom stays fresh, dry, and safe for years to come.