By Kerry Hale

First Home Bathroom Essentials

  • Thursday 1 August 2024
  • 4 minute read

Buying your first home is an important milestone, but furnishing it can be a daunting task, so we’re here to help.

If you’re tackling the bathroom first, you’ll need a few essentials. Bathrooms are one of the house’s most used spaces, meaning they should be practical and well-equipped.

 

Here’s a bathroom checklist to help you get organised, from sink and toilet essentials to other must-haves.

Sink essentials

Here are some sink essentials to keep on top of your everyday routine.

1. Hand soap

Purchase some soap bars in your favourite scent or a matching pump dispenser to elevate your bathroom’s look. You can opt for a touchless or automatic dispenser to cut down on germs while keeping your sink spotless.

2. Toothbrush holder

Good oral hygiene starts with a toothbrush holder. Consider getting a wall-mounted or countertop holder for easy access. Most have multiple compartments so that you can have your personal care items in one place.

Toilet essentials

Keep your toilet fresh and functional with these toilet essentials.

3. Toilet paper holder

Toilet paper holders are available in various styles and sizes, so you’re sure to findone that fits your space. Most have a spoke to hold one paper roll plus room for two more. If you have extra space, opt for a free-standing holder for maximum comfort.

4. Toilet brush and plunger

These bathroom essentials help you keep your space clean and in good working order.

  • Toilet brush: Look for a brush with a long handle and sturdy bristles to scrub away all debris.
  • Plunger: Purchase one with a long handle and a rubber cap that creates a strong seal around the drain.

 

We recommend storing them in a discreet place, like behind the toilet or in a cabinet.

Shower essentials

Nothing beats a warm shower at the end of a busy day. Here are some shower essentials you can’t be without.

5. Shower curtain

Shower curtains are great additions to your bathroom because they protect your floor from water damage while adding a stylish touch. Let your personality shine through by choosing your favourite colour and material. Don’t forget shower rings or hooks and a mould-resistant liner.

6. Bath mat

A soft bath mat offers a comfortable surface to step on after your shower whilepreventing falls. Choose a non-slip, machine-washable mat for easy cleaning thatcomplements your bathroom style.

 

Learn more about bathroom design trends in our comprehensive guide.

7. Shower caddy

Keep your shower essentials organised with a caddy. Whether wall-mounted or hanging from the shower head, it helps prevent rust stains and soap scum.

Other must-haves

Find other bathroom must-haves below, including cleaning supplies and practical storage solutions.

8. Cleaning products

Cleaning supplies are first home essentials, so make sure you stock up on the following:

  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Glass cleaner
  • Toilet bowl cleaner
  • Microfibre towels
  • Sponges and scrub brushes

 

Cleaning products are especially important if you have kids. Designing your familybathroom? Our guide to fun family bathroom design ideas is here to help.

9. Storage cabinet

Storage cabinets are the best allies in smaller bathrooms, keeping them clutter-free and organised. They provide space for your medicine, first-aid kit and other bathroom essentials. Pick an over-the-sink cabinet that doubles as a mirror for added convenience.

10. Hangers or over-the-door hooks

Hangers and over-the-door hooks are bathroom essentials that often get overlooked but shouldn’t. They provide extra storage, making them particularly useful in smaller spaces. Choose hooks made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or plastic.

11. Towels

Renovating your bathroom is a great excuse to update your towel collection. How many you need is subjective, but as a rule of thumb, you should have two sets per person. Each set should have a bath towel, a hand towel and a washcloth.

12. Laundry basket

A laundry basket can help you optimise space while keeping your clothes within reach. Choose a material that suits your bathroom décor, whether wicker, linen or wood.

13. Wastebasket

A wastebasket is another bathroom essential, providing a convenient place to dispose of empty shampoo bottles, wipes, used tissues, and you name it. We recommend choosing a bin with a lid, especially if you have an en suite.

Our guide to en suite bathroom ideas provides tips on storage solutions, lighting and colour schemes.

Stocking up with the right bathroom essentials will help your space look and feel good. Discover how much value your bathroom can add to your home in our handy guide.

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