13 Things Guests Notice First About Your Bathroom (and What to Change)

Your bathroom tends to be one of the most visited spots in the house when you invite guests over. That’s that quiet little corner where guests can freshen up and, without you knowing, critique your housekeeping. In your bathroom, first impressions count. A sparkly, inviting bathroom says so much about your attention to detail, and hospitality. Conversely, a poor bathroom will make your visitors uneasy or reluctant to come back.

We get used to the quirks of our own spaces and rarely notice those small details that make it so different to the outsider. Here are the things guests notice about your bathroom—and how to make them feel more welcome, from that pesky soap scum to how your towels are laid out.

The Smell Of The Bathroom

The first thing guests will notice upon entering your bathroom is the smell. Even if it looks like a million bucks, if it still smells, they’ll remember that. A simple trick? Buy a high quality air freshener or diffuser with a neutral clean scent. Experts suggest, Natural oils like lavender or eucalyptus can make sure your bathroom smells fresh but won’t be overwhelming. Don’t forget to empty trash bin regularly and check out any plumbing issues that can cause unpleasant odor.

The Cleanliness Of The Mirror

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Mirrors are the window to your bathroom’s soul and, like any window, guests actually expect them to be clean (and a little smudge can really ruin the vibe). A microfiber cloth and a vinegar solution will give you a streak-free shine.

Presentation Of Hand Towels

One of the most used items in your bathroom is hand towels and how you display them will matter. Are they clean? Are they fluffy? Are they neatly folded? Are they slightly damp and crumpled, or? Guests notice! You can achieve a lot with a stack of fresh towels or a simple hand towel ring.

Soap Choices And Presentation

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Cracked and grimey bars of soap? Not ideal. A half empty bottle of liquid soap? Equally unimpressive. If you have an unused small bar, or can muster the energy to put out a new bottle of hand soap, consider it. Extra points if it’s moisturizing and nice to the nose. ResearchGate found that guests associate citrus or vanilla as more welcoming scents.

Lighting And Ambiance

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Bathroom lighting is a make it or break it space. Fluorescent lighting is hard and clinical if harsh, while dim lighting is depressing. Warm LED lights are also experts’ recommendation for the best flattering and inviting glow. The way your bathroom lighting affects the appearance of the room is also important—shadows can make dirt stand out where you didn’t even know it existed.

The Shower Curtain Or Door

Do you have a shower curtain and is it clean and mold-free? Discolored or smelling shower curtains can be unattractive, and they can contain a surprisingly large amount of bacteria. Glass doors, on the other hand, should be spotless of water. You can save yourself the embarrassment of a grimy curtain by washing it regularly with anti mildew solution.

The Flooring

Luxurious bathroom featuring a classic freestanding bathtub and marble tiles. — Photo Credit: William LeMond/Pexels

Your floors will be sticky, wet, or covered in hair, and your guests will notice. That’s one of those little things that you don’t even notice when you’re in a hurry, but that leaves a big impression. Vacuuming beforehand or using a mop with a nice-smelling cleaner is a quick fix for that extra polish.

Countertop Clutter

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Having too many bottles, brushes, or random things on the counter makes your bathroom feel chaotic. You don’t need to show all of the products you use to guests. Keep personal items in cabinets, and leave the counter free of clutter. All you need is a small dish for things like a bottle of soap and a lotion.

The Toilet Paper

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That’s right, your toilet paper choice and where you place it are often noticed. Does it have an easy to find roll? Is it the high quality brand or the scratchy budget kind? Splurge for the soft stuff, it’s the easiest way to make guests feel comfortable.

Bathroom Fixtures

Are the faucets rusty or grimy handles? All of these are little things that scream neglect. Your fixtures can sparkle like new, with a simple cleaner and cloth. Try a mix of baking soda and vinegar for extra shine; it’s cheap and actually works. On top of that, polished fixtures can help an older bathroom look more modern and refreshed.

Water Pressure

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While your guests may not actually use the shower, they’ll probably see the showerhead. Is it clean and lime-scale free? because limescale in your showerhead leads to reduced water pressure according to the Architectural Digest. If you don’t have great water pressure, then replace the shower head with a more efficient version. There are many modern designs that provide a sleek look at an affordable price point and better pressure.

Bathroom Décor

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You can go a long way with minimal décor to make your bathroom feel inviting. Small things like a vase full of fresh flowers, or a bit of art or rug can do wonders for boosting the feel and look of the household. And avoid overloading – it’s about comfort, not clutter.

The Overall Maintenance

Lastly, guests will notice how clean your bathroom is. Red flags are cracked tiles, peeling paint, or a running toilet. It’s a little maintenance that goes a long way. It doesn’t have to be luxurious but it should feel cared for—it’s indicative of your hospitality,

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.