You may not know it, but your bathroom is a busy place. It’s where you brush your teeth, take care of the kids when they get home from school, and even do some work during your morning routine. That’s why we’ve compiled this bathroom essentials list to help you make sure you have everything you need to make your bathroom the most comfortable and relaxing it can be.
If you are wondering what to put in a bathroom, don’t worry. We’ve got a complete bathroom essentials list below.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Having a solid oral hygiene routine is a must. Toothbrushes are used to clean teeth, massage the gums and remove plaque, food particles, and tartar from the teeth. They also help remove bacteria that cause bad breath. It is essential to replace toothbrushes every three months or so. Before using them, you should inspect them for fraying bristles to avoid any problems when you brush your teeth.
Upgrade: You can also upgrade to an electric toothbrush. They’re easy to use and have given me the ability to maintain good dental hygiene in a couple of minutes a day.
Toothbrush holder
A toothbrush holder is a device often used for storage for toothbrushes and toothpaste. It can also be used to organize brushes and other dental hygiene products.
Mouthwash
Dental care can be an exhausting part of your morning, but it’s also a necessary evil. So unless you want to ditch your dental hygiene routine altogether, mouthwash is a must.
Here are some good reasons to put mouthwash in your routine: When you rinse with mouthwash before bed, it leaves a defense against bacteria and germs on your tongue and gums overnight. It also helps ward off the bacteria-causing plaque that builds up in between your teeth.
Lotion
Your skin should be kept in tip-top shape, so you need lotion or moisturizer in your bathroom at all times. Using a daily moisturizing cream will help reduce dryness, itchiness, redness, and flaking by locking moisture into the skin’s cells.
Makeshift lotion alternative: Body oil
Sunscreen
Everyone should use sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun’s rays. Apply it daily before you leave the house, even if you don’t plan on being in the sun for long! There are many excellent sunscreen brands that cater to your specific skin type, so take your pick.
Body mist
You should carry a body mist in your bag at all times — it’s a great way to freshen up from sweat from hitting the gym or a long day at work. Spray it on, and you’ll smell fresh and clean!
Shampoo and conditioner
Shampoo and Conditioner: For newbies – these two products you need to get your hair back on track.
You can find shampoo and conditioner in many forms. You can choose from various chemicals and scents, but the common denominator is that they’re both meant for cleaning your hair and scalp, especially of any dirt and grime that hatches over the day.
Many people only buy shampoo every six months or so, but if you’re someone with dry or damaged hair, you might want to go for something more hydrating after every wash! That means more intense conditioning sessions, which will add up to a lot of bottles on your shelves.
Candle
Candles are a nice way to relax before bed. Also, burning the candle in the bathroom after you shower is a good way to avoid that awful post-workout or post-bath stink. Just be careful not to light your hair on fire accidentally!
Air freshener
I don’t know about you, but I like my bathroom to smell like a spa and not a rotting trash can. That’s where air fresheners come in. Baby powder scented? Cool. Cinnamon? Great. Whatever scent you like, get one and spray it liberally!
Wipes
These are the perfect product for any occasion, such as when you get back from the gym and feel like a mess. Or when you get home from work, you don’t want to get your nice clothes all dirty with housework. No matter what your lifestyle is, there’s a use for wipes.
There are many types of wipes, and they come in many different shapes and sizes. Some people carry their purses or bags, while others prefer having them at home for quick cleanups.
Dental Floss
A well-stocked bathroom includes floss (as I put on my pretend dentist hat). Floss is a necessary part of your dental hygiene routine. While it’s not always enjoyable, flossing removes food particles from between your teeth and gums, which can lead to gum disease or bad breath. It also prevents plaque from building up on your teeth.
Nail clippers or nail care kit
Nail clippers are the perfect item to have in your toiletries bag for when your nails need a trim. They can be plastic, metal, or even ceramic depending on what you’re looking for. The critical aspect is that they come in all shapes and sizes, so you are bound to find one that suits you.
Lip balm
Mmmm, we love lip balm. Lip balm is a product that most people have in their lives. It can be used as a temporary fix for chapped lips or as a way to keep your lips from getting dry from the cold weather outside.
This product comes in many shapes and sizes, so it’s hard not to find one that suits you! Some people like having them in their purses, pencil cases, or even their pockets to have them on hand when they need them.
Q-Tips
You can call them cotton swabs, but we all know what they are. They’re the tool we use to clean our ears and poke wax out of there too. These products come in many different shapes and sizes. Some people prefer using thin ones to take care of their eyebrows, while others prefer thin, rounded ones for cleaning in the corners of their eyes or when they have a runny nose. Either way, they are a bathroom necessity.
Cotton Balls
Cotton balls are a staple in most households. They come in handy when you want to do a quick makeup touch-up before going out so it’s perfect for catching all your stray eye shadows! Or, if you have a cut and need to treat it with some peroxide, these guys will be right there for you. They can also be used to shine up shoes or any other item that may need quick cleaning.
Makeup Wipes
Last by definitely not least, these are the perfect thing for when you need them most. Whether it’s when you get home or last thing at night when your makeup needs to come off, these guys are the perfect size for any situation, so keep them handy in the bathroom!
Shaving cream
Shaving cream is a staple in most households. It comes in handy when you want to do a quick touch-up and need something to snap your skin back into place! Or, if you’re just looking for the closest thing to a spa day, shaving cream is your friend.
Soap
This one we know we all have at home, so there’s no need to explain it. But, some people use soap as a shampoo too, so it has more than one purpose!
Razor
Razors are a bathroom necessity. You can’t get ready in the morning without one! They come in so many shapes and sizes too, so you’re sure to find one that suits you. Some people like it when their razor is sharp, while others prefer when theirs is duller on the blades, so it doesn’t nick their skin.
Deodorant
Ew, gross! Do I have to?
I’ll give you a hint: It’s a “Deo,” not a “Doo”! And with so many options out there, it’s totally up to you. The important thing is that you find one that suits you and your needs.
You might like aerosol sprays because they come in handy when you’re at work or school and need them quickly. You might also like deodorant sticks which are perfect if you want to get the full scope of the product. The last option is gel deodorants which may be great for people who like to use their hands when applying deodorant.
Hair dryer
It’s not always easy to get ready in the morning or go about your daily tasks with wet hair. That is why a hair dryer is so important! It allows you to quickly dry your hair, which can be especially handy when it starts raining outside. You may need to find an adjustable heat setting or an ion button for quicker drying.
Hair brush
Ouch! Your poor head must be hurting right now- That isn’t good for anyone! If this sounds like your current situation, then you’re going to need something that will help. We recommend finding a hairbrush that will make brushing through your locks much easier on you without getting knots all over the place.
Toilet paper
I know, I know… You would think that every bathroom would have its very own supply of toilet paper! Sadly this isn’t always the case, however. If you’re not lucky enough to have your own supply, you may need to bring some with you until you pick up a new one. Nevertheless, this product is a must-have for your bathroom! If you want a list of the best toilet papers for septic tanks, click here.
Toiletries
The bathroom is not complete without its toiletries. Some people may get exceedingly picky about their choice of body gel, while others will get equally as picky about their face cleanser. The main thing is that you find what works best for you and your personal preferences!
Bath mat
It may seem like a simple product, but it’s one that you will need in your bathroom. These help make getting out of the bath much easier on yourself because it helps prevent slipping and falling. The last thing we want is you breaking an arm!
Bath towel set
If there is one thing that people are sure to have in their bathrooms, it’s bath towel sets. This product typically comes with a hand towel, bath towels, and beach towels all put together into a set.
Upgrade: Invest in some high-quality towels for yourself. They can make your bathroom feel nice and plush.
Shower curtains
Love it or hate it, a shower curtain is a necessary part of the bathroom. Having one around creates privacy and prevents water from spilling all over your bathroom floor. You can also place other items against your shower curtain to hold them in place as well. Just remember that every curtain requires a different amount of tension, so you might need to change yours up every now and then.
Shower curtain liner
Another item that makes the list of bathroom essentials is the curtain liner. Like the shower curtain, it helps keep water from spilling all over your bathroom floor or making puddles in weird areas. In addition, the material that these liners are typically made of is waterproof, which is great for when you’re trying to keep things clean and dry!
Shower hooks
We mention hooks, but the right hooks can add a nice look to your shower curtains. It also helps them to hang in place without getting all bunched up or moving around when you’re showering. Just make sure they are the right kind of hooks for your specific curtain before putting them on, otherwise, they might not hold!
Nice upgrades: installing a new shower door may be another option to consider if you want to upgrade.
Towel rack
The towel rack is such a great bathroom essential. It serves as an excellent way to keep your towels secure and dry, so you never have to worry about finding the perfect spot for them again. Plus, it’s also effortless access for you when you need it! So you’ll never have to worry about wondering where they’re hiding for the nth time.
Upgrade to this heated towel rack for a next-level experience
Hooks (examples include robe hooks, towel hooks, hookless shower curtains)
Having places to set your towel down is so convenient. That’s why we recommend having loads of hooks in your bathroom. Of course, this is just a suggestion because they aren’t necessary, but you might find that it does help to keep things tidy and organized throughout the day.
Vanity stool
A vanity stool is a kind of ottoman for helping you get ready in the washroom. You can use it to help shave your legs or other minor conveniences. Don’t worry too much though, these aren’t necessary for most washrooms, but add that small touch of luxury for those looking for it.
Hair ties, headband, hair brush, comb
And let’s not forget the products that are all too necessary – hair ties, headbands, hair brushes, and combs. When it comes to these products, no one size fits all! You will have to experiment with different types until you find what works best for your unique needs.
Hand soap dispenser
Of course, our list of bathroom essentials would not be complete without the hand soap dispenser. Well, you know the drill when it comes to this product; there’s no one size fits all! You have to find what type of dispenser works best for your specific needs and wants. Some people prefer a pump dispenser, while others find that it just doesn’t work for them.
Liquid soap
I’m not sure about you, but I always preferred to use liquid soap instead of those pesky bar soaps as a teenager. For one thing, bars of soap often come with yucky bacteria that come from your hands touching the bar. And who wants to walk around all day smelling like old cheese? No one.
Liquid soap is the best type of soap because it slides so well and it’s so soft. You can’t go wrong with liquid soap!
Soap container
To keep everything organized and tidy, it’s a good idea to have some containers around where you can place your soaps, shampoos, washcloths, etc. These containers are typically plastic containers with lids that can help stop things from spilling or making water splashes on your floor. Not to mention, they can also help you stay organized when it comes time to clean!
Shower scrubber
This bathroom essential is such a great idea, and it makes the list of essentials because of how practical it is. Bathrooms can often be nasty, especially when there’s hair and soap scum all over the place. A shower scrubber can help you clean those hard-to-reach areas that you might not think about cleaning. Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting your fingers wet and feeling uncomfortable if you’re not a fan of that type of sensation!
Toilet Roll Holder
Running out of toilet paper is never good. Get a toilet paper hold or basket for the top of the toilet tank, and make sure it is stocked with extra toilet paper at all times. This is a must even in a small bathroom or guest bathroom. There is nothing worse than your guest walking out of the toilet and asking, “Umm, where is the extra toilet paper?”.
Ok, well, the worse thing is asking for a plunger, but close second.
Bottom line: Have a spare roll nearby.
Rubber duck (optional, for decoration or play)
Once you get the duck in the bath water, it’s hard to stop playing with it. I would recommend getting a rubber duck that also has a squeaking sound effect. This way, your kids are entertained for hours!
Plunger
The plunger is most definitely a must-have for any bathroom! I mean, you never know when you might be in an emergency and find yourself without one if you lose it or forget to pick one up at the store. I can tell you from personal experience, plungers are really good for getting rid of pesky clogs.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
We’re borrowing this from our House Cleaning Supplies Checklist. Having some toilet bowl cleaner in the house is a great way to ensure the toilet is always clean. Avoid using straight bleach on the toilet. Not to mention, it’s also a great way to avoid getting that pesky bleach smell all over your bathroom!
Trash bin
This may seem like a strange place for this bathroom essential, but hear me out. You might not think that you need a trash bin in your bathroom, but it’s so important to keep the space clean and organized! This is an easy way to make sure everything is cleaned up and doesn’t turn into an absolute mess. Plus it looks great on the counter so all the guests coming over can see how tidy you are.
Smart Scale
This is a must for us in our master bathroom. A smart scale is a scale that has an app on your phone that syncs the data between the two.
Depending on how often you sync the device, the app will give you accurate readouts for weight and body fat percentage.
There are many models to choose from, so do your research and find a smart scale that is compatible with your fitness goals!
Soap dish for soap bar/washcloth for loofah
This is a little bit of a different bathroom essential that you may not have necessarily thought about. However, the soap dish serves a lot of purposes and has a lot to offer! First, it’s a great way to keep your soap in one place because it’s so easy to clean up when it falls down onto the floor. Plus, it also offers an attractive option for where to put your soap. Finally, it also prevents soap scum build up on your counter or sink.
Hamper
The clothes hamper is a great way to keep your bathroom from getting cluttered. After you’ve showered, don’t forget to put your clothes and dirty towels in here so they can dry! This is a real life-saver when you’re in a hurry and need to get out the door ASAP.
Privacy shelter for toiletries
Privacy shelter for toiletries is a must-have if you’re sharing a bathroom with other people. It’s really uncomfortable when someone just comes in and can see your entire shower routine, so this is a great way to keep things private!
Shower Caddy
The shower caddy is a great bathroom essential for anyone who likes to keep their shower products in neat and tidy rows. It’s straightforward to find what you need when it’s all there in one place and you’ll never have to go searching for it again. This is a perfect space saver for a tiny bathroom.
Clean up cloth/rag/towel
This bathroom essential might not seem that necessary until you realize that there are so many situations where this one little thing can save your life (too much? Ok, well clean up a quick mess)! Not only does it work as a cleaning cloth, but it can also be used as a way to soak up water on the floor that misses the bath mat. This multipurpose item makes life so much easier because
Make up mirror
The make up mirror is a bathroom essential that has to be there in every bathroom. It’s super important to have the best light possible when applying your makeup, and this is where the make up mirror comes in to save the day! It’s not just for getting ready, though. This bathroom essential is great for tweezing any stray hairs that have been bugging you or checking out how your hair will look before you walk out the door.
Shower squeegee
You’re inevitably going to get wet in the shower sometimes. But, regardless of whether you were just cleaning up or taking a brisk morning rinse off, it can be annoying when water droplets start dripping all over your bathroom floor. That’s where the shower squeegee comes in handy! This is an easy way to save yourself some time and clean the floor, so it doesn’t look like you’ve never cleaned up before.
Hand towel rack
This bathroom essential serves as an excellent way to keep your towels secure and dry, so you never have to worry about finding the perfect spot for them again. Plus, it’s also effortless to find when you need it! You’ll never have to worry about wondering where they’re at if they’re always in one place.
Toilet brush
And last but not least, the toilet brush. This one is pretty self-explanatory, in all honesty. No one wants a dirty toilet, and that means we need some type of brush to help us sweep away those hard-to-reach spots.
Toilet scrubbing often falls onto the “I’ll get to this later” list. Maybe we can’t be lazy in our own house! LOL. But seriously! For some reason, the toilet bowl brush has always been one of those things that I neglect to buy. So when I finally buy a toilet scrubber, I find that it’s too small or too big or just doesn’t feel like it does the job very well at all.
Usually, when you go to purchase a new toilet brush, you’re given about three different options: a long, thin one; a shorter skinnier one; and another shorter skinnier one with an attached scouring pad.
Bathroom Essentials Bonuses
These bathroom items don’t quite fit in the essentials group that is nice to have in a bathroom. These are all just for you in your master bathroom. Your guests don’t need this stuff.
Bath bombs
I love to take a bath after a long day of work, but what’s the point if you don’t have that flair to it? Just playing around, I’m just here for the bath bombs. The beauty in these babies are that they’re natural and handmade with ingredients that are actually good for your skin. What are you waiting for?
Shower speaker
If you’re a person who likes to stay in for a long hot shower, then you’ll love this next bathroom essential. The best part about the speaker is that it’s waterproof and can connect to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth so you can listen to your favorite song while you get clean!
We know, we know, there are more important things than showering (or maybe not). Whether you’re listening to your favorite playlist or the latest news stories on NPR, this is one small accessory that can make a huge difference in how your day goes.
The complete bathroom essentials list download it now
We hope this list has helped equip you with all of the tools necessary to keep a clean and tidy space, from soap dishes to hamper. If there’s anything else on our list that seems unfamiliar or we forgot, let us know! Well, now that you have an idea of the basics that every bathroom needs to have on hand, you can start fixing yours up. Have fun decorating!
Home Essentials Checklist
Need more room? Download our free home essentials checklist here. It has over 229 things for you to make sure you have everything you need in your home.
Need more checklists? Check these out:
- Home Essentials Checklist
- Kitchen Essentials Checklist
- Bedroom Essentials Checklist
- Pantry Essentials Checklist
- Guest Room Essentials Checklist
