Don't Fall For These Bathroom Trends In 2026; You Might Regret It

Between the stunning shower trends that are set to completely take over and bathroom tile trends that you don't want to skip in 2026, remodeling your bathroom to be in style this year can feel a bit overwhelming. Most trends are leaning towards more functional yet comfortable designs that feature natural elements and earth tones. With all of these features coming into style, there are some bathroom trends that are better left behind in 2025. Features that make the room feel overly sterile or present safety risks are on the list of things to avoid with new bathroom designs, along with options that reduce the comfort or usability of the space.

In the past, minimalism and all-white designs were all the rage, but these designs don't provide a comfortable environment. Not to mention, limiting storage options is the opposite of what you want. On the other hand, plastic storage solutions and other materials are being looked over in favor of wood and other natural materials. Ultimately, any design that compromises the comfort, safety, or sustainability of the bathroom is a design trend to avoid in 2026.

All-white designs may look clean, but they're starting to look dated. Designers are all about mixing earth tones in 2026, which brings a sense of serenity and nature into the bathroom. White is usually associated with peace and cleanliness, which seems like it would create a serene setting. However, it is also associated with emptiness and coldness, which gives it more of a sterile hospital room feeling. You don't have to throw away the idea of using white completely, but consider pairing it with on-trend colors for 2026.

Minimalism is a movement that has been gaining popularity in mainstream design for years. It focuses on maintaining comfort with necessities, reducing clutter, and making use of multifunctional features. The problem is that most bathroom clutter is necessary toiletries that are used daily. If the design is too minimal, it reduces the option for bathroom storage solutions, a choice you will sorely regret when you discover an empty toilet paper roll after sitting down. Reducing clutter or finding creative storage solutions are still desirable features in your bathroom, but don't cut out so much that you compromise the function of the space. 

Installing natural stone or tile that glistens in natural light with a glossy finish is like having the luxury of a palace in your own home, but it may be best to keep it out of the bathroom. No matter how careful you are, the bathroom is bound to collect more moisture than other rooms in the house, making a slip much more likely. By installing glossy finishes that are inherently slippery, even when they are dry, you increase the risk of accident or injury. Plus, the reflective finish may not provide the comforting environment that is trending in 2026.

Another trend to leave in the past is harsh lighting that usually results from having a single light fixture in the bathroom. Beyond the main lighting in a room, you should incorporate task lighting and ambient lighting. Task lighting is designed for a specific purpose, like using the vanity for hair, makeup, or shaving. Ambient lighting, on the other hand, is the soft background lighting that brings a lighting layout together. This could be under-counter lights, floor lights, or any other light that creates a warm glow but isn't meant to light up the room.

Mixing metals is a trend that designers go back and forth about. Basically, the idea is that you combine different colored metals in the room, such as a gold-trimmed mirror and bronze-handled cabinets, to create impact. Mixing two complementary or monochromatic metals is fine, but anything more than that looks chaotic. Plus, chrome has been overdone and overmixed with other metals in the bathroom. In 2026, the focus is going to shift away from mixing metals or incorporating chrome and focus more on accenting the other elements with carefully selected metals.

Open shelving has been on trend for years, so why is it getting tossed out in 2026? Again, it comes down to function. While some people may have the time and patience to make sure the shelves stay not only organized but also clean, those with busy lifestyles may find maintaining the open shelf displays difficult. If you do manage to keep all your towels displayed like a freshly prepared hotel suite, you still have to address the problem of regular cleaning to prevent issues with mold or bacteria. In 2026, the trends are favoring designs that consider realistic bathroom needs.

Of all the trends that are not in favor in 2026, leaning away from oversized tubs may be the most disappointing. But there's a good reason for the change. Trends in 2026 are particularly mindful of sustainability. Extra-large tubs and spa baths use substantially more water than a standard tub, which is far from eco-friendly. Plus, the added maintenance of "jet tubs" can end up being costly and stressful down the road. Plus, deeper soaking tubs or vintage styles create a more relaxing atmosphere that is on trend. 

While sustainable, natural elements are the right direction to go in 2026, you may want to keep them out of your shower. Plants need specific growing conditions to thrive, and even though you can grow healthy plants in the bathroom, inside the shower isn't the ideal place. Water from the shower could splash the soil and cause a nasty mess. Plus, that excess moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for plant pests and mildew that can easily become a problem as well. Save the garden features for window sills and shelving.

Gone are the days of plastic organizers and PEVA shower curtains. To remain on trend in 2026, opt for natural, sustainable materials over synthetics. Natural elements can ground the design and bring comfort into the space. Synthetics, on the other hand, approach the feeling of sterility when they are new, but they can quickly become difficult to clean, making them look dingy and cheap.