Ideas and Tips for the Guest Bathroom
A well-equipped guest bathroom is as important as an exquisitely layered bed when it comes to the comfort of overnight visitors. Whether your home has a secluded guest suite with a sprawling bathroom or you’re retrofitting the kids’ bath for weekend guests, the steps for preparation are basically the same. From choosing the right linens to adding thoughtful touches, our tips and tricks for outfitting the guest bathroom will help you create a useful, comfortable space for visitors.
Essentials for an Inviting Guest Bathroom
From bath linens to all the necessities, focus on these four areas to create a welcoming, functional bathroom for your guests to use during their stay.
Choose the Right Guest Bath Towels
Just because guest towels may be used less often than those in the primary baths doesn’t mean they’re less important. Providing soft, high-quality bath towels for your guests is an easy way to make them feel welcome. Choosing towels for the guest bathroom is a matter of understanding what makes visitors most comfortable.
- Bigger towels are often better. The debate between bath towels vs. bath sheets is ongoing, but we recommend bath sheets for guests. These oversized bath linens offer extra coverage, more drying power, and an indulgent post-shower experience.
- But don’t forget the little ones. If you frequently host families, you can always keep a few standard-size bath towels on hand for a better fit for kids. For extra fun, stock up on hooded character towels or a few with kid-friendly prints so little ones can embrace play even when they’re away from home!
- Keep color in mind. White bath towels are an easy, maintenance-friendly option, guests won’t have to worry about staining dark or patterned bath towels, which can help put guests’ minds at ease.
- Stock plenty of extras. When it comes to the right number of towels for the guest room, we recommend two per expected guest, plus a few extras for surprise circumstances. It’s better to have too many towels than too few.
Add a Mat or Rug for Comfort Underfoot
A bath mat or rug is essential in the guest bath: It creates a barrier against the chilly floor and reduces the risk of slips and falls in wet areas near the sink, tub, or shower. The choice between a bath mat or a bath rug depends on which works best for you: Bath mats are typically thicker and more absorbent, while bath rugs are decorative and less absorbent. Either is a good option, and the most important thing is to ensure your floors are adequately covered. We recommend using one bath mat or rug in front of the shower or tub, and another in front of each sink.
Design Tip: Choose a bath mat or rug that matches or coordinates with your other linens and decor. For a festive touch, swap in a bath mat with seasonal designs to get holiday guests in the celebratory spirit.
Don't Forget Other Essential Bath Linens
You’ll need more than bath towels to make guests feel at home: Outfit your space with a complete towel wardrobe before hosting overnight visitors. Stock up on a few guest bath hand towels to hang by the sink, and have enough washcloths to last several days. When hosting guests for a party or meal, place a stack of festive hand towels next to the sink for guests to use instead of disposable towels.
Stock the Space with Extras
Stock extra toiletries, toilet paper, and towels in the guest bathroom before your visitors arrive. This includes things guests might feel uncomfortable asking for, such as feminine hygiene products or a plunger. A quick guest bathroom restock ensures that the items overnight visitors might need are close at hand and easy to find.
A Fresh Bathroom Makes a Clean First Impression
The morning of your guests’ arrival, ensure all towels are fresh and folded, scrub the toilet, and wipe down the shower and sinks. An empty trashcan and a clean space let guests feel at home during their stay. Lighting a candle while you clean clears the air and creates a lovely smell in the guest bath that lingers until visitors arrive.
Hosting Tips: Final Touches for the Guest Bath
A few thoughtful touches can make the guest bath feel special. Whether you want to mimic the feel of a luxury hotel suite or a cozy bed and breakfast, the difference is in the details. Let your hosting style take the lead, but here are some ideas to get you started:
- Fold fresh towels and washcloths for your guests in advance of their arrival. Place the linens on the bathroom counter or at the foot of the guest bed so visitors don’t have to search for what they need when it’s time to shower.
- Take a cue from your favorite five-star hotel and hang a couple of high-quality bathrobes in the guest room for visitors to don during their stay. This small detail adds a touch of luxury to their visit, making guests feel welcome and cared for.
- A vase of fresh seasonal flowers on the bathroom counter is a simple way to show intention—and make the space smell nice—when you welcome guests to your home.
- Customize a few black or brown washcloths with the word “makeup” so guests are comfortable removing mascara, lipstick, or other cosmetics with these dedicated linens.
- Add a personal touch by letting your visitors’ individual tastes influence your guest bathroom preparations. Set their favorite scented candle on the counter, or stock the shower with their preferred brand of body wash.
Creating a comfortable guest bathroom comes down to choosing the right linens, stocking up on the essentials, and adding thoughtful touches tailored to your guests. Take the same steps to get the guest room ready, and you’ll have a welcoming space any overnight visitor will be glad to stay in. For more on choosing linens, decorating your home, and entertaining friends and family, explore our other Guides.