When designing your dream bathroom, selecting the right materials is one of the most important steps. Not only do materials determine the overall look and feel of your space, but they also need to withstand humidity, frequent use, and the test of time. At The Bathing Machine, we know how important it is to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics, durability, and practicality. Here’s everything you need to know about bathroom materials to make informed and stylish choices.

The flooring in your bathroom has to handle splashes, spills, and wear without compromising on safety or style.

Top Choices for Bathroom Flooring:

• Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles: These are the most popular choices, thanks to their water resistance, durability, and wide range of designs. Whether you prefer sleek and modern or rustic and textured, tiles offer endless options.
• Natural Stone: Materials like marble, slate, and granite create a luxurious, high-end look. However, natural stone requires sealing to protect it from water and stains.
• Vinyl Flooring: Affordable, durable, and waterproof, vinyl is perfect for busy households or those on a budget. It’s also softer underfoot than tiles, making it a cosy option for family bathrooms.

Flooring Don’ts: Avoid materials like untreated wood or standard laminate, as they’re prone to warping in damp environments. If you’re looking for a wood effect, opt for engineered wood or wood-effect tiles.

Bathroom walls offer an opportunity to combine functionality with design flair. The right materials will protect your walls from moisture while elevating the overall aesthetic.

Top Choices for Bathroom Walls:

• Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles: Versatile and water-resistant, tiles can be used on walls to add colour, pattern, or texture. Subway tiles are a timeless classic, while geometric patterns can create a more contemporary vibe.
• Acrylic Wall Panels: Sleek, easy to clean, and available in a range of finishes, these panels are a low-maintenance alternative to tiles. They’re particularly effective in showers or wet rooms.
• Paint: Moisture-resistant paints are a budget-friendly option for bathrooms. Opt for high-quality, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints that prevent mould and mildew while keeping the air clean.

Wall Don’ts: Standard household paints won’t cut it in a bathroom. Always choose specialist bathroom paint to avoid peeling and damage over time.

Your bathroom countertop needs to withstand water, cosmetics, and cleaning products, all while looking polished and cohesive.

Top Choices for Bathroom Countertops:

• Quartz: A non-porous, low-maintenance material that’s resistant to stains and scratches, making it a practical yet luxurious option.
• Marble: Beautiful and timeless, marble adds a sense of luxury to any bathroom. However, it’s porous and requires sealing to prevent stains and damage.
• Solid Surface Materials: These are engineered to look like stone but are easier to shape and maintain. They’re an excellent mid-range option for a sleek and modern finish.

Countertop Don’ts: Avoid porous materials that aren’t sealed, as they can absorb water and stains over time, leading to discolouration and damage.

Storage is vital for keeping your bathroom organised and clutter-free. The right materials can ensure your cabinetry stays looking fresh and functional for years to come.

Top Choices for Cabinetry:

• MDF and Plywood: When sealed properly, these materials are resistant to moisture and provide a smooth finish for painted or laminate designs.
• Solid Wood with Waterproof Finishes: Ideal for creating a natural, warm look, solid wood can handle moisture when treated with a high-quality sealant.
• Laminate: Durable and budget-friendly, laminate finishes are available in various textures and colours, perfect for modern bathrooms.

Cabinetry Don’ts: Avoid untreated wood or low-grade MDF in high-moisture areas, as they’ll deteriorate quickly in a humid environment.

Bathroom fixtures like taps, showerheads, and towel rails endure daily use, so it’s essential to choose materials that are both durable and stylish.

Top Choices for Fixtures:

• Brass: A classic choice that resists corrosion, brass fixtures are long-lasting and available in a variety of finishes, from polished chrome to antique brass.
• Stainless Steel: Modern and low-maintenance, stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and stains, making it perfect for wet environments.
• Ceramic: Used in sinks and basins, ceramic is scratch-resistant and easy to clean, offering both practicality and style.

Fixtures Don’ts: Avoid low-quality or uncoated metals, as they can rust or corrode quickly in humid conditions.

For those looking to create a sustainable bathroom, there are plenty of eco-friendly materials to consider. Recycled glass tiles, bamboo cabinetry, and reclaimed wood are all excellent choices that reduce environmental impact while maintaining style and functionality.

Low-VOC paints and sealants improve air quality, while water-efficient fixtures like dual-flush toilets and low-flow taps conserve resources. Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics—eco-friendly materials can be just as luxurious and versatile as traditional options.

Grout and sealant might not be the stars of your bathroom design, but they’re essential for keeping your materials looking great and functioning well.

• Epoxy Grout: Durable and resistant to water, stains, and mildew, epoxy grout is a must for bathroom tiles.
• Silicone Sealant: This flexible, waterproof sealant is perfect for sealing around baths, sinks, and showers to prevent leaks and water damage.

Selecting the right materials for your bathroom is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle, budget, and design vision. By choosing durable, moisture-resistant, and sustainable options, you’ll create a bathroom that not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time. At The Bathing Machine, we’re here to help you make confident choices with expert advice and a wide range of high-quality materials. Let’s build a bathroom you’ll love for years to come.