New Bathroom Checklist – Everything You need to Consider

We’ll guide you through all the key things to consider when embarking on your bathroom renovation journey. From a checklist of products to buy and tasks to complete, to essential questions to ask your installer, we’ve created a comprehensive bathroom checklist to help you design your perfect space. While this list isn’t exhaustive (we don’t want to overwhelm you), it covers the most important aspects to ensure your bathroom renovation goes smoothly.

This is typically a bath or shower, but that opens up a world of possibilities. Will your bath be built-in or freestanding? Where should it be placed for the best layout? If you prefer a shower, will it be a cubicle, over the bath, or something more extravagant like a wet room?

Finding the best position is key to maximizing your space. Will your basin sit on a pedestal, be housed within a vanity unit for extra storage, or even be mounted on floating shelving for a sleek, modern look? Whatever you choose, the right basin can enhance both the functionality and style of your bathroom.

Toilet placement is important—not just for practicality but also for aesthetics. Where possible, it’s best to avoid having the toilet as the first thing you see when entering the bathroom. The main consideration, however, is the soil pipe, which needs to connect to the stack while maintaining a proper fall without disrupting your design.

Many older bathrooms have traditional radiators, but these are often replaced with heated towel rails, which provide warmth while also keeping towels dry. If your bathroom lacks the necessary plumbing, this can be solved by extending heating pipework, opting for electric models, or choosing dual-fuel towel rails that run on central heating in winter and electricity in warmer months.

Many older bathrooms have traditional radiators, but these are often replaced with heated towel rails, which provide warmth while also keeping towels dry. If your bathroom lacks the necessary plumbing, this can be solved by extending heating pipework, opting for electric models, or choosing dual-fuel towel rails that run on central heating in winter and electricity in warmer months.

Before choosing tiles, assess which areas need waterproofing—wet zones like shower cubicles, bath surrounds, and basin splashbacks all require water protection, with tiling being the most popular option. If you’re installing a wet room, the entire floor will also need waterproofing.

When selecting tiles, consider both style and practicality. Textured tiles can add character but tend to trap water residue, especially in hard water areas, making them harder to keep clean over time. These are best suited for decorative areas away from direct water exposure. For high-water areas, smooth or glossy tiles are easier to maintain and keep looking fresh, though regular cleaning of tiles, grout, and seals is still essential. (For more details, check out our full guide on choosing tiles) 

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule for bathroom layouts—it all depends on your needs, room size, and the position of windows, doors, and other features. Start by deciding which essential components you want and work from there.

The trickiest element to position is usually the toilet, as it must connect to the soil pipe. Since this is a large (4-inch) pipe, its routing is a key factor. While most soil pipes run externally, internal pipework is an option, though it requires boxing in, which can take up valuable space.

When planning your layout, take accurate measurements and experiment with different configurations. Consider the space between fixtures, the overall flow, and avoiding overcrowding. Looking at similar bathroom designs online can help you visualize what works.

Keep your budget in mind, as moving plumbing and electrics can add extra costs. Also, think about wet and dry zones to prevent water from splashing where you don’t want it. Most importantly, enjoy the process—this is the fun part of creating your ideal bathroom!

Bathrooms are increasingly designed as spaces for relaxation and tranquility, making the right lighting essential for setting the mood. Dimmable spotlights are a popular choice, allowing you to adjust the brightness to suit different times of day. Wall lighting, illuminated cabinets, and LED strip lights under units, sinks, and in wall niches can all add a stylish and calming ambiance.

The design of your bathroom is entirely up to you—think about the look you want to achieve, whether it’s modern, minimalist, or traditional. Consider whether you’d prefer a light, airy space or a warmer, darker palette. Choose a theme to guide your design, explore different ideas, and then add your personal touch to create a bathroom that truly reflects your style. 

Bathroom fittings are essential for both functionality and style, helping to create a space that works for you while reflecting your design preferences. When choosing fittings, it can feel overwhelming, but it’s best to start with the look and style you want and then research what’s available. Product reviews can be helpful, where available, and opting for items with lengthy manufacturer warranties will give you peace of mind.

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality matters—especially for items with working parts like taps, showers, and electrical fittings. It’s wise to invest in reliable products from reputable suppliers. Consult your installer, too; they often have valuable insights and can recommend quality options. Many installers also supply products themselves, which can be advantageous if any issues arise during or after installation, as they’ll have direct contact with the supplier.

When it comes to bathroom flooring, there’s now a wide range of waterproof options to choose from, including vinyl, LVT, wood, engineered wood, and even concrete. It’s important to ensure that the product you choose is bathroom-rated to guarantee it’s fit for use in a wet environment.

Designing your dream bathroom involves careful thought and planning, from choosing the right fixtures to determining the best layout and finishes. By following this checklist, you can ensure that your bathroom not only looks great but functions perfectly for your needs. Take your time, enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a space that combines both style and practicality.