Sharing a bathroom can sometimes be a bit of a hassle. This is especially true once you need to share the bathroom with more than two people. However, there are several great ways to optimize your shared bathroom to make it a perfect shared space. Through the use of certain fixtures, accessories, storage methods and multi-person bathroom design ideas, you can absolutely set your bathroom up to make it a comfortable shared space.
Potential Problems With Shared Bathrooms
Shared bathrooms come with a number of potential problems. These problems are not huge issues, but they still come with a bit of inconvenience and discomfort. For example, if you have a small to medium sized shared bathroom, it can get a bit cramped when two or more people are using it at the same time. Whether it is with siblings, a roommate or a spouse, space is important for each person using the large bathroom design.
There can also be problems in terms of cleanliness and upkeep. When multiple people are sharing one bathroom space, the rate at which the bathroom gets dirty is accelerated by quite a bit. In addition, the fixtures included in the bathroom may or may not be suited for shared bathroom spaces. Single fixtures can prevent other users from being able to comfortably use the bathroom. Thankfully, each of these issues, and more, can be resolved in a relatively easy manner.
Sharing bathroom space can present its fair share of challenges on top of the previously mentioned. One potential issue is the clash of schedules, particularly in the mornings when everyone is trying to get ready for the day at the same time. In addition, differing bathroom routines and preferences can cause tension. For instance, someone who takes longer showers might inconvenience others who need to use the bathroom promptly. Similarly, disagreements over cleanliness and organization can arise when individuals have varying standards for maintaining the shared space.
Privacy is another significant concern. Sharing a bathroom means compromising on personal privacy, which can lead to awkward encounters and discomfort. The need to coordinate shower times, bathroom breaks, and other activities can disrupt personal routines. In addition, problems might arise from issues like leaving personal belongings in the shared space or failing to clean up after use. While sharing bathroom space can be a rewarding experience, it's essential to establish clear guidelines and open lines of communication to address potential problems and maintain a happy living environment.
Double Bathroom Vanities Offer More Accessibility
One of the best fixtures that you should include in a shared bathroom is a double bathroom vanity. Double bathroom vanities are almost necessary for shared bathrooms that are being used by two or more people. Firstly, double bathroom vanities provide a space for two people at once. This is incredibly important for both efficiency and comfort, giving each person enough space to go through their bathroom routine. In addition, each person will get their own storage space under the sink portion of their vanity.
Another benefit of including a double bathroom vanity in a large bathroom design is the amazing perk of increased counter space. Counter space provides each person with a dedicated area for certain hygienic products and toiletries. In addition, a double bathroom vanity will be easier to clean, with each person being responsible for their own space. Of course, this could vary depending on who is using it. Lastly, double bathroom vanities can be mounted on the wall or be free standing. Both of these are excellent options, perfect for essentially any bathroom design of an appropriate size.
Double Bathroom Sinks
Much like double bathroom vanities, double bathroom sinks provide the shared bathroom with similar benefits, with a few key differences. Firstly, your double bathroom sinks can be either one single fixture, or two separate fixtures. Both of these options have certain benefits and drawbacks. For a single double bathroom sink, there are some great benefits to consider. For example, it will almost always be less expensive than purchasing two separate sinks of the same style. It will also be more compact and easier to install, as it is only one fixture instead of two.
When it comes to two separate sinks, they have their own set of advantages. For example, two separate sinks will grant you more flexibility in terms of spacing and installation location. If you have an existing counter space or vanity, you’ll be able to play around with where exactly you want the sinks to be installed. Another benefit is the variety of sinks in which you can choose from. Whether you want a vessel sink, undermount sink or any combination at all, you have the freedom to choose whatever option fits your style.
Trough Bathroom Sinks
If you are having some trouble deciding on a double bathroom sink or two separate ones, you can also consider a trough bathroom sink. Not only are trough bathroom sinks incredibly effective and great multi-person bathroom design ideas, but they are also becoming one of the most popular sink options for large or shared bathrooms. Trough bathroom sinks provide the bathroom with one large bathroom sink that can accommodate multiple faucets, depending on the exact size of the fixture. This makes it an attractive option in terms of both looks and functionality.
Trough bathroom sinks are also quite versatile in design and build, being available in countless different variants. Stone is a popular material for trough bathroom sinks, especially if you are going for that more rustic and natural bathroom design. In addition, they are easy to install and incorporate into a bathroom in most cases. They can be mounted on existing countertops, mounted on the wall or even come in freestanding variants. Each of these options can work phenomenally well depending on the design you are going to want.
Importance of Counter Space in a Shared Bathroom
There is almost nothing more important in a shared bathroom than the amount of space available. This is especially true when it comes to counter space. Counterspace is important for a few key reasons. First, a cramped space is never a good thing, especially in a shared bathroom. When two people are simultaneously using the shared bathroom with limited counter space, it can become difficult to go through your routine comfortably. In addition, it can be easier to lose track of smaller items that would otherwise be immediately accessible.
Counter space can be optimized in a number of different ways. First, get rid of all unnecessary items in order to clear as much space as possible. This can be done by disposing of certain items or simply storing them elsewhere, such as a cabinet or bathroom shelf. If this is simply not possible, you may want to consider a small renovation project in order to make the countertop physically bigger. This is the last option you should consider, but it is usually the most effective in terms of practicality in some cases.
Bigger Bathroom Cabinets Help With Shared Bathroom Storage
Storage is one of the most important elements of a large bathroom design, whether it is being shared or not. With that being said, it is especially important in shared bathrooms. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to incorporate storage in a shared bathroom space. Larger bathroom cabinets are perfect for shared spaces for a number of reasons. First, it takes most of your loose items and gives them a dedicated storage space optimization. On top of that each person can have their own individual cabinet in order to further optimize the space.
Cabinets can come in a number of different forms. If you are working with a smaller space, medicine cabinets might be the best option for you to consider. This way, each person will have a mirror with personalized storage built in. In addition, they are great multi-person bathroom design ideas for saving money instead of purchasing a mirror and separate storage cabinet. Other options for cabinets include recessed bathroom cabinets and individual storage units. Recessed bathroom cabinets will limit the amount of wall space being used and storage units provide the space optimization project with maximum storage if you don’t already have some type of closet.
Organize Your Shower Items
By organizing the items in your shower, each person will have their own separate area for their necessary soaps and shampoos. There are a few ways to do this effectively. First of all, make sure every person has their own shower basket or shower caddy. This way, items won't be mixed together, making it hard to find your items. These can be permanent or removable shower caddies, both of which are good options. If your shower is relatively small, consider a removable shower caddy so you don’t crowd the shower area.
It is also important to make sure your shower items are clearly distinct from the others in the bathroom. This can be done by always placing them in the same location or even labeling them so nothing gets mixed up. Removable shower caddies are great in this regard, as they allow you to transport your shower items in and out of the shower to avoid any confusion or misplaced items.
Cleanliness Is Crucial in a Shared Bathroom
Shared bathrooms will undoubtedly be a bit harder to clean than a single person bathroom. This is for reasons of size, more fixtures and accessories and other reasons specific to the individuals using it. It is important to clean a shared bathroom regularly because of these reasons. In a shared bathroom, set a cleaning schedule that can be easily followed. This way, each person using the large bathroom design can serve a certain role in the cleaning process. If only one person cleans the shared bathroom, a schedule will still help keep them on track with regular cleaning.
Sharing Bathroom Space Effectively
A shared bathroom space can sometimes be a bit crowded or uncomfortable if it is not properly set up. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to optimize your shared bathroom space in order to allow comfort and accessibility for everyone. Whether it is small changes or multi-person bathroom design ideas, a shared bathroom can be a comfortable place for you at all times.