Outdated Bathroom Interior Design Trends to Leave Behind for 2026

As we step into 2026, interior design in bathrooms is changing in a major way.

We’ve seen so many passing trends in the past couple of years, but now we’re seeing a huge lean into longevity, calm and sustainability.

Here are the top outdated bathroom interior design trends to leave behind in 2026.

All Chrome Everything

Chrome dominated bathrooms for years because it’s shiny, inexpensive, and neutral, but we’re seeing a huge shift into warmer texture finishes in 2026.

We will all be mixing metals such as brushed bronze and satin brass to bring warmth and personality into the space.

Swapping out hardware and fixtures is one of the easiest ways to modernise your bathroom without a full renovation.

We have a huge range of cabinet door knobs and door handles that you can purchase for your home. No matter what your space looks like, we have something that could work for you. Check out our antique brass range for a warm and timeless look!

Photo: Casolia

Oversized Whirlpool Tubs or Jacuzzis

Big built-in whirlpools once screamed luxury, but they’re falling out of favour for a few reasons.

They use a lot of water, they demand a hefty upkeep, and they take up valuable space that most homeowners don’t have.

Whilst we will still see statement bathtubs, usually these are leaning into more of a vintage look and not a modern one.

Photo: Casolia

Rainfall Showerheads Without Smart Features.

The classic oversized rainbow showerhead still look cool but by 2026, the novelty will wear off.

Buyers and designers are increasingly expecting smart temperature control, flow sensors or water-saving tech to be built into showers.

I’m not 100% sure about how I feel about bringing so much tech into the bathroom, but I will have to see how this one plays out.

Hollywood-style Vanity Lights

The “bright row of vanity bulbs” look and entire-wall mirrored installations feel dated and theatrical.

Modern bathrooms favour layered lighting, back-lit mirrors with diffused light and discreet overheads to create a flattering and comforting feel.

Photo: Decor Frontier

Carpeted Bathroom Floors

Yes, carpet in the bathroom still shows up in older homes but by 2026, these will hopefully become a complete relic of the past.

Carpet-trapped moisture is unhygienic and as we move into 2026, it will be an absolute hard no in any home.

Photo: Old English Tiles shows how beautiful you can make a bathroom flooring using mosaic tiles

Strictly Stark White Bathrooms

While whites will always have their place in bathrooms, it’s been slowly being phased out as nature-inspired palettes come in.

2026 is leaning into more warm neutrals and richer anchoring hues that create a harmonious space, not a sterile one.

If your bathroom looks like a hospital cubicle, consider introducing warmer finishes and natural materials.

Photo: Pinterest

Key Takeaways on Outdated Bathroom Interior Design Trends to Leave Behind for 2026

Design trends come and go, but good design is about making choices that feel personal, last long, and adapt with lifestyle changes.

For 2026, that means leaning into warmth, texture, sustainability, and smart function over shiny, showy statements.

If you’re redesigning, aim for materials and details that age well; if you’re updating, focus on a few strategic swaps to stop your bathroom from becoming dated.