The bathroom has evolved from a space for hygiene to a haven of calm and self-discovery. The latest trends embrace it as a place where relaxation, serenity, and physical and mental well-being converge. But it's not all about spa-like decor.
According to Eastern philosophies like Feng Shui, certain common practices can hinder the free flow of abundance and positive energy. These mistakes contribute to the loss of Chi, the vital energy that moves us internally. The bathroom is seen as an energetic portal through which we can lose and drain our prosperity. This makes sense, as it's a room we use daily and where we experience moments of absolute privacy. Today, we'll tell you about the 5 mistakes you absolutely must avoid in your bathroom.
Not all bathrooms have natural light. But if yours does, supplement it with a ceiling light or a wall sconce. Photo: Joan Guillamat | Project by Kuadrat Architect.
Not taking bathroom lighting seriously
It's likely that your bathroom still has the same type of lighting it had when you first moved into the house. Maybe you've changed the light bulbs a couple of times and that's it. Big mistake!
Good, well-planned and carefully considered lighting is the starting point for creating an intimate and serene atmosphere. This is especially important because most bathrooms don't get much natural light.
It's essential to incorporate some warm lighting, such as a couple of wall lamps or a ceiling light. Creating layers of light with two or more light sources will help the space generate a positive and energetic atmosphere.
Bonus tip: If you want an extra dose of soft light, install a salt lamp. Candles also help, as they bring the element of fire into the bathroom, which is key in Feng Shui. Light them when you need to add warmth, for example, while taking a relaxing bath.
Keeping the bathroom clean and fresh helps promote good energy flow. Photo: Aitor Estévez | Meta Studio Project.
Clutter, lack of cleanliness, and not putting the toilet seat down
This is one of the most common mistakes we find in neglected bathrooms: a lack of order and cleanliness. Daily use of the bathroom significantly impacts its wear and tear and hygiene. It's a space that gets dirty easily and can accumulate bacteria and unpleasant odors.
Keeping it clean will not only help prevent unpleasant odors, but will also give you an almost immediate sense of well-being. Take advantage of the wide variety of scents available to keep it smelling like something you enjoy and that brings you peace.
Furthermore, according to Feng Shui, keeping the toilet lid closed is essential. A well-organized, clean, and tidy bathroom is useless if the toilet seat is up. This area acts as an energy drain, so leaving it open can cause a loss of abundance and prosperity in the home.
Extra tip: Ventilate the bathroom daily for a few hours. Both windows and doors should allow for proper airflow.
Bathroom malfunctions can affect the flow of Chi, the vital energy, according to Feng Shui philosophy. Photo: Maria Pujol | Project by Rossend Cortés.
A bathroom in poor condition and with technical problems
Plumbing problems, such as water leaks, dripping faucets, or clogged toilets, are inconvenient in daily life. But they also symbolize the draining of resources from the entire household and family. Not only will you see it reflected in the water bill at the end of the month, but they also represent the loss of vital energy.
These problems prevent the bathroom from functioning properly. The same goes for broken items or decorations. Never store damaged accessories, expired personal care products, very old or dirty toothbrushes, cracked mirrors, etc. Your bathroom is a place that deserves respect and maintenance, so if you see any damage to the fixtures, try to get help or fix it as soon as possible.
Extra tip: Pay attention to the materials you've chosen to decorate your bathroom. Untreated wood ornaments could be damaged by humidity or contact with water. For marble, use specific cleaning products. Research how to care for your furniture, especially pieces made from natural materials.
Flowers are a sure bet in bathroom decor. They combine well with other elements such as wood or stone. Photo: Cecilia Renard | Styling: Verónica García Iguaz and Isabel Cros | Studio project: Residentially.
Bland decor and dark colors
Bathroom decor is just as important as that of the living room or bedroom. However, we sometimes don't give it the attention it deserves. We recommend incorporating some natural elements to revitalize the room's atmosphere. For example, a stone sink, hardy plants, wooden accessories, or baskets made of natural fibers.
The color palette you choose can also have a significant impact on the bathroom's energy. Instead of very dark, overlapping shades, opt for a light base with elegant accents. For example, light-colored walls, green details, and dark gray fixtures. Some colors evoke peace and tranquility, such as shades of blue, sky blue, or turquoise.
Bonus tip: one of the trends for next season is ocean-inspired decor. Ideal for bathroom styling.
Install a light near the mirror to make it easier to use for everyday tasks. Photo: Biderbost Photo | Project by IN56 Interiorismo
Poorly placed mirrors
This last mistake reminds us that, in Feng Shui, mirrors are powerful elements. Just as they can visually expand a space and reflect light, placing them incorrectly could have negative effects on the flow of energy.
Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite the main bathroom door. Why? By reflecting energy as it leaves, we're letting prosperity escape from the home. Similarly, it's advisable that the mirror not be placed directly opposite the toilet or reflect part of it. For the same reason, we're encouraging energy to leave, and what we want is the opposite: to strengthen it.
Extra tip: It's better to have one large mirror instead of several small ones. Having more than one mirror in the bathroom causes energy to bounce between them and prevents it from flowing. The most important thing is to facilitate circulation and flow, not stagnation or the loss of Chi.
