7 Things That Make Your Bathroom Look Tacky, According to Interior Designers

Bathrooms are one of the smallest areas in a home, so there's little room for error when it comes to décor. What might seem like a harmless detail can instantly date the space, or worse, make it feel chaotic and tacky.

Fortunately, bathrooms are also the easiest rooms to refresh, and you can dramatically shift their look and feel with a few smart swaps. The result is a space that feels not only clean and functional but also calming and modern.

Bulky Vanities

Oversized cabinets might seem like a storage solution, but in a small bathroom, they only make the space feel tighter.

Consider boutique hotel and restaurant vanities as an example—they're often just a floating sink with minimal storage, but they still look chic, and make the room feel spacious. In compact spaces, that kind of minimalism can be a lifesaver. Bulky vanities, on the other hand, feel dated and clunky—and they may even be hiding mildew inside.

The Fix: Slimline storage, floating vanities, or wall-mounted shelves. These will free up visual space while maintaining functionality, says Ayhan Erdogan, interior designer for Xwallx.

Glossy or Mismatched Tiles

Bathrooms and glossy tiles go hand in hand, but a look that's too glossy from top to bottom is officially out. “High, excessive, or optically dense tiles may be cold and artificial at a higher gloss," says Erdogan.

The same goes for busy mosaic mixes or too many clashing colors.

The Fix: Mix your finishes but not too much. “A balance of matte polished and classic gloss will provide sophistication,” says Erdogan. The contrast instantly feels fresher, more modern, and a lot more refined.

Also, stick to larger format tiles with a consistent, neutral palette. “Bathrooms should be calm spaces—subtle patterns or soft neutrals help create that sense of relaxation,” adds Bar Zakheim, CEO of Better Place Design & Build.

Dark Paint Colors

Deep shades might feel dramatic, but in a small bathroom, they often shrink the space. “Dark colors can make the bathroom feel small, gloomy, and uninviting,” says Zakheim. The last thing you want is to make your space feel more cave-like.

The Fix: Opt for light colors like whites, creams, or pale grays. Layer in warmth with natural textures or beige accents to keep it from feeling cold.

Plastic Accessories or Fixtures

Plastic soap dispensers, flimsy shower curtains, and thin toilet roll holders won't do your bathroom any favors. They crack, discolor, and instantly cheapen the look of the space.

The same goes for plastic chrome or faux brass fixtures. They might shine for a few months, but they tarnish, peel, and will start to look sad fast.

The Fix: “Swap them for ceramics, glass, or brushed metal,” says Tony Roberts, interior designer at Direct Splashbacks. These durable materials immediately elevate the space and can be surprisingly affordable.

Themed Décor

Designers agree across the board: shell-shaped soap dishes, cartoon shower curtains, and nautical ropes might feel playful in the moment, but they instantly date your bathroom. What starts out as fun will quickly read as tired and kitschy.

That goes for holiday décor, too. Nothing makes a bathroom feel tackier faster than a seasonal shower curtain, or a snowman soap pump lingering past December.

The Fix: “Soft textures and soothing color palettes that whisper a theme, rather than shout it, create a calmer, more sophisticated space,” says Erdogan. Instead of literal décor, suggest your theme with subtle blues, sandy neutrals, or a framed print.

Visual Clutter

Even the most beautiful bathroom loses its charm if there are products scattered everywhere. A vanity covered in half-used bottles and mismatched jars instantly reads as clutter, no matter how nice the finishes are.

“Don’t overwhelm. Bathroom products that aren't contained and piled on countertops or shelves leave a disorganized look,” says Roberts.

The Fix: Instead, tidy up with a stylish basket, the designer suggests. A clean vanity is one of the fastest ways to make a bathroom feel more spa-like.

Damaged or Outdated Surfaces

Chipped tiles, stained grout, and brightly colored porcelain tubs and toilets (think avocado green, mustard yellow, or bubblegum pink) instantly make a bathroom look neglected. No matter how clean the rest of the space is, damaged surfaces or retro fixtures give off a dated vibe. 

The Fix: “Replace the tiles immediately and renew grout lines. Proper tile installation avoids cracking and chipping,” says Zarkheim. "When it comes to fixtures, stick with timeless shades like white, cream, or soft gray for a cleaner, fresher aesthetic."