Checklist: Everything You Need for a Warm, Stylish Bathroom Remodel

A bathroom renovation is one of the most impactful home upgrades you can make, but it’s also one of the most detailed. From waterproof surfaces to choosing lighting, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

Whether you’re just beginning to dream or already deep in demo, this step-by-step bathroom remodel checklist will help you prioritize function, comfort, and style without forgetting the finishes that pull it all together.

Why Start with a Checklist?

Bathroom remodels bring plumbing, heating, surfaces, storage, and style together in a compact space, where comfort matters just as much as appearance. Missing one small element (like a vent cover or updated baseboard heater) can throw off your timeline or your final look.

That’s why we’ve created a downloadable Bathroom Renovation Checklist, a room-by-room, system-by-system guide focused on creating a warmer, more comfortable bathroom that still looks beautifully finished.

[Download the Free Checklist Now] 

What to Include in a Warm, Modern Bathroom Remodel

1. Plumbing Fixtures That Fit Your Lifestyle
Plumbing is the foundation of any functional bathroom, and it plays a major role in daily comfort. Before you fall in love with finishes, make sure you’re choosing fixtures that support your daily routine and long-term needs.

• Choose showerheads with adjustable pressure
• Consider a rain shower or hand-held unit
• Opt for water-saving faucets and showerheads to boost efficiency
• Don’t forget shut-off valves and drain kits
• Choose finishes that match your overall design
• Make sure fixture sizing is appropriate for the scale of the space

2. Layered Lighting (Yes, Even in Small Spaces)
Good lighting makes a bathroom feel brighter, safer, and more inviting, but it also affects how you see yourself in the mirror. The right lighting can improve how you apply makeup, shave, or get ready for the day. The key is layering: combine different sources of light for both utility and ambiance.

• Combine overhead lighting, vanity lights, and dimmers
• Include night lighting for safety and ambiance
• Add GFCI outlets with integrated lighting for multifunctionality
• Install task lighting on either side of the mirror to reduce shadows on the face
• Use daylight-balanced vanity lights to provide accurate, shadow-free lighting
  

3. Heating and VentilationThat Works (and Looks Good)
Your bathroom should feel warm and comfortable (not cold) and be able to handle daily moisture without issue. Invest in efficient ventilation and consider aesthetic upgrades for heat sources.

• Upgrade old baseboard heaters with Baseboarders: a rust-resistant, DIY-friendly cover that fits over existing units with no tools or demolition
• Ensure proper venting with a quiet exhaust fan Add in-floor heating if budget allows for extra comfort
• Choose a fan with a built-in humidity sensor to prevent mold
• Make sure vent covers coordinate with your hardware or tile choices 
• Consider a heated towel rack for added luxury

Pro Tip: Rusty baseboard heaters can ruin a bathroom's fresh new look. Baseboarders retrofit covers are the easiest way to refresh without replacing the entire unit.

4. Surfaces That Can Take a Splash
From floor tile to shower walls, your surface choices should balance style with performance, especially under bare feet on cold mornings. Opt for water-friendly materials that are easy to clean and built to last.

• Opt for waterproof flooring and wall finishes
• Use tile or wall panels in high-splash zones 
• Seal all grout and edges to prevent future damage
• Select slip-resistant flooring, especially for wet areas like near tubs
• Use large-format tile to minimize grout lines and simplify cleaning
• Add a moisture-resistant backer board behind tile walls for durability
• Consider electric radiant floor heating to keep your feet warm

5. Storage That Works for Your Family
No matter how beautiful your bathroom is, it should also support an easy, comfortable daily routine. Maximize storage in ways that keep your space clutter-free and family-friendly.

• Built-in niches, mirrored cabinets, and linen towers
• Add hooks, towel bars, and shelving in high-use areas
• Incorporate a hidden outlet inside a drawer or cabinet for hair tools
• Use open shelving for easy-to-reach towels or decorative items
• Choose vanity cabinets with deep drawers instead of doors for easier access

6. Details That Make the Room Feel Finished 
These are the touches that bring your vision together and help the space feel complete, intentional, and comfortable. Don’t underestimate the power of the right hardware, accessories, and finishing flourishes.

• Swap in new cabinet hardware and robe hooks
• Upgrade your vent and fan covers to match your new aesthetic
• Don’t forget finishing touches like art, candles, and tech
• Match metals across faucets, hardware, and vent covers for a cohesive look
• Layer textiles, think a plush bathmat or waffle-weave towels
• Consider smart features like a touchless faucet or Bluetooth speaker fan

Get the Full Checklist

Renovating your bathroom? Make sure you’re planning for warmth, comfort, and the details that make the space feel finished. Download the Free Bathroom Renovation Checklist for a room-by-room guide that blends comfort, style, and practicality.

Looking to Upgrade Your Baseboard Heaters?

Skip the demo. Slide on a Baseboarders cover in minutes for a clean, modern finish that’s built to last in wet zones like bathrooms.

Explore Bathroom-Ready Baseboard Covers