Not every bathroom upgrade is as brilliant as it sounds – and some can quietly drain your budget without adding much in return.
From overhyped tech to trendy fixtures that age faster than fashion fads, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a renovation and end up with features you barely use.
On the flip side, there are a few upgrades that are absolutely worth every penny – tiny luxuries that turn your daily routine into something genuinely enjoyable.
In this guide, I’m cutting through the noise with 20 bathroom features that simply aren’t worth it – and 8 smart splurges that deliver beauty, comfort, and real value!
1. Heated Toilet Seats
Who doesn’t love a warm embrace, even from a toilet seat? But, the heated toilet seat, while toasty, is more of a luxury than a necessity. Imagine the surprise on your electricity bill as you chase warmth in a place where you spend minimal time.
Yes, they might spare you the morning chill, but at what cost? While they whisper promises of comfort, they often fall short when considering practicality. Invest in a good bathrobe instead and save your pennies for something truly transformative.
2. Jacuzzi Bathtubs
Whirling waters and bubbles galore, a Jacuzzi sounds like a dream. But realistically, after the initial excitement, it’s likely to become a rarely used relic. Cleaning it? Now that’s a chore. The maintenance, the space it occupies, and the water it consumes often outweigh the fleeting pleasure.
Most homeowners find solace in their showers, leaving the Jacuzzi to gather dust. If ultimate relaxation is your goal, perhaps a simple soak in a regular tub with bath salts will suffice and save.
3. Rainfall Showerheads
The idea of a gentle rain caressing you during your shower is enchanting. But in reality, rainfall showerheads often disappoint with low water pressure and an uneven distribution. Instead of a refreshing spray, you might end up with a disappointing drizzle.
They also tend to use more water, prolonging showers unnecessarily. A standard showerhead with adjustable settings can offer a more satisfying experience, keeping both your spirits and water consumption in check. Save the rain for your garden.
4. Towel Warmers
Imagine stepping out of the shower into the embrace of a warm towel. Towel warmers promise just that but often fall short of expectations. Most end up as extravagant drying racks that consume energy needlessly.
Their novelty wears thin quickly, and you’re left with an expensive fixture that rarely gets used. A quick tumble in the dryer delivers the same warmth without the installation hassle or energy drain. Wrap yourself in practicality with a cozy bathrobe instead.
5. Automatic Air Fresheners
They seem like a dream, keeping your bathroom perpetually pleasant. But the surprise sprays can catch you off guard, and the scents may be overwhelming rather than inviting. They often become a source of frustration, with their timed releases mistiming more often than not.
Instead, a small, stylish diffuser or a few well-placed scented candles can create a more inviting atmosphere, with you in control of the fragrance and freshness levels. Keep it simple and sweet-smelling.
6. LED Bathroom Mirrors
Glowing like a futuristic fantasy, LED mirrors bring high-tech allure to any bathroom. Yet, these mirrors often become more of a light show than a practical grooming tool. Finding the perfect setting can be tricky, and sometimes, the glow is more distracting than helpful.
Additionally, they can be quite pricey compared to traditional mirrors. For most, natural lighting or a classic light fixture provides a clearer reflection without the color-changing confusion. Reflect on what truly enhances your routine.
7. Voice-Activated Lights
Lights that respond to your voice might feel like living in the future, but in reality, they often mishear commands or require precise phrasing. Imagine yelling into the void just to turn on your bathroom light!
The novelty fades when practicality becomes an issue, especially if others are sleeping nearby. A simple light switch or a motion sensor light can provide convenience without the shouting match. Let your bathroom be a place of peace, not a battleground of misunderstood commands.
8. High-End Shower Speakers
Shower speakers promise to serenade you while you shampoo, turning your bathroom into a personal concert hall. But in practice, the acoustics often disappoint, and water exposure can lead to frequent replacements.
Additionally, the sound quality rarely matches the price, leaving audiophiles wanting. A regular waterproof speaker placed outside the shower can achieve similar results without the premium price or stress over water damage. Shower time is your time; keep it simple and sing your heart out.
9. Smart Scales
They promise to revolutionize your health journey with data galore. However, they often provide more information than you need, offering metrics that can be more overwhelming than helpful. Syncing issues with apps and devices can add to the frustration, detracting from a straightforward weigh-in experience.
A traditional scale with accurate readings might serve most users better, providing simplicity without the technological tangle. Stay grounded in your routine, and let your bathroom be a place of reflection, not confusion.
10. Multi-Jet Shower Systems
A shower system that jets water from every angle sounds divine, but often, it’s more overwhelming than relaxing. Getting the settings just right can take longer than the shower itself, leaving you stressed rather than soothed.
Maintenance for these systems can be costly and complex, with repairs requiring specialist knowledge. A straightforward showerhead with adjustable pressure offers all the relaxation you need, without the complications or the high costs. Let simplicity be your guide.
11. Luxury Toiletries Dispenser
These kind of dispensers are designed to declutter and add a touch of opulence, but they often end up complicating your morning routine. Refilling and cleaning them can become a tiresome task, negating the convenience they promise.
Plus, they often limit your choice of products, requiring specific sizes to fit. A simple basket or shelf with your favorite products might serve you better, offering flexibility and ease. Keep your bathroom clutter-free without the constraints of a complicated dispenser.
12. Digital Shower Controls
Navigating through digital menus to adjust temperature or flow can take longer than expected, leaving you shivering or scalded. They can also be expensive to repair, adding more cost to your bathroom budget.
A traditional shower valve offers a more reliable and straightforward experience, providing the perfect shower without the digital drama. Let your shower be a sanctuary, not a scene of technological trials.
13. Fogless Bathroom Mirrors
The promise of fogless mirrors in your steamy bathroom seems like a dream. However, these mirrors often require special treatments or coatings that wear off, leaving you with the same old foggy view. Maintenance can be a nuisance, and many users find themselves reaching for a towel anyway.
A regular mirror and a quick wipe with a cloth can be just as effective, saving you the hassle of constant upkeep. Keep your reflection clear with simplicity, not special coatings.
14. Wall-Mounted Toilets
Wall-mounted toilets bring modern elegance to any bathroom, but often at a hidden cost. Installation can be complex and expensive, requiring specialized plumbing and support. While they free up floor space, they can be more prone to issues like leaks or instability compared to traditional models.
In many cases, a standard toilet offers the reliability and simplicity needed, without the extra expense or potential for problems. Let your bathroom be functional, not fraught with hidden complications.
15. Steam Showers
Sure, they offer the ultimate spa experience at home, but they can be more trouble than they’re worth. The complexity of operation and high maintenance requirements make them impractical for many.
Condensation can lead to mold, and repairs often require specialist attention. A regular shower with a few drops of essential oil can create a similar relaxing atmosphere without the complications. Let your bathroom be a place of relaxation, not repair. Simplicity often brings more serenity.
16. Luxury Toilet Paper Holders
Their intricate designs can make them difficult to clean, and they may not accommodate all sizes of rolls. A simple holder does the job without the fuss, providing functionality and ease.
Let your bathroom accessories be about convenience, not complication. Save your splurge for something with a bit more practical pizzazz.
17. Exotic Stone Sinks
These sinks bring an air of natural sophistication, but they often come with high maintenance demands. Their porous nature makes them susceptible to stains and scratches, requiring regular sealing and care. Plus, they can be heavy and expensive to install.
A well-made ceramic or stainless steel sink can offer durability and style, without the need for constant upkeep. Let your bathroom be a haven of hassle-free elegance, not a monument to maintenance.
18. Luxury Vanity Units
Luxury vanity units promise to transform your bathroom into a personal salon, but often they become clutter magnets. The expansive surfaces and multiple compartments can encourage unnecessary accumulation of products.
Cleaning these intricate setups can also turn into a daunting task. A simple, streamlined vanity offers all the functionality needed without the clutter and confusion. Let your bathroom be a space of simplicity and style, not an over-the-top beauty battleground.
19. Gold-Plated Soap Dispenser
A dispenser like this exudes wealth and sophistication. It catches the eye and adds a touch of class. Yet, its allure is mostly superficial.
The gold plating requires careful maintenance to avoid tarnishing. Scratches and fingerprints quickly mar its appearance, turning elegance into an eyesore.
With no added functionality, it’s an expensive indulgence without real benefit. Choose practicality over opulence for your soap dispensing needs.
20. Rotating Towel Rack
This feature offers the promise of convenience and style. Picture your towels gracefully available with a gentle spin. Yet, practicality takes a back seat.
The mechanism can jam, leading to frustration rather than functionality. It often takes up more space than a regular rack, making it unsuitable for smaller bathrooms.
The cost versus functionality balance leans heavily towards extravagance. A simple towel bar often does the job with less hassle and cost.
21. Heated Floors
Waking up on a cold morning only to plant your feet on warm tile? That’s luxury that pays off daily. Heated floors feel like a hug for your soles and make the bathroom more inviting year-round. They’re energy-efficient too, especially in smaller spaces.
Once you’ve had them, you’ll wonder how you lived without that gentle, consistent warmth. Yes, they cost more upfront, but over time they elevate comfort and add real value to your home.
22. Freestanding Tub
A sculptural, freestanding tub is more than a place to soak – it’s a statement piece. It instantly makes the space feel luxurious and spa-like. Whether it’s modern and sleek or vintage with claw feet, it draws the eye and invites relaxation.
Compared to standard built-ins, they can be pricier and require more space, but the upgrade is noticeable. It’s a moment of indulgence every time you use it.
23. Smart Toilets
It sounds extra until you try one. Smart toilets come with motion sensors, self-cleaning functions, and bidet features that actually feel great. Some even have built-in night lights and deodorizing systems.
The experience feels personal and surprisingly indulgent. It’s the kind of upgrade that feels futuristic but quickly becomes your everyday normal. And if you’re thinking resale, smart toilets are a quiet flex that savvy buyers will notice.
24. Custom Cabinetry
Generic storage never feels quite right. Custom bathroom cabinets can be tailored to your space, your stuff, and your style.
Whether it’s drawers made for hair tools, pull-outs for cleaning supplies, or a hidden hamper, it makes life feel smoother.
Materials and finishes are higher quality too, which helps with longevity. You’ll pay more upfront, but it’s functional beauty that lasts for years.
25. Touchless Faucets
Hands covered in soap or hair dye? A touchless faucet solves it. With a quick wave, water flows—no mess, no fuss.
They’re hygienic, water-saving, and surprisingly chic when you pick the right model. The sensors are more reliable than ever, and they’re especially useful in shared bathrooms or powder rooms where cleanliness matters most.
26. Statement Tile
Whether it’s Moroccan zellige, hand-painted ceramics, or a bold mosaic, investing in statement tile transforms the vibe.
It turns your floor or shower wall into an art moment. It costs more than mass-produced tile, but the craftsmanship and texture give your bathroom a soul.
Even a small accent wall can make a massive visual impact and feel completely unique to you.
27. Quartz or Marble Countertops
Your bathroom counter sees a lot—water, heat, cosmetics, and everything in between. Quartz and marble are both gorgeous and durable. They handle wear with elegance and bring a touch of hotel-level polish.
Yes, they’re pricier than laminate, but they stay beautiful longer and age with grace. If you love a clean, luxe aesthetic, this is one of the best places to splurge.
28. Hidden Storage Niches
Recessed shelves in the shower or discreet nooks built into the walls can make a world of difference. They keep clutter at bay without adding bulk.
Shampoo bottles don’t need to sit on the floor or a wobbly caddy—everything has a place. These niches require a bit more labor to install, but the result is sleek, organized, and oh-so-satisfying.