7 Reasons Your Bathroom Looks Dated—and What You Can Do About It

While interior design trends seem to cycle faster than ever these days, bathroom design trends tend to last a bit longer. After all, renovating a bathroom is a major commitment. Still, if this space in your home feels a bit stale, it might be time for an update. Here are seven reasons why your bathroom might look dated—along with some ideas to make it more current.

You Still Have a Medicine Cabinet

Nothing dates a bathroom more than an old-school medicine cabinet taking up space beside your vanity mirror, says designer Robin Baab Olascoaga. “I’m not knocking the functionality of a medicine cabinet, but there are so many sleek and modernized versions integrated into vanity mirrors that offer both functionality and style," she says. "Ditch the visible side mirror in favor of a vanity medicine cabinet or conceal the door with your wall material to create a hidden look.”

While a medicine cabinet offers some storage, it's not the most efficient solution for anything beyond small bottles. Consider installing a larger vanity with drawers and shelves instead.

Your Walls Are Tiled in Solid Squares

“Stay away from solid square tiles at all costs,” says Chelsea Marks, co-owner of Paynes Gray. “Even if you find a tile with some texture that you think might work—don’t do it.” She recommends opting for staggered or patterned tiles instead.

If you want something versatile and timeless, yet simple, a herringbone pattern in marble or ceramic tile is a fantastic choice.

There’s Subway Tile

Whether it was at your friend’s new house or a trendy restaurant, for years you couldn’t walk into a bathroom without seeing subway tile. The look became so oversaturated that it's now starting to feel dated. “Subway tile is out," Marks says. "Sorry, but I have to say it. It can still feel current if done right, but it will look extremely dated in five years—I promise.”

With so many different shapes and styles of tile available today, there are plenty of ways to get creative without opting for subway tile.

Accent Tiles Are Stealing the Show

Tile borders and accent strips were a hot look a few years ago, but now they can make your bathroom look dated. “Continuous tiling without interruption or statement walls with large tiles or unique patterns are more modern,” says interior designer Amy Switzer.

However, that doesn’t mean your bathroom has to be monochromatic. “If your bathroom is a sea of beige, from tiles to paint, it’s time to introduce some contrast," she says. "A pop of color, a bold vanity, or even a statement mirror can add much-needed life."

The Bathmat Is Fuzzy

Fuzzy bath mats might feel nice on your feet, but they are incredibly dated and borderline unhygienic. “I shouldn’t have to say this, but don’t put carpet in a bathroom," Marks says. "Even a shaggy bath mat is a no. Not only does it look like 1978, but the idea of a shaggy rug soaking up water day after day is disgusting."

If you like a soft feeling underfoot, opt for a washable memory foam bathmat instead. It will look sleeker and still provide that comfy feel.

Your Cabinets Are Dark Wood

Dark wood cabinetry was popular for about a decade, but Switzer notes that it can make a bathroom feel heavy and outdated. “Lighter tones, floating vanities, or sleek matte finishes are more in line with modern design trends,” she explains.

If you like dark colors in a bathroom, go with bold, dark tile or deep-hued wallpaper, but keep the cabinetry light.

The Light Fixtures Are Too Heavy

Swapping out light fixtures is one of the easiest ways to update a bathroom. “Heavy, traditional fixtures with intricate detailing can date a bathroom quickly,” says Switzer. She advises re-evaluating your bathroom lighting scheme and replacing outdated fixtures with minimalist, sleek, or matte black designs to bring a fresh look. “Those rows of round bulbs scream the '90s," she says. "Switching to modern sconces or backlit mirrors can instantly update the space.”