23 Small Bathroom Ideas With Tub for Relaxing in Tight Spaces

Imagine sinking into a warm bath in a tiny bathroom that feels anything but cramped — where soft textures, layered lighting, and a calm color palette transform a modest tub into a private spa. Picture matte porcelain against warm brass, the faint steam fogging a round mirror as a suspended reed diffuser sends gentle eucalyptus into the air. A slim wooden stool holds a book and a steaming mug; a woven basket tucks away fluffy towels. These 23 small bathroom ideas are about creating moments — pockets of quiet luxury in rooms where clever design does the heavy lifting.

Small bathrooms with tubs don’t need to sacrifice style for functionality. With the right materials and a few smart edits, a narrow space can feel airy and intentional. Think pale, reflective tiles to bounce light, vertical storage to free floor space, and tactile accents — a terracotta soap dish, a linen curtain, a velvet bath pillow — that invite touch and slow the mind. Color choices set the mood: soft greens and sea‑glass blues soothe; charcoal and deep navy add drama; warm neutrals feel cocooning. Texture — wood grain, matte ceramics, woven fibers — brings a sensory richness that makes a quick soak feel like a retreat.

Why does this matter? Because homes are no longer just practical boxes; they are places that nourish habits, host friends, and reflect personality. A small bathroom that prioritizes relaxation supports evening rituals, helps guests feel cared for, and adds everyday luxury for busy homeowners. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday hosting weekend, doing a seasonal refresh, updating a rental bathroom without permanent renovations, or simply carving out a quiet corner after work, these ideas fit many lives and budgets. If you’re also working on compact living rooms or thinking through wall art that complements snug spaces, check our small living room ideas for inspiration at small living room ideas.

Style Snapshot

What this collection is: A curated set of small‑bathroom decor and layout ideas centered around tubs — including textiles, lighting, shelving, fixtures, and small DIY upgrades that maximize relaxation without requiring major remodeling.

Main style: Versatile but leaning modern‑scandi with touches of coastal, rustic, and minimal glam depending on the chosen materials and finishes.

Typical colors, materials, and textures:

• Colors: soft neutrals, muted greens/blues, charcoal accents, warm wood tones.
• Materials: matte or glossy tiles, ceramic, polished or brushed metal (brass/black), teak or oak, woven baskets, linen and cotton textiles.
• Textures: ribbed tiles, wooden slats, wicker, plush bath mats, soft shower curtains.

Best rooms/zones: Small full bathrooms, three‑quarter bathrooms (tub with shower), guest bathrooms, and en‑suite bathrooms in apartments.

DIY vs. store‑bought: Mix — many elements (shelves, hooks, bath trays, shelves) are easy DIY or DIY‑friendly, while plumbing fixtures and tubs are typically purchased and professionally installed.

Design Impact

These 23 small bathroom ideas change both the look and the daily life of a tiny tub space. Visually, they create focal points and open sightlines: a vertical tile backsplash draws the eye upward, a slim glass shower screen keeps the room feeling open, and a single large mirror multiplies light. Small shifts — switching a heavy shower curtain for a clear glass partition, replacing a bulky vanity with a floating sink, or using high‑gloss tiles on the lower half of the wall — can make the room feel larger and more serene.

Emotionally, a well‑styled small bathroom invites ritual and calm. The right lighting scheme (layered ceiling, mirror, and accent lights) softens the edges of the day. Practical benefits are immediate: added nooks for folded towels, hooks for robes, and shallow recessed shelves free counter space and reduce visual clutter. Imagine returning from a long day to a bathroom where everything has its place — the eucalyptus steamer steaming on the tub tray, a warm towel waiting on a heated rail, and soothing light from a dimmable wall sconce. For anyone working from home, hosting overnight guests, or seeking small ways to elevate everyday routines, these adaptations are both beautiful and useful.

Why Choose It

Who this is perfect for: Renters who want renter‑friendly upgrades (peel‑and‑stick tiles, tension rods), apartment dwellers with limited square footage, families needing functional storage, and design beginners who want a high‑impact but manageable refresh.

Key strengths: Affordable and flexible — you can layer inexpensive textiles and lighting over existing fixtures; timeless — neutral palettes and natural textures age gracefully; small‑space friendly — emphasizes vertical storage and multipurpose items; seasonal‑friendly — easy to swap towels, rugs, and art for holidays or a fresh look.

Problem solver example: An awkward, dark alcove tub can be transformed by installing a clear glass screen, a narrow floating shelf for candles and soap, a light wood bath tray, and a pale green paint on the ceiling to lift the feel. That combo brightens the space, gives storage without crowding, and turns a neglected tub into the home’s favorite unwinding spot.

How to Style 23 Small Bathroom Ideas With Tub for Relaxing in Tight Spaces

{ingredients}

• Main items:
  • Slim or short tub tray (wood or bamboo)
  • Clear glass or slim-framed shower screen (if replacing curtain)
  • Floating shelf or recessed niche(s)
  • Wall-mounted or pendant lighting (dimmable)
  • Tall towel ladder or vertical heated towel rail
  • Soft shower curtain or waterproof linen curtain
  • Cushioned bath pillow and bath mat
  • Woven baskets for towels and toiletries
  • Mirror (large, round or rectangular)
• Optional extras:
  • Reed diffuser, scented candles, or essential oil diffuser
  • Small stool or stool‑style side table for drinks/books
  • Potted plant (philodendron, fern, or snake plant)
  • Waterproof bluetooth speaker
  • Hooks and railings for robes
• Budget substitutions:
  • Tension rod & stylish curtain instead of glass screen
  • Thrifted wooden tray sanded and sealed for tub tray
  • Peel‑and‑stick tiles for an accent strip instead of full tile
  • IKEA‑style floating shelves and baskets

{directions}

1. Start with the color scheme: pick one dominant neutral (warm white, pale gray, or beige) and one accent color (sage, navy, or charcoal). Use the accent in towels, a single painted wall, or tile band. Tip: cool accents (blues/greens) feel more spa‑like; warm accents (terracotta, ochre) feel cozier.
2. Replace the tub curtain (if it blocks light) with a clear glass screen or a low‑pile, water‑resistant linen curtain hung on a curved rod to create perceived extra width. Avoid heavy patterns that visually shrink the space.
3. Add vertical storage: install a narrow floating shelf above the tub for candles and soaps, and a recessed niche in the shower area for shampoos. Keep items grouped in baskets to reduce visual clutter.
4. Layer lighting: start with bright overhead, add a dimmable sconce by the mirror, and place small waterproof LED strips inside niches or under shelves. Use warm bulbs (2700–3000K) for relaxing evening soaks.
5. Introduce a tactile element: place a teak or oak tub tray and a plush bath mat. Choose natural fibers (cotton or linen) for towels to absorb sound and feel luxurious against the skin.
6. Bring in greenery: place a small plant on a high shelf or hang a trailing plant near the window. Select varieties that tolerate humidity and low light.
7. Accessorize intentionally: limit visible bottles to a few coordinated dispensers, use a single decorative tray, and keep frequently used items within arm’s reach. Tip: keep grilling small details — choose mismatched jars for a collected feel, or uniform containers for a minimalist look.
8. Anchor with texture: use ribbed or subway tiles in a vertical layout to make walls feel taller. Avoid large patterns that dominate in small rooms.
9. Add comfort features: install a heated towel rail or place an electric towel warmer near the tub. A bath pillow and non‑slip mat make soaks safer and comfier.
10. Final edit: stand at the doorway and remove anything that competes with the focal tub. Less is often more in tiny spaces — surround the tub with a few curated, useful pieces rather than many decorative objects.

Presentation Tips

Small bathrooms can sing in many ways — here are 23 specific ideas you can mix and match to build your version of a relaxing tub nook:

1. Narrow floating shelf above the tub.
2. Recessed shampoo niche with LED strip.
3. Clear glass shower screen to open sightlines.
4. Vertical subway tiles to accentuate height.
5. Heated towel rail for cozy exits.
6. Teak tub tray with book holder.
7. Bamboo or teak bath mat.
8. Hanging terrarium or trailing plant.
9. Single large round mirror to reflect light.
10. Pendant lighting instead of bulky sconces.
11. Peel‑and‑stick tiles for a renter revamp.
12. Slim vanity with drawers for hidden storage.
13. Ladder towel rack for folded storage.
14. Oversized art on the wall opposite the tub.
15. Scent station: diffuser plus candle trio.
16. Matching dispenser set to reduce bottle clutter.
17. Non‑slip textured floor tiles for safety.
18. Foldaway stool for extra surface area.
19. Dark accent wall for a moody, cocooning feel.
20. Accent grout color for subtle personality.
21. Bath pillow and waterproof cushion.
22. Woven baskets for laundry and extra towels.
23. Soft fabric shower curtain layered with sheer for privacy and light.

For pairing ideas, try combining plants and wood for a coastal vibe, brass fixtures and velvet textiles for a tiny glam touch, or black hardware with white tile for crisp modern contrast. For larger open bathrooms, duplicate small accents (matching trays and towels) on both sides to create balance; in small single‑wall bathrooms, keep accessories low to avoid interrupting sightlines. For wall art inspiration that complements small spaces, our guide on living room wall decor has ideas adaptable to bathrooms at living room wall decor ideas.

How to Maintain

Natural materials need gentle care: teak trays and bath mats should be rinsed and dried regularly to prevent mildew and treated with teak oil quarterly. Woven baskets can be vacuumed or spot‑cleaned and stored in a dry closet between seasonal uses. For metal fixtures, use a mild soap and water solution; avoid abrasive cleaners that remove protective finishes.

Dust and wipe high surfaces weekly, launder towels every 3–4 uses, and deep clean grout and tile monthly to keep things fresh. Store seasonal textiles (thicker robes, decorative cushions) in breathable cotton bags away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Rotate textiles every few months to reduce wear patterns and maintain a fresh, curated look.

Designer’s Advice

• Keep one focal point (tub, mirror, or shower niche) to avoid visual competition.
• Use warm, dimmable lighting for evening soaks and brighter task lighting for mornings.
• Scale accessories to the room — choose narrow shelves and slim baskets.
• Group items in odd numbers (3 or 5) for a natural, styled look.
• Mix textures (smooth tile, rough wood, soft linen) to make a small room feel layered.
• When in doubt, choose neutral towels and swap small colorful accents seasonally.
• Maintain clear horizontal space around the tub for an uncluttered, spa‑like vibe.

Style Twists

Minimalist version: Matte white tiles, hidden storage, a thin black frame glass screen, and a single small plant for a streamlined spa aesthetic.

Cozy and colorful: Warm clay tiles, layered rugs, patterned shower curtain, brass fixtures, and plenty of soft towels for a snug, tactile space perfect for winter.

Budget makeover: Peel‑and‑stick tile accent, thrifted mirror refinished in brass spray paint, a tension rod with a linen curtain, and baskets from a discount store — big impact with low spend.

Decor Q&A

Q: Can these ideas work in a rental bathroom?
A: Yes — focus on non‑permanent upgrades (peel‑and‑stick tile, removable shelving, shower curtains, and freestanding towel rails) that give a designer look without permanent changes.

Q: How do I choose between a glass screen and a shower curtain?
A: Glass opens the room visually and is easier to clean long‑term; curtains are budget‑friendly and add softness. Choose based on budget, permanence, and whether you want a softer textile look.

Q: What plants work best in humid, low‑light bathrooms?
A: Ferns, pothos, and snake plants tolerate humidity and less light; hang trailing varieties to save counter space.

Q: How do I keep a small bathroom from feeling cluttered?
A: Limit visible items, store extras in baskets or drawers, use vertical storage, and keep a consistent color palette so everything reads as cohesive.

Q: Where can I find quality, affordable fixtures and accessories?
A: Look for local home stores, independent ceramics sellers, and second‑hand shops for unique items; many online retailers and showrooms offer budget and premium options.

Conclusion

Ready to turn your compact tub into a relaxing retreat? Start small — a new tub tray, pared‑back bottles, and one plant can change the mood overnight. If you’d like more bedroom and living area ideas to complement your bathroom refresh, explore this collection of 23 Small Farmhouse Bathroom Ideas to Create a Peaceful Haven for farmhouse‑leaning inspiration, and if you’re planning to replace or buy a bathtub, consult the Bathtub Buying Guide: Sizes & Types – The Home Depot to choose the right fit.

We’d love to see your small bathroom transformations — share photos, questions, or tips in the comments below, and subscribe to Moderndecorum for more small‑space ideas and seasonal styling guides.