5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Bathroom Suite
Designing your dream bathroom can be an exciting time, but without proper planning, it can quickly derail into costly mistakes. From poorly fitting fixtures to impractical layouts, getting it wrong means inconvenience, wasted money, and future regrets and misery.
To help you avoid the common pitfalls of bathroom suite planning, we’ve put together this essential guide to help you avoid any unwanted errors. Whether you're revamping a cloakroom suite and need small bathroom planning tips or you’re transforming a full-size family bathroom, steering clear of these five bathroom suite mistakes will keep your project on track.
1. Not Measuring Your Space Properly
Size Matters (More Than You Think)
One of the most frequent yet painfully avoidable mistakes is underestimating how important accurate measurements are. Our cardinal rule on this is simple: measure, measure, then measure again! By missing this step, buying a suite without checking your room dimensions properly can result in a layout that feels cramped, awkward, or, worst of all, doesn’t fit at all!
What to measure:
- Floor space (length x width)
- Ceiling height (especially under sloping roofs)
- Door swings and window positions
- Plumbing locations and clearance for fittings
Before you start shopping, map out your space or even consider using an online planner to help make a visual plan so you can see the measurements properly. For smaller bathrooms, consider ensuite bathroom suites or small bathroom suites to save on space.
2. Ignoring Your Home’s Water Pressure
Not All Fixtures Work with All Systems
Your dream rain shower or waterfall bathroom tap may look stunning, but if your home has low water pressure and you’ve chosen an incompatible fixture, you can say goodbye to the perfect flow of water. It’s crucial to double check the water pressure compatibility of your new appliance compared to your home’s pressure system.
Let's break down each of the main water systems in the UK:
Gravity Fed System
- Relies on gravity to provide water pressure.
- Typically includes a cold water tank in the loft and a hot water cylinder in an airing cupboard.
- Lower water pressure compared to other systems.
- Compatible with most traditional plumbing setups.
- Can be boosted with a pump for higher pressure.
Combi (Combination) Boiler System
- Heats water directly from the mains on demand - no storage tanks needed.
- Compact and space-saving.
- Provides high-pressure hot water.
- Not ideal for large homes with high simultaneous demand.
- Efficient for smaller households.
Unvented System
- Sealed system using a pressurised hot water cylinder.
- Receives cold water directly from the mains.
- Provides high pressure to all outlets.
- No need for a cold water tank.
- Suitable for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.
Cold Mains System
- Direct connection to the mains water supply.
- Typically used for kitchen taps and sometimes bathrooms.
- Offers consistently high pressure and potable water.
- Less complex than stored systems.
- Essential for modern appliances (e.g., dishwashers and washing machines).
How to avoid making mistakes:
- Test your home’s water pressure (we recommend hiring a plumber to help test this out if you’re unsure)
- Match taps, showers, and mixer valves to your system
- Choose products labelled as low-pressure compatible if in doubt
Here at Plumbworld, we offer a wide range of low pressure, high pressure, and combi-compatible taps and showers, ideal for all types of homes. From older UK homes that may use gravity-fed systems to new builds with combi or high pressure systems installed, we've got you covered.
3. Prioritising Style Over Functionality
Form Should Follow Function
We know, we know, choosing that ultra-modern wall hung toilet or freestanding bath can often be irresistible. The allure of style can be tempting…but unfortunately, sometimes practicality needs to take the lead. While aesthetic appeal is always a bonus, it shouldn’t override usability, especially in family homes, smaller bathrooms, or accessible bathrooms.
Common issues include:
- Wall-hung toilets or vanity units that require reinforced walls
- Oversized bathtubs that dominate space
- Bathroom suites that lack practical surfaces or clearances
Now, we’re not saying you should miss out on style completely. Far from it! Instead, aim for balance. A bathroom suite with fittings such as walk in shower enclosures delivers style and practicality, ideal for a range of home interior designs.
4. Forgetting About Storage
Cluttered Bathrooms Start Here
A beautiful bathroom can quickly become frustrating if there’s nowhere to keep your bathroom essentials. Surprisingly, many suites don’t come with integrated storage, leaving homeowners scrambling for solutions post-installation.
Here are a few ways you can add some extra storage to your new bathroom:
- Vanity units boast plenty of extra storage space
- Wall-mounted bathroom shelves or bathroom cabinets are excellent for clearing space on your bathroom floors
- Bathroom mirrors with integrated cabinets are ideal for hiding bathroom accessories
- Tall storage cabinets are the perfect choice for storing towels and toiletries
If you’re looking for convenience wrapped up in one perfect package, opt for one of our complete bathroom suites, which include a toilet, vanity unit, and even a shower bath in one neat bundle.
5. Overlooking Future Needs
Think Long-Term, Not Just Right Now
It’s easy to get caught up in trends, but your bathroom should serve you for years to come. Whether you’re planning for a growing family, future mobility concerns, or just want to protect your investment, forward-thinking is a smart move.
Plan for the future by:
- Choosing timeless designs over current trend-driven styles
- Opting for easy-clean surfaces and minimal grout lines
- Considering accessible bathroom features like walk-in showers or comfort-height toilets
Look at options like the AKW SmartCare Plus White Electric Shower 8.5kw - 29012WH or other accessible showers that boast stylish yet accessible solutions, perfect for future-proofing your home.
Make the Right Choice the First Time
Bathroom renovations are an investment, and avoiding these five mistakes ensures you’re your investment pays off.
With some thoughtful planning (and maybe a chat with a bathroom specialist), your dream bathroom suite is well within reach. Explore a wide range of bathroom suites and planning tools at Plumbworld, and make your bathroom a space that works beautifully for years to come.
If you're looking for further inspiration, take a look at the following posts - 6 Space Saving Bathroom Ideas - Pros and Cons of Walk in Shower.