8 Materials You Should NEVER Use in Your Bathroom, According to Designers

Designers are experts at designing bathrooms that are full of style and functionality alike. As such, they know which materials and finishes are proven to stand the test of time, as well as those that are more likely to cause headaches down the road.

From flooring that's exceedingly slippery when wet to wall finishes that increase the likelihood of mold, there are plenty of materials you should skip when designing the spa-worthy bathroom of your dreams. Below, three designers highlight the finishes and features they'd never incorporate into a bathroom for clients. Trust us, paying attention to these tips will save you time and money in the long run!

Grasscloth Wallpaper

While classic and full of texture, grasscloth wallpaper is not a wise choice for the bathroom, and is therefore something that interior designer Travis London never reaches for when designing such a space. “It simply can’t withstand the humidity the way a bathroom demands,” he says, adding that he designs not just for style but functionality. “Aesthetics should never come at the cost of longevity,” London says. “I believe luxury is not just how something looks, but how it lives over time.”

London also makes sure to avoid any high-gloss, fingerprint-prone surfaces in bathrooms he designs. “My bathrooms are designed to feel like rituals—quiet, sensual spaces that invite softness and calm,” he says. “I lean into natural stone, matte finishes, and materials that age beautifully.” Not only does he describe high-gloss surfaces as “cold and clinical,” he explains that they simply aren’t practical in this kind of high-traffic space. “You want to feel wrapped in elegance, not wiping down smudges every time you touch a faucet,” he adds.

Mirrored Tile

You’re also going to want to avoid mirrored tile in the bathroom, shares Lauren Saab, the founder of Saab Studios. “Mirrored tile might look glamorous at first, but it’s one of the highest-maintenance finishes you can use in a bathroom,” she says. “It shows every splash, streaks constantly, and over time, the reflective backing can deteriorate in humid conditions, leading to black spots or clouding.” Your best bet? Use a ceramic or polished stone instead.

White or Plastic Shower Curtains

By no means do you need to shell out big time on a shower curtain, but you should certainly think beyond the basics. “I never use clear or white plastic shower curtains that show spotty residues,” says Sherrell Neal, the founder of Sherrell Design Studio. “Hospitality fabric shower liners make great protectors from splashes, and we double these up with our custom shower curtains.” As a bonus, these pieces are easy to throw into the washing machine, too, so you'll cut down on the risk of mold and mildew.

Shaggy Runners or Toilet Covers

Pieces like these are so '80s—and they’re simply not all that attractive, either. “I think they’re unsightly and unsanitary,” Neal says. The better option when it comes to covering floors, she notes, is a small bathmat placed beside the shower or a simple flat weave runner.

Wall-to-Wall Carpet

While we’re on the topic of bathroom floor coverings, make a note to skip any wall-to-wall carpeting in such a space. “It traps humidity, odors, and bacteria, especially around tubs or toilets,” Saab explains. “Over time, there’s no way to keep it feeling truly clean.” You’re much better off with large-format tile or natural stone flooring with a simple, washable rug on top, Saab adds.

Peel-and-Stick Products

Skip the peel-and-stick wallpaper and/or floor tile in the bathroom, Saab adds. “They rarely last in spaces with heat and humidity,” she says. It’s better to avoid what might seem like a smart, budget-friendly hack from the get-go. “The edges lift, the surface discolors, and the whole space starts to feel temporary,” the designer explains.

MDF Cabinetry

Speaking of budget-friendly bathroom additions, skip the MDF cabinetry and thank yourself later. “It’s not a smart choice near water,” Saab says. “Even a small leak or spill can cause it to swell, warp, and deteriorate faster than most people expect.” You’re much better off with marine-grade plywood or solid wood, she shares.