Bathrooms may be the smallest rooms in the house, but they pack a big punch when it comes to real estate photography. A clean, bright bathroom can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers, while a cluttered or dingy one can turn them off instantly. The key to preparing a bathroom for photos is to create a space that feels spa-like, fresh, and functional.
In this post, we’ll walk through the steps of getting your bathroom ready for a real estate shoot. From clearing countertops to cleaning mirrors, you’ll learn how to make even the tiniest bathroom look its best.
The Bathroom Prep Checklist
- Clear Counters of Personal Items One of the quickest ways to make a bathroom feel cluttered is by leaving personal items out in the open. Toothbrushes, razors, makeup, and toiletries all need to be removed from the countertop. The goal is to make the space feel clean and minimalist, so stash those items in cabinets or drawers. You can leave a small decorative item, like a plant or soap dish, but keep it simple.
- Make the Mirrors Shine Dirty or streaky mirrors can ruin a great photo. Take the time to clean mirrors until they’re sparkling, as they reflect light and help brighten up the entire room. A streak-free shine makes the bathroom feel cleaner and more open.
- Clean the Shower, Tub, and Toilet The shower and tub should be spotless, with no visible soap scum, mildew, or grime. If you have a shower curtain, make sure it’s clean and free of any stains. Remove shampoo bottles, loofahs, and razors from the shower area—buyers don’t want to see these personal items in the photos. Toilets should also be sparkling clean, with the lid down for the shoot.
- Floors and Rugs Cleaned Bathroom floors should be swept and mopped to remove any dust or hair. If you have rugs, make sure they’re clean and free of stains. A freshly cleaned rug adds a cozy touch to the bathroom, but it should still look crisp and tidy.
- Check Lighting and Ventilation Good lighting is essential in bathrooms. Make sure all bulbs are working, and if possible, use bright, white light to illuminate the space. If the bathroom has a window, open it to let in natural light (and fresh air). A well-lit bathroom feels more spacious and inviting, which is exactly what buyers want to see.
Real-World Example: The Bathroom That Needed a Little TLC
We once worked with a homeowner who had a small bathroom that felt dark and cramped. The countertops were cluttered with toiletries, and the mirror was foggy with streaks. After clearing the counters, cleaning the mirror, and adding brighter lighting, the space felt twice as big. The photos turned out bright, fresh, and inviting, and the feedback from buyers was overwhelmingly positive.
Activity: Bathroom Blitz
Take a look at your bathroom right now. Are the counters covered with personal items? Is the mirror a little streaky? Spend 10 minutes tidying up the space: remove personal items, clean the mirror, and wipe down surfaces. When you’re done, step back and see how much bigger and brighter the room feels. Now imagine how much better it will look in photos!
Discussion Question: Why Do Clean, Minimal Bathrooms Appeal to Buyers?
Bathrooms are intimate spaces, and buyers want to see them as clean, functional, and inviting. Why do you think a clean, clutter-free bathroom makes such a strong impact? Discuss how minimalist bathroom staging creates the impression of a well-maintained, spacious home.
Wrapping It Up
When it comes to staging bathrooms for a real estate shoot, cleanliness and simplicity are key. A bright, clutter-free bathroom can make even the smallest space feel like a luxurious retreat. Take the time to clear surfaces, clean mirrors, and add a few final touches to make the bathroom shine in photos.
Next week, we’ll dive into laundry room preparation, where we’ll show you how to transform a utilitarian space into a functional and organized area buyers will love! Stay tuned!
