Choosing the right paint colors for a small bathroom can be tricky. The wrong colors can make an already cramped space feel even smaller. But the right light colors can help open up and brighten a small bathroom. Here are some tips on choosing the best light colors for small bathrooms.
Why Light Colors Work Best in Small Bathrooms
Light colors help reflect light around a room, making spaces feel more open and airy. Dark colors tend to absorb light, which can make a room feel smaller and more closed in. Since small bathrooms need all the help they can get to feel more spacious, light paint colors are the way to go.
In addition to making a room feel larger, light colors are also soothing and create a clean, fresh look perfect for a bathroom. Soft creams, airy blues, light greens, and pale grays are all great options. Stay away from bright whites, which can feel stark and sterile in a small bathroom.
The Best Light Paint Colors for Small Bathrooms
Soft White
A soft white is a perfect neutral shade for a small bathroom. Look for whites with a subtle cream or grey undertone which feel warmer and more inviting than a flat white. Soft whites open up space but also add a touch of elegance.
Pale Blue
From powder blue to sky blue, pale shades of blue work beautifully in small bathrooms. They bring a calming spa-like feel and are reminiscent of blue skies, helping to open up the space. Try an airy robin’s egg blue or muted periwinkle blue.
Light Green
For a more earthy, natural vibe, consider a light sage green or seafoam green. These tones add a refreshing yet soothing ambiance, perfect for starting or ending your day. Keep the shades very soft so they don’t overwhelm the small room.
Lavender Grey
For a contemporary look, try a lavender grey paint color. This chic shade has a hint of color without being overpowering. The subtle warmth of the purple undertones keeps the grey from looking sterile and adds a stylish punch.
Warm Greige
Greige is a popular paint color for bathrooms. A blend between grey and beige, it’s neutral but has more personality than basic beige. Look for a greige with warm undertones to avoid a cold look. The warm undertone also complements skin tones.
Factors to Consider in Choosing a Color
Existing Features
Take into account existing tiles, fixtures, and other features when selecting a wall color. Cool-toned grays pair nicely with silver hardware while warm beiges complement bronze fixtures. If your bathroom has colorful tile, choose a neutral wall color that won’t compete.
Amount of Natural Light
The amount of natural light your bathroom gets should guide your color choice. North-facing bathrooms with little natural light can handle slightly deeper shades without appearing dark and gloomy. South-facing rooms can go for very pale hues without looking washed out.
Personal Preference
While keeping the room’s size in mind, also pick a color you find pleasant and enjoyable. You’ll see the color every day so make sure you like it. Just stick to lighter versions of your favorite hue.
Paint Finish
In addition to color, sheen makes a difference too. Flat or matte finishes reflect the least light. Eggshell has a silky appearance that works well. Satin finishes have a hint of sheen. Semi-gloss and high-gloss are too shiny for small bathrooms, magnifying flaws.
Where to Use Light Colors in a Small Bathroom
Painting all walls in a small bathroom the same light color maximizes the spacious effect. But if you want more contrast, there are strategic places to highlight.
Ceiling
Painting the ceiling a light color helps give the illusion of a higher ceiling, making the room feel more open. Continue the wall color onto the ceiling or go for a white ceiling.
Upper Walls
Painting just the top half of walls in a light color keeps the room looking more expansive. The darker lower color grounds the room. Go for two tones in the same color family, like a pale blue on top and navy on bottom.
Back Wall
Painting only the wall behind the vanity or tub/shower in a lighter neutral brightens up that area and makes it appear larger and more open.
Tips for Using Light Colors in a Small Bathroom
Add Contrasting Accents
While light colors open up a small bathroom, too much of one color can look washed out. Add contrast with black or dark bronze fixtures, colorful art, or dark grout in tiled areas.
Don’t Forget the Trim
For a cohesive look, match moldings and trim to either your wall color or ceiling color. Painting trim in a lighter or darker shade creates contrast.
Carry the Color Into Adjoining Areas
Continue your light bathroom color into a hallway or master bedroom to make the space feel expanded. Use the same color or a coordinating shade.
Example Color Schemes for Small Bathrooms
Soft white walls with robin’s egg blue ceiling
Pale lavender walls with bright white trim and sage green vanity
Light gray walls with a navy blue accent wall behind tub
Warm greige walls with brass fixtures and muted blue-green mosaic tile
Cream walls with slate gray slate floor tiles and white subway tile shower surround
Conclusion
The right light colors can make a small bathroom feel fresh, soothing, and surprisingly spacious. Stick to soft whites, airy pastels, or warm neutrals. Lighten up the ceilings and use color strategically to brighten key areas. Add some contrasting accents so the space doesn’t look one-dimensional. With the right light color scheme, even the tiniest bathroom can look and feel larger.
