10 Rental Apartment Bathroom Decorating Ideas: Small Bathroom, Big Style: My 10 Go-To Rental-Friendly IdeasMarina HoltSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Peel-and-stick wallpaper magic2. Over-the-toilet storage upgrades3. Switch out your mirror4. Bold shower curtains as statement pieces5. Layered lighting6. Clever removable floor solutions7. Plants for life and color8. Temporary hardware upgrades9. Decorative trays and baskets10. Art that can handle humidityFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEA few years ago, I had a client who insisted on putting a crystal chandelier above her tiny rental bathroom sink. It looked glamorous… until her landlord saw it and asked her to take it down immediately. That’s when I learned—rental bathrooms are all about finding clever, stylish, and removable solutions. Small spaces really do push us to think bigger with design, and today I’m sharing my 10 favorite bathroom decorating ideas for rentals, straight from my own projects and happy accidents.1. Peel-and-stick wallpaper magicI adore using peel-and-stick wallpaper to create instant character. It removes easily when you move out, but the impact can be huge. Patterns can distract from awkward layouts and make even a dull beige bathroom exciting.save pin2. Over-the-toilet storage upgradesThat blank space above the toilet is a missed opportunity in so many rentals. I often add a lightweight shelving unit or floating shelves for plants, towels, and candles—no drilling required if you choose tension designs.save pin3. Switch out your mirrorA framed mirror instantly feels more intentional than the standard builder-grade rectangle. Just keep the old one to reinstall later. I once sourced a vintage oval mirror that transformed a bland space into something straight out of a boutique hotel.save pin4. Bold shower curtains as statement piecesA shower curtain is basically a giant piece of fabric art. Go for a pattern or color you love—it’s low-cost, no-permission-needed, and it can tie the whole look together. I sometimes coordinate towels with it for a polished set.save pin5. Layered lightingMost rental bathrooms have flat, unflattering lighting. I like to add battery-operated wall sconces with adhesive strips. They bring warmth and softness, making your bathroom feel twice as inviting as the standard overhead glare.save pin6. Clever removable floor solutionsVinyl peel-and-stick tiles or waterproof mats can cover ugly floors without damage. I once used a black-and-white check pattern, and with some smart bathroom design tool planning, it made my client's tiny rental feel like a Parisian café.save pin7. Plants for life and colorBathrooms with natural light thrive with greenery—think pothos, ferns, or even a little eucalyptus by the shower. If there’s no window, I fake it with realistic artificial plants for the same fresh effect.save pin8. Temporary hardware upgradesSwapping basic faucet handles or cabinet knobs is easier than you think, and you can keep the originals to replace before moving out. Brass or matte black can completely update the look without touching the plumbing.save pin9. Decorative trays and basketsClutter kills style. I corral toiletries into trays or woven baskets—it instantly looks intentional. Midway through one project, I realized my free floor plan creator mock-up even included these small accessories because they make that much impact visually.save pin10. Art that can handle humidityI hang moisture-resistant prints or even frame postcards. It personalizes the space without risking damage to collectible pieces. Once, I used laminated photography prints for a beach-themed rental bathroom, and they lasted perfectly.With rental apartments, rules can feel limiting, but that’s where creative thinking shines. Just remember—a rental bathroom can still be a stylish, restorative space. And if you want to visualize a bold change before committing, experimenting with an AI interior design mock-up can help you see the possibilities risk-free.save pinFAQQ: Will peel-and-stick wallpaper damage the bathroom walls?A: High-quality versions are designed to come off cleanly; just make sure the wall is properly painted and smooth for best results.Q: How do I avoid mold when adding plants?A: Good ventilation is key—open a window or run the fan. Rotating plants to low-humidity rooms periodically also helps.Q: Can I install lighting without an electrician?A: Yes! Battery-operated or plug-in lights with adhesive backing or tension rods are perfect for rentals and require no rewiring.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE