Typical Bathroom Door Sizes: 5 Small-Space Ideas: Practical bathroom door size ideas and space-saving tips from a senior interior designer

I once designed a tiny apartment where the client insisted on a swinging barn door for the bathroom—without accounting for the adjacent cabinet. It slid straight into my coffee table and my ego. That mishap taught me that door size and operation can make or break a small bathroom, and that small spaces often spark big design ideas. In this article I’ll share five practical inspirations for typical bathroom door sizes and layout choices I use in real projects.

1. Standard hinged door: the classic 30" or 32"

The most common bathroom door sizes in the U.S. are 30" and 32" widths with a 80" height. I use this when clearances allow, because it’s affordable, familiar, and fits most fixtures. Downsides are it needs swing space, which can conflict with vanities or towel racks in compact layouts.

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2. Narrow hinged door: 24"–28" for tight spaces

For powder rooms or small secondary baths I often specify 24" or 28" doors. They save floor space and keep circulation easier, but they can feel a bit tight for accessibility—so I avoid them for master baths or where someone may need mobility aids.

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3. Pocket door: saves swing space

Pocket doors are my go-to when swing clearance is impossible; a standard pocket door is usually 28"–30" wide. They free up wall space for storage or larger vanities. Installation is trickier and can be noisy if poorly detailed, so plan the framing and hardware early.

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4. Sliding barn door: style with caveats

Barn doors look fantastic and can be sized 30"–36" depending on wall space. I warn clients they don’t seal like a regular door—so privacy and sound transfer are considerations. They’re great when you want a design statement and have adequate wall for the track.

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5. Bi-fold and folding doors: compact but limited

Bi-fold or concertina doors can be 24"–30" wide and work well for closets and tiny bathrooms. They’re budget-friendly and space-saving, but they reduce clear opening width and can feel less robust than a solid hinged door.

If you’re planning or measuring, remember to account for trim, swing, and the finished floor height. For quick visualization of different door types in a plan, I sometimes mock up layouts with an online room planner to test clearances before ordering hardware.

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Tips 1:

Measure the finished floor-to-ceiling height and check local code for minimum clearances. In the U.S., many codes require at least 32" clear opening for accessible routes—so keep that in mind. For visual planning and testing, tools like a free floor plan creator are lifesavers when juggling doors, fixtures, and furniture in tight bathrooms.

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FAQ

Q: What is the minimum legal bathroom door width?

A: Building codes vary, but for accessibility the ADA specifies a minimum 32" clear width when the door is open 90°. Local residential codes may allow narrower doors—check your jurisdiction.

Q: Are bathroom doors typically the same height as bedroom doors?

A: Yes, most interior doors share a standard height of 80" (6'8"), though taller 84" or 96" doors are used for a more upscale look.

Q: How much clearance does a hinged door need?

A: Hinged doors need the full swing arc, usually about the door width plus trim. Ensure nothing obstructs the swing such as vanities or toilets.

Q: Can you install a pocket door in a load-bearing wall?

A: It’s possible but more complex—structural modifications and headers may be required. Consult a structural engineer or experienced contractor.

Q: What door width is best for accessibility?

A: Aim for at least a 32" clear opening; 36" is more comfortable for wheelchair access and easier maneuvering.

Q: Do sliding barn doors provide privacy?

A: Not as well as traditional doors—gaps along the edges and lack of seals mean sound and light can pass through more easily.

Q: Where can I test different bathroom layouts quickly?

A: I often mock up layouts using a 3D floor planner to check clearances and visual impact before committing to purchases.

Q: Are there resources for door size standards?

A: Yes—consult the International Residential Code (IRC) and ADA Standards for accessible design for authoritative requirements (see IRC/ADA documentation for specifics).

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