10 Colorful Apartment Bathroom Decor Ideas That’ll Brighten Up Your Space Instantly

HOMEZEEMO

July 16, 2025

HOMEZEEMO - Let’s face it: most apartment bathrooms are... well, boring. You move in, and what greets you? A sea of builder-grade white tiles, beige walls, and the world’s most uninspired mirror hanging above the sink. It's like your bathroom is stuck in a design limbo, somewhere between “basic rental” and “dental office.”

But here’s the good news—you don’t have to live with that snooze-fest of a space forever.

Color, my friend, is your secret weapon. Whether you’re a renter or just working with a tight bathroom budget, adding bold hues and cheerful tones can completely shift the vibe of your space. A pop of teal, a splash of fuchsia, or even just a colorful soap dispenser can make a bland bathroom feel fresh, stylish, and uniquely YOU.

More than just aesthetics, color also affects your mood. Ever notice how a sunny yellow makes you feel happier? Or how deep blue brings in a spa-like calm? That’s color psychology doing its thing. And when applied to a small, intimate space like a bathroom—it can be absolutely transformative.

And no worries—you don’t need to break lease rules or pull out a paint roller to make an impact. Most of the colorful upgrades we’ll be sharing are renter-friendly, budget-savvy, and easy to remove or swap out if needed. Seriously, your landlord doesn’t even have to know!

So if you're ready to shake up your space with vibrant, energizing flair, you're in for a treat. From bold peel-and-stick wallpapers to rainbow-toned towels, I’ve rounded up 10 colorful apartment bathroom decor ideas that are equal parts fun and functional.

Let’s kick things off with one of the easiest (and most impactful) upgrades out there: removable wallpaper.

Paint It Bold with Removable Wallpaper

Try a Dramatic Floral, Geometric, or Tropical Peel-and-Stick Design

If you’re only going to change one thing in your apartment bathroom, let it be this: wallpaper that wows. No, not the 1970s kind that took three people and a heat gun to remove. I’m talking about modern, chic, peel-and-stick wallpaper that’s both easy to install and totally renter-approved.

These days, wallpaper comes in every style imaginable—from moody florals and tropical palms to punchy geometrics and pastel watercolor swirls. It’s a chance to let your personality shine, especially in a room that’s typically forgotten when it comes to decor. Want to feel like you’re in a Bali spa every time you shower? Slap up a leafy jungle print. Dreaming of retro vibes? Try a bold pink-and-orange mod pattern.

Here’s the best part: you don’t have to go full ceiling-to-floor. Even just one accent wall—say, behind the vanity or along the back wall of the toilet—can completely transform the space. Pair it with gold-tone accessories or even a playful mirror to complete the look.

Not sure where to start? Try these color combos that never miss:

Emerald green + blush pink for a vintage glam feel.
Deep navy + gold for a luxurious spa mood.
Hot pink + turquoise for bold, youthful energy.
Burnt orange + terracotta for warm, earthy vibes.

And yes, even in a tiny bathroom, this works. In fact, small spaces often benefit more from bold patterns—they create a jewel-box effect that feels custom and cozy instead of bland and boxy.

✨ Bonus Tip:

Look for brands that specialize in removable wallpaper for renters, like Chasing Paper, Tempaper, or Spoonflower. Many even offer moisture-resistant options made specifically for bathroom walls.

Bright Shower Curtains that Steal the Show

Let Your Shower Curtain Do All the Talking

Let’s talk about the unsung hero of the bathroom: the shower curtain. Think about it—it’s basically a big ol’ piece of fabric hanging smack in the middle of your space. That’s prime visual real estate just waiting to be fabulous. So if you’re still rocking a plain white curtain, it’s time for an upgrade.

A colorful shower curtain can instantly turn your bathroom from “meh” to OMG where did you get that?! It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to inject personality, and because it takes up so much space visually, it becomes an instant focal point.

Here are some fun and trendy themes to consider:

Boho prints: Think tribal patterns, medallion mandalas, or tassel-trimmed edges in warm earthy colors.
Watercolor designs: Soft blended pastels or bold strokes in rainbow shades give an artistic, calming feel.
Tropical motifs: Oversized banana leaves, flamingos, or pineapples bring in that vacation energy—even if you’re just hopping in for a quick rinse.
Graphic geometrics: Go for sharp lines, abstract shapes, or modern color-blocked designs to channel a chic, minimalist vibe—with a twist.

And don’t stop there. Once you’ve picked your dream curtain, build a color story around it. Add a bath mat in a complementary shade, maybe hang a coordinating hand towel or toss in a few matching wall prints. Suddenly your bathroom looks intentional—like it came from a magazine spread, not aisle seven of the hardware store.

💡 Pro Tip: If your bathroom is tiny (hello, apartment life), go for a curtain with vertical patterns or stripes. It draws the eye upward and creates the illusion of height. Or choose sheer styles that let light through while still offering privacy.

Color-Coordinated Towels and Textiles

Stack Your Shelves with Joyful, Multicolored Towels

Towels. So basic, right? Not anymore.

Swapping out your towels for colorful, coordinated options is one of the simplest—and most overlooked—ways to elevate your bathroom decor. Think of them as functional artwork. Instead of stuffing a pile of mismatched, faded terry cloth into a cabinet, put those vibrant beauties on display.

Here’s how to do it like a pro:

Pick a palette. Choose 2–3 colors that vibe with the rest of your bathroom (or your new shower curtain). For example: coral + teal + sunshine yellow. Or lavender + mint + rose gold.
Layer the tones. Mix solids, stripes, and textures for a curated look. Try pairing a plush bath towel in teal with a coral hand towel and a patterned washcloth. Instant visual interest!
Roll or fold with purpose. Stack them neatly on open shelving, display them in a wicker basket, or hang them staggered on wall hooks for a casual-chic feel.

And don’t underestimate the spa factor here. Coordinated towels give off a sense of calm and luxury. It’s like wrapping yourself in your own little slice of boutique hotel bliss—every single day.

✨ Want to go next-level? Throw in a colorful Turkish towel or fringed bath sheet. They’re lightweight, dry quickly, and come in every stripe pattern under the sun. Plus, they double as decor and Instagram props.

💡 Renter Tip: If your bathroom has wall-mounted shelves or a ladder rack, these are prime spots to stack colorful towels for max visual impact without using up precious floor space.

Pop-of-Color Vanity Accessories

Say Goodbye to Generic Soap Dishes

Okay, let’s have a quick heart-to-heart about your vanity area. If your soap dispenser is clear plastic and your toothbrush holder is something you grabbed last-minute at the dollar store… we need to talk. Because you, my friend, deserve better. And adding color to your bathroom doesn’t have to mean painting walls or buying oversized rugs. Sometimes, it’s all in the small but mighty accessories.

Enter: colorful vanity sets. Think bold soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, makeup trays, and Q-tip jars that bring your countertop to life. These little guys may not take up a lot of space, but they pack a serious visual punch.

Here’s how to do it right:

Choose a color theme that either complements or contrasts your existing decor. A white and gold bathroom? Add emerald green accessories for luxe vibes. Already rocking a boho shower curtain? Try sunset-toned pieces like amber, rust, or coral.
Look for sets that coordinate—this creates cohesion and makes the whole vanity feel styled, not random.
Try unique materials like colored glass, pink marble, matte ceramic, or even transparent acrylic with glitter (yep, that's a thing, and it's fabulous).
Keep it curated. Don’t clutter up your space. Just a couple of key colorful pieces are enough to make a stylish statement.

💡 Bonus Styling Tip: Add a small vanity tray or shallow bowl in a bold tone (like cobalt or rose gold) to group smaller items—perfume bottles, rings, hair ties. Functional and fashionable.

And if you’re feeling extra, match your accessories to your hand towels or even your nail polish. Yes, that level of coordination is totally allowed.

Wall Art That Speaks Color Fluently

Frame It Up with Abstracts, Quotes, or Florals

If your bathroom walls are feeling a little...bare, don’t worry—you don’t need to be an art curator to jazz things up. What you do need? Some strategically chosen, color-forward wall art to breathe personality into the space.

Yes, even a rental bathroom can have a gallery wall moment.

Adding art is one of the quickest ways to inject color, vibe, and a little soul into your bathroom without doing anything permanent. Whether your taste leans modern, boho, glam, or quirky, there’s colorful wall art out there with your name on it.

Here are some styles to get you started:

Abstracts in bold tones: Think brushy strokes in deep blues, fiery reds, or dreamy purples. These feel sophisticated but still fun.
Pop art prints: Bright and cheeky—ideal if you want a touch of sass with your morning routine.
Florals or botanicals: Great for softening hard bathroom lines with pretty petals in pinks, greens, or oranges.
Typography prints: A sassy quote or sweet affirmation in a vivid font can spark joy (and maybe a giggle) while you brush your teeth.

🎯 Rental Hack: Use stick-on hooks or command strips to hang your pieces without making holes. Want to go minimalist? Lean small framed prints on shelves or against the wall above the toilet.

Not sure where to find art? Try downloadable print shops on Etsy, DIY some watercolor blobs on cardstock, or even frame pages from a vibrant magazine. Pro tip: use mismatched frames in fun colors like teal, brass, or candy red for an eclectic, lived-in look.

💡 Color Styling Tip: Pull colors from your shower curtain or towels to create harmony. It’ll feel intentional without being too matchy-matchy.

Light Fixtures with Colorful Shades

Swap in a Funky Pendant or Pop-Colored Bulb Cover

Lighting can either make your bathroom feel like a dreamy morning glow-up zone... or like a creepy dentist’s office. Harsh overhead fluorescents? No, thank you. What you want is lighting that feels soft, flattering, and yes—colorful.

Now, you might be thinking: “But I rent! I can’t swap out permanent fixtures!” Don’t worry—I’ve got you. There are plenty of ways to play with colorful lighting that don’t require hardwiring or landlord permission slips.

Start with a mini pendant light or a stylish plug-in wall sconce. These are often just plug-and-go, and you can find them in delicious shades like:

Rose gold or blush pink for a romantic glow.
Teal or mint green for a splash of retro charm.
Frosted colored glass for a subtle, spa-like vibe.
Even a burnt orange or matte black fixture can add drama and personality in all the right ways.

Want something more temporary (or super easy to change back)? Go for colored bulb covers or smart bulbs that change hue with the tap of a phone app. You can set the mood to warm amber for nighttime wind-downs or energizing white light for groggy Monday mornings.

✨ Rental Tip: Look for adhesive-mounted or clamp-on light options you can position over a mirror or shelf. And if you’re using plug-in lights, hide the cord with peel-and-stick cord covers for a cleaner look.

And don’t underestimate the mood power of lighting. It doesn't just help you see—it sets the whole tone of the room. Soft pink light = instant spa energy. Cool blue? Futuristic and fresh. A warm golden hue? That’s bathroom selfie gold, right there.

Use Plants to Add Natural Color

Bring in Greenery for a Fresh Pop

Let’s be real: no colorful bathroom makeover is complete without some lush, leafy life. Plants are the original decor heroes—they add color, texture, and instant good vibes. Even if your bathroom doesn’t have a ton of natural light or space, there’s a perfect plant baby out there just waiting to move in.

And we’re not just talking about green. Colored plant pots and stands bring even more style into the mix. Imagine a bright coral ceramic pot or a woven basket in electric blue sitting pretty on your window ledge. That’s the kind of detail that makes your bathroom feel alive, fresh, and thoughtfully designed.

Here are some low-maintenance, color-boosting plant tips:

Best bathroom plants: Pothos (the MVP of no-fuss greenery), snake plants (hello, air purifiers!), ZZ plants (they thrive on neglect), or ferns for those steamy spa vibes.
Creative display ideas:
- Pop a plant in a macramé hanger by the shower.
- Tuck one on the back of the toilet in a bold pot.
- Line up a few in tiered hanging shelves for a vertical garden look.
Colorful pot picks: Try glossy ceramic in shades like lemon yellow, bubblegum pink, turquoise, or tangerine. Bonus if you mix and match!
Plant stands: Go for geometric shapes in gold or bold enamel colors to elevate (literally) your plant game.

💡 No windows? No problem! There are tons of realistic faux plants that still give that fresh green pop. Or choose low-light-friendly varieties and rotate them to a sunnier room once a week.

Adding greenery is about more than just aesthetics. Plants create a natural calming effect, they soften harsh lines, and they make your bathroom feel like a peaceful little jungle escape. Even one or two can completely shift the mood.

Floor It with a Statement Rug or Mat

Forget Boring Bath Mats—Go Boho or Retro

Alright, time for a little tough love: if your bath mat is white, beige, or gasp shredded on the edges from years of wear, it’s got to go. The bathroom floor is an unexpected—but totally fabulous—place to bring in color. And with the right rug? Instant glow-up.

We’re not just talking about your standard rectangle mat here. No, no. We’re talking statement rugs—colorful, patterned, and bold enough to demand attention the moment someone steps in. Yes, even in a teeny apartment bathroom.

Here’s what makes them magical:

They define the vibe of your whole space. Whether it’s vintage glam, boho chic, or playful retro, the rug sets the tone.
They’re easy to switch out. Seasonal change? New aesthetic? No problem. Just roll up and swap.
They’re practical and pretty. Many come with non-slip backing and are machine washable, so you don’t have to sacrifice function for flair.

Some trendy styles to try:

Moroccan prints in fuchsia, teal, and tangerine—especially striking on white or neutral tile floors.
Retro checkerboards in pastel pinks, baby blues, or sunflower yellow.
Modern geometric shapes in bold black-and-white with pops of red or mustard.
Handmade woven styles with fringe or tassels for that extra cozy touch.

✨ Pro Styling Tip: Layer a small, decorative rug over a larger neutral bath mat. You get the absorbency of the bottom layer with the visual impact of the top one. Win-win.

💡 Renter Tip: Choose lightweight rugs that don’t require rug pads or anchoring tape. Easy to clean, easy to move, and no damage to your floor.

Floating Shelves in Colored Finishes

Storage Can Be Stylish, Too

Now let’s talk walls. Floating shelves are usually thought of as strictly functional (hello, toilet paper storage), but with a little creativity—and a lot of color—they become mini design moments. Yes, even in the smallest bathrooms!

Forget the basic brown or white wood. Think mint green, navy blue, sunshine yellow, or pastel pink shelves paired with brass or black geometric brackets. These shelves don’t just hold things—they show off your personality.

Here’s how to style them like a pro:

Color-coordinate your items. Store rainbow-toned skincare bottles, colorful perfume boxes, or makeup brushes in bright holders.
Mix shapes and heights. Add a mini plant, a tall glass jar, and a low candle to create visual interest.
Add texture. Try incorporating baskets, trays, or ceramic bowls in different finishes—glossy, matte, woven.
Use symmetry or asymmetry, depending on your aesthetic. Symmetrical shelves feel neat and minimal. Asymmetrical arrangements feel more artsy and lived-in.

Why they’re a renter’s dream:

No bulky cabinets required.
Easy to remove and patch up later.
Make use of vertical space in a room that often has none to spare.

✨ Pro Tip: Install shelves at different heights above the toilet or sink to create a gallery wall effect. Choose finishes that pop against your existing wall color for maximum visual drama.

Paint the Ceiling or Door (Renter-Approved Hacks!)

Look Up! The Ceiling Deserves Love Too

When it comes to adding color, we usually think walls, floors, and accessories—but what about the ceiling? Or the back of the bathroom door? These often-overlooked areas are prime for surprise pops of personality that’ll make guests say, “Wait—what? That’s genius.”

First up: the ceiling. Painting it a soft blush, pale aqua, or buttery yellow can completely transform the vibe of your bathroom without overwhelming the space. It adds warmth, dimension, and so much unexpected charm. It’s especially impactful if your walls are a classic white or neutral—instant art gallery effect, but make it bathroom.

💡 Not allowed to paint? No problem. Grab some removable contact paper or temporary wallpaper and apply it to the ceiling or the door. You can go full-on color block, ombré gradient, or even stick up a mural decal (think clouds, stars, or abstract color swirls).

The bathroom door is another clever canvas. Imagine walking into your bathroom and seeing a bold coral-pink interior door or a terrazzo-patterned decal. It’s playful, chic, and totally renter-friendly when done with peel-and-stick materials.

Renter Tips:

Use painter’s tape to create clean lines for door or ceiling color accents.
For a temporary fix, apply removable washi tape in colorful patterns or stripes.
Want a fun weekend DIY? Try a removable ceiling mural decal or constellation sticker set.

🛁 BONUS: How to Mix Colors Without Making a Mess

Tips for Coordinating Colorful Decor in Small Spaces

Here’s the thing: decorating with color is fun—but it can also go off the rails real quick if you’re not careful. A little color? Gorgeous. Too much? Suddenly your bathroom looks like a preschool classroom exploded. So how do you hit that sweet spot?

Glad you asked. Here’s your cheat sheet for balancing color like a pro, even in the tiniest bathroom:

✅ Stick to a 2–3 Color Palette

Pick two dominant colors and one accent. That’s your golden trio. Example? Teal + coral + gold. Or blush + olive + black. This gives your bathroom cohesion and prevents visual chaos.

✅ Use Neutrals to Ground the Space

Color needs breathing room. White, beige, gray, or wood tones act as a neutral base and let your colorful pieces shine without competing. Think of them as your decor’s support system.

✅ Think in Layers, Not Loudness

Add color in intentional spots. Shower curtain, rugs, towels, and one wall? Yes. Every inch of every surface? That’s a no. Choose your hero pieces and let them speak.

✅ Repetition is Key

Echo colors throughout the space to tie everything together. If you’ve got mint green on the shelves, pull that same shade into your hand towels or plant pots.

✅ Bonus Color Combos That Always Work:

Dusty rose + forest green + brass
Sunny yellow + navy + crisp white
Lavender + charcoal + silver
Tangerine + aqua + natural wood

When in doubt, create a Pinterest color board before you shop or style. Seeing your palette visually helps avoid mismatches and impulsive buys.

🧠 CONCLUSION: Small Space, Big Color Energy

You’ve officially made it to the end of your colorful bathroom crash course—and now it’s time to channel that inspiration into action. 🎉

We’ve walked through ten creative, renter-friendly, and seriously fun ways to bring color into your apartment bathroom—from peel-and-stick wallpaper and funky rugs to playful lighting, vibrant textiles, and even a painted ceiling. Whether you’re into soft pastels or bold jewel tones, there’s something here to match your vibe.

The big takeaway? Color isn’t clutter—it’s character. With a little intention and a lot of personality, you can transform your bland builder-grade bathroom into a joyful, energizing retreat that feels like you.

So go ahead—pick one idea, try a mini makeover, and see how your space starts to glow. You don’t have to spend a fortune or break lease rules to make a big impact.