Choosing a piece of art for your bathroom isn’t as simple as picking something that coordinates with the rest of your bathroom décor. Since the bathroom is one of the darkest, wettest rooms in the house there are rules you must follow when selecting art for your bathroom. Not only do you need to find something that matches the rest of your decor, but it must be water resistant and made of materials that can withstand extreme levels of heat and moisture. The right materials, combined with the perfect look and style, can transform your bathroom walls from ordinary to interesting overnight.
Durability
First and foremost, the art needs to be durable in moist and humid environments. If your heart is set on hanging an art print, it’s time to start thinking about a mat and frame – they’re a necessity in the bathroom where water and steam can ruin a picture after only a few showers. Not only will the frame protect your print, but it’ll help your print look like an expensive piece of finished artwork. When it comes to choosing a frame, metal and plastic are the best choices, as they’ll need to be replaced less often than wood. The best way to choose a mat and frame is to visit a professional framing store and let the salesperson know the piece will be placed in a bathroom – they’ll know which frames are best.
Opt for Inexpensive
Inexpensive art is always an appropriate choice for the bathroom – if anything goes wrong, you’ll easily be able to afford a replacement. Limited edition prints, a poster signed by your favorite band, or anything overly sentimental should be hung elsewhere in your home. Although many pieces of art can withstand the harsh elements of a bathroom, take proactive measures and save yourself the worry. If you’re looking for a unique statement piece, check out your local antique shop and Saturday yard sales. You’re sure to find something unique and affordable for the exposed brick wall near your bathtub.
Fake It
If you like the idea of putting a “real” painting in your bathroom, there are plenty of paintings made from waterproof materials. These paintings are designed to be placed in the bathroom and are sure to withstand the heat and moisture. When it comes to waterproof wall art, it’s important to remember that the back needs to be protected as well. Mold and mildew love natural fibers that are left in damp environments, and if you only worry about waterproofing the front of a frame, you’re setting yourself up for disaster. By sealing the back of your painting, you’ll keep the entire piece protected from water vapor, heat, and steam.
Consider Vinyl
Vinyl wall stickers are a great alternative to paintings and mixed media; they’re fully-customizable and are available in hundreds of styles and color choices. From bird silhouettes to word clouds, this material allows your creativity to truly take over. Vinyl’s versatility isn’t the only thing we love about it: it’s easy to remove, won’t damage the underlying paint, tile, or wallpaper, can be cleaned with a sponge and warm water, and won’t break your budget. And, when the time comes to sell your home, you can remove the vinyl decals in a few easy steps and supply potential buyers with a clean slate to work with.