The Toilet Buyer’s Guide

  Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Bathroom Mirror Cabinet   Size and Space The first step in choosing a bathroom mirror cabinet is determining the size that fits your space. Measure the area where you plan to install the cabinet, considering the width, height, and depth. Storage is always at a premium in the bathroom, so it’s advisable to opt for the largest cabinet that your space can accommodate. A common practice is to match the width of the cabinet to the vanity unit below it, giving the area a balanced and cohesive look. Storage Needs Think about what items you need to store in the cabinet, such as toiletries, medications, and grooming tools. It’s also important to consider how many of you will be using this storage space - is it a bathroom just for you? Or will a family of four be using it? Different cabinets offer varying configurations of shelves, drawers, and compartments, so choose one that provides sufficient and organised storage space for your needs. Style and Aesthetics Your bathroom mirror cabinet should complement the overall style of your bathroom. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional design, there are plenty of options available. For example, modern bathroom mirrors are often sleek, with straight lines and backlights - this might not go well if you have a more Victorian theme. Consider the finish, colour, and design details to make sure that the cabinet fits in with your bathroom's decor. Material and Build Quality The material and build quality of the cabinet are important for durability and longevity. Common materials include wood, metal, and high-quality plastics. Look for cabinets with sturdy construction and finishes that can withstand the humid environment of a bathroom. Additional Features Modern bathroom mirror cabinets often come with additional features that improve functionality. Built-in lighting is fantastic for grooming, while shaver sockets and other built-in utilities add convenience. Steam-free mirrors with anti-fog technology make sure you have full visibility even after a hot shower. Key Features to Look For Lighting Look for cabinets with built-in LED lights, which provide bright and even illumination, ideal for tasks like shaving or applying makeup. It also gives the cabinet a real luxurious look, something you’ll often see in 5* hotels. Anti-Fog Technology Anti-fog technology prevents the mirror from steaming up, making sure you have a clear reflection even after a hot shower. This feature is really useful in bathrooms without good ventilation. Storage Configuration Look for a combination of shelves, drawers, and compartments that suit your needs. Adjustable shelves give you flexibility for storing items of different sizes, while dedicated compartments can help keep smaller items organised. Especially useful if you have children that aren’t the most organised just yet! Ease of Installation The installation process is another key consideration. Wall-mounted cabinets are the most common and can be relatively easy to install. Recessed cabinets, which are built into the wall, provide a sleek and streamlined look but may require professional installation. Ultimately, when selecting the best bathroom mirror cabinet, it's essential to consider factors such as size, storage needs, style, material, and additional features like lighting and anti-fog technology.  34 St John offers a range of high-quality mirror cabinets that excel in all these aspects. Our bathroom mirror cabinets, including steam-free mirrors and built-in LED lighting, provide ample storage space and sleek, modern designs that can seamlessly integrate into any bathroom decor. Explore the collection to find the perfect mirror cabinet that combines functionality with sophisticated design, ensuring your bathroom is both practical and stylish.

Planning a bathroom renovation is essential for achieving a space that is well-planned, long lasting and that looks great. Whether it’s a small upgrade or a complete overhaul, having a well-structured plan will save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration. To help you get off to the best possible start, we’ve pulled our big practical tips for success, and the common pitfalls to avoid at all costs. From the importance of planning and working with professionals, to understanding the balance between trend and functionality, we've got you covered. Top tips for planning a bathroom renovation Set your budget Before diving into design ideas, determine your budget. This will define the scope of your renovation and make sure that you don’t overspend before you’ve even finished.  Break down your budget into categories such as labour, fixtures, fittings, tiles, and unforeseen costs (allocate around 10-15% for contingencies). Hire professionals We know it can be tempting to tackle a bathroom renovation on your own, especially if you're handy around the house. But you should hire professionals for more complex tasks, like plumbing and electrical work. Hiring professionals will save you time and could prevent costly mistakes. Plus, professionals know all the local codes and regulations, ensuring your new bathroom is up to standard. Types of professionals to consider General Builder or Project Manager: If your renovation is extensive or involves multiple trades, consider hiring a general builder or project manager. They will oversee the project, manage timelines, and coordinate with other professionals such as plumbers and electricians. They handle project logistics, material sourcing, and permits or planning permission where necessary. Plumber: A licensed plumber is essential for any work involving water supply, drainage, or piping systems. They ensure that everything from installing a new bathtub to rerouting pipes is done safely and up to code. Electrician: A qualified electrician should handle any wiring, lighting installations, and power outlets. Bathrooms have unique electrical requirements due to moisture and proximity to water, so hiring a professional is critical for safety and compliance. Bathroom Designer: If you need help visualising your ideal bathroom layout or want expert advice on design and functionality, a bathroom designer can bring your ideas to life. They can create detailed plans, suggest layout modifications, and assist with fixture and finish selections. Establish a realistic timeline Renovations often take longer than expected, so setting a realistic timeline is crucial. Start by defining a clear beginning and end date, keeping in mind any seasonal constraints or holidays. Then, discuss the timeline with your contractor to ensure everyone is on the same page. Assess your space and needs Before choosing styles and colours, consider the size and layout of your bathroom. Does your family need more storage, or would an additional sink be helpful? Think about your daily routines and how the current space is serving (or not serving) your needs. If necessary, consult with a bathroom designer to optimise your layout for functionality. Plan for plumbing and electrical work If your renovation involves relocating major elements like sinks or showers, consult with a plumber and electrician early in the planning stage. Moving plumbing and electrical wiring is costly and can complicate your renovation if not done correctly. Know the importance of good lighting Let's talk about lighting. It's often overlooked, but can make or break your bathroom's functionality and aesthetic. Ambient lighting, for example, can transform your bathroom into a relaxing retreat that’s perfect to unwind in. And don't forget about natural light by incorporating windows or skylights into your bathroom design. But remember, privacy is key in a bathroom – consider frosted glass or window treatments to let light in while keeping unwanted attention out. Create storage space Storage may not be the most glamorous part of your bathroom design, but it's one of the most important. Because no matter how beautiful your new bathroom is, it won't matter if it's always cluttered. Creating storage could be anything from including a vanity unit or cabinet, or even built-in shelving in your shower. Think about what items you need to store in your bathroom and plan around that. And don't forget about those smaller storage solutions like toilet roll holders, robe hooks and towel rings – they can add extra storage and keep your bathroom tidy and hygienic. Consider ventilation options Proper ventilation prevents mould, mildew, and structural damage caused by moisture buildup. Choose an efficient bathroom fan that fits the size of your space and consider adding windows if possible. A well-ventilated bathroom will increase the longevity of your renovation. How to find reputable professionals Start by asking friends, family, or neighbours if they’ve recently completed similar projects and can recommend anyone. Use reputable online platforms like Checkatrade, Rated People, or MyBuilder to find tradespeople and read reviews. Check out our full guide on what to do before hiring a bathroom fitter Check credentials and experience Verify that they are registered with the relevant professional bodies, such as Gas Safe for gas-related work or NICEIC for electrical work, to ensure they meet your area’s requirements. Look for professionals with experience in bathroom renovations specifically, as this is a specialised field with its own set of challenges. Review portfolios and references Ask potential contractors for examples of previous work or a portfolio. This will help you gauge their style and quality of craftsmanship. Request references from past clients and follow up with them to ask about their experience, the project timeline, and any issues that arose. Confirm insurance and warranties Ensure the professional carries public liability insurance and, if applicable, employer’s liability insurance. This protects you from potential liabilities in case of accidents or damages during the renovation. Ask about warranties on their work. A reputable professional should offer some form of guarantee on the services provided. And remember… Communication is key in any renovation project. Choose someone who listens to your needs, communicates clearly, and respects your vision. If something feels off during your initial interactions, it’s a sign to consider someone else. 5 bathroom renovation don'ts Five bathroom renovation pitfalls to avoid – unless you want to risk your dream space becoming more of a nightmare. Rush the process As exciting as it is to see your new bathroom come to life, it's crucial not to rush the process – bathroom renovations require time and patience. Mistakes made in a hurry can be costly to fix and can even lead to needing another renovation sooner than expected. Give your plumbers, electricians and most importantly yourself, the time needed to do the job correctly. Rome wasn't built in a day, and a well-built bathroom isn’t either! Ignore plumbing If you're doing a significant remodel or your home is older, don't ignore the potential need to update your plumbing. Plumbing issues can be like a ticking time bomb, causing serious damage when least expected. It’s always far better to handle potential issues during your renovation. Trust us, your future self will thank you. Forget about electrical standards  From one potential headache to the next… They might not sound exciting, but electrical standards are in place for your safety – ignoring them can lead to dangerous situations happening. Not to mention, non-compliance can result in fines or issues when you want to sell your home. Trend over functionality We know it's tempting to chase the latest bathroom design trends, but functionality is what has to stand the test of time. The fact is, no matter how stylish a particular piece of furniture or feature might be, if they don't serve your needs, you'll end up frustrated. Your bathroom needs to be a practical space where you can easily go about your daily routines. So, before you get caught up in the latest bathroom fads, consider how the design will work in your everyday life. Remember, trends come and go, but a well-functioning bathroom is always in style. Ignore your home’s overall style It sounds obvious but it’s ignored far too often – your new bathroom should still feel like it's a part of your home. Sure, a bathroom can be a space to experiment with new styles or design ideas. But a bathroom design that drastically differs from the rest of your home can end up feeling disjointed. If, for example, you have a rustic, cosy home, a super-modern bathroom might feel out of place. Your bathroom should be a continuation of your home's style story, not a confusing subplot.

Bathroom accessories play a key role in making bathrooms more inviting, practical and stylish – keeping things clean and organised, and adding character to your space. From towel rails to toilet brushes, the little extras can make a big difference. And with a wide range of styles, materials and finishes available, there's something to suit every taste and design. Whether you're refreshing an existing bathroom or starting from scratch, in this guide we'll help you find the perfect additions for your personal sanctuary. Three important questions to answer when buying bathroom accessories What type of accessories do you need for your bathroom? The fundamental question: what accessories does your bathroom need? Are you lacking space to hang and dry towels? What better suits your needs and bathroom space, a towel rail or towel hooks? These are simple questions, but it’s important to go back to basics when working out what your space is in need of. Every accessory won’t be right for every bathroom. Work out what your bathroom essentials are first, before adding in the luxury items that will take your space to another level. What’s the style and design of your bathroom? Bathroom accessories may feel like small details, but they can have a huge bearing on the style of your space – which is why our full range is available in four diverse colours: polished chrome, brushed brass, stainless steel and matt black. Whatever style of accessory you go with, they need to be aligned with your overall bathroom design. Consider the colours, materials and aesthetic of your bathroom and choose accessories that complement them. For example, if your bathroom has a modern, minimalist design, you may want to choose accessories with clean lines and simple shapes. If your bathroom has a more traditional design, you may want to choose accessories with ornate details and classic finishes. What’s the quality and durability of the accessories you’re looking at? There are near countless styles and designs to choose from when it comes to bathroom accessories – and at every price point. Cheaper accessories can be a great way to save pennies in some projects, but in others they can downgrade the premium finish you’ve worked so hard to create. Instead, look at the bathroom accessories that will give you and your space the greatest long-term value:  choosing high-quality, durable accessories can save you money in the long run. Remember, your bathroom’s accessories will be used almost everyday! The different types of bathroom accessories Technically accessories but in many ways bathroom essentials, Robe Hooks, Towel Rails and Towel Rings, Toilet Roll Holders, Toilet Brushes perfectly merge style and substance. Here’s how they work, alongside some top tips from us! Robe Hooks A small addition that can make a huge difference, Robe Hooks are a great way to save space and declutter your bathroom. Versatile, easy to install, and available in a wide range of styles, materials and colours to complement your interior design, robe hooks provide a practical and stylish way to keep your towels and robes fresh. Wall-mounted robe hooks can be installed on virtually any door or wall in your bathroom, but we’d always recommend keeping them within arm’s reach of your shower and/or bath. Aim to install your robe hooks around 1650-1780mm above the floor to give them enough room to hang without dragging. And if you’re installing more than one hook, try to keep them roughly 200-220mm apart.  Towel Rails and Rings Like Robe Hooks, Towel Rails and Towel Rings contribute to a well-organised, tidy bathroom space. Available in various styles, materials, colours and sizes – thanks to their huge popularity – towel rails typically provide a longer, horizontal space for towels to hang, while towel rings offer a smaller, circular hanging option. Despite this difference, both play the essential role of hanging and drying used towels – keeping them fresh and hygienic. Also offering plenty of design flexibility in where you place them, both towel rails and rings give you lots of opportunity to get creative! But where’s best? The perfect place for a towel rail in any sized bathroom is always within arm’s reach of your basin, shower or bath. If you have the space, we’d always recommend installing your towel rail directly on your bathroom wall – ideally above a radiator! Toilet Roll Holders We probably don’t need to explain how these work, but still people get Toilet Roll Holders wrong far too often! Toilet roll holders exist to create a tidy and organised bathroom and ensure easy access to toilet paper – and it’s the latter point that’s become a common hurdle: a toilet roll holder should be placed within an arm’s reach of the person using your toilet. Depending on the height of your toilet, best practice says ideal placement is approximately 200-250mm in front or beside the toilet, and around 600-660mm off the floor. It’s worth highlighting that you should always go by the smallest arm length in your household! Toilet roll holders can be wall-mounted – like our premium collection at 34 St John – or freestanding, with some designs featuring storage space for extra rolls. Toilet Brushes A mainstay in every bathroom, the Toilet Brush is the essential tool for cleaning your toilet bowl and maintaining cleanliness. Typically consisting of a bristled brush head and a handle – accompanied by a holder or stand to keep the brush contained – toilet brushes first and foremost help create a hygienic bathroom, and they’re also a stylistic opportunity not to be overlooked! Our wall-mounted range come in four classic finishes and are perfect for the modern bathroom, providing contemporary style and a touch of luxury. Toilet Seats If toilet brushes are a true bathroom essential, toilet seats are nothing less than a non-negotiable. Designed to provide comfort and hygiene, most toilet seats may look similar but not all are created equal. Some feature additional functionalities, like soft-close hinges to prevent slamming, and anti-bacterial treatments for enhanced hygiene (our full range of toilet seats come with both). One of the most common questions when it comes to toilet seats is around size. Toilet seats don’t come in a standard size – they’re available in different widths and lengths to fit different sized and shaped toilets. Typically, you’ll find toilet seats in widths of 350-380mm and lengths of 400-480mm. Adding accessories to your bathroom There’s a big difference between knowing the accessories you need and knowing how to best add them to your bathroom. If you want to use your bathroom accessories to elevate the overall design of your space, planning is key. Consider the style, materials, colours and placement of each item, and how they will all look and work together. We appreciate that this is a lot easier said than done, so here are three tips to set you on your way. Align with your overall aesthetic. Whether it’s modern, classic or eclectic, you probably know the overall style of your bathroom. If you have a clear vision, choose bathroom accessories that align with it. Go for matching materials and finishes: To create a visually consistent bathroom, choose accessories made from the same material and with matching finishes, like polished chrome, brushed brass, stainless steel and matt black. Coordinate colours: To maintain a cohesive look, choose accessories in colours that complement your bathroom's overall colour scheme. You can either match colours or choose contrasting colours if you’re feeling confident! Check out our guide on how to choose the perfect colour scheme for your bathroom.