Powder Room Essentials

A powder room is a bathroom in a private home that is often frequented by guests. Powder rooms are usually quite small and have a toilet and sink but rarely have a bathtub or shower. They're often found on the main floor of the home and are used as a secondary bathroom.

If you're lucky enough to have a powder room in your home there are a few things it should have.

Mirror – Mirrors are important in any bathroom and a powder room is no exception. It's a great place for guests (and residents) to take a quick last look before leaving the house, but it also helps make the tiny room look larger.

Guest Towels – There's no need to have large towels in a powder room but make sure there are plenty of guest towels so people have a place to dry their hands. Some people like to have fancy towels but make sure they're not so fancy that people feel uncomfortable using them.

Hand Soap – Hand soap in a pretty jar is a great thing to have in a powder room. It's practical, but the nice packaging can also contribute to the décor. Since there's no room for extra accessorizing in a powder room it can make a pretty accent piece.

Hand Cream – Luxury hand cream in an attractive package has the same decorative effect and it's an added indulgence for guests.

Fresh Flowers – A small bowl or vase full of fresh flowers adds instant ambiance and color to this tiny room. You don't need to spend a lot and do a fancy arrangement, a simple few will suffice.

Scented Candle - A flickering candle is always nice and the scent is great to have in the powder room. Like the soap and hand cream, it's also a pretty accessory.

Tray – Put all the small items on a pretty tray to keep them organized.

Kleenex, Cotton Swabs and TP – It's always a good idea to have these extras in a powder room. Try to get a Kleenex box cover that matches the room and put some of the swabs in a little cup (a silver mint julep cup or a tiny crystal glass is always nice). Put a few extra rolls of toilet paper in an attractive container like a clear glass cylinder vase.