Let’s face it, bathrooms aren’t exactly known for their airiness. Between hot showers, closed windows, and all the daily hustle happening in that small, often sealed-off space, things can get muggy fast. And that moisture?
It doesn’t just fog up the mirror. It lingers, clings to the walls, creeps into the corners, and before you know it, you’re dealing with peeling paint, persistent damp smells, or worse—mould.
That’s why improving bathroom ventilation isn’t just about comfort, it’s a long-term investment in your space and your health.
The good news? You don’t need to remodel or renovate your entire bathroom or rip out walls to get better airflow. A few smart tweaks and thoughtful upgrades can go a long way.
Whether you’ve got a windowless cloakroom or a high-traffic family bathroom, there are practical ways to keep things fresh, dry, and breathable. Let’s get into it.
1. Install (or Upgrade) an Extractor Fan That Actually Does Its Job
Extractor fans aren’t glamorous. But they are non-negotiable if you want good bathroom ventilation. They suck out steam, reduce condensation, and help prevent mildew from settling in.
But here’s the thing: not all extractor fans are created equal.
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Is yours strong enough for the size of your bathroom? A tiny fan won’t cut it in a big space.
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Is it clean and dust-free? If the blades are clogged, it’s not moving air properly.
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Is it quiet enough that you use it? A noisy fan tends to get ignored.
And if you don’t have a fan at all? It’s worth getting one professionally installed, especially in a bathroom without windows. Look for models with built-in humidity sensors, which turn on automatically when the air gets steamy, then switch off once the job’s done. No need to remember anything. It just works.
Quick tip: leave the fan running for at least 15 minutes after a shower. Or even better, get one with a timed delay setting so it shuts off on its own.
2. Use Windows Wisely (If You’ve Got Them)
If your bathroom has a window, you’re already ahead of the game. But you’d be surprised how many people don’t crack theirs open, even after a hot shower. Maybe it’s too cold out, or the latch is stiff, or it just feels like a hassle. But fresh air is the original dehumidifier.
Make it a habit to open the window during and after showering, even if only a little. You’ll feel the difference almost immediately. Not only does it speed up the drying process, but it also helps clear out lingering smells and that damp, stale air that tends to stick around.
For bathrooms on ground floors or in less private spots, consider adding frosted glass or a top-hung window so you can still air things out without putting on a show for the neighbours.
And if the window’s old and barely opens anymore? It might be time to fix or replace it. And while you're at it, this could be a good opportunity to install new ducts and fittings, especially if the old ones are outdated or no longer doing their job properly. Proper ventilation shouldn't be a battle.
3. Let the Room Breathe (Furniture and Fixtures Included)
Sometimes, improving bathroom ventilation isn’t just about fixing the fan or replacing the window. It’s about doing what you can to improve the layout.
Bathrooms tend to be tight spaces, and when storage drawer units or laundry hampers and baskets get shoved up against walls, it messes with airflow. That’s especially true if you’re blocking corners where condensation naturally collects.
Here’s what to try:
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Leave a little space between the wall and your furniture. A couple of centimetres makes a big difference.
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Avoid pushing anything flush against the exterior wall. Those get colder faster and trap moisture behind solid objects.
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Use wall-mounted units where possible. They free up floor space and keep things lighter and more open.
Also, if you’ve got a shower curtain that always seems to cling to the tub or block air from circulating, consider switching to a glass enclosure. It’s cleaner, sleeker, and doesn’t trap steam the way a damp curtain does.
4. Keep Humidity in Check With a Good Dehumidifier
Now, this isn’t for everyone, but if you’ve got a particularly humid bathroom, live in a basement flat, or your walls are just prone to condensation, a small bathroom dehumidifier might be your new best friend.
These little machines quietly pull moisture out of the air and collect it in a tank, which you empty every few days. They’re compact, energy-efficient, and surprisingly effective in spaces where traditional ventilation struggles.
There are even portable versions that can sit discreetly on a windowsill or shelf, perfect for rental properties or situations where installing fans just isn’t an option.
If your existing setup isn’t cutting it, it might also be worth looking into whether you can install new grilles and vents to improve airflow, especially in older properties or windowless bathrooms.
Want something passive? You can also try moisture absorbers or silica gel canisters. They don’t have the same power as a dehumidifier, but they’re cheap, easy, and require no plugs or maintenance.
5. Don’t Just Ventilate. Decorate for Ventilation!
Okay, this one might sound odd at first, but hear me out. What you put in your bathroom can affect how well it breathes. Some materials hold moisture like a sponge. Others resist it.
A few smart swaps can help:
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Ditch the heavy cotton bath mats and go for quick-drying microfibre.
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Choose paint designed for moisture-prone rooms; most big brands offer bathroom-specific lines that resist mould and mildew.
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Pick accessories that don’t hold water. Avoid wooden toothbrush holders, porous shelves, or any soft fabric storage that could soak up steam.
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And yes, consider plants. Certain houseplants like ferns, peace lilies, and English ivy can help absorb moisture and purify the air. Plus, they just make the space feel fresher.
Think of it this way: you don’t need to strip the bathroom back to cold, hard surfaces to fight humidity. You just need to make choices that let air move freely and dry out efficiently.
The Small Habits That Go a Long Way
Aside from the bigger upgrades, don’t underestimate the power of small changes. Improving bathroom ventilation isn’t always about new gear, it’s about what you do consistently.
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Keep the door open after showers when possible.
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Wipe down shower walls or glass panels after use.
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Hang towels to dry with space between them.
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Keep clutter off windowsills and vents.
These simple habits help maintain airflow and prevent that damp, lingering smell that can take over even the nicest bathroom if you’re not careful.
Also, let’s be honest: ventilation is one of those things you only notice when it’s bad. Good air circulation should be invisible. Quiet. Automatic. You shouldn’t be walking into a foggy mirror two hours after a shower, or peeling damp wallpaper off the walls every spring.
Final Thought: Breathe New Life Into Your Bathroom With Smart Ventilation
When it comes to improving bathroom ventilation, you don’t need to spend a fortune or knock out walls. You just need a combination of smart choices, a little awareness, and a few strategic upgrades that work with your space, not against it.
From fans and windows to storage tweaks and material choices, everything contributes to a fresher, drier, more comfortable bathroom.
And if you’re ready to start upgrading, not just with fans and fixtures, but with stylish, functional bathroom furniture that supports good airflow, Tap 'n Shower has everything you need to bring your space to life.
Because a fresh bathroom isn’t just about smell or moisture levels—it’s about creating a space that feels good the second you walk in. Every. Single. Time.
In addition to heating and ventilation solutions, we offer everything you need to fully furnish your bathroom and kitchen, along with all the plumbing supplies you might require along the way.
Contact us today and find everything you need to refresh your bathroom!