Setting Up Temporary Bathroom Solutions During a Renovation

A bathroom renovation can take several weeks, which means your regular bathroom will be out of action. If you have a second bathroom, great! But if not, you’ll need a temporary solution to manage daily routines like showering and toileting.

Here’s how to set up a functional temporary bathroom while your renovation is underway.

1. Find Alternative Toilet Solutions

Since your main toilet will be out of use, consider these options:

🚽 Second Toilet: If your home has another toilet, plan for extra cleaning and organisation.
🚽 Portable Toilet: Hire a portable camping toilet or a porta-loo from a rental company.
🚽 Neighbour or Family Help: If you have friendly neighbours or nearby family, arrange for access when needed.
🚽 Public Restrooms: Keep a list of nearby public toilets (shopping centres, gyms, service stations) for emergencies.

Tip: If using a portable toilet, place it in a private, well-ventilated area and use disposable deodorising tablets for freshness.

2. Work Out Showering & Bathing Options

If your only shower is being renovated, you’ll need an alternative way to wash:

🚿 Use a Second Bathroom: If you have another shower in the house, make sure all family members share a schedule to avoid congestion.
🚿 Portable Outdoor Shower: A camping shower (heated or solar-powered) is a great backup. Set it up in the backyard or laundry.
🚿 Local Gym or Sports Club: If you're a gym member, take advantage of their shower facilities.
🚿 Stay with Family or Friends: If possible, arrange short stays with close friends or relatives to use their bathroom.

Tip: If using a laundry tub for washing, a plastic basin and jug can help make the process easier.

3. Set Up a Temporary Washing Station

Without a sink in the bathroom, you’ll need a spot for basic hygiene:

🪥 Teeth Brushing & Face Washing: Use the kitchen or laundry sink—keep toiletries in a small caddy for easy access.
🖐 Handwashing: Place a pump soap dispenser near your temporary sink area.
🧴 Shaving & Grooming: A portable mirror on a bench or sink can help with shaving and makeup routines.

Tip: To prevent cross-contamination, keep separate cloths and hand towels for kitchen and bathroom use.

4. Organise Essentials for Easy Access

With your usual storage unavailable, pack essential items into portable caddies or bags:
✔ Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, razors
✔ Towels & Washcloths: Store in a dry, accessible space
✔ Medications & First Aid: Keep daily medications in a safe, organised container
✔ Hair & Grooming Products: A hanging organiser works well for small spaces

Tip: Keep only the essentials handy—store non-daily items in boxes until your bathroom is ready.

5. Manage Laundry & Towel Drying

With limited space, towels may take longer to dry. Solutions include:
✔ Using a Clothes Airer: Hang towels in a well-ventilated area.
✔ Microfibre Towels: These dry faster and take up less space.
✔ Laundromats or Family Homes: If washing access is tricky, plan laundry days in advance.

Tip: Label towels to avoid mix-ups if multiple people are using the same space.

6. Plan Around Your Renovation Timeline

Renovations can be disruptive, but planning ahead will make daily routines much easier.
✔ Ask your renovation team for a timeline so you know when key plumbing services will be unavailable.
✔ Consider booking short stays at a hotel or Airbnb if the project is particularly intensive.
✔ Keep in touch with your renovation team—if temporary plumbing can be reconnected at certain stages, they’ll let you know.

Final Thoughts: Stay Comfortable During Your Renovation

A little preparation can make a big difference in keeping life running smoothly while your new bathroom is being built. By setting up a temporary toilet, showering station, and hygiene area, you can minimise inconvenience and focus on the exciting transformation ahead.

At Custom Bathroom Creations, we work to make your renovation as seamless as possible.

Need more tips? Contact us today for expert guidance!