New Research Reveals the Bathroom Products Brits Are Dreaming Of Buying This Christmas
11th Dec 2024
When it comes to festive wish lists, it's not just about what's under the tree – many Brits are also thinking about how to upgrade their bathrooms this Christmas.
To uncover what's topping the nation's wish lists, we analysed three months of Google Trends data (September to December 2024) covering Black Friday and the run-up to Christmas, tracking the percentage increase in searches for bathroom products.
We’ve also spoken with Brian Toward, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Wholesale Domestic, for his bathroom upgrade tips and inspiration.
Contents
- Our findings: The top 10 bathroom products
- Why bathrooms matter more than ever
- Inspiration for your next bathroom upgrade
Our findings: The top 10 bathroom products
Here are the top 10 most-searched-for bathroom products Brits are asking Santa for this Christmas:
1. Shower doors (+600%)
Shower doors are stealing the spotlight as the most-searched-for bathroom product in the run-up to Christmas, with searches soaring by an impressive 600% between September and December.
With family and friends staying over during the festive season, it’s no surprise people want their showers looking their best for guests.
Beyond just making a great impression, a new shower door can bring a modern look and practical benefits to the bathroom. Whether it’s simply swapping out an outdated door or upgrading to a sleek, easy-to-clean sliding design, it’s clear that shiny new shower doors are topping wish lists this Christmas.
To create your perfect shower, read our shower enclosure buying guide.
2. Small freestanding bathtub (+300%)
Small freestanding bathtubs are having a moment, with searches up 300% in the run-up to Christmas.
It makes sense – when the weather’s freezing and the nights are darker, there’s nothing better than running the perfect hot bath to warm up.
These freestanding tubs add a bit of luxury without taking up lots of space, making them ideal even for small bathrooms.
3. Bathroom mirror cabinets with lights (+300%)
Illuminated mirror cabinets are lighting up wish lists this Christmas, with searches climbing 300%.
With the evenings getting darker earlier, having a mirrored cabinet with built-in lighting can make those winter mornings a little easier. They're handy for things like applying makeup or shaving.
Plus, they give you the benefits of a mirror and storage in one, helping keep your bathroom organised without taking up extra space.
4. Heated bathtub (+250%)
Searches for heated bathtubs are up by 250%. However, while the idea of a tub that keeps your bathwater warm sounds amazing, it's not something that's widely available on the market.
But there are still ways to make your bath feel warmer for longer, and Brian has a few tips: "Steel baths retain heat better than other materials, however they can be very heavy and can develop chips and scratches more easily. Acrylic baths are a great alternative, as they are warm to the touch so can naturally retain heat."
"You can also warm up the tub by running hot water in it before filling it up for your soak. Simply add a couple of inches of hot water, leave it in for a few minutes, drain the water, and then run your bath. It's essentially like warming your cup before making a cup of tea! It heats the surface of the bath, so when you fill it, the hot water doesn't cool down as quickly."
If you're after a truly luxurious experience, whirlpool baths are a great choice. While they don't keep the water warm like a heated tub might, the massaging jets and spa-like feel more than make up for it. It's the perfect way to unwind, especially during the colder months!
5. Close coupled toilet (+250%)
Another bathroom product we're wishing for this Christmas is a close-coupled toilet. They're compact, modern, and easy to clean – ideal for keeping your bathroom in top shape for guests!
Plus, their simple design means they fit seamlessly into any space, making them a practical upgrade ahead of the Christmas rush.
Discover which toilet is right for you with our toilet buying guide.
6. Bathroom wall panels (+250%)
Bathroom wall panels are seeing a 250% surge in searches as Christmas approaches – they're a great way to refresh your space quickly before the festive season.
With their interlocking system, there's no need for grout, making them a practical, easier-to-install alternative to traditional tiles. No grout also makes them much easier to maintain between those big deep cleans.
To learn more about how to spruce up your walls, read our bathroom tiles and wall panels buying guide.
7. Brass toilet roll holder (+200%)
Clearly, we all know that the smaller details really make a difference in the bathroom, with brass toilet roll holder searches up by 200%.
Brass is having a moment right now, and for good reason. It’s a material that feels both modern and timeless, adding warmth and elegance to any bathroom. And something as simple as a brass toilet roll holder can tie the whole look together.
8. Rainforest shower head (+200%)
Imagine stepping into a shower that feels like standing under gentle rain. That’s the magic of a rainforest shower head – also known as a rain-effect shower head – and it’s no wonder searches for them are up by 200% this Christmas.
These shower heads are all about creating a relaxing, spa-like experience in your own home.
With a wide surface area, they deliver an even flow of water that mimics natural rainfall – perfect for unwinding after a long day or warming up on a chilly winter morning.
9. Heated toilet seat (+200%)
Cold weather has us all thinking about ways to stay warm, and heated toilet seats are climbing up Christmas wish lists this year. There’s nothing worse than braving a cold bathroom first thing in the morning, and a heated seat takes the chill off in an instant.
Not only do they add a little luxury to your daily routine, but many smart models come with extra features like self-cleaning functions and drying technology.
10. Bathroom extractor fan (+200%)
With searches for bathroom extractor fans up by 200%, it seems many of us are prioritising practicality as well as comfort this Christmas.
These fans are essential for keeping your bathroom fresh and free from excess moisture, especially during the colder months when condensation builds up more easily.
Why bathrooms matter more than ever
Brian shares his thoughts on these trends: "It's clear from the data that people really value their bathrooms, especially as we head into the colder months. But these upgrades are more than just trends – they’re investments in wellbeing.”
"What's really interesting is how much focus there is on features that mix luxury and practicality. Things like rainforest shower heads and freestanding tubs show that people want to create a calming, spa-like experience at home. While the interest in shower doors and extractor fans shows that functionality is just as important."
Brian adds: "This Christmas, many homeowners are clearly looking to treat themselves – or perhaps hoping Santa will do it for them!"
Inspiration for your next bathroom upgrade
With New Year’s resolutions on the horizon, bathroom upgrades can help homeowners prepare for a fresh start. Plus, the winter months provide the perfect excuse to revamp bathrooms and make them a space of warmth and comfort in the home.
From small changes like installing a heated toilet seat to more ambitious renovations involving freestanding tubs or jacuzzi baths, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re considering updating your bathroom, these trending features offer plenty of inspiration:
Budget-friendly additions
A mirrored cabinet with lights
Nuie Mayford Gloss White Mirror with 2 Lights and Storage
"This Nuie mirrored cabinet with lights is a fantastic budget-friendly addition to any bathroom upgrade," says Brian. "It combines two essentials – storage and lighting – into one practical feature, saving you the cost of buying separate items."
"Plus, it helps keep your bathroom organised by providing a space for toiletries while brightening up the room with built-in lighting."
Wall panels
WholePanel 6mm Gloss White with Silver Strip – Pack of 5 Wall and Ceiling Panels
Brian says: "These wall panels are an affordable way to refresh your bathroom and give it a sleek, modern finish."
"Not only are they cost-effective because you're getting multiple panels in one pack, but they're also much quicker and easier to install compared to traditional tiles. There's no need for grout, which saves both time and money, and their durable, wipe-clean surface makes them a low-maintenance choice."
Space-saving solutions
Small freestanding bath
Palermo 1500mm x 740mm Square Double Ended Freestanding Back to Wall Bath
"Everyone loves the look of a freestanding bath – it's the ultimate statement piece in a bathroom," says Brian. "But they can be tricky to fit into smaller spaces without taking over the room. So it's no wonder small freestanding baths were near the top of the list for most-searched bathroom products in the lead-up to Christmas. There's nothing quite like a freestanding bath to warm you up on a chilly winter evening!"
"A back-to-wall option, like the Palermo 1500mm x 740mm bath, gives you all the luxury and elegance of freestanding design but fits neatly against the wall to save valuable floor space."
Wall-mounted shelving unit
Nuie Traditional Wall Mounted Gallery Shelf
"A shelving unit, like this Nuie option, is a brilliant space-saving solution for any bathroom," says Brian. "It makes use of often-overlooked walls, providing extra storage without taking up any floor room."
"You can fit it above toilets, sinks – wherever you need a little extra storage."
Sliding shower door
Colore Brushed Brass Sliding Shower Door
"Shower doors topped the list for most-wanted bathroom products this winter, and this brushed brass sliding option is a brilliant choice, especially for smaller bathrooms," explains Brian.
"The sliding design means you don't need extra space for the door to swing open, making it super practical in tight spots."
"Plus, the brushed brass finish adds a modern, luxurious touch that can transform the whole look of your bathroom."
Showstopping bathroom features
Thermostatic shower panel
Hydra Matt Stainless Steel Thermostatic Shower Panel
"This thermostatic shower tower has a luxurious rain-effect shower head, paired with three body jets that really take your shower to the next level," explains Brian. "They're great for a bit of everyday luxury, giving you a gentle massage that helps relax your muscles and feels amazing after a long day. It's like bringing the spa straight into your bathroom."
"It's really practical too! The thermostatic system lets you set the exact water temperature you want, and it keeps it consistent throughout your shower – no sudden hot or cold surprises."
Jacuzzi bath
Arc 12 Jet Curved Spa Shower Bath
Brian says: "Searches for corner jacuzzi baths were up 80% this winter, and the Arc Curved Spa Shower Bath is an excellent choice for those looking to combine luxury with practicality."
"The sleek, curved design fits neatly into a corner, making it a space-saving solution. But, despite its compact fit, this whirlpool bath delivers a full spa-like experience with 12 powerful jets to help you relax and unwind."
Plus, it doubles as a shower bath, giving you the best of both worlds – everyday practicality and indulgent comfort.
Practical bathroom enhancements
Extractor fan
HiB Turbo White Bathroom Inline Extractor Fan with Warm White LED Light
"Don't overlook essentials like an extractor fan when upgrading your bathroom," says Brian. "This HiB Turbo Extractor Fan is a great example of how practicality and style can go hand in hand."
"It's got a warm white LED light, which not only adds a modern touch but also helps brighten up the space. And, more importantly, it's highly efficient at reducing moisture and keeping the air fresh, which is so important for preventing dampness and mould."
"It's one of those upgrades that might not be the most glamorous, but it makes a big difference to the functionality of your bathroom."
Toilet roll holder
Colore Vector Brushed Brass Wall Mounted Toilet Roll Holder
“It’s another practical bathroom essential, but this Colore Brushed Brass Wall Mounted Toilet Roll Holder proves that even the smallest details can make a big impact,” says Brian. “The brushed brass finish adds warmth and elegance to the space, making it more than just functional – it’s a little statement piece."
Upgrade your bathroom with Wholesale Domestic
At Wholesale Domestic, we’re here to help you find the perfect features to transform your bathroom this winter.
From baths and showers to accessories like toilet brushes and shelves, we have high-quality products to impress your guests and make this Christmas one to remember!
For more inspiration and advice from our experts, head over to our blog.