Bathroom

A bathroom is a room or area designed for personal hygiene activities and sanitation, typically containing sanitary fixtures such as a toilet, a sink, and a bath and/or shower. In residential use, spaces are described by the fixtures they contain: a full bathroom includes toilet, sink, and both bath or shower; a three-quarter bath has a toilet, sink, and shower; a half bath (powder room) has a toilet and sink. An en-suite is a bathroom connected to a bedroom. Public or guest facilities may be called restrooms or lavatories.

Historically, bathing and sanitation have evolved from public or semi-public facilities in ancient civilizations to increasingly private, indoor spaces with running water and drainage during the 18th–20th centuries. Modern bathrooms emphasize hygiene, comfort, accessibility, and water efficiency, with rising attention to safety and indoor air quality.

Core components include the plumbing system (water supply, drainage, vents), fixtures (toilet, basin, tub or shower), and supporting elements such as waterproofing, flooring, mirrors, lighting, storage, ventilation, and heating. Design considerations address layout for movement and reach, slip resistance, moisture control, and neutral aesthetics. Accessibility features—grab bars, walk-in showers, adjustable fixtures, and appropriate clearances—are common in many jurisdictions.

Variations exist worldwide: en-suites, guest bathrooms, and wet rooms; some regions favor bidets or different fixture configurations. Environmental concerns drive adoption of low-flow toilets and taps, efficient water heating, and materials that resist mold and ease cleaning. Regular cleaning and maintenance of grout, seals, and drains are essential for long-term functionality.