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How to Prepare for Your Bathroom Remodel
Tips from McManus Kitchen & Bath and real clients who’ve been there.
Congratulations — you’re about to transform your bathroom! Whether it’s your primary bath or a guest suite upgrade, a remodel is a big deal. And while the payoff is always worth it, the process can feel a bit disruptive if you’re not prepared.
This guide outlines the top things you can do now to make the weeks ahead smoother, cleaner, and less stressful — plus a few tips from real clients who’ve been through it already.
1. Start with a Bathroom Cleanout
While you’re in the design phase or waiting for materials to arrive, use the time to declutter. Go through your vanity, drawers, linen closet, and medicine cabinet. Make piles for:
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Keep (everyday essentials)
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Donate/Sell (fixtures, rugs, unused decor)
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Toss (expired meds, crusty nail polish, etc.)
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List old large items a few days before the new ones arrive.
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and local charities like Habitat for Humanity and Lighthouse Children’s Home are great places to rehome items.
2. Decide What’s Worth Salvaging
Not everything in your current bathroom has to go. Think creatively about what might still be useful:
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Vanities or base cabinets can find new life in a laundry room or garage.
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Mirrors or light fixtures might work in a guest bath or hallway.
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If you’re adding an outdoor shower or pool bath later, your old sink or countertop could be a perfect fit.
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3. Set Up a Temporary Bathroom
If you’re remodeling your only or primary bathroom, set up a backup space:
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Move daily-use items into a hall or guest bath.
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Store the rest in labeled boxes or totes.
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Consider a portable vanity setup for makeup or shaving in a different room to ease morning congestion.
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Use a tabletop LED mirror and a caddy or case for toiletries.
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4. Make a Plan for Your Pets
We’ll talk with you about a pet plan before your project starts, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
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Make sure pets have microchips and collars
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Create a cozy, quiet space away from the chaos
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Play soft music to drown out construction noise
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Take them for extra walks or breaks
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If your pet gets anxious, consider pet sitters or temporary boarding (check Rover.com)
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5. Focus on the Positive
Yes, it gets messy. Yes, your routine will shift. But this process is a privilege — and one that ends with a bathroom built for you.
Use this time to slow down and spend time away from the dust (and your usual routines).
Grab dinner with friends. Try a new morning coffee spot. And when things feel hectic, remember the goal: a bathroom designed just for you.
Real Advice from Real Clients
We asked former clients what helped them the most during their remodel. Here are their top tips:
Start early
Begin sorting and packing 3 weeks before demo starts. Clean everything before storing it.
Use bins wisely
Cardboard boxes work well for towels and paper goods. Use plastic bins for makeup and liquids.
Create a temporary kitchen
Even a simple setup with a microwave and coffee maker helps. One client even put their coffee station in the bathroom!
Buy a Shower Tote
You’ll be sharing a bath for a while. A tote keeps all your essentials portable and tidy.
Add a Clothes Rack
If your closet connects to the bathroom, you might need to move clothes. A freestanding rack gives you quick access in a spare bedroom (Lowes has good options for less than $25).
Bonus Tips We Love
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- Set up a temporary vanity — tabletop mirror + storage bin in a quiet spot
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- Pack your daily essentials like you’re going on a weekend trip
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- Use plastic bins for toiletries — no spills, easy to carry
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- Roll towels and store in baskets for quick grab-and-go use
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- Pick up a free-standing clothes rack if your closet will be affected
Remodeling can be overwhelming, but a little prep goes a long way. Whether you’re working with our team or just getting started, we hope this guide makes the process feel simpler and more manageable.
