If you're planning a bathroom remodel, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. A bathroom remodel—no matter the size—changes your daily routine, requires planning, and temporarily disrupts your home. But here’s the good news: with the right preparation, you can dramatically reduce the stress, the mess, and the timeline.
This guide walks you through the essential steps of bathroom remodel preparation, including how to protect your home, organize your belongings, plan for downtime, communicate with your remodelers, and ensure your project goes as smoothly as possible. Whether you're doing a simple tub upgrade or a full renovation, proper prep sets the tone for a clean, efficient, stress-free experience.
If you're a Rochester-area homeowner ready to remodel, remember—Bathroom remodeling in Rochester, NY is what Bathtub Made New does best. But first, let’s get your home ready.
Why Proper Preparation Matters
Bathroom remodels are unique because they involve plumbing, demolition, flooring, cabinetry, and often refinishing or replacing tubs and showers. Preparation:
-
Reduces dust, debris, and unexpected damage
-
Helps your project stay on schedule
-
Creates a safer workspace for your contractors
-
Minimizes disruptions to your daily routine
-
Ensures you’re not scrambling mid-remodel
Spending a little time preparing your space now prevents big headaches later.
Step 1: Declutter Your Bathroom Completely
Before your remodelers arrive, clear out the entire bathroom—not just the obvious items.
Remove:
-
Towels, rugs, toiletries
-
Cleaning supplies, shower caddies
-
Hair tools, shaving supplies, cosmetics
-
Laundry baskets, trash cans
-
Any wall décor, artwork, shelving
Why this matters:
Your contractors need clear access to surfaces, plumbing, and walls. Small items collect dust and can get damaged during demolition or installation.
Tip: Pack everything into clearly labeled bins. This makes re-organizing your new bathroom much easier once the project is complete.
Step 2: Protect Adjacent Rooms
Contractors do their best to contain debris, but remodeling inevitably creates dust. Safeguard nearby areas by:
-
Removing hanging photos or décor in the hallway
-
Taking down curtains or anything fabric-based
-
Covering furniture with plastic or old sheets
-
Rolling up or removing rugs
-
Closing off vents near the bathroom
If you have pets, this step becomes even more important. Dust travels—and fast.
Step 3: Create a Clear Path for Contractors
To help your remodelers move tools, materials, and equipment efficiently, create a clear path from your entrance to the bathroom. This may include:
-
Moving hallway furniture
-
Shifting plants or decorative stands
-
Clearing your entryway
-
Ensuring stairs, doorways, and hallways are unobstructed
If possible, designate one entry door for contractor access. This keeps traffic organized and reduces dirt tracked into your home.
Step 4: Prepare for Limited Bathroom Access
If you only have one bathroom, you’ll need a temporary plan. Even if you have more than one, your routine will change for a few days.
Plan ahead by:
-
Showering the night before demo day
-
Setting up a temporary toiletry station in a spare room
-
Using another bathroom in your home or staying with family for a day or two
-
Considering access to gym facilities if you need showers during certain phases
Many homeowners underestimate how disruptive losing a bathroom can be. The more you prepare, the easier your day-to-day becomes.
Step 5: Make Decisions Before the Remodel Begins
Nothing slows down a remodel like last-minute choices.
Before your project starts, make sure you’ve finalized choices for:
-
Tile colors and patterns
-
Tub or shower type
-
Vanities and sink style
-
Fixtures and finishes
-
Lighting options
-
Flooring materials
-
Grout colors
-
Hardware (towel bars, handles, mirrors)
-
Refinishing vs replacing certain surfaces
If you're working with Bathtub Made New, your designer or project manager will walk you through these decisions in advance—keeping your project efficient, predictable, and stress-free.
Step 6: Discuss Where Materials Will Be Stored
Remodeling involves tile boxes, plumbing parts, adhesives, refinishing materials, and multiple tools. These items need a safe staging area.
Work with your contractor to determine:
-
Where materials will be delivered
-
Where they will be stored during the project
-
How much space they need
-
Whether anything needs to be moved before delivery day
A garage, basement, or spare room works great. Just be sure the area is dry, clean, and out of reach of children or pets.
Step 7: Understand the Timeline
Bathroom remodels vary in complexity, but most projects follow a predictable order:
-
Demo Day – Removal of tubs, tile, flooring, and outdated surfaces
-
Plumbing and Electrical Prep – Any necessary updates behind the walls
-
Installation – New tub, shower walls, vanity, and fixtures
-
Refinishing and Surface Work – If you’re refinishing your tub or tile
-
Finishing Touches – Caulk, trim, accessories
-
Final Inspection – Ensuring everything looks perfect and functions properly
Understanding the phases ahead of time reduces surprises and helps you plan your schedule around the work.
Step 8: Ask About Dust Control Measures
A professional contractor will already have dust control procedures in place, but you can ask:
-
Will you use plastic sheeting and zipper barriers?
-
Will you cover floors in hallways?
-
Do you use HEPA vacuums or air filters during demolition?
-
How often will debris be removed?
Knowing the plan gives you peace of mind and ensures your home stays clean.
Step 9: Prepare Your Kids and Pets
Remodeling days can be noisy and chaotic, which may be stressful for children and pets. To make the experience smoother:
-
Keep pets in another room or crate during work hours
-
Let kids know which areas they must avoid
-
Consider using baby gates to block off hallways
-
If possible, plan outings or playdates during demolition
Safety is always the top priority.
Step 10: Communicate With Your Remodelers
A great remodeler keeps communication open—but it’s also helpful to share your expectations clearly.
Discuss:
-
Start and end times
-
Parking preferences
-
What doors to use
-
Your working-from-home schedule
-
Any noise-sensitive times (like nap schedules)
-
How you prefer to receive updates—text, call, or email
At Bathtub Made New, homeowners appreciate that our team communicates every step of the way. No surprises. No confusion.
Step 11: Plan for Cleanup and Post-Project Organization
Once the remodel is complete, you’ll want to wipe down nearby surfaces due to inevitable light dust. Then:
-
Reorganize your toiletries
-
Wash any linens or towels stored near the bathroom
-
Do a walkthrough with your contractor
-
Ask questions about maintenance for your new surfaces
-
Take photos of your new bathroom for your own reference (or to show friends!)
If you refinished your tub or tile, we'll review care instructions so your new surfaces last as long as possible.
Step 12: Know What NOT to Do Before a Remodel
Avoid making these common mistakes:
-
Don’t schedule your remodel right before major holidays or hosting guests
-
Don’t leave items in bathroom drawers or vanity cabinets
-
Don’t start painting before the remodel begins
-
Don’t buy products or materials without asking your remodeler first
-
Don’t forget to plan for showering and bathroom use during the project
These small missteps can cause delays, extra costs, or unnecessary stress.
When You’re Ready to Remodel, We’re Here to Help
Preparing your home for a bathroom remodel may seem overwhelming, but with a clear plan and the right team, the process becomes smooth, organized, and even exciting.
Whether you’re upgrading your tub, installing a walk-in shower, or tackling a full renovation, Bathroom remodeling in Rochester, NY is what Bathtub Made New specializes in. Our team guides you through every step—from planning to installation—so your remodel is stress-free from start to finish.
Ready to get started? Contact Bathtub Made New today and enjoy a beautifully remodeled bathroom that fits your style, budget, and lifestyle.