Decorating a bathroom is particularly challenging because it is a damp environment. Everytime the shower or bath is used, the air is filled with steam and condensation. So any items you use to decorate with have to be moisture friendly, especially if your bathroom has no windows.

Also, since bathrooms tend to get flooded sooner or later, you have to take into account any floor treatments you are using. And it's even more challenging if you have pets But not to worry. With some creative planning and some caution, you can put together a great looking bathroom.

Some materials are either unaffected by the moisture or actually benefit from it.

If you decorate with pottery, for example, the moisture does't affect it at all. Plaster, however, is sensitive to moisture. But anything that is kiln fired will be fine.

Raffia actually likes moisture. So if you have some raffia or straw sunhats, hang them on your bathroom walls. Decorate with ribbons and faux flowers. The moisture in the air keeps raffia supple and keeps it from getting dry and cracking.

If you are hanging framed art, steer clear of watercolors of photographs, as they can be damaged by moisture. It can condensate under the glass and damage the art. Wood that hasn't been treated has the same problem. It can mold with too much day to day moisture in the air. Instead choose oil paintings or acrylics on canvas. It's pretty indestructable.

For floor treatments either use inexpensive throw rugs that can be pitched if they get flooded out or damaged by pets. Or choose tile or linoleum that is easy to clean.

And if you are painting the bathroom first, consult your paint company for whatever they would recommend for a damp environment. Paints sometimes have additives to prevent mold and mildew. So do you research before you invest your money.

If you have children, you might want to avoid anything glass in the bathroom environment, like drinking glasses. Go with plastic instead.