Yes, you need to use a moisture-resistant board or a specialized backing board in the bathroom. Standard drywall is highly susceptible to mold, swelling, and deterioration when exposed to daily humidity and water.
Moisture or water-resistant plasterboard is the best product and only type of plasterboard that should be used in a bathroom. Bathrooms need water resistant plasterboards to prevent water build-up as other types of plasterboard would become damaged and weakened from moisture in the room.
Bathrooms are perhaps the most critical areas in your home to utilize mold-resistant drywall due to the constantly high humidity levels and frequent water exposure in these areas. Every use of the shower, bath, and sink contributes to the moisture in the air, creating an ideal environment for mold growth.
Frequent bathing, showering, and laundry, combined with usually small size of the bathroom, favor water accumulation. The correct humidity level in the room is between 40 and 60%. If it's exceeded, measures should be taken to lower it. That's when it's a good idea to get a good moisture absorber.
For the best bathroom moisture absorber, DampRid is the top-rated industry standard. It uses natural calcium chloride crystals to safely trap excess humidity and eliminate musty odors without needing electricity.
The Japanese practice of hanging futons and pillows outside to “air out” isn't just traditional — it kills mold and mites that love humid bedding. Wipe down bathrooms after every use. Exhaust fans during showers, wipe tiles and mirrors, keep surfaces dry. Bathrooms are ground zero for household mold.
Waterproof Paint & Sealants
If your wall is flat, mold-free, and in reasonably good condition, a waterproof paint or sealant can make a huge difference. This solution forms a barrier against water infiltration - and it's much cheaper than adding tile or a separate membrane.
Plastic paneling is very easy to install, making it an easy drywall alternative to recommend. You can simply screw most plastic paneling into place and you will be able to cover up walls directly. You can put them right over the studs, so it's really convenient overall.
In 2026, bathroom flooring trends prioritize a blend of organic warmth and dramatic, personalized style, with popular choices including travertine, limestone, large-format porcelain tiles, and intricate patterned tiles. Top trends for the year include herringbone patterns, "tile drenching" (running the same tile on floor and wall), and high-contrast, artistic patterns that turn floors into a focal point.
5 Tacky Bathroom "Upgrades" That Instantly Make Your Home Look Bad, Designers Say
Labor: It typically accounts for 40% to 65% of your total budget. Structural changes: Typically increase your total project cost by 30% to 100% because they trigger a domino effect of labor and permitting requirements.
The 30% rule in remodeling is a financial guideline suggesting that the total cost of your renovations should not exceed 30% of your home's current market value.
MOISTURE RESISTANT PLASTERBOARD SLOWS WATER DAMAGE AND REDUCES THE RISK OF MOULD. It is worth mentioning that moisture resistant only improves protection but is not necessarily a 100% waterproof product. The green plasterboard finish creates a barrier that keeps water from soaking into the core.
Use moisture and mold-resistant drywall (commonly called purple board or green board) for bathroom walls and ceilings that will only be painted. For areas inside a shower or tub surround, do not use drywall; instead, install a waterproof cement backer board (like Durock or HardieBacker) to prevent water damage.
Plastic Accessories or Fixtures
Plastic soap dispensers, flimsy shower curtains, and thin toilet roll holders won't do your bathroom any favors. They crack, discolor, and instantly cheapen the look of the space. The same goes for plastic chrome or faux brass fixtures.
Drywall alternatives like plywood, plaster, and shiplap provide options for those seeking unique aesthetics or improved functionality in wall finishes. While drywall is affordable, easy to repair, and fire-resistant, these materials offer benefits that might better suit specific needs.
Before the widespread adoption of drywall in the 1940s and 1950s, older houses used a method called lath and plaster. This technique consisted of nailing thin wooden strips (lath) horizontally across wall studs and coating them in thick layers of plaster.
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional drywall, PVC wall panels (like Trusscore or Duramax) are a leading modern replacement. They install up to four times faster than gypsum boards because they eliminate the need to mud, tape, sand, or paint.
Replace bathroom drywall with waterproof, mold-resistant materials to prevent moisture damage. The best alternatives include PVC panels (like Trusscore PVC), fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), or cement backer board (like HardieBacker) for tiled areas. These options eliminate water absorption and reduce long-term maintenance.
Avoiding common basement waterproofing mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
The Japanese do shave their faces, arms, legs, and pubic areas. Those with hairy pubic areas are considered sexy. However, as the Western culture has influenced the country, this practice has become more accepted in Japan. A Japanese woman who is hairless is not considered sexy – she is like a neutered man.
Yes, an estimated 70% of the world does not use dry toilet paper to wipe. Instead, many cultures across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Europe prioritize washing with water.
Mold is generally at its worst from early spring through early fall (specifically July through October), peaking during the warmest and most humid months. Mold thrives in warm temperatures (60∘F to 80∘F) combined with relative humidity levels above 60%.