Want to update your bathroom but don’t have the budget for a full reno? No problem!
Here are six bathroom update ideas that will make your space feel new and will fit your budget.
1. Paint
Paint is one of the best ways you can make a space feel updated and new.
The walls and ceiling were both a beige color when we moved in (the paint samples lived on the walls for… longer than I would have liked).
For the cost of a gallon of paint, you can give your bathroom a fresh, clean feel with a new wall color. It’s a great inexpensive way to make a big impact.
Painting the ceiling white (Simply White by Benjamin Moore) and walls a soft blue (Simply Elegant by Pittsburgh Paints) made a huge difference!
Look around your space and see if there is something else that could use freshening up with a coat of paint. Painting old frames or decorative bowls or vases will give them an update. If you have cabinets or a vanity, give it some new life. You can read about how I painted my bathroom cabinets white in this post.
2. New Towels
When is the last time you got a new set of towels? For me, it’s been… awhile. Throw away those old towels and replace them with some soft, new ones!
Grab your new towels in a different color to change up the look of your bathroom. I swapped my gray towels for white because they remind of me of a hotel or spa. Choose something that is relaxing and luxurious!
You don’t need to make major changes to make your bathroom feel newer. Just imagine how much better you’ll feel in your space when you have some pretty, soft new towels to wrap yourself in!
3. Update Cabinet Hardware
Take a look at the handles on your drawers or cabinets. If they’re builder grade or dated, grab a new set. Simply changing out the hardware for a sleeker or more modern style can make a big impact.
Before:
I added these handles to my cabinets after I painted them white. They’re simple and inexpensive, and I think it made a big difference!
After!
*Note: If you order your hardware online, double-check the size of the screws that are included. Sometimes they will not be long enough to attach to drawers. The ones I used were not, but I was able to repurpose the existing screws with the new handles.
4. New Decor
A few decorative items can help refresh a space. I found most of my new decor at Target and Hobby Lobby. If new items aren’t in your budget, simply walk around your house and see what you can find. Just moving items to a new room can help bring some life back into them.
I replaced my several-year-old curtain with this new one to compliment my new wall color. (Replace the liner, too. Those things can get pretty gross!)
A nice, soft rug under your feet as you get ready or step out of the shower will feel great and add a nice accent.
Think about adding a plant (real or faux, depending on your plant-parent skills) to bring life (literally) into your bathroom.
Consider updating some of the more functional items in the space, too. Adding a new trash can, canisters for items like cotton balls, or a dish for rings or hair accessories can be functional and pretty!
5. Update the Mirror
Have a boring builder-grade mirror? Give it an update!
I decided to swap my square mirror for a circular one and love it. It gives me the spa vibes I was going for with this bathroom refresh. Mirrors can be pricey, but if you shop around and look for sales, there are more affordable options. I got mine on sale at Target for around $70.
Before:
After!
If you’re not looking to replace or want a more inexpensive option, try framing your existing mirror. There are so many great ideas and how-tos on Pinterest to inspire you!
6. Change Finishes of Items in Your Bathroom
Changing the finish of the fixtures (towel bars, hooks, etc.) can make a big impact!
My bathroom had chrome fixtures, and I changed them for matte black to coordinate with the frame on the new mirror.
I’m still in the process of making this change. I haven’t changed the light fixture or towel bar because lighting isn’t in our budget right now, and I’m not sure what I want to do with the towel bar yet. I’m okay with that! I’ve made so many refreshing changes in here, those things can wait until the timing is right!
No matter what you do, remember that it is possible to update your bathroom on a budget, and that not all of the changes have to be major renovations. They certainly don’t have to happen overnight, or even on a specific timeframe. We all love a great before-and-after reveal, but there isn’t always time or budget for that type of project. Pick one or two things to focus on and slowly make changes that make you happy, and enjoy the process!
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