The bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in any home, so it’s important that it’s both functional and aesthetic. Fortunately, there are upgrades that you can make to transform your bathroom into a spa-like oasis without breaking the bank.
Update Your Fixtures
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to upgrade your bathroom is to replace your old, outdated fixtures.1 This includes your sink faucet, showerhead, and even your toilet. Upgrading to modern fixtures can give your bathroom a fresh, new look while also improving functionality. For example, a low-flow toilet can save you money on your water bill, while a new showerhead can provide a more relaxing and invigorating shower experience. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, upgrading to WaterSense-labeled fixtures may save the average family about $130 on their water per year2.
Paint or Wallpaper
Another easy and affordable way to give your bathroom a fresh new look is to paint or wallpaper the walls. A new coat of paint can make your bathroom feel brighter and more spacious, while a fun wallpaper can add a pop of color and personality. Be sure to choose a high-quality paint that can stand up to the humid environment of a bathroom, and consider adding a mold-resistant primer to prevent mildew and mold growth. There’s even paint suitable for tiles, which is perfect if your older bathroom has tile work on the walls or floors!
Add New Lighting
Lighting can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your bathroom. Upgrading to new light fixtures or adding additional lighting can make your bathroom feel brighter and more inviting. Consider installing a dimmer switch to create a relaxing ambiance for your bubble baths or upgrading to LED lights to save money on your energy bill.
Install a New Vanity
Your bathroom vanity is one of the most prominent features in your bathroom, so upgrading to a new one can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of the room. You can opt for a prefabricated vanity from a home improvement store or go the DIY route and repurpose an old piece of furniture. Alternatively, adding new hardware or a fresh coat of paint can give a dated vanity a whole new look without the cost of a complete replacement.
Upgrade Your Storage
A cluttered bathroom can feel cramped and uninviting, so upgrading your storage options can make a big difference. Consider adding a new medicine cabinet, installing floating shelves, or repurposing an old ladder to create a unique towel storage solution. You can also add decorative baskets or jars to corral smaller items like cotton balls or Q-tips.
Reglaze or Refinish the Bathtub
If your bathtub is worn, chipping or outdated, refinishing it can give it a fresh, new look without the cost of a complete replacement. Refinishing involves applying a new coating to the existing tub, while reglazing involves stripping the old finish and applying a new one. This can be a cost-effective way to improve the overall look of your bathroom, but it’s best to hire a professional to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.3
This is also a great way to modernize a non-white tub, as professionals can change the color of the bathtub and surrounding tile entirely. Pair it with a new shower curtain and a relaxing bubble bath awaits!