8 Simple Ways to Upgrade Your Bathroom on a Budget

I'm looking to revamp my small bathroom, but I'm trying to make it as affordable as possible. Luckily, I found this video by Kristen McGowan that explains plenty of ways to achieve a fresh new look in your bathroom without spending a fortune:

Here are Kristen's top ideas to get you started:

Disclaimer: We may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

1. Spruce Up the Ceiling

Forget the floor - look up! Adding a pop of color or texture to your ceiling can draw the eye upwards and make a small bathroom feel bigger. Paint it a bold color, wallpaper it for a touch of pattern, or install wood beams, paneling, or beadboard for a unique twist.


Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your ceiling with a bold color and this highly recommended mold killing primer that Amazon reviewers swear by!

2. Swap Out Bath Mats for a Runner

Ditch the cluttered look of multiple bath mats. Instead, use a runner rug that spans the width of your vanity. This creates a dramatic impact and helps conceal any imperfections on the floor. Plus, it makes the bathroom appear longer.


I love the look of a long runner-style rug, but I still want to make sure it's practical for bathroom use. This is a great option I found on the Target website:

Image from Target

mDesign Large Modern Bath Mat Runner

Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your bathroom with these runner bath mats that Amazon reviewers swear by!

3. Organize with Baskets

A cluttered bathroom can feel instantly dated. Group your toiletries and bathroom items in stylish baskets. This not only keeps things organized but adds texture and a touch of decor to your space. Look for affordable baskets at thrift stores to save even more.


I really like these ones from Target:

Image from Target

Farmlyn Creek 3-Section Wicker Baskets, 2 Pack

Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your bathroom with these budget friendly storage baskets that Amazon reviewers swear by!

4. Revamp Your Vanity Mirror

The mirror is often the first thing you see in a bathroom, so give it some attention! Replace an outdated mirror with a new, stylish option. If you'd prefer to keep the existing mirror, framing it can give it a more polished look and tie it in with the other finishes in your bathroom.


Amazon has a great range of mirrors in all kinds of styles and at varying prices. Here are a few of my top choices:

LOAAO 30X36 Inch Black Metal Framed Bathroom Mirror

AAZZKANG Wall Mirror Black Rectangle Rustic Wood Mirror

Americanflat 20x30 Framed Black Arched Mirror

Keonjinn LED Bathroom Mirror, 24 x 36 Inch

Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your bathroom with these budget friendly vanity mirrors that Amazon reviewers swear by!

5. Paint It Up

Paint is a powerful tool! You can dramatically transform your bathroom on a budget by painting various surfaces. Walls, vanities, countertops, cabinets, tubs, tile, and even fixtures can all be given a new lease on life with a fresh coat of paint.


I love this tip and I've always wanted to try updating fixtures using Rub 'n Buff wax:

AMACO Rub n Buff Wax in Antique Gold

Redesign Recommends!

Make your tub feel new again with this highly recommended tub and tile refinishing kit that Amazon reviewers swear by!

6. Rebottle Everyday Products

Take your bathroom from ordinary to luxurious with this simple trick. Decant your shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and other everyday products into matching pump bottles. This creates a clean and organized look, and gives your bathroom a hotel-like feel. Choose clear, amber, or colored bottles to complement your design.


Again, I think Amazon is the best place for these:

MaisoNovo Refillable Shampoo and Conditioner Bottles | Set of 3

GLADPURE Soap Dispenser - 2 Pack, 12 Oz Clear Diamond Design

Modern Gold Design Pump Bottle Set 27 oz Refillable Shampoo and Conditioner Dispenser

Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your bathroom with these budget friendly and stylish soap dispensers that Amazon reviewers swear by!

7. Elevate the Shower Curtain

Make a simple upgrade with your shower curtain. Raise it as high as possible, ideally to the ceiling, for a more designer touch. You can also install two curtain panels on either side of the shower to frame it in. Opt for simple and classic designs over busy patterns for a more polished look.

Image from Target

Textured Horizontal Stripe Matelassé Shower Curtain

Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your bathroom with these budget friendly recommended shower curtains that Amazon reviewers swear by!

8. Upgrade to White Towels

Invest in a set of white towels to instantly elevate the look of your bathroom. White towels create a clean, fresh, and upscale hotel-like experience. Consider having a separate set of dark towels for makeup removal to avoid staining the white ones.

Simpli-Magic 8-Pc Bath Towel Set Cotton Diamond Waffle

Utopia Towels 24 Pack Cotton Washcloths Set

Redesign Recommends!

Upgrade your bathroom with these budget friendly bath towel sets that Amazon reviewers swear by!

With a little creativity and these budget-friendly ideas, you can refresh your bathroom design and create a space you love. What do you think of these bathroom tips? Let me know in the comments below.

Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 12 comments
  • Sbear Sbear on Jul 06, 2024
    Nothing like having a set of towels for backup so you don't get the 1st set dirty?!? What a waste of money! Your design esthetic is way too classic, traditional and symmetrical and common for me!
  • Carol Carol on Jul 12, 2024
    You've given me renters paradise!
Next