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How to Update Your Older Bathroom on a Budget

Your old bathroom is one of those spaces in your house that you just can’t stand to look at. The tiles are discolored, the fixtures have been around since before you moved in, and it’s all just a big mess. However, there’s no need to invest in an entirely new bathroom when it doesn’t make sense for your budget!

Many people are surprised to find out that updating an older bathroom is not as expensive as they might have thought. When you do the work yourself, it can surely be even less expensive! With a few simple changes, you’ll be able to enjoy your updated space at a price that won’t break the bank. But generally, we don’t recommend DIY bathroom projects if you have no experience with renovations. Things can go wrong very quickly, and you could end up doing more damage. So, it’s best if you leave the job to professionals.

Nevertheless, you can take charge of the design and which parts of your bathroom need to be changed. This article will help you brainstorm bathroom design ideas and find a suitable solution for your bathroom.

If you’re looking for a way to update your bathroom on a budget, there are many ways to do it. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to update your older bathroom on a budget with easy projects that will spruce up the space without breaking the bank.

Have Fun With Wallpaper

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Bathroom wallpaper is a great way to add color and character to your bathroom. Many people are intimidated by the idea of wallpaper, but it’s actually not difficult to apply. For a budget-friendly option that won’t take up too much time or money, choose something like peel and stick vinyl wall decals (or you can paint your tiles). These will give your bathroom more life without taking hours out of your day.

If you’re looking for more of a challenge, paint your tile walls with chalkboard paint (or another design). You could even write something on the wall like “Happiness is in the Tub” or “Time to Shower.” It will give that personal touch without breaking the bank!

Add a Tub Surround

Photo by Max Vakhtbovych from Pexels

Most people have one of two options for their bathtub – a small tub or just an unfinished room. A new stylish bathroom design is your third option: adding a surround to the bathtub that will add both function and style!

When you install a surround, it can prevent water from leaking out into other areas in the bathroom while also giving your bathtub a clean, finished look. You can go with something simple and traditional like white subway tile, or you could add in glass tiles for an extra pop of color (or even gold!).

This is one of the cheapest projects on this list because all you need to do is install new baseboards around your tub area if there are no current ones. The most important thing however, is to make sure that they are waterproof.

Add a Subway Wall

Image from Better Homes and Gardens

Adding a subway tile wall in your bathroom is one of the easiest ways to update it on a budget because you can install this yourself! If you’re going for something more modern, stencil tiles onto the wall or paint them.

When choosing colors and patterns, think about what will look good with other features in the room like curtains, towels, and lighting. It’s important to coordinate your colors so everything matches, but don’t overdo it!

If you want a more classic style, go with white subway tile or black tiles. This will match any towel color that you have in the room because there are no limitations on what can be used for this project as long as it is all white.

Try a Mixed-Material Floor

Image from TheSpruce

Many people don’t know that you can actually install a mixed-material floor in your bathroom. This is a great way to add some character and depth without the extra time or expense of tiling an entire room!

This project would have to be done by professionals, but if it’s not too complicated, you might be able to do this yourself. Examples of materials that can be mixed include carpeting and tile, linoleum and ceramic tiles, vinyl flooring with wood planks or cork strips, and pebble tile and wood planks. You’ll find there are many options for this project!

Create a Place for Two

Image from Houzz

Adding a second toilet to your bathroom is the most budget-friendly way to improve this space. This will provide more privacy and ease for anyone with limited mobility or children so they can use the other side of the room without having to worry about someone coming in while they are using it.

On the other hand, it would look amazing if you could create a his-and-hers vanity as well. This would be the perfect way for a couple to share their space while still being able to have some privacy.

Lastly, a vintage-style washstand can add a charming touch and provide a great place to store your toiletries.

Of course, all this is possible if you have a spacious bathroom.

Add a Decorative Window

image from Micoolar

A decorative window will make your bathroom feel even more luxurious and spacious. You can install this in any shape or size you want, so it’s easy to get creative with the design of the room! Replace your old plate glass window with a leaded-glass or stained glass panel to obscure the view without blocking the natural sunlight.

If there is a shower stall in your bathroom, installing a glass door for that space would be another way to customize the look of your space. Any kind of door will do, but a glass one is a great option if you want to save on energy costs and have an unobstructed view!

Conclusion

These are some of the cheapest ways to update your bathroom. You don’t need an entire remodel in order to create a space that is beautiful and functional! You can slowly build your dream bathroom – one step at a time. Start with flooring and then move on to the next step. It’s important to coordinate your colors so everything matches, but don’t overdo it!

 

Gail P
I am a beachy type of person, living in Newport Beach, and oftentimes I’ll go for a swim with my daughter. When I’m bored, I’ll help make package boxes for my little girl’s sticker company on Etsy.