10 Tips for Remodeling a Bathroom on a Budget

Don’t think you have it in your budget to update your outdated bathroom? Think again. It’s more affordable (and easier!) than you think if you use these cost-saving measures.

Though it’s smaller than most rooms in your home, bathroom renovations tend to be pricier than one might think. Even if you’re remodeling with the help of a bathroom renovation company, you should do as much of the legwork as you can.

Here are some cost-saving measures and tips for remodeling a bathroom on a budget:

1. Old Becomes New

It’s expensive to completely replace immovable items in your bathroom, like a sink or tub. Instead, swap out components or fixtures like shower curtains, shower heads, or sink handles with new ones. It’ll modernize your bathroom without overhauling it from top to bottom.

2. Strategic Tile Design

If you’ve found the tile design of your dreams but it’s too costly, you can use it as an occasional accent among a more basic tile. The cheaper tiles will make the artistic tiles pop, and it’ll add a subtlety to your renovation design. Adhesive tiles are much easier to install.

3. Painting a New Look

One of the most affordable ways to give your bathroom a facelift is a fresh paint job. Seal off all fixtures and furniture, which is harder than it looks in a tight space. To avoid moisture-related problems with mold and mildew, opt for high-quality paint with a satin finish.

4. Another Man’s Discarded Vanity Is…

As long as you’re smart about it, buying used or “upcycled” bathroom items can save you a ton of money. Websites like Craigslist, Kijiji or Etsy have listings specific to fixtures, vanities, showerheads, etc. Before purchasing, ask to inspect the item first for any cracks or flaws.

5. Countertops: The Next Big DIY Trend

If you’d rather not splurge on granite or marble countertops, you can get creative by repurposing old furniture, like dressers or tables, as a sink pedestal. Simply cut holes in the furniture to allow for plumbing and a sink insert. Voila, you have a vintage-inspired sink!

6. Embellishing Instead of Replacing

Accent pieces are a great way to modernize your bathroom without the headache of removing and installing infrastructure. A bathroom-friendly rug, a new toilet seat, flowerpots, candle stands or other decorations can add personality to any bathroom.

7. Household Items as Decorations

If you’re especially crafty or recently jumped on the DIY bandwagon, you can find practical uses for household items you probably otherwise would’ve discarded. For example, a PVC pipe or an old cake dish, refurbished to match your bathroom’s design, can make for creative storage on your countertop or in your bathroom closet.

8. Replace the Caulk and Grout

An easy way to enhance your bathroom is to replace the grimy caulk around your tub and sink and grout between your tiles. To do so, you need replacement grout, sealant, a grout saw, and a caulking gun. Or you can thoroughly clean the grout or dye it to freshen it up.

Related: Do DIY Bathtub Refinishing Kits Really Work?

9. Water-Efficient Bathroom

As toilet usage represents 30% of your home’s water usage, high-efficiency and dual-flush toilets reduce your output significantly. Water-efficient sinks and shower heads will also help you conserve water and save money on your water bills.

Related: 21 Ways To Save Water and Money

10. Be Creative With Your Lighting

Instead of overhauling the electrical system, you can add subtle lighting accents to help brighten up your bathroom. The infusion of candles and standing lamps are a great alternative. An old candle holder can make for a cost-effective, creative wall scone.

• The $150 Bathroom Redo
• Bathroom Remodeling Tips for Aging In Place
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• Make Over Any Room for $100 or Less

Reviewed December 2023