Transforming a Bathroom on a Tight Budget

So any kind of significant bathroom renovation can be expensive because of the high cost bathroom essentials (i.e. toilets, sink, bath tub) but there are a lot of simple things you can do in a few hours to totally makeover your bathroom.

First things first is clear it out, take everything out of the room that way it will be easier to clean every little nook and cranny. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way and is a great canvas for your new look. Most people stick to a shade of white when it comes to the usually small space of bathrooms. But going with the right color will make your bathroom seem more inviting and up to date. If your bathroom is small (as most are) stick to a lighter color- the home depot website offers links that allow you to see colors in actual rooms.

When you are going to paint any room, but especially a bathroom take the time to tape off and cover everything, even though it is a pain-it will pay off in the end and save you a ton of time doing touch ups.

Estimated Paint Cost $25 per gallon

Rollers/Painters tape $10

Vanities are popular in bathrooms of all styles but can eventually end up looking outdated compared to your new updated bathroom. Rather than spending money on a new vanity try to refurbish your own. Most can be painted, but you can also try more eclectic things like tiling it or decoupaging with your favorite pictures or magazine clippings. Changing fixture makes a big impact on the over all feel of your space without costing you too much.

Once you’ve picked your paint, you may want to consider a new type of tile for your bathroom. Vinyl or Ceramic tiles are the most popular choices for bathrooms. Both are easy to clean and are water resistant. While ceramic tile is more expensive by shopping around you can find simple ceramic tiles on clearance for 2 or 3 dollars a square foot, although that may seem like a lot remember how small your bathroom is.

Clearance Ceramic Tiles from $2 a sq. foot

Vinyl Flooring $12 dollars and up (Lowe’s has some great deals)

Since storage is a problem in pretty much any room, take the time to visit places like the Container Store which have unique storage solution from stackable draws to large hanging shower cadies. Not only are these stores aimed at storage but at making storage more aesthetic and design friendly.

Extra Storage on average $40

Accessories can make a space, so consider getting a few new things for your ‘new’ bathroom. Simple accents like a new shower curtain, photo’s or window treatments will make it feel like a different space. Try less expensive stores like Ikea or any clearance section of your local home goods store. Before you bring back all of the stuff you took out of your bathroom, go through it and keep only what you need, by getting rid of excess clutter you’ll have much more space, which will make your bathroom a more relaxing space.