Not ready for a full bathroom upgrade but want to make some changes? We hear you. In fact, we’ve got some amazing ideas on how to update bathrooms on a budget. From simple decor changes to new - budget-friendly - additions, we’ve put our heads together and come up with this list of simple and cheap bathroom ideas that you can do yourself.
The key to modernising your bathroom on a budget? Work with the space you have and make small but impactful changes. These simple upgrades will keep you going until you’re ready for a bigger bathroom renovation. Plus, with little to no build work or high level installations needed, you can do the bulk of the DIY yourself or ask an experienced friend or family member to help, saving money on hiring a tradesperson.
So, let’s get to it and reveal our top 15 simple and cheap bathroom ideas for anyone looking for ways to modernise bathrooms on a budget.
1. Make it pretty by adding a simple decor shelf
Giving your bathroom a refresh doesn't always need to mean big changes. In fact, one of the simplest ways to update your space is by installing a decor shelf. Popular styles include a stacked design with three floating shelves, giving you plenty of room to add some greenery, small accessories or candles without overpowering a small bathroom. Remember to think in threes to balance out your items and prevent overcrowding your shelf space - less is more for a subtle but elegant update.
2. Upgrade your toilet seat for maximum comfort
This may not make the biggest design impact in your bathroom, but it will make things a lot more comfortable. Are you still battling with loud, banging seats that go bump in the night? You really don't have to. Simply upgrade your toilet seat to a soft closing, quiet seat that is also able to pop off with one simple button click for easy cleaning.
3. Hang artwork to give your space some character
Create a more interesting and motivational spot in your bathroom by hanging some colourful or thought-provoking artwork. You can either stick to one simple piece or create more of a mural wall for maximum effect. Keep frames all in the same colour for a modern style or clash contrasting wooden frames for a vintage look.
4. Rework your bathroom furniture and try the upcycling trend
If you don't want to splash out on a new bathroom vanity unit just yet, then why not give upcycling your existing one a go? Paint it the latest colour you are craving and update furniture handles to give it a brand new look.
5. Update your accessories to create atmosphere and cohesion
Don't forget those all important finishing touches like toilet roll holders, wall and corner shower baskets or towel rails. They can do a great job at creating a sense of cohesion in your space. We actually have some really handy accessory packs which help to give you all those little essentials for your bathroom in one standout finish.
6. Peel and stick flooring for a quick and simple new look
This craze has been taking Instagram and TikTok by storm recently, but these amazing 'peel and stick' self-adhesive flooring packs cost very little and work wonders for reimagining a space that's plagued by old, cracked or worn bathroom tiles. You can usually find packs of between 10 and 25 for between £20 and £35 and if you're willing to give a little DIY a go one weekend, you could find yourself with a stunning floor transformation!
7. Make a statement by adding a colourful sink
Colour is big on the interior design agenda this year, but it's not all about colour drenching. Small pockets of colour or statement bathroom pieces that pop are starting to gain lots of traction with influencers and design enthusiasts. The colourful range of Harbour Concrete Basins are the perfect addition to a cloakroom space adding interest and saving space in the meantime.
8. Paint your bathroom ceiling to stay away from the ordinary
Next time you're relaxing in the bath staring up at the ceiling of your bathroom, just think how much better it could look if you've got rid of the boring and plain white and replaced it with a soothing and calming shade? Painting your bathroom ceiling is becoming a simple and fuss-free way to update bathrooms - it's just reaching it that's the issue. Caution advised!
9. Change your tap for an instant uplift
If your tap is looking dated and the constant drip is sending you dizzy, chances are you could save yourself and your bank balance by investing in a new and much more cost-efficient basin tap. Stick to trusted chrome or try something new with one of our special finish taps which look great and instantly revive a bathroom.
10. Swap out your window blind for something funky and patterned
Updating your window blind is another way to revamp your space without too much effort or money doing so. Window blinds, especially in hot and humid environments like the bathroom, can become damp and mouldy quite quickly if you struggle to get proper ventilation into your space. Changing them regularly can avoid mould spores spreading or causing nasty side effects for you and your family.
11. Create an illusion of space and light with a new bathroom mirror
A bathroom mirror not only looks great and instantly modernises a bathroom, but it can help with the overall feel of a space. In small bathrooms in particular, adding a bathroom mirror can reflect natural light making the room feel more open and spacious.
12. Add bathroom-friendly plants that do good for you
As Brits we love plants and 'bringing the outside in' has been a steady interiors trend that's stuck for years. Plants are not just a lift for your aesthetic, but the right plants in your home can have health benefits and air purifying properties too. The bathroom is a great place to experiment with some greenery. Stick to house plants that thrive in humid bathroom conditions or hardy ones that can withstand changing temperatures. Snake Plants, Peace Lily and Boston Fern are great examples that do well in the bathroom.
13. Get creative with your bath panel
There's so much you can do to upgrade a bath panel and this will instantly add a fresh look to your bathroom. A lick of paint, adding a panel effect or use peel and stick tile designs are all really cost-effective ways to update your existing bath panel. You can also get hold of a fresh new bath panel for as little as £20 which should slot right on saving time and energy!
14. Change your showerhead for a luxury edge
One of the most luxurious yet affordable upgrades is swapping your existing shower head for a brand new style. Whether you're after a spa-like feel with a rainfall shower head or more of a functional addition with a shower handset, the finishes available will add instant glamour to your morning shower. Our fixed shower heads cost as little as £30 and are available in chrome, brushed brass, brushed bronze, matt black and more!
15. Swap tiles for more affordable wall panels
Finally, if you are sick of cleaning your grouting and redoing your sealant on a regular basis, we could have just the answer. Our range of bathroom wall panels offer a more affordable, easy to clean and sustainable alternative to tiles. Opt for a natural slatted look or go bolder with marble or stone PVC options, this is one upgrade you'll love for years to come.
Ready to try one or a few of these simple and cheap bathroom ideas? Tap Warehouse has all you need to upgrade your bathroom for less. Check out some of our other guides, including this year's top kitchen ideas and best kitchen taps.
