26 Easy—and Impactful—Bathroom Upgrades That Cost Less Than $100

These simple DIY updates will give your bathroom décor a whole new vibe.

If your current budget doesn’t align with your dream of gutting your bathroom, we’ve got some good news: there’s no need to tear out tubs or take out tile to give your bathroom a refresh. We went to the country’s top interior designers and home experts for some (free!) advice on how to revamp a tired-looking bathroom—for less than $100. Ahead, some of their best DIY tips.

Related: 11 Mistakes to Avoid During Your Bathroom Renovation, According to Interior Designers

Add Color and Texture to the Ceiling

Rejuvenate a ho-hum bathroom by adding color and texture to the ceiling. "It’s a jaw-dropping update because it’s so unexpected," says Lucy Penfield, founder and principal at Lucy Interior Design. "I love painting a ceiling in a Zen-like sky blue or pale lilac shade. Or applying a peel-and-stick vinyl grasscloth wallpaper to add texture and an overall spa-like feel to the ceiling."

Spray Paint Your Metal Fixtures

There’s no need to replace expensive bathroom plumbing fixtures when a can of metallic spray paint can refresh your faucet or showerhead.

"Spray painting your fixtures is a good idea if you’re looking to extend the life of an old fixture or test out a new look," says Frank Vega, a paint specialist at Waldwick Paint and Wallpaper. You’ll need to clean your fixtures to remove any residue like hard water deposits, then scuff them with 220-grit sandpaper to prepare the surface. A coat of bonding primer and two to three coatings of spray paint in a gloss finish, and you’ve got a whole new look. "There are many metal shades and textures to choose from, including a hammered finish," says Vega. "Or you can even opt for a fun pop or color."

Related: 15 Incredible Shower Ideas That Will Make You Forget About a Soaking Tub

Swap Curtain Panels for a Shower Curtain

Installing drapery panels in lieu of a shower curtain is one way to give your bathroom a custom feel. "Purchase curtain panels and hang them on both sides of your shower/tub," says Erin Myers, principal and interior designer at Erin Myers Design. "They should dangle about an inch off the ground to avoid getting wet."

Traditional shower curtains come in a standard 72-inch length, while ready-made drapery panels can be purchased in lengths of 84, 96, or 108 inches. "Raise your shower bar as high as possible for the most spacious feel," says Myers. "Indian block print textiles are trending, as are luxe velvets in colors like rich blue. Just make sure to choose panels that coordinate and complement the colors in your bathroom tile."

You can also replace your standard shower curtain with a new one. "I like natural and botanical prints and geometric motifs," says Marie Cloud, owner and principal designer of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio. "Textured fabrics like waffle-weave or linen-style curtains can add depth to the room."

Related: How to Clean Your Shower Curtain and Liner the Right Way

Buy Some New Hand Towels

Hand towels are always on display—a small change like swapping out old ones can bring fresh energy to a space. "Plus, you can do so at a minimal cost," says Grey Joyner, founder at Grey Joyner Interiors. "Geometric designs like checks, thick stripes and wavy patterns are trending. I also love a chunky solid weave to pull in some texture."

Be sure to purchase a set of four so you’ll have a backup pair when the other pair is in the wash. Dina Bandman Goldstone, owner of Dina Bandman Interiors, adds elegance to a powder room with monogrammed fingertip towels placed in a pretty tray. "They’re a graceful way to update a bathroom. You could opt for a traditional cursive style or a more modern monogram depending on your personal taste."

Related: These 12 Bath Towels Are Beautiful Enough to Display in Your Bathroom

Add a Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Tile

Peel-and-stick wallpaper and tile are affordable ways to update your bathroom without making a permanent commitment. With so many prints, colors, and patterns to choose from, it’s easy to find something to compliment your bathroom’s color scheme and style. "For walls and backsplashes, subway tiles are a timeless option while mosaic and hexagonal tiles add a contemporary touch," says Cloud. "As for wallpaper, don't be afraid to experiment with patterns that pop."

"For a cost-saving bathroom upgrade, I like to install vinyl tile sheets on top of existing floor tile. They’re easy to apply and allow you to take risks with colors and patterns because they’re not permanent," says Penfield. "My favorites are bold Moroccan-inspired styles that come in fun and colorful patterns."

Upgrade Your Waste Bin and Hamper

As with most bathroom accessories, a new waste bin and hamper gives you the opportunity to infuse something unexpected and beautiful into your bathroom’s design while making a visual impact.

"No matter the style of your bathroom, there’s a waste bin finish—from leather to rattan to metal to ceramic to marble to wood—to elevate your décor and add color and pattern," says Joyner. The right hamper will not only complement your décor, it can simplify laundry routines, maximize space and control odors. "I love hampers that come with washable liners and handles for easy transporting and ones that look like a piece of furniture or resemble stylish baskets," Joyner says.

Hang Some Art

Even dated tile, like pinky-beige faux travertine, can be improved upon with art. "If you feature the offending tile color in a piece of stylish artwork, you’ll make the color look less unpleasant," says Myers. "For example, that pinky beige can be the sand in a modern beach print or one of a myriad of colors featured in a beautiful still life." You can discover affordable art by scouring garage sales, thrift stores, and online auctions. "Just buy what speaks to you," says Myers. "Shop your house for art you already own that could have a bigger impact in your bathroom."

Scale the art for the size of the wall, but make sure it’s large enough to draw the eye. "Maximalism is my favorite way to tap into art in a bathroom. By adding a bold, unique piece, you can make the space feel more playful and inviting," says Hayley English, principal and founder of Hayley English Interiors. Beth Diana Smith, a HomeGoods style expert, agrees. “A large piece of art adds an unexpected element in a bathroom if you have the space,” Smith says.

"The addition of artwork can make a bathroom feel like an extension of your home’s design as opposed to a utility space," says Joyner. "This can be as simple as framing pressed flowers, a favorite piece of fabric, or your child’s art."

Switch Out Old Wall Plates

Light switches may seem like small details, but they can make a big impact when it comes to upgrading your bathroom. "Clear acrylic switch plates add a particularly distinctive touch while allowing your favorite paint finishes and wallpapers to shine through," says Bandman. Today’s plates come in a wide range of materials including metal, plastic, porcelain and wood along with an array of colors and patterns. "Choose a plate that matches your room’s style and color scheme, then grab a screwdriver and literally make the switch," says Bandman.

Add a Touch of Nature

A low-maintenance plant that thrives in a humid environment can bring life and greenery to your bathroom. "Plants generate a feeling of calm and serenity," says Joyner. "Start with one or two, you can always add more."

"Snake and ZZ plants are wonderful options in a bathroom due to their low-light and high humidity tolerance plus they don’t require a lot of watering. Their air-purifying qualities help with the removal of toxins and impurities, and their good looks will improve the aesthetic of your bathroom, creating a spa-like feel," says Kasey Hurd, eCommerce Manager at Arbor Day Foundation.

Related: 24 Beautiful Houseplants That Are Perfect for Apartment Living

Display a Storage Tray

Placing a beautiful tray in a bathroom is a simple way to create a layered look while corralling items you would normally keep out on display. "Repurpose a serving tray taking up space in your kitchen cabinet,” says Joyner. "Depending on how much counter space or surface area you have in your bathroom, you can style it with beautiful soaps, a diffuser, or candles—anything that feels authentic to you. Ceramic and marble trays are having a moment right now, but you can find a variety of finishes—from lacquer to metal to wood—to work within your bathroom’s design."

Change Out Hardware

Going from builder-grade brushed nickel to whimsical or chunky statement pulls and knobs will give your vanity, along with any other furniture or cabinetry in your bathroom, an instant upgrade. "Hardware should function as jewelry, adding a bit of sparkle and bling to a bathroom. Scallop-edging and brass and gold tones are trending right now," says Myers. "They can be easily purchased at major retailers including Anthropologie, Crate & Barrel, and Target." If you’re replacing pulls, try to use the same hole-to-hole measurements to avoid having to deal with issues like patching, paint touch-ups, and drilling new holes.

When selecting hardware, Nadia Watts, owner/designer at Nadia Watts Interior Design loves knobs and pulls that have a minimalist and streamlined feel in black, glass, tile, leather, and wood finishes, while Cloud loves brushed metal pulls and knobs for a sleek, modern touch. "Mixing and matching different styles can create a unique and eclectic vibe,” she says.

Install a Larger Rug

Whether your goal is to cover up a less-than-ideal floor tile or to simply make your bathroom feel more luxurious, consider a bigger rug rather than the standard 24-by-36-inch size. "Whether it’s vintage, an online score, or repurposed from another room in your house, there are plenty of affordable options to suit your home’s aesthetic," says Myers. "I love a fresh interpretation of a traditional oriental style rug—search 'modern oushak' online and you’ll find a variety of options in modern color palettes. Consider a neutral seagrass rug which, unlike other natural fibers, can withstand moisture." Or look for a rug with flat woven polypropylene fibers that are water-resistant and can be easily cleaned with a rinse.

"Having separate bath mats placed throughout the room can divide up the space and make a bathroom feel smaller, while a larger rug will make the area appear larger," says Sarah Snouffer, principal and owner of Third Street Architecture. "I like to find mine on Etsy and in vintage shops and flea markets."

Apply a Gel Stain on a Wood Vanity

"Wood finishes move in and out of style—the orangish oak coloring that dominated vanities in the eighties and nineties will now date a bathroom," says Snouffer. "Applying a gel stain can update an old vanity or give contrast to a standard, builder-grade wood vanity. With gel stains, you can transform wood into something more current, like a whitewashed farmhouse or a walnut midcentury aesthetic. All you need is some liquid sandpaper and a sanding sponge to prepare the wood, along with the gel stain. I recommend watching some how-to videos before getting started."

A fresh coat of paint will also give life to a dreary vanity. "As it’s usually the only piece of 'furniture' in the bathroom, a deep and dramatic color such as olive green or oxblood will make a strong statement," says Myers.

Related: 6 Outdated Bathroom Trends Interior Designers Are Tired of Seeing

Replace Your Light Bulbs

You can instantly improve the mood of your bathroom by simply replacing the light bulbs. "If your bathroom feels dull and dark, opt for a soft white bulb with a 3000-kelvin color temperature rating," says Malka Helft, owner of Think Chic Interiors. "Choose ones that have more aesthetic appeal, such as an Edison bulb or a fun-shaped square or oval bulb."

"I prefer a globe-shaped frosted bulb for a unique look," says Penfield. "And I always suggest upgrading to a dimmer switch. Who wants to turn a bathroom light on at 2 a.m. and face a full blast of bright lights?"

Use a Decanter to Store Liquids

A decanter provides a much more stylish way to hold your bathroom essentials rather than leaving them in their original packaging. "An antique decanter is a chic way to house and display liquids like mouthwash," says Sara Malek Barney, principal and founder of BANDD/DESIGN. "If your decanter is on the smaller size, you can use it to store liquids like facial toner or body oil. Place a decanter on a bathroom shelf or on the top of your counter, if space allows."

Related: 12 Genius Ways to Keep Your Bathroom Counter Tidy and Organized

Include a Vintage Stool

Creating extra surface space for items such as fresh-cut blooms and candles can take your bathroom to the next level. "I love incorporating a vintage stool in a bathroom," says English. "Just be sure to consider scale so it doesn’t overwhelm the area. Bobbin or wicker stools are trending right now."

"Including a furniture piece in a bathroom is a great way to add character, color and texture," says Bandman. "A luxuriously upholstered stool pairs perfectly with a vanity while a ceramic drum or wood stool can provide an elegant place to perch a glass of wine while soaking in the tub!"

Rethink Your Bathroom Mirror

A mirror has a starring role in the bathroom, particularly a smaller bathroom, as it’s a functional piece that also serves as a decorative focal point. "If the mirror is outdated, it throws everything else off," says Watts. "Upgrade yours by painting the frame for a totally new look, or simply buy a new mirror." Measure your wall space to get a feel for what shape and size will look best. "You don’t need a 'bathroom' specific mirror; you can find many styles online or at vintage and thrift stores, including unique shapes with personality such as carved wood," adds Watt.

"Circular mirrors with metal frames offer a blend of modern and industrial aesthetics," says Cloud. "Mirrors with shelves or cabinet space provide convenient storage for toiletries and small items." Hotel-like makeup mirrors will enhance your bathroom's functionality and aesthetics, making it easier and more enjoyable to perform daily grooming and makeup routines. "Their magnification and lighting make them a must-have in any elevated bathroom space," says Cloud.

Upgrade Towel Bars and Hooks

Replacing old towel bars and hooks or installing new ones where none existed can instantly improve your bathroom’s functionality and tidiness while enhancing the overall look of the space. "Consider ones that match your bathroom's aesthetics and accommodate your storage needs," says Cloud. "I love modern bars with sleek lines in finishes like matte black, brushed brass, or polished chrome and hooks with unique shapes or wooden accents."

Once complete, consider your towel setup. "A bathroom stocked with fluffy white Turkish cotton towels provides ambiance and gives off a boutique hotel vibe," says Jenny Reimold, a HomeGoods style expert.

Related: How to Clean Your Bathroom From Top to Bottom

Update Your Vanity Accessories

Swapping out basic vanity items such as liquid soap and lotion dispensers, soap dishes, toothbrush holders, and tissue boxes is an affordable way to create a custom look. "Marble and vintage designs with patterned glass and antiqued bronze pumps will give any bathroom a more luxe look," says Bandman. Tap into a style that speaks to you and your bathroom design. "Even a stylish toilet brush can make a statement," says Smith.

Replace Your Old Exhaust Fan

Chances are, your noisy and dated exhaust fan has been a fixture in your bathroom for years. "I tell my clients to invest in a white-colored, low-profile, quiet fan," says Penfield. "Not only will it improve the air quality in your bathroom, but in most cases you’ll also be updating a dreary light fixture and increasing the illumination level."

Replace Old Lighting Fixtures

Updating your light fixtures will go far in making your bathroom feel fresh. "My favorites tend to be bold, vintage-inspired, and oversized," says Watts. "If you don’t want to completely replace the fixture, you can refinish it with paint or add shades to a chandelier or sconce for a new look."

Installing additional lighting in a bathroom can alter the room’s mood. "Gold metal sconces on either side or atop of a mirror and/or a statement-making flush mounted ceiling light can add new life to a bathroom," says Ursula Carmona, a HomeGoods style expert. Penfield loves fixtures in satin brass for a dash of luxury or matte black for a moody vibe.

Consider a Rainfall Shower Head

Rainfall shower heads create the ultimate spa-like experience while giving a more modern feel to a bathroom. "A square-shaped shower looks great in a contemporary bathroom as it reflects a more current aesthetic, while a round shower head is often better suited for traditional bathroom designs," says Bandman.

Paint the Walls

Painting walls can drastically change the look and feel of your bathroom, but many homeowners go years without ever altering their room’s color. "If your walls are in good shape, a drop cloth, painter's tape, brushes, a roller, and some paint are all you need," says Snouffer. "Consider different finishes and designs, like limewash paint for added texture or a two-tone color scheme with a darker color running three-quarters up the height of the wall for a schoolhouse effect."

Watts suggests putting paint samples up against a wall to see how they play with existing fixtures and the lighting in your bathroom. "Don't be afraid to choose darker shades, as they can add depth and sophistication to a bathroom," she says.

Set Out Decorative Soaps

Sometimes, it’s the smallest things that make a big difference, and a dainty set of hand soaps may be just what your bathroom needs. "This is an easy update—decorative soaps come in all shapes and sizes, but you can’t go wrong with a monogrammed design, which also makes for a wonderful gift for a friend who may be upgrading their own bathroom," says Bandman.

Add a Gallery Wall

Create an eye-catching gallery wall to fill up an empty, boring bathroom expanse. "I love how these walls provide flexibility—you can swap out photos or art as the season or your tastes change and you can mix in different frame sizes and shapes," says Snouffer. "Consider framing a piece of fabric you love, a few postcards from your travels or even dried plants from a walk around your neighborhood."

Related: How to Clean a Shower, From Glass to Tile

Paint a Radiator

If you live in an older home, create eye candy instead of an eye sore by painting your radiators. Choose a paint made specifically for radiators, then channel your inner child by going with a color. "I once worked with a client who painted every radiator in her house a different color—think Barbie pink, mint green and lilac!" says Penfield.

Read the original article on Martha Stewart.