Moving Tips: Ways to Refresh a Bathroom While on a Budget

Are you getting ready to make a household move? Are you taking a look around to determine what will help your house sell quicker? Maybe your tired bathroom needs some TLC to entice the ideal buyer. The problem is you don’t have $10,000+ to spend on an update. 

Fortunately, there are ways to transform the look of your bathroom without spending the big bucks. Focusing on smaller changes, such as cosmetic ones, can make a huge difference. 

Here are seven ways to refresh a bathroom on a budget:

1. Update Fixtures

You can upgrade your bathroom’s look by adding new fixtures like faucets, drawer pulls, and towel racks. Some fixtures can be pricey, but you can save money purchasing used ones. Check eBay, Craigslist, and Habitat ReStore as starting points. A quick Google search often also yields dozens of businesses that sell used fixtures. If you want to buy new, warehouse stores often sell high-quality fixtures at reasonable prices.

2. Add a DIY Vanity

If you’re looking at a circa the 1980s or 1990s vanity, it’s time to swap it out. Rather than buy an inexpensive generic vanity at your local big-box store, be unique and make it a DIY project. Try upcycling an old dresser, vintage table, end table, or build your own.

3. Freshen up With Paint

Paint is one of the best ways to refresh any room on a budget -- bathrooms take a little extra patience due to all of the detail. Make sure you buy quality paint that withstands mildew and mold, which will cost a bit extra but is well worth the investment.

4. Add Flair to Your Mirror

If you’re looking to make a big style statement, invest some of your budgeted money in a mirror. You’ll find there are many choices.

• Framed or frameless
• Round or rectangle
• Single or multiple

When making your style choices, remember to keep your mirror’s size, style, and placement in proportion with your vanity. If you’re planning to keep the existing mirror, change it up by painting the frame, adding decorative tile around its perimeter, or adding other embellishments.

5. Class Things up With Glass

Glass adds a sleek, modern look to any tired bathroom. Add glass shelves above your toilet to be purely decorative or practical, depending on your space and needs. For additional function and style, install a glass shower shelf as well. During the installation of glass, pay careful attention to directions and anchor firmly.

6. Replace Outdated Lighting

Many older bathrooms have lighting that not only looks outdated but is inefficient. A chandelier or pendant light adds style and atmosphere. Cracked glass or alabaster frosted glass bulb coverings give lighting a modern look. If you have the resources, install recessed lighting in the shower. Whatever you decide, be sure to choose lighting that simulates natural light, and avoid fluorescent.

7. Add Small Touches

Even the smallest, inexpensive touches make the most significant differences. Add a colorful bath rug and a curved curtain rod (with a new shower curtain to go with it!). Freshen up the caulk and grout. Tile is expensive, but you can achieve similar results by wallpapering half your bathroom’s wall for style, texture, and color. Fresh towels and fragrant flowers also go a long way in a stylish bathroom presentation.

Brighten up for the Move

An excellent moving budget can make your big move a bit less intimidating financially. To learn about affordable moving options, call us today for a price quote.