33 Best Budget-Friendly Bathroom Ideas for Every Style

If you’ve ever stood in your bathroom thinking, “This place could really use a glow-up… but my wallet says no,” you’re not alone.

We’ve all been there—scrolling through dreamy renovation photos, only to realize those price tags are not in our budget.

But here’s the good news: upgrading your bathroom doesn’t have to cost a small fortune. With a little creativity and a few smart swaps, you can totally refresh your space.

These 33 budget-friendly ideas are proof that style and savings can go hand in hand.

budget-friendly bathroom ideas

1. Paint your vanity for an instant refresh

A photo of a Regency-style bathroom with a pastel pink vanity. The bathroom is fully furnished with a toilet, a sink, a mirror, and a few decorative items. The floor is covered with a patterned rug. The walls are adorned with a few paintings. There is a window near the ceiling, allowing natural light to enter the room.

Want to give your bathroom a fresh new look without the hefty price tag?

Grab some paint and refresh your vanity. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to give your space a whole new vibe.

You don’t need to be a professional painter. A couple of coats of paint, and your old, tired vanity will look like a brand-new piece of furniture. Whether you go for a bold, statement color or keep it neutral, this quick DIY can make a huge impact.

2. Swap out cabinet hardware for a modern look

A photo of a neo-industrial style bathroom with a modern look. The bathroom has a separate shower area, a cabinet with brushed nickel knobs, and a sink with a brushed nickel faucet. The walls are made of exposed bricks. There is a window with curtains, allowing natural light to filter into the room.

Replacing the old, outdated cabinet hardware is an easy fix that can do wonders. It’s the cheapest way to modernize your space without breaking the bank.

New knobs or pulls don’t have to be expensive, and you can find some stylish options at your local hardware store or online for a steal.

Trust me, when you swap out that brass for matte black or brushed nickel, your bathroom will instantly feel fresher and more polished.

3. Install a peel-and-stick backsplash

A photo of a farmhouse-style bathroom with a hanging shelves, a bath tub, and other essentials. The peel and stick backsplash has a chic floral pattern in bold colors. The room has warm, soft lighting.

Who says you need to hire a contractor to get a beautiful backsplash?

Peel-and-stick tiles are a total game-changer, giving you the same stylish look without the hassle or cost of traditional tile. You can transform your bathroom in just a few hours!

These tiles come in a variety of patterns and designs, from chic subway tiles to bold, modern prints. They’re super easy to apply, even if you’ve never touched a tile before.

You’ll get a luxe look, and when it’s time to move, you can peel it off with zero damage. Plus, it’s super satisfying to see the result so quickly.

4. Hang new shower curtains with bold prints

A photo of an art deco-style luxurious bathroom with a nature-themed shower curtain. The bathroom is fully furnished with essentials and a pendant light. The space looks inspiring.

If your shower curtain is looking more “blah” than “wow,” it’s time for a change. A new, bold shower curtain is one of the easiest ways to give your bathroom an instant makeover.

There are tons of affordable options out there with fun, eye-catching prints or calming, minimalist designs. A patterned shower curtain can bring personality to even the most basic of bathrooms.

You can change it out as often as you like without making a huge dent in your budget.

5. Frame your mirror for a polished finish

A photo of a glamorous bathroom with a dark wood mirror frame and gold-tone accents. The vanity has a luxe touch and is filled with essential items. The bathroom contains a bathtub, shelves, a window with curtains, a sink, and other functional elements. There are 2-3 wall scones. The natural lighting is soft and ambient.

Is your bathroom mirror feeling a little… basic? Frame it!

Framing your mirror is a budget-friendly upgrade that adds a touch of elegance and polish to your space.

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a custom frame—craft stores and home improvement stores have affordable options that fit most mirrors.

With a little glue and patience, you can create a custom look that completely transforms your bathroom.

6. Add floating shelves for style and storage

A photo of a boho-style bathroom with a polished wall finish. There's a DIY floating shelf with a white ceramic bowl. The shelf has a scented candle, a skincare product, and a plant. There are also folded towels on the shelf. The bathroom has a functional elements such as a showerhead and a toilet.

Want more storage without sacrificing style? Floating shelves are your answer.

These sleek shelves not only give you more space for towels, plants, or skincare, but they also elevate the aesthetic of your bathroom. It’s the best of both worlds!

Installing floating shelves is easier than it sounds. You don’t need to be a DIY expert to do it yourself—just a few brackets, screws, and a drill, and you’re good to go.

You can also style them to fit your personal aesthetic. Whether it’s a minimalistic vibe with candles and plants or a more decorative look with chic jars and towels, floating shelves let you get creative while keeping things functional.

7. Replace old light fixtures with budget finds

A night-time photo of an Asian Zen-style bathroom with a flush mount laser-cut light on the ceiling. The bathroom contains a toilet, sink, and bathtub, as well as hanging shelves and other essentials. The cabinets have warm LED lighting underneath. The walls are made of stone or a similar material, and there is a small opening in the wall near the bathtub.

Outdated bathroom light fixtures can make the whole room feel drab, but replacing them doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

A new light fixture can instantly elevate the entire space and make it feel fresh. And no, you don’t need to spend a lot to get that designer look.

Look for simple, modern designs that will blend well with your bathroom’s aesthetic. Plus, the right lighting can change the whole vibe of the room.

8. Use contact paper to fake a marble countertop

A photo of a Victorian-style bathroom with a fake marble countertop made of contact paper. The countertop has a sink, storage shelves, and other essential items on it. The bathroom also contains a toilet, a shower area, and a rug. The natural light is soft and filtered.

Marble countertops are beautiful, but they’re also expensive. If you’re dreaming of a marble look on a budget, contact paper is your new best friend.

Applying contact paper to your bathroom countertop is simple. Just measure, cut, peel, and stick, and your counter will instantly look like real marble. It’s like giving your bathroom a facelift for a fraction of the cost.

The best part? It’s easy to clean, and when you’re ready for a new look, you can simply peel it off.

9. Incorporate a low cost rug for texture and warmth

A photo of a cottagecore-style bathroom with a plush, patterned bath mat. The bathroom has a toilet, sink, and a bath area. There are miscellaneous items such as a potted plant, a candle, and a towel rack. The walls are decorated with vintage-style wallpaper. The lighting is warm and ambient.

A rug might seem like a small touch, but it’s a game-changer for the bathroom. Whether it’s a soft, plush bath mat or a colorful patterned rug, it adds texture, warmth, and comfort.

Look for budget-friendly options at big-box stores or online—there are plenty of choices that won’t break the bank but still look fantastic.

A rug will tie the whole space together and make it feel more inviting. Plus, it’s the easiest way to add a pop of color without painting walls or buying new furniture. It’s a win-win.

10. Spray-paint outdated hardware gold or matte black

A close-up photo of vintage-style designer knobs in gold spray-painted color on a cabinet in a vintage-style bathroom. The bathroom has a white sink, a toilet, and a window. The floor is covered with a patterned rug. The overall image has a warm hue.

You don’t have to buy new hardware to give your bathroom a sleek upgrade. Just grab some spray paint—gold for a luxe vibe or matte black for a modern touch—and give those knobs and pulls a fresh new look.

You can even use this technique for things like towel racks or light fixtures, and suddenly everything feels brand new.

Plus, spray paint is practically magic when it comes to transforming old stuff into something super stylish.

11. Replace your soap dispenser with a chic glass one

A photo of a shabby chic bathroom counter with a chic glass soap dispenser. The dispenser contains a luxe soap. The counter has other essentials, a plant, and a few other items. The bathroom has a storage shelf, a sink, and a toilet. The photo focuses on the soap dispenser.

That plastic soap dispenser from the dollar store?

Time to swap it out for something with a little more elegance. A simple glass soap dispenser gives your bathroom a touch of sophistication—and it’s not going to cost you an arm and a leg.

You can find cute glass dispensers at big-box stores or online, and they make the whole sink area feel more polished. Pair it with some luxurious soap or a stylish lotion to complete the look.

12. Organize with dollar store baskets and bins

A photo of an Alpine chic bathroom with a few cute baskets for storage. There is a woven basket with essentials such as skincare, oil, and comb placed on a vanity. There are also a few cute baskets on shelves with tags "towels" and "toiletries". The bathroom has a toilet, a sink, and a shower area. The walls are made of stone, and there are wooden elements in the room.

Why spend a ton on fancy organizers when the dollar store has all the goods? Grab a bunch of cute baskets and bins, and bam, instant organization. You can store towels, toiletries, and even your secret stash of toilet paper in style.

The best part?

You get to personalize it! Whether it’s labeling them with cute tags or arranging them by color, your bathroom will look like a well-organized haven.

And hey, it’s cheap. So, when you inevitably buy more stuff (we all do), you can just grab a few more bins.

13. Display rolled towels spa-style on open shelving

A French country style bathroom having a few open shelves (dark wood) with a few pastel shade rolled towels, a plant, scented candles and oil. The bathroom has shower area, toilet, sink, vanity, etc. Wide angle straight shot.

Ever wondered how those fancy hotel bathrooms look so good?

Here’s the secret: rolled towels. It’s a simple trick that makes your bathroom feel fancy and super organized.

Head to your linen closet, roll up your towels, and display them on open shelving. They’ll look so chic, you might even catch yourself taking bathroom selfies.

Add a few plants or candles for extra ambiance, and your bathroom will be ready for Pinterest status in no time.

14. Refresh baseboards with a crisp coat of white paint

A photo of a fully furnished Gustavian style bathroom. The walls are painted in a wine-colored hue and have a few decorative items. The floor is covered with a rug. There are several functional elements such as a cabinet, shelves, and pendant lights. The lighting is soft, coming from the curtained windows. The focus is on the white painted crown molding and baseboard.

When was the last time you even looked at your baseboards? Probably never, right? But here’s a little secret: a quick coat of white paint can make your whole bathroom feel brighter and fresher.

It’s like giving your bathroom a little facelift without having to redo the entire room. Just grab a brush and get to work. It’s an inexpensive upgrade that goes a long way in making your space look polished.

Plus, the crisp white paint makes everything else pop—especially those new towels you rolled up and displayed so nicely.

15. DIY a towel rack using reclaimed wood

A photo of a Mediterranean-style bathroom with a DIY wooden towel rack. The rack has hooks and rods attached to it and is holding a few towels. The bathroom is equipped with essential elements, such as a sink, a toilet, and a floor. The natural light is warm and ambient.

Channel your inner DIY expert with a reclaimed wood towel rack. It’s the perfect way to add some rustic charm to your bathroom without spending a ton of cash.

You can customize it however you want—whether it’s a simple bar style or a more intricate design. Add hooks for extra functionality or just keep it minimal with a single wood plank.

It’s a unique, eco-friendly project that’ll make your bathroom look like it came straight out of a design magazine.

16. Replace switch plates with decorative ones

A photo of an eclectic bathroom with a modern designer switch plate that has a floral and geometric pattern. The switch plate is mounted on a wall with a beige tile. There is a white bathtub with a chrome fixture. Above the bathtub, there is a window with frosted glass. The floor is covered with beige tiles.

Switch plates are often overlooked, but they’re the perfect little detail that can take your bathroom from basic to wow.

Replacing those boring plastic plates with something more decorative is an easy and affordable way to refresh your space.

Look for switch plates with cool designs, like vintage-inspired ones, or sleek, modern options that match your bathroom aesthetic.

It’s the perfect “finishing touch” that people will notice, even if they don’t quite know why your bathroom suddenly feels so put-together.

17. Stencil a pattern on plain tiles for flair

A photo of a Mediterranean style bathroom with a simple Damask Design stenciling on the wall. The bathroom is fully furnished with a toilet, sink, and bathtub. There's a rug on the floor and a Moroccan pendant light hanging from the ceiling. The room is well-lit.

Got plain, boring tiles that just aren’t doing it for you?

Stencil them!

Choose a pattern that suits your style, like a geometric design or something a little more classic, and get stenciling. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to transform basic tiles into something unique.

Best of all, it’s temporary! If you decide you’re over it in a few months, just grab some paint remover and start fresh. You’re the boss of your bathroom.

18. Mount a wall hook for robes or extra towels

A photo of a rustic and vintage style bathroom with a few chic brass hooks on the walls for hanging robes and decorative towels. The bathroom is fully furnished with a vintage-style bathtub, a wooden cabinet, and a ladder. There is a potted plant near the bathtub. The floor is made of tiles. The lighting is soft and warm.

Sometimes, simple storage is all you need. A wall hook is a game-changer for keeping robes, towels, or even hats off the floor.

Go for a set of chic brass hooks or use a reclaimed piece of wood with vintage-style hooks for a rustic look. You can even use it to hang a decorative towel that you don’t mind showing off.

It’s an affordable fix that not only organizes but also adds some character to your bathroom. Plus, it’s one of those items you didn’t know you needed—until you have it.

19. Create a gallery wall with thrifted frames

Create a gallery wall inside a traditional + Gustavian style luxe bathroom with 3-4 quirky prints, vintage postcards, family photos -- all in frames of different shape and size. The wall looks curated and neat. Sow straight view of the wall. The bathroom is fully furnished. Natural light is soft, ambient throughout the room.

Who says you need to spend big bucks on art?

Hit up the thrift store and grab some inexpensive frames. Then, get creative with what you put inside—whether it’s quirky prints, vintage postcards, or your own photos. A gallery wall can totally elevate your bathroom without emptying your wallet.

Go for different shapes, sizes, and finishes to create a fun, layered look. Mix in some art that matches your bathroom colors, and bam—instant style.

20. Add greenery with budget-friendly faux plants

A photo of a luxurious English countryside bathroom. There are a few faux plants placed strategically around the bathroom. The bathroom is fully furnished with functional hardware and essentials. There is a large bathtub, a separate shower area, a toilet, and a sink. The bathtub has a faucet and a few towels. The sink has a faucet and a few soaps. The toilet has a lid and a roll of toilet paper. The walls and floors are made of stone. There are a few candles and a plant pot on the windowsill. The room has a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Want to add some life to your bathroom without dealing with wilting plants? Faux greenery is your new best friend.

Place them on shelves, hang them in baskets, or even use them as a centerpiece. Whether it’s a fake fern or a faux aloe vera, these plants will bring a touch of nature indoors.

And hey, they’re so realistic these days that no one will even notice they’re not real. You’ll get all the benefits of plants without the hassle.

21. Hang a spice rack to store skincare or hair products

A photo of an earthy bathroom with a sage green textured wall. There's a spice rack hung on the wall, which stores skincare and hair products. The bathroom has a toilet, a window with a curtain, a rug, and a sink. There's also a plant in the room.

Need more storage for your bathroom products? Hang a spice rack! It’s an easy way to store skincare, hair products, or even perfumes, and it won’t take up precious counter space.

Simply install a small rack on the wall, and voila—your beauty routine just got a whole lot more organized. It’s a clever trick that turns an ordinary spice rack into a bathroom must-have. Plus, it’s inexpensive and can give your bathroom a little extra flair.

You can even paint it to match your bathroom’s style.

22. Repaint the walls with a fresh, calming color

A photo of a Palm Beach style bathroom with walls in a mix of soft blue and gentle green color. The bathroom has a toilet, a sink, a bathtub, a hanging pendant light, a window with complementing curtains, a floor rug, and an open shelf with essentials. The natural light is filtered and soft.

You don’t have to spend a ton to make your bathroom feel brand new. A fresh coat of calming paint will transform the whole room, and it’s surprisingly affordable. Go for light, airy tones to make the space feel bigger or bold hues for a dramatic vibe.

Pick a shade that helps you relax, whether it’s soft blue, gentle green, or a serene gray. You’ll be amazed at how it completely shifts the mood. Plus, it’s one of the easiest DIY projects you can tackle in a weekend.

And don’t worry—if you hate it after a few months, paint is cheap and easy to fix. It’s the perfect solution for a quick mood boost.

23. Use mason jars for toothbrush and cotton ball holders

A photo of a bohemian-style bathroom with a wooden vanity and sink. There are a few mason jars with twines holding toothbrushes, cotton balls, and other items on the vanity. The vanity also contains essential items. The bathroom has a toilet, a rug, and other items. The walls are painted in a light blue color. There is a plant near the window.

Who knew mason jars could make your bathroom look so cute? They’re the perfect solution for organizing your bathroom essentials in a stylish and functional way. Stick your toothbrushes in one, cotton balls in another—boom, instant organization with a rustic flair.

You can pick up a set of mason jars at any dollar store, so it’s a super budget-friendly option. Add a little twine or ribbon around the jar necks for some extra charm.

And hey, they double as decor, which means you’re killing two birds with one stone. It’s practically magic.

24. Install a tension rod for extra hanging storage

A photo of a Balinese chic style bathroom with a tension rod installed at the back of the door. The tension rod is used to hang cleaning supplies and extra towels. The bathroom contains a toilet, a sink, and shelves. The view is from inside the bathroom.

If you’ve got limited space but need more storage, a tension rod is a total game-changer. Install one under your sink or inside a cabinet, and you’ve instantly got more room to hang things like cleaning supplies, extra towels, or even a cute shower curtain for added style.

Tension rods are inexpensive, easy to install, and they don’t require any permanent changes to your bathroom. Plus, they can go just about anywhere—beneath the sink, inside closets, or even on the back of the bathroom door.

It’s a clever storage solution that won’t cost you much and will make your bathroom look like it has its act together.

25. Hang a budget mirror with personality

A photo of a cute Boho bathroom with a vanity with a sink, a few mason jars with twines holding toothbrushes and cotton balls, and a mirror above it. The bathroom has a toilet, a rug, and other items. The walls are decorated with plants and a wooden shelf. The floor is covered with a rug. The overall ambiance of the bathroom is cozy and rustic.

A mirror is a bathroom essential, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Head to a thrift store and find a mirror that has a little personality—whether it’s vintage, modern, or quirky, it can make your bathroom pop.

For less than the price of a meal out, you can snag a mirror that adds some character to your space. Try a bold frame or an interesting shape for an upgrade that costs next to nothing but looks like a million bucks.

And don’t be afraid to get creative. You can even give an old mirror a facelift with a little paint or by adding some extra detailing. Easy peasy!

26. Re-grout tile to make it look brand new

If your tile floors or walls are looking a little grungy, don’t rush to replace them. Re-grouting your tiles is a budget-friendly way to make them look like new. It’s a simple, satisfying project that can totally transform your bathroom without the big cost.

Grout can get dirty and stained over time, but it’s easy to clean up with a little re-grouting. All you need is a grout removal tool, some fresh grout, and a bit of elbow grease. After an hour or two, your tiles will look sharp again.

This project doesn’t require a lot of skill, just some patience. And when you’re done, your bathroom will look fresh and new—without needing a full renovation.

27. Upgrade your faucet with a sleek, affordable option

That old, leaky faucet? Yeah, it’s time for a new one. Swapping out your bathroom faucet is one of the quickest ways to give your space a luxe update. Don’t worry about breaking the bank—there are plenty of stylish, affordable options out there that’ll give your bathroom a high-end look.

Changing a faucet is an easy DIY job, and it doesn’t require a plumber. With just a few simple tools, you can have a sleek, modern faucet installed in no time. The upgrade is subtle, but it’ll definitely make your bathroom feel more polished.

When you turn on that shiny new faucet, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fancy hotel bathroom. Who doesn’t want that feeling every day?

28. Stick on removable wallpaper for an accent wall

Want to make a statement without the commitment? Try removable wallpaper! It’s one of those magic solutions that can completely transform a space without all the hassle of paint or permanent wallpaper.

Choose a bold pattern that fits your style, whether it’s floral, geometric, or a sleek marble print. The best part? It’s peel-and-stick, so you can change your mind every few months (if you feel like it, of course).

And when you’re ready to redecorate, simply peel it off like it was never there. No mess, no stress, just pure bathroom bliss.

29. Line drawers with patterned shelf liner

Let’s be honest—your bathroom drawers are probably full of random stuff. Why not give them a little love with some patterned shelf liner? It’s an inexpensive way to make your bathroom drawers look extra neat and stylish.

Plus, the shelf liner adds a pop of fun that makes it more exciting to open your drawers. You’ll feel like you’re getting into a fancy little treasure chest every time you reach for your stuff.

30. Switch to soft, matching towels for a cohesive feel

Let’s face it: mismatched towels can make your bathroom look a little… chaotic. But by switching to a set of soft, matching towels, your bathroom will suddenly feel so much more cohesive and spa-like.

You don’t need to splurge on fancy towels—budget-friendly options can still look polished and feel great. Look for soft, fluffy towels in colors that complement your bathroom’s aesthetic, and boom, instant upgrade.

This simple change ties everything together and makes your bathroom feel put-together, organized, and relaxing. Plus, who doesn’t love wrapping up in a cozy towel after a shower?

31. Upgrade your toilet seat for a cleaner look

The toilet seat might not be the first thing you think of when upgrading your bathroom, but trust me, a new seat can make a huge difference. It’s like putting a fresh, stylish lid on your throne—and it’s an easy, budget-friendly swap.

Choose a simple, sleek design or something a little more modern to really amp up the space. You’d be surprised at how much cleaner and fresher it makes the whole bathroom feel.

And hey, for the price of a few takeout meals, you’ll feel like you’re sitting on luxury every time you use it. Seriously, it’s the small things!

32. Repurpose a bar cart as a mobile storage unit

Got an old bar cart? Repurpose it as a stylish mobile storage unit for your bathroom. Bar carts are perfect for holding towels, toiletries, or even a few plants. They add a touch of glam to your space, too.

Place it next to your tub for easy access to your bath essentials or keep it by the sink for convenience. It’s a portable storage solution that looks as good as it functions.

Plus, bar carts are usually affordable and can fit into almost any bathroom size. You’ll be the envy of your friends with this chic, functional piece.

33. Attach magnetic strips inside cabinet doors for bobby pins and tweezers

Tired of digging around for tiny tools like bobby pins and tweezers? Attach magnetic strips inside your cabinet doors to keep them organized. It’s such a small change, but it makes a huge difference.

Simply stick a magnetic strip on the inside of your cabinet door, and then easily attach metal items like tweezers, scissors, or even nail clippers. Everything will be within easy reach, and your bathroom will look tidier.

This is a great way to utilize unused space. It’s one of those hacks that’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

34. Convert old ladders into rustic towel holders

Got an old ladder gathering dust in the garage? Convert it into a rustic towel holder! This easy project gives your bathroom a cool, farmhouse vibe and extra towel storage.

Simply lean the ladder against the wall or hang it up, and use the rungs to display rolled towels or hang them up. It’s a creative way to turn something old into something stylish.

The best part? You can usually find old ladders for cheap or even free. It’s the ultimate budget-friendly DIY project that gives your bathroom some serious character.

35. Install a second shower curtain rod for hanging baskets

Need more storage but lack cabinet space? Install a second shower curtain rod! This clever trick lets you hang small baskets for storing toiletries, bath toys, or extra shampoo.

All you need is a tension rod, and you’ve got yourself some hanging storage. Attach small baskets to it, and now you’ve got a convenient, space-saving solution that’s as functional as it is affordable.

It’s a great option for tiny bathrooms that could use a little extra organization. Plus, you can pick up baskets on the cheap from dollar stores or online.

wrap-up

Who knew budget-friendly could look this good?

With these 33 bathroom ideas, you don’t need to spend a fortune to feel fancy while you’re brushing your teeth.

So go ahead—DIY that vanity, hang those thrifted mirrors, and embrace the power of peel-and-stick everything. Your dream bathroom makeover is only a weekend (and a few bucks) away.