Dreaming of a bathroom refresh but don’t have deep pockets?
The good news is that a stylish, modern space doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Whether you’re dealing with dated tiles and tired fixtures or just want a new look, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to renovate without draining your savings.
From quick DIY upgrades to bigger transformations on a budget, here are Build-it’s top tips to give your space a fresh new look without spending a fortune.
Plus, if you’re looking for bathroom remodelling services or local bathroom remodel contractors, knowing what to tackle first can help you keep costs in check.
Refresh paint and regrout
Cost: $200–$800
Time: 1–3 days
A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a tired bathroom, making it brighter and more inviting.
Stick to light, neutral colours to enhance natural light and create a spa-like feel.
If you’re planning on hiring bath remodel contractors or a bathroom renovation company, regrouting is one of the quickest, most affordable fixes they can do.
Bunnings renovation experts say regrouting is a simple and affordable way to give them a fresh, clean finish.
They state, “Giving your grout a clean or regrouting your tiles is an easy way to improve the look of your bathroom without spending too much money. ”
For extra durability, use epoxy grout, which is more resistant to moisture and staining.
Upgrade fixtures & fittings
Cost: $300–$1,500
Time: 1–3 days
Swapping out old taps, showerheads, and handles for modern, water-efficient fixtures is one of the easiest and most effective ways to refresh your space without sending costs through the pipes.
If you work with local bathroom remodelling companies, this is an easy upgrade that won’t blow your budget. However, you could also use your own DIY skills if you’re handy.
The Bunnings website recommends installing new fixtures as a cost-effective upgrade. Budget renovators should look for chrome or matte black finishes for a sleek, modern touch or choose brushed brass for a luxe feel without the price tag.
“Simply replacing your tapware and shower fittings can instantly lift the look of a bathroom without the need for a full renovation,” they say.
DIY vanity glow-up
Cost: $150–$800
Time: 1–2 days
A new vanity can cost thousands, but if your current one is structurally sound, you can give it a makeover for a fraction of the price.
Consider:
✔ Painting or staining timber vanities for a fresh, modern look.
✔ Swapping out handles for an instant style upgrade.
✔ Replacing the benchtop with a budget-friendly laminate or stone-look option.
Bunnings Workshop Community Leader Dani Knight says a fresh coat of paint on your vanity can really improve the bathroom’s aesthetics.
“If your vanity is in good condition, a fresh coat of paint and new handles can work wonders to modernise it without the hefty price tag,” she said.
If you’re considering bathroom remodelling, this is one of the easiest DIY projects to tackle, but you can still hire bathroom remodelling contractors to do it for you.
Refresh tiles without retiling
Cost: $250–$1,000
Time: 1–3 days
If retiling is out of budget, tile paint or tile stickers can be a quick and affordable way to give your space a modern update.
Tile paint can cover outdated colours and create a sleek, fresh look. Meanwhile, tile stickers mimic actual tiles and are easy to apply, making them perfect for rental-friendly updates.
For those looking for bathroom home improvement options that don’t involve bathroom renovation services, this is the perfect cheaper alternative to a full retiling job.
Bunnings states online, “Tile paint is a quick and affordable way to refresh old tiles and give your bathroom a completely new look. ”
Improve storage with smart solutions
Cost: $100–$500
Time: 1–3 days
A cluttered bathroom can feel messy and outdated, so adding storage can instantly improve both look and functionality.
Focusing on smart, budget-friendly upgrades can help you refresh your bathroom without overspending or letting renovation costs spiral.
Plenty of smart storage solutions are available to suit every budget that will help you keep your bathroom space tidy.
Install floating shelves for a modern, open feel, or add stick-on hooks or wall-mounted racks for extra towel space.
Upgrade to a mirror cabinet for extra storage without taking up any extra floor space.
If you’re working with local bathroom remodelling contractors, ask them about cost-effective storage solutions that won’t push your project over budget.
