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What can you do with an outdated bathroom you can’t renovate?
Decorative items, a cleaning routine and scents will do it! There are other elements that will improve your bathroom look, and we will see them further. But if you manage to keep the bathroom super clean and use a warm and fresh scent you’ll have the 50% done.
I know you know the basics, but the essence is that you can do a lot with little effort.
I’ve seen tons of stunning bathroom makeovers online…, I’d love to do a full renovation to get a more polished and stylish finish.
But I don’t own, so for the moment I’ve had to come up with renter-friendly bathroom updates.
So trust me when I say it’s possible to do a quick bathroom refresh, no reno required.
Look at these 10 options, most of them have worked for me, try them out and let me know if you come up with another solution I’m missing, I would love to know.
Declutter and Deep Clean First
As I already said “I know you know” but I can’t say this enough: Cleaning is key! Especially when it comes to bathrooms. They tend to have a smell… I mean not necessarily a bad smell, but kind of like a bathroom smell.
Of course, if you pay attention to cleaning you won’t have that kind of problem.
Have a schedule of bathroom cleaning, and keep a special eye on visits. Everyone comes from a different background and It would be great if everyone could just leave the bathroom as they found it.
But it’s not always like that. So after someone visits your bathroom, give it a quick check to keep things clean.
Use scented trash bags
I love this idea since it was my mom who taught me. On the market you can find scent trash bags that will help you a lot with bathroom odors.
They come in strong fragrances like lavender and lemon, so not only will they give a little scent to the bathroom but scented trash bags are designed to absorb odors from bathroom trash cans.
So they’re a big yes as a renter-friendly bathroom update.
Use Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Tile
If you’re more into a DIY bathroom makeover with no renovation, wallpaper is a solution and a fun project.
Choose a wallpaper that’s humidity resistant since you will use it in the bathroom. There are a lot of good options and I’ll leave you some here.
I haven’t done a project like this with bathroom wallpaper but I’ve seen a lot of great results for those who have.
I’ll leave you an idea here.
Also look at this video posted by a customer and here experience using this wallpaper pattern in her bathroom
Upgrade Your Shower Curtain or Glass Doors
Changing your shower curtain is a fast and quick bathroom refresh.
A game changer for me, also taught by my mom is to use a clear shower curtain on the back (facing the shower) and over that one a pretty one.
So try to do it if you haven’t. That way you won’t make a big mess when in the shower and your pretty curtain will last longer.
In terms of patterns just pick the one you like the most, it is up to your style and likes. But here are a few options.
Change the Lighting Fixtures
Although you don’t have many bathroom lighting fixtures options, since bathrooms are very basic, often small spaces with a low ceiling.
You can try to change the light fixture for a modern one, sometimes only the change makes a big difference.
Add Stylish Storage Solutions
Yeah, storage isn’t always a beauty contest! But I definitely try to keep my prettiest bottles where I can see them.
Try to do the same, add a functional storage solution to keep things decluttered and place your fancy items visible.
Anything you think is pretty and can add a better refresh look to your bathroom place it within sight.
Refresh with Paint—No Walls Required
Whether you choose to paint visible walls, vanity or cabinets….
Nothing is more space refreshing than a new coat of paint. Take this moment to choose a good color palette for your bathroom and give it a renter friendly update.
Whatever your color palette is, paint will make the space look brighter and clean.
Decorate with Plants and Art
A simple vase with foliage will give your bathroom a cozy and delicate vibe.
Try different types of plants, eucalyptus is quite used in the bathroom since they are decorative and give the bathroom a fresh and good smell.
Small plants that don’t require much sun exposure are a great fit.
Wall art is another great way to refresh the space without renovating.
Use it as a way to communicate something funny while someone is in the bathroom or simply pick a harmonious art that matches your other bathroom decorative items.
Replace the Mirror with a Statement Piece
One of the simplest ways of making a budget-friendly bathroom update is to change your mirror. Pick a modern one with some led lights on the corners or gold braces.
It took me a while to decide on a mirror, but it doesn’t have to be that hard for you.
Here are some ideas:
Accessorize Like a Pro
Decorating any space is all about details (I say this quite often). So think about all the little details you can add to your bathroom.
Think about basic things for the bathroom and look for a delicate version of it. Hand towels, soap dispenser, rugs and other bathroom storage containers.
Look at these things as an examples:
This post was all about the best options for you to refresh an outdated bathroom without renovation.
If I missed any great ideas, please leave a comment and let me know. I would love to read it.
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