Easy Remodeling Projects Improve the Bathroom on a Budget

When remodeling your bathroom, you don't necessarily have to spend a ton of money or a lot of time to improve the look and functionality of the space. In fact, there are a lot of little things you do that cost next to nothing.

The best course of action is to take stock of what you have first. That means cleaning everything up, shining the metal, straightening it up. Decide what you really need to change after you see everything at its best. A whole new bathroom won't do any good if it's not clean, and if you do any significant work you'll need the room clean and in good repair anyway.

Before you get ready to swing a sledgehammer, however, take a look at these simple ideas for improving the space without taking on a whole bathroom remodeling project. Home improvement doesn't have to mean major demotions and installations!

If you use a shower curtain, one of the first improvements you can make is to add a sliding glass door. This will require more frequent cleaning but it can also add more space to the room visually.

Hide the necessities! A stack of toilet paper rolls on the floor isn't attractive, nor is a toilet cleaning brush. Many holders and containers exist that conceal their contents and make the place a little more attractive. If you have personal care products all around the sink, move them into a medicine cabinet or shelf. If your bathroom doesn't have a cabinet of any kind, now is the time to add one.

If your tub, shower, or toilet is a disaster but you can't afford to replace it, look into pre-formed replacements that fit over the old equipment. This brings a larger price tag then a fuzzy toilet lid cover but is much cheaper than an actual replacement.

Small accents can help the bathroom as well. Find a new set of hand towels to hang up, or install a timed air freshener. A small magazine rack for those who like to read or a framed picture for others can make a nice touch.

Try a new style of light bulbs (yes, even little things like this can make a big difference). Normal incandescent bulbs give a yellow glow. Compact fluorescents save energy and give off a brighter white light. If you like the color the bulbs you have give off, try using larger globe-style bulbs instead of traditional lamp bulbs.

Change the fixtures. A new faucet or just new knobs can subtly change the look of your sink for the better. Actually replacing the sink itself may not be difficult for someone used to do-it-yourself projects. Change the towel rod or the handles on any cabinets.

Add a plant or two. Some people find it nice to enter any room and see small plants, even in the bathroom. Remember the room's function, however, and don't put so many plants in there that you think it's a jungle when you get out of the shower.

If you want to change the floor of your bathroom, do as much as possible yourself. Laying vinyl flooring may not be difficult for you. If you have tile floors you are replacing, remove the old tile yourself even if you have to hire a professional to lay the new tile.

These simple remodeling tips can really improve the way your bathroom looks, and you don't even have to spend a fortune.