How to make your bathroom look remodeled for under $400

You don’t have to gut your bathroom to make it feel new. A few smart upgrades can completely change how the space looks and functions—without wrecking your budget. Think of it as a facelift, not a full rebuild. Swapping out dated finishes, improving lighting, and adding texture can make even an old bathroom feel clean, fresh, and intentional.

The key is spending money where it actually makes a visual impact. Here’s how to make it look like you spent thousands when you really didn’t.

Upgrade the lighting

Outdated light fixtures make a bathroom look older than it is. Replacing them with a modern vanity light or flush mount can instantly brighten and update the space. Look for warm white LED bulbs—they’re energy-efficient and give off a flattering glow instead of the harsh blue light that highlights every flaw.
If your budget allows, add a second light source, like a wall sconce or mirror light. Layering light makes a big difference, especially in small bathrooms where shadows can make things feel tight and dated.

Replace the faucet and hardware

Changing out your faucet, drawer pulls, and towel hooks can make the room feel like it’s been renovated. These small details set the tone for the whole space. Choose a consistent finish—matte black, brushed nickel, or brass all work well.
If your vanity faucet looks old or has mineral buildup, a new one instantly adds polish. You can find stylish, good-quality options for under $100, and swapping hardware is usually as simple as unscrewing a few pieces.

Paint the vanity

Instead of replacing your vanity, give it a new coat of paint. A dark navy, greige, or soft sage can completely change the look without much cost. Lightly sand and clean the surface, then use a durable paint made for cabinets so it holds up to moisture.
Switch out the knobs or pulls while you’re at it, and your vanity will look brand new. This small project makes one of the biggest visual differences in a bathroom under $400.

Refresh the grout and caulk

Old, stained grout makes even a clean bathroom look grimy. Scrub the grout lines with a bleach cleaner or use a grout pen to whiten them up. Re-caulking around the tub and sink also gives everything a crisp, finished look.
This is one of those upgrades that costs next to nothing but makes a huge difference. Clean lines and bright grout make your tile look newer and your bathroom feel more maintained overall.

Add a statement mirror

A new mirror can make your vanity wall look completely updated. Ditch the builder-grade mirror for something framed or with an interesting shape. Round mirrors work especially well in small bathrooms because they soften harsh lines.
You can often find affordable mirrors at HomeGoods, Target, or online for under $75. Hanging it slightly higher than the old one also gives the illusion of more height in the room.

Swap out the shower curtain and rod

A high-quality shower curtain and curved rod can make a surprisingly big difference. Go for a fabric curtain with a liner instead of the thin plastic kind—it looks more polished and hangs better.
If your shower rod is straight, switch to a curved one to make the space feel bigger. It’s a cheap upgrade that adds a bit of comfort too since it gives you more elbow room in the shower.

Update the flooring with peel-and-stick tiles

If your flooring looks worn, peel-and-stick vinyl tiles can completely transform it without the mess of a full demo. They’re waterproof, easy to cut, and come in modern patterns that mimic ceramic or wood.
You can redo a small bathroom floor for under $100. Make sure to clean and dry the old floor well before applying, and use a utility knife to get clean edges around the toilet and vanity.

Add open shelving or wall storage

If your bathroom feels cluttered, add a small floating shelf or two above the toilet or next to the mirror. Open shelving gives you space to store essentials neatly while making the room feel more designed.
Display items like rolled towels, glass jars, or small plants to make it feel styled without overdoing it. Keep everything in similar tones for a cleaner look.

Replace old towel bars and toilet paper holders

Worn-out or mismatched accessories instantly age a bathroom. Coordinating new towel bars, toilet paper holders, and robe hooks make the space feel pulled together.
Look for affordable matching sets online and keep finishes consistent with your faucet and mirror. It’s a small upgrade that ties the whole bathroom together and makes it feel intentional instead of thrown together.

Add plants and textiles

A few well-placed plants and fresh textiles can finish the look. A small pothos or fern thrives in the humidity and adds life to the room. Pair that with new towels and a soft bath mat in neutral or earthy tones.
Textiles are the final layer that makes the bathroom feel warm and finished. Stick to a few colors throughout to keep it cohesive—nothing says “updated” like a clean, coordinated space.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.