How to Decorate a Bathroom on a Budget

Step 1

Visit your local library for ideas, or look online. "Better Homes and Gardens" has a great website with endless ideas on using colors and decorating; this will give you an idea of what kind of look you want to achieve.

Step 2

Shop at discount stores, resale shops and yard sales for deeply discounted items for your bathroom. Home improvement stores always have a section of discounted paint; keep an eye out for the color you want.

Step 3

Start with the walls and give them a coat of fresh paint. Don't forget to do the ceiling and trim. If your bathroom is on the small side, a bright white on the ceiling and borders will make it look bigger. You can also consider a sponging or ragging technique for the walls or paint a mural or border.

Step 4

Hang some shelves over the toilet, or purchase a shelving unit designed for the space. You will find wood and wicker shelves at resale stores; a good cleaning and a coat of spray paint will make them look like new.

Step 5

Purchase a new shower curtain to perk up the room instantly, and buy an extra one for the window. You can cut it to fit and use the excess to cover a wastebasket to add to the coordination. Flat bedsheets work well for curtains, too; you can sew a strip of the same material on the bottom of your towels to finish the look.

Step 6

Change the light fixture if it's outdated, and add a mirror or two to give the room more dimension. If you have a window, hang a plant; the moisture in the bathroom will make it thrive.

Step 7

Accent your bathroom with matching baskets of soaps, sample-sized shampoos and conditioners, and rolled-up facecloths. Place them on a shelf for a nice focal point.