The average Brit now spends longer in the bathroom than they used to, thanks to mobile phone usage. Well, we’re certainly not here to judge. But perhaps it’s time to modernise and update this space where many of us are spending an increasing amount of time.

The snag that hinders many of us from upgrading is, of course, the price tag. Let’s have a look at a few low-cost solutions to get to the bottom of how we can do this without breaking the bank.

Paint and wall treatments

Choosing a focal bathroom wall and applying a paint or wall treatment can instantly transform the room. 

Subway tiles can make an effective accent wall and they don’t cost too much, either. These tiles have curved edges and a glossy finish, so named for their likeness to the tiles initially used in New York City’s subway network. 

If you’re happy to keep the other walls in your bathroom as they are, creating one accent wall may leave you with a more flexible budget too. 

And if you have painted walls, it’s great to refresh them now and again. Finding a durable, moisture-resistant paint will save you more money in the long term because it will last longer. For this reason, it’s usually best to avoid matte finishes and find a washable gloss or satin paint. 

Updated fixtures

You don’t necessarily need to do a major overhaul to modernise the bathroom. Swapping out some of your old fixtures for newer, stylish alternatives might be all it takes. 

Perhaps it’s been a while since you installed a new shower enclosure. Styles have come a long way in the last decade or so. 

Quadrant shapes with sliding doors can really smooth out the appearance of the room. They can often be found at a similar price point to square alternatives. 

Got a bath shower you like but need a new screen? The grid-style screen is affordable and contemporary.

Consider changing your taps and shower heads so they scream style, not just functionality. Shop around and you may be able to find them in alternative colours like bronze, yellow gold or rose gold at a manageable price. 

Creative storage solutions

Storage space is more important than ever for the modern bathroom. With the rising popularity of skincare and men’s grooming, you may find yourself struggling for storage space. 

A creative new storage solution could be the answer to your woes. It could also give your bathroom the updated feel it needs!

To keep the cost down, think about upcycling an existing piece of homeware you own. Crates, wicket baskets and mason jars can all be fun.

Lighting and mirrors

Lastly, changing something small like the lighting or mirror can do wonders. 

You don’t necessarily even need a new light fixture; just fitting a new lightbulb that casts a more flattering light might be all it takes.

A new mirror with a peachy or otherwise pastel-toned surround that complements the overall colour scheme could really help.

For neutral bathrooms, keep it looking natural but up to date with a mirror that has a wood-effect frame. 

Full renovations can be expensive and time-consuming. Luckily, sometimes all it takes is one or two updates to polish and modernise your bathroom’s aesthetic.