Bathroom Upgrade Splurges And Saves

Bathroom Upgrades: Where To Splurge And Save

Every home needs a clean and comfortable bathroom. As long as you have one, you’re set. 

But in some cases, you might want to improve its features. Almost 48% of people admit they renovated their bathrooms because they’ve gotten tired of the old style they had.

However, upgrading a bathroom doesn’t always come cheap, so you may have to decide which parts you’re going to splurge or save on.

If you’re planning to renovate your bathroom soon, this piece is for you. Here, you’ll learn what elements deserve indulgence and which ones can do well, even on a limited budget.

Understanding your budget

Bathroom renovation costs can vary wildly. Don’t get caught up just dreaming of fancy tiles or a heated floor. Factor in everything, like materials and permits.

In places like Australia, expect a bathroom renovation cost to range from AUD$10,000 to AUD$100,000 or more, depending on size and labor. But breathe easy. With a good renovation company by your side and a solid budget, you can create a spa-like bathroom without shelling out too much.

Here’s the trick: break it down. Figure out how much you can spend on each part of the project. This way, you can decide where to splurge on your must-haves and save on the extras.

Splurge vs. Save: Key Areas

• Flooring

High-quality flooring is a must in any bathroom. You’ll be walking on it—likely barefoot—so it’s necessary to focus on this first major part.

Splurge

If you want to add some luxury to your bathroom, splurge on large-format tiles or heated floors. Large-format tiles are great for reducing visual interruption. Meanwhile, heated flooring potentially reduces the need for additional heating sources.

Save

If you’re looking to save, opt for smaller tiles or use accent tiles strategically with budget-friendly options. A careful choice will still make your bathroom visually appealing.

• Shower and bathtub

Next on your agenda should be the highlights of a bathroom: the shower and the bathtub. 

Splurge

A high-quality showerhead with multiple spray options transforms your daily shower into a spa-like experience. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, go for a walk-in shower with custom tile work.

Save

On the flip side, you can save by choosing a classic subway tile shower surround or refinishing your existing bathtub. All that matters is that it does its job to provide consistently clean and running water.

• Vanity

Your bathroom vanity is your partner in crime, holding all your essentials. Time to give it some love!

Splurge

Custom cabinets with soft-closing drawers and fancy hardware elevate your bathroom to a whole new level. Feel like royalty every time you open those smooth drawers.

Save

Off-the-shelf vanities with tons of storage won’t burn your pockets. Plus, you can easily swap out the hardware yourself for a personal touch. Think vanity mini makeover on a budget!

• Countertops

Your countertop needs to be tough enough for anything you throw at it, from toothpaste splatters to rogue curling irons, all while looking amazing.

Splurge

Treat yourself to natural stone countertops like granite or quartz. They’re stunning, durable, and will make your bathroom feel like a million bucks. It’s worth the splurge if your budget allows.

Save

Looking to save some cash but still have a stylish bathroom? Engineered quartz or laminate countertops with realistic stone finishes are the solutions. Get the high-end look for a fraction of the price.

• Plumbing fixtures

No bathroom works its magic without water, and plumbing problems can be a nightmare. Studies show leaky pipes, rusty parts, and bad installations are common bathroom woes. But listen up: upgrading now can save you trouble and money down the road.

Splurge

Feeling eco-friendly and want to impress your guests? Invest in a water-saving toilet with a quiet flush and touchless faucets. Your bathroom will feel like it’s straight out of a futuristic spa!

Save

Standard toilets and basic, well-designed faucets are your best bets. Classic styles never go out of fashion, especially in a bathroom.

• Lighting

The right lighting sets the mood in your bathroom. It also helps you see clearly, which is essential to avoid slips and falls—a common issue for around 80% of older folks.

Splurge

Want a truly pampering experience? Go for layered lighting with dimmers or a statement pendant light. Imagine a relaxing soak in a beautifully lit haven.

Save

Budget-friendly lighting options exist! Simple vanity lights and recessed ceiling lights will keep your bathroom bright and safe.

• Walls and accessories

Here’s where you get creative! Mindful accessories and wall decor let you turn your bathroom into a zen space.

Splurge

Go for stunning wallpaper or luxurious, quick-drying towels. Add a plush bathmat for ultimate comfort and safety.

Save

Revamp your bathroom on a budget! A fresh coat of moisture-resistant paint and some cool thrift finds can do so much for so little. Plus, they’re easy on your wallet.

Creative cost-cutting strategies

You can absolutely get a budget bathroom with a stylish outcome. For example, open shelving is trendy and saves cash compared to fancy cabinets. Plus, if your existing hardware still works well, reuse it!

Refinishing can breathe new life into your old tub for way less than a replacement. Here’s a pro tip: hunt for deals on quality materials during sales or at salvage stores. Feeling handy? DIY some tasks like painting or installing faucets to save even more.

Wrapping up

Now, you can create your dream bathroom without going broke! Splurge on the features you use most, and save on the extras. With a dash of creativity and smart choices, you’ll be relaxing in a stunning, budget-friendly bathroom in no time!