12 Renter Friendly Bathroom Makeover Ideas

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Are you a renter looking to spruce up your bathroom but feeling limited by your landlord’s restrictions? For some of us, the bathroom is our private sanctuary and safe haven. It’s our place of calm and perhaps the one where we can get the most alone time – away from the screaming kids and the significant other.

Navigating meaningful changes in your living space can be tough when you’re renting. Often, you’re stuck with a mishmash of styles and eras that leave your place in need of a quick refresh.

If your rental bathroom is crying out for a makeover, don’t worry! We’ve compiled 12 renter-friendly bathroom makeover ideas that won’t break any rules or upset your landlord, allowing you to transform it into your own personal sanctuary.

1. Bring on the Textiles

As basic as this might seem, textiles can do wonders for a rental bathroom – from changing the shower curtain to swapping out the bathroom rugs.

Don’t be afraid to go bold by incorporating bright orange, yellow, earthy green, or other unique patterned designs for the shower curtain and the new rug. Your small bathroom will thank you for lifting its spirits with these delightful and tasteful colors.

2. Replace the Showerhead

Changing the showerhead may sound challenging to do on your own, but I promise you, you don’t need a plumber to make this simple change. A new showerhead can make a big difference in both looks and functionality. A new showerhead can improve the shower experience and relieve body aches and pains.

I personally love this high-pressure dual showerhead that’s super modern and easy to install. You can also install this showerhead on your own without hiring a plumber.

Alternatively, if you decide not to replace the shower head, cleaning the shower head can bring it back to life.

3. Add Removable Wallpaper

When it comes to updating your rental bathroom, the key is opting for “removable” solutions. This ensures that any changes you make can be easily undone when it’s time to move out.

Removable wallpaper is a fantastic option for rental apartment bathrooms. It allows you to quickly transform a designated wall, giving your space a fresh new look without the hassle of painting.

Adding removable wallpaper can instantly jazz up your rental bathroom, adding that wow factor while erasing any traces of previous occupants. And the best part? When it’s time to say goodbye to your rental, simply peel off the temporary wallpaper without leaving a trace.

4. Say Yes to Floor Stickers

Just like wallpaper, peel-and-stick floor stickers are temporary and can be easily removed. Floor tiles will make your rental bathroom look like you just finished a complete gut renovation. It’s a tiny change, but this small bathroom makeover will make a huge difference and have a big impact.

Floor tiles are excellent for covering up old bathroom tiles, including subway tile and ceramic tile. And don’t worry, they are very durable and easy to clean.

Choose from a wide array of peel-and-stick floor tiles ranging from geometric and contemporary styles to a black and white bold design.

5. Liven up the Space with Greenery

Greenery can truly breathe life into a rental apartment, and I’m all for it. To freshen up your bland rental bathroom, consider adding some vibrant greenery. Opt for plants that thrive in humid environments and don’t need much sunlight.

If you’re not keen on natural plants, don’t worry—there are plenty of realistic-looking fake plants available. Some of these artificial options look incredibly lifelike, making it hard for anyone to distinguish them from the real deal.

6. Update the Vanity Mirror

Chances are your rental bathroom sports that outdated built-in medicine cabinet doubling as a mirror. It’s high time to bid farewell to that relic and bring a fresh circular, oval, or square mirror in a chic gold or black finish to give the space a modern touch.

Not only will a new mirror elevate the aesthetics, but it’ll also create the illusion of a larger, more spacious bathroom—ideal for maximizing space in those compact areas.

7. Replace the Light Fixture

Don’t you deserve the perfect lighting setup for all your makeup and skincare routines? Upgrading your light fixtures can make that a reality. No more struggling with inadequate lighting!

While most standard bathrooms offer just enough illumination for basic tasks, it’s time to seize the opportunity to customize your space with lighting tailored to your needs—whether it’s flawless makeup application, treating blemishes, or setting the mood just right.

8. Hardware Swap

Enhance the modern vibe of your new mirror by updating your rental bathroom hardware. Switching out the original fixtures is a simple yet effective way to give your bathroom—whether big or small—an instant makeover.

Consider replacing the handles on your bathroom vanity, the toilet paper holder, the towel holder, or even the sink faucet. Opt for finishes like gold, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze to add a contemporary touch that transcends current trends and helps modernize your rental bathroom.

9. Wall Art

Beautiful artwork can make your space come alive without a full rental bathroom makeover. So add a couple of contemporary paintings that illustrate your stylish taste or design a gallery wall curated just for you and by you.

10. Extra Storage

In my experience, you can never have too much storage, especially in a rental bathroom. Good storage solutions keep everything organized and clutter-free. Consider options like over-the-toilet storage, over-the-door organizers, floating shelves, wall-mounted cabinets, or stylish baskets to maximize space.

One personal favorite of mine is this slim storage unit from Amazon. It’s perfect for squeezing into tight corners while providing ample storage space for all your bathroom essentials.

11. Upgrade the Countertop

Transforming your bathroom countertop with contact paper is a fantastic and budget-friendly idea. With a wide variety of styles and colors available, from wood grain to faux tile and marble, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.

The beauty of contact paper is its durability—it can withstand the typical wear and tear caused by water, heat, and humidity in a bathroom. Plus, installation is a breeze—simply peel and stick!

Related post: How to Install Peel and Stick Wallpaper

12. Display Plush Towels on a Ladder

This one is simple, but it will make a world of difference in the feel of the space. Grab some plush white or grey new towels and display them on a towel or blanket ladder. This is a great way to add functionality and style to your own bathroom. Plush towels also feel good after a long day and a long shower.

Tips Before Getting Started with this Renter-friendly Makeover

Take pictures of the before and after of the bath area. You want to know exactly what you removed and how to put it back. You don’t want to risk losing your deposit.

Find a central space to store everything, as all the items you removed must be returned to how they were initially. I recommend keeping it under the bed, in a living room closet, or in a cabinet so that you can easily find it when you are ready to move out.

Other posts you might like: 26 DIY Renter Friendly Kitchen Makeover Ideas

Bathroom makeovers can be fun! It also gives you an opportunity to showcase your personality and personal style. No need to ask for permission or landlord approval, as the most important part about all these rental bathroom makeover ideas is that they’re reversible and will last until your lease ends.

I’d love to hear your thoughts about this renter friendly bathroom makeover article. Please leave a comment below. Feel free also to follow me on my social media pages – Pinterest and Instagram or subscribe to my mailing list for other design inspiration and home decor ideas.