5 Simple Ways to Refresh Your Bathroom Decor (Without a Full Remodel)
Your bathroom deserves to be more than just functional — it should feel a little pampered! Whether you rent or own, these five simple updates will make a big impact without a full-blown renovation. From art placement to storage that doesn’t look like storage, here’s how to give your bathroom a stylish refresh in a weekend.
1. Restyle Your Countertop
Let’s be real — most of us have more bathroom vanity “ornaments” and rogue bobby pins than we care to admit. But even the tiniest bathroom counter can look nice and functional.
Use a small tray or basket to organize your everyday items (soap, lotion, toothbrush), and add a faux plant or candle to make it stand out and then boom — clutter becomes pretty;).
✨ Not in love with your actual countertop? You don’t have to fully replace it to make it better!
Try this instead:
Countertop covers - kind of like wallpaper for your countertop
Spray paint - laminate, ceramic tile, and cultured marble can be spray painted if properly prepared and sealed. Granite countertops can also be painted, but it requires more prep and sealing.
Ceramic or porcelain tile overlays - you’ll want to be careful with this one to ensure it doesn’t add too much “height” to the vanity (making the sink look weird) but it is very gorgeous.
If you're painting, finish with a strong epoxy-like sealant to make it durable.
BUT DO NOT try painting quartz or similar surfaces — it won’t last and could look worse than when you started.
2. Use Storage That’s Cute on Purpose
If your bathroom lacks storage, look into these outside-the-box ideas! Wall-mounted baskets, over-the-toilet racks, tiered trays, and slim carts can hold essentials while looking aesthetically pleasing.
📌 Bonus tip: Hanging things on the wall not only frees up floor space — it can actually make a small bathroom feel bigger. Just be careful not to overdo it. Stick to essentials and let the wall breathe. Storage, yes. Wall clutter, no thank you.
Want it to look extra intentional? Try:
Matching containers for cotton balls, Q-tips, and hair products
Keeping a similar color palette for your items so it feels cohesive
3. Swap in Art That Soothes (or Makes You Smile)
Is it weird to put wall art in a bathroom? Absolutely not. It’s one of the easiest ways to change the feel of the room.
You can have just as much fun with this as adding wall art to anywhere else in your room, just make sure it matches the environment of the room.
📌 Bonus tip: Bathrooms are perfect for smaller prints like 5x7 or 8x10, framed and hung above the towel rack or leaning on a decorative shelf.
I love using calming art in smaller spaces — here’s a favorite floral piece from my collection that works beautifully in bathrooms. It adds just the right touch of warmth and personality without overwhelming the space.
4. Give Your Mirror a Glow-Up
This one is such a small touch, but wow does it change the look of a bathroom. If your mirror is plain, pop a frame around it! You can DIY it with wood trim, buy a snap-on frame kit, or replace it with something vintage or modern — whatever suits your aesthetic. Or if your sick of traditional rectangular mirrors, opt for circular! This also adds a different feel to the room.
If you're feeling bold, peel-and-stick wallpaper or a fresh paint color on the vanity or walls can make the whole space feel brand new without any major remodeling.
5. Small Touches Make a Big Impact
Details make the difference. Swapping fresh towels for texture or fringe, choosing a new shower curtain, or even switching out drawer knobs can make the world of a difference.
Ideas of what to upgrade:
Matching hand soap and lotion bottles - all my “rich” friends’ parents had this growing up
Coordinated towel colors - I’ve even heard using plain white towels gives it a richer & fresher look
An over-the-toilet rack that adds storage and allows for decor
A soft bath mat or small rug with a fun pop of pattern
It’s the small touches that make your bathroom feels less like an afterthought and more like a mini spa.
You Don’t Need a Remodel to Make It Feel New
Refreshing your bathroom doesn’t require knocking down walls or calling in a contractor. A few intentional tweaks — art, storage, color, and details — can take it from bland to beautiful in less than a weekend.
Tell me in the comments below!
What are things you’re wanting to upgrade in your bathroom? Or what are other tips you’ve seen or heard?
If you try any of these tips (or add one of my art prints to your bathroom setup), tag me on Insta @rachelmadsenstudio or email me and tell me about it! I’d love to see how you made it your own.