5 Bathroom Upgrades For Rental Homes

The bathroom is a key area in any home as it is a refuge for relaxation and rejuvenation. However, if you're renting your space, you might feel constrained when it comes to decorating and personalizing the T&B. Don't fret, you can still give your bathroom a makeover—the key is to keep it simple and inexpensive. Check out these ideas that won't get you in trouble with your landlord: 

1. If you can’t add cabinets, invest in storage bins.

Bathrooms in rental homes are usually standard by design—it has a toilet, a sink, and one or two cabinets at most. If yours doesn't come with a lot of built-in storage, feel free to add room for your belongings with hanging shower caddies, woven bins, wire baskets and catchalls.

RL Tip: Can't drill hooks on the walls? Find an old, clean ladder and lean it against the wall. Use it as a spot for hanging multiple towels or bathrobes.

2. If you can’t add windows, work on lighting.

Sometimes, all you get in a rental T&B is a small window over the toilet. To bring more light into the room, add a couple of hanging lamps or even surface lamps on your counter. Adding more mirrors and steel accessories also help in making the space seem brighter. 

3. If you can’t replace the hardware, have them repaired and polished.

If you're unfortunate to move in after a tenant who doesn't care about maintenance, chances are, you'd be forced to deal with sub-par hardware. If you aren't allowed to change them entirely, you can hire a handyman who can help you tighten loose screws and get rid of rust. You can use toothpaste to buff steel elements, too! 

READ: RL Picks: Hardware Finds For The Bathroom 

4. If you can’t change the tiles, make sure they are clean.

Tiles are bound to grow mold over time—especially in homes who have had different dwellers. Beat grime and gunk with fresh lemon juice and diluted vinegar. You can also negotiate with your landlord and ask if you can cover it up with tinted grout. 

READ: 3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Floor Tiles Clean and Sparkling

5. If you can’t repaint the walls, go all out on wall décor.

If your landlord won't allow repainting or agree to split the cost with you, you can still add color to your space with large pieces of art. Get the most bang for your buck by getting modern prints and contemporary pieces instead of classic oil paintings. 

READ: 4 Ways To Liven Up The Bathroom with Wall Decor