Small Bathroom Makeover Ideas on a Budget: Easy Upgrades

Transforming a small bathroom on a budget can seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can achieve a stunning result.


For this small bathroom makeover, we started with some foundational changes and ended with a show-stopping feature that completely revamped the space.


Here's a detailed step-by-step guide to our DIY small bathroom makeover.

Tools and materials:

  • Utility knife
  • Pry bar
  • Scraper
  • Tile cutter
  • Notched trowel
  • Level
  • Jigsaw
  • Brad nailer
  • Squeegee
  • New tiles
  • Tile adhesive
  • Grout
  • Tile spacers
  • Shiplap panels
  • Peel and stick wallpaper (from Wall Blush)

1. Remove the old linoleum floor

To kick off our small bathroom makeover, we began by pulling up the old linoleum floor. This step is crucial to give the bathroom a fresh and modern base.


Start by cutting the linoleum into manageable strips using a utility knife. Then, use a pry bar to lift the linoleum, starting from one corner.


Scrape off any remaining adhesive residue from the subfloor to ensure a smooth surface for the new tiles.

Removing the lino floor

2. Install new tiles

Choosing the right tiles can significantly enhance the look of your bathroom. Lay out the tiles to determine the best fit and pattern before applying tile adhesive to a small section of the floor using a notched trowel.


Place the tiles carefully, using spacers to maintain even gaps. Once the adhesive is set, apply grout between the tiles and clean off any excess grout with a damp sponge.


This new flooring forms a durable and attractive foundation for the rest of your small bathroom makeover.

New tiles

3. Add shiplap panels

Shiplap panels add a rustic and stylish touch to the walls. Before installation, measure and cut the panels to fit your bathroom walls, ensuring to cut out holes for plumbing using a jigsaw.


Start attaching the shiplap from the bottom of the wall, securing each panel with a brad nailer. Work your way up, making sure each panel is level and fits snugly against the one below it.

Adding shiplap panels

4. Apply peel and stick wallpaper

The real show stopper of this DIY small bathroom makeover is the peel and stick wallpaper from Wall Blush. This product is beginner-friendly and transforms the space with minimal effort.


Begin by selecting the most inconspicuous corner to start applying the wallpaper. Hang the panels in order, ensuring they line up easily. Use the squeegee provided to smooth out the panels and remove any air bubbles.


The peel and stick wallpaper adds a beautiful and professional finish to your bathroom walls.

Adding wallpaper

Small bathroom makeover ideas on a budget

After completing the main installations, step back and admire the transformation. Here’s a before photo:

Before the small bathroom makeover

And here’s an after photo:

After the small bathroom makeover

This small bathroom makeover not only looks fantastic but also demonstrates how effective small bathroom makeover ideas on a budget can be. 

After the small bathroom makeover

This step-by-step guide shows how a few strategic changes can lead to a stunning DIY small bathroom makeover. With new tiles, shiplap panels, and eye-catching peel and stick wallpaper, your small bathroom can look refreshed and stylish without breaking the bank.


We love the end-result and hope you do too! Share your thoughts and love in the comments below.


Follow @a_bit_unexpected_diy on Instagram for more DIY ideas.

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