Has your shower seen better days? Wondering what you can do with a small budget? Look no further!

We understand how hard it can be to update your bathroom when you have nothing, as well as the stress that it can cause.

To help you discover new and exciting ways to give your shower the makeover it needs (and deserves), here are five of our top tips for a fresh look.


1. Replace the Grout

Over time, grout gets dirty and moldy. While it can be cleaned, it takes a lot of time, and there are plenty of occasions when it is just too far gone. In these situations, it needs to be replaced.

When it comes to replacing grout in your shower, not only can it make it look brand new again, but it can also provide a great opportunity to change the color of your grout.

Grout comes in a variety of colors, ranging from white to black and everything in between.

Choosing the right color can have a significant impact on the overall look of your bathroom.

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For example, if you have white tiles, you could choose a light gray or beige grout for a subtle contrast. On the other hand, if you have dark tiles, you could choose a white or light gray grout to create a striking contrast. If you’re feeling bold, you could even choose a bright color to make a statement.

Read: Tips for Choosing Tile Colors

Changing the grout color in your shower can also help to hide stains and discoloration that may have been difficult to remove with cleaning. It’s important to note that while changing the grout color may seem like a small change, it can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your bathroom.

While you’re at it, removing and replacing the sealant is also a good idea for that fresh appearance. Doing this can also strengthen your shower’s waterproofing and prevent wall damage.


2. Refresh and Replace the Tiles

Tiles can become cracked and ugly over time; even growing mold and mildew if not cleaned regularly. Sometimes, they just fall out of style, and you want to change things up.

Tiles can be pretty budget-friendly depending on where you buy them, but replacing them can really brighten up the shower. One option is to replace only the damaged or stained tiles rather than the entire shower. If only a few tiles need to be replaced, this can be a cost-effective way to update the look of your shower.

To save even more money, use a cheaper tile option, like ceramic or porcelain, instead of expensive natural stone.

valentynsemenov, Canva

Watch: How to Replace Damaged Shower Surround Tile

Another option is to use tile paint or a tile refinishing kit to give your existing tiles a new look. These can be found at most home improvement stores and are a DIY-friendly way to transform the color and texture of your tiles. 

While this option isn’t as durable as replacing the tiles entirely, it’s great for those on a tight budget or looking for a quick fix. Even if you do half the wall in tile and the other half in paint, it’s a great way to refresh the enclosure.

Read: How to Paint Over Ceramic Tile in a Bathroom

Lastly, think about using tile overlays — thin panels made to stick directly onto existing tiles. These can be made of different materials like acrylic, PVC, and fiberglass. These can be an affordable way to update your shower’s appearance without requiring extensive demolition or installation.


3. Get a New Showerhead

A new showerhead makes all the difference, and this is both in terms of appearance and your washing experience.

There’s a massive range of styles and types to choose from, including the classic showerhead and the rainfall. The latter of these mimics falling rain, maximizing its circumference and creating a truly immersive experience, like you’re washing under a tropical waterfall.

Basic models can be found for as little as $10-20, while more advanced options can range up to $100 or more. With so many options available, you can find a showerhead that fits your needs and budget.

FreezeFrameStudio, Getty Images Signature

Replacing a showerhead is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in just a few minutes with basic tools. This means you can save money on installation costs and easily switch out your showerhead yourself.


4. Replace the Fixtures

Little fixtures like the taps in a shower bath can become outdated, damaged, or simply worn out over time and need to be replaced. Even the temperature controls need refreshing every so often.

Buying new ones is actually surprisingly inexpensive, and there are loads of styles that you can choose from to match your bathroom’s existing decor or create a whole new theme.

For example, replacing old and worn-out towel bars with new ones can instantly update your shower and give it a more polished and modern look. Also consider adding other accessories like robe hooks, soap dispensers, or even smart mirrors that incorporate features like built-in lighting or Bluetooth speakers.


5. Replace Rollers and Handles

It’s amazing what a difference a new set of rollers for your shower door can make; rollers are the worst for collecting mold and grime.

Not only will the doors open smoothly and without hesitation, but they will sparkle with that new shine you’ve missed for so long.

New handles can have the same effect, but they can also transform the appearance of your shower doors — giving them a modern or styled look that suits your tastes.

When choosing new rollers and handles, consider the style and finish of your existing shower fixtures.

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You can match the finish of your new components to your existing fixtures, or choose a new finish that complements your bathroom’s overall aesthetic. There are also a variety of styles available, from sleek and modern to more traditional looks.

We hope that this has given you some inspiration because the little things are often able to make the biggest impact.

From scrubbing the tiles and replacing the grout to investing in new handles, you can have a shower that looks just as good as the day you bought it.

Taking care of it can give the bathroom a fresh breath of life, making it a room you feel comfortable in again.

We’d love to hear how your bathroom renovation turned out, so make sure you leave us a comment below!


Further Reading

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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