Simple Kitchen and Bath Updates to Improve Efficiency

Make your kitchen and bathroom more functional with these simple and affordable updates.

With everyone spending more time at home these days, your kitchen and bathroom have likely seen a lot more use. While complete remodels can be expensive and time consuming, there are many simple and affordable ways to update these important rooms to improve their efficiency and functionality. Read on for tips to make your kitchen and bath more organized, attractive, and user-friendly without a major overhaul.

Refresh the Paint and Hardware

A fresh coat of paint can instantly update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. For the kitchen, consider a light, neutral color that will make the space feel clean and bright. For the bath, soothing colors like light blue or sage green are relaxing options.

While you’re at it, replace any dated or worn hardware like cabinet pulls, faucets, showerheads and light fixtures. New hardware makes cabinets and fixtures feel like new again. Opt for brushed metals like nickel or oil-rubbed bronze for an updated but classic look.

Organize Cabinets and Drawers

Cluttered cabinets and messy drawers are common kitchen and bath headaches. Now is the time to clean them out and add organizers to make better use of the space.

In the kitchen, use drawer dividers, tiered racks and turntables to neatly arrange pots, pans and containers. Designate a drawer for utensils and tools. In the bathroom, divide vanity drawers to seperate makeup, hair care items and other toiletries. Adjustable shelves, slide-out storage trays and vertical divisions make it easy to see and access what you need.

Improve Task Lighting

Proper lighting is essential in the kitchen and bath. Replace any old fluorescent lights with LEDs, which are brighter and more energy efficient. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates countertops and sinks, making food prep and getting ready easier. Consider adding sconces on either side of the bathroom mirror or medicine cabinet.

Make sure lights are easily accessible when you enter each room. Install dimmers so you can adjust the brightness as needed.

Update Door and Drawer Hardware

Sticky doors and stuck drawers are common and annoying kitchen and bathroom problems. Replacing the hardware is an easy fix. For cabinets, opt for soft-close hinges and slides to prevent slamming. Add rubber bumpers inside drawers to stop contents from shifting around.

Install new modern door knobs and handles while you’re at it. Go for satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or matte black for an updated look. Improving the hardware makes the whole room feel refreshed.

Add a Fresh Backsplash

The kitchen backsplash takes a lot of wear and tear. If yours is outdated, stained or damaged, a new one can modernize the whole look of the room. Subway tile and marble mosaic are classic backsplash materials that work in many kitchens. Have fun choosing a bold, eye-catching pattern tile if you want to make a splash.

In the bathroom, continue the backsplash tile up the wall around the sink or tub area. Match or coordinate with the floor tile for a cohesive look.

Upgrade Faucets and Showerheads

Replacing old or leaky faucets and showerheads improves function and feel. For the kitchen, look for a high-arc model with a generous spout range that swivels for added convenience. Choose a water-efficient model with multiple spray settings for the shower.

While upgraded finishes like brushed bronze, chrome or matte black improve appearance, the quality of the mechanics makes the biggest difference. Be sure any new hardware is drip-free and functions properly.

Add Pull-Out Storage

Maximize every inch of existing cabinet and vanity space with pull-out storage. Mounted on slides or tracks, pull-out trays, racks and baskets enable you to see and reach items in back that normally get buried.

Use pull-outs in the kitchen to neatly corral pans, baking sheets, spices, canned goods and more. In the bath, keep toiletries, hair appliances and cleaning products organized. Check measurements to find sizes that fit your existing cabinetry openings.

Improve Countertops

Countertops take abuse in both the kitchen and bath. Scratches, stains, worn surfaces and uneven seams can make them look unsightly. While natural stone requires a big investment, budget-friendly options can still upgrade the look and feel.

Try applying a concrete resurfacing kit to coat and smooth worn laminate. Tiles like marble, travertine or pebbled mosaic can be applied over existing surfaces. Or opt for new solid surface materials like quartz or Corian that resist stains and damage.

Add Shelving for Extra Storage

Limited cabinet space means kitchens and bathrooms often lack adequate storage. Free-standing or wall-mounted shelving adds extra space to stow items conveniently.

For the kitchen, shelving over appliances, the sink or stove tops gives you space for spices, cookbooks, barware and decor. For the bath, étagères or shelving next to the vanity provide storage for toiletries, towels and more. Look for materials like powder-coated metal, bamboo, and solid wood that withstand humidity.

Improve Ventilation

Steam, cooking odors and mold are problems in rooms prone to moisture like kitchens and baths. Improved ventilation keeps air fresh and prevents damage.

Make sure vents and fans are working properly. Upgrade to quiet, energy-efficient models if needed. Install a vent hood over the stove if you don’t have one. Opening a window helps let in fresh air when cooking. For the bath, run the fan during showers and for a bit afterwards to remove excess humidity.

Replace the Sink

An old stained or damaged sink detracts from your updates. Luckily, replacing a sink is one of the easiest kitchen or bath upgrades. Drop-in, self-rimming and undermount sink styles make the project DIY-friendly.

Farmhouse, apron-front and stainless steel sinks are popular modern choices that suit many cabinet styles. For small bathrooms, consider a space-saving wall-mount or pedestal sink. Match the faucet finish for a cohesive look.

Improve Bathroom Flooring

Bathroom floors take a beating and show their age faster than other rooms. Replacing worn, outdated flooring instantly refreshes the space.

Water-resistant luxury vinyl plank has the look of wood or tile without the high price tag. Classic white subway tiles or hex mosaic add timeless style. Go for neutral tones or subtle patterns that will endure over trendy looks. Install a matching bath mat and shower curtain for a pulled-together feel.

Add Under Cabinet Lighting

Task lighting is essential in kitchens and bathrooms. Under-cabinet lighting brightens countertops, sinks, and mirrors for cooking, grooming, and other jobs. The right lighting also creates a warmer, more welcoming ambiance.

LED strip lighting comes in convenient pre-cut lengths to install under cabinets and shelves. Connect them for a continuous glow. Choose bright white lighting for tasks or soft mood lighting for ambiance. Use remote controls or dimmers to adjust brightness as needed.

Repaint or Redo Cabinets

Tired wooden cabinets don’t require replacing. A fresh coat of paint or new hardware and surfaces can give them an affordable facelift.

Clean grimy cabinets and lightly sand before painting. Opt for cream, white, or light grey to brighten up the space. Or try navy blue, sage green, or even black for dramatic contrast. Replace worn hardware with satin nickel or oil-rubbed bronze pulls and knobs.

For a quick upgrade, attach new doors and drawer fronts while keeping existing cabinet boxes. Or reface cabinets with new laminate, wood veneer, or thermofoil surfaces. These DIY-friendly options save thousands over cabinet replacement.

Add a Statement Mirror or Medicine Cabinet

In the bath, a statement mirror instantly amplifies light and gives the illusion of a bigger space. Oval, rectangular, and arched mirrors layered over existing glass add interest. Lighting around the mirror or medicine cabinet provides ideal visibility for grooming.

Have fun selecting a bold frame finish like brass, bronze, or distressed wood. Coordinate with other hardware finishes in the room. For added function, choose a recessed medicine cabinet to stow toiletries behind the mirror.

Install a Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands are extremely popular upgrades that expand prep space, storage, and style. Freestanding carts or cabinets create extra work area without major renovation. Choose a size and layout that fits well in the existing footprint without cramping the space.

Opt for durable top materials like granite, quartz, or solid surface. Include storage like cabinets, shelves, and drawers to maximize function. The island can also do double duty as a casual dining spot with the addition of bar seating. Space permitting, including a second sink boosts convenience.

Upgrade Kitchen Appliances

Updated appliances improve functionality and give your kitchen a fresh new look. If your appliances are outdated or failing, now may be the time to replace them. Focus on the pieces you use most frequently.

As budgets allow, upgrade your cooktop, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Look for energy efficient models with sleek stainless exteriors and improved technology. Add features like convection cooking, warming drawers and drawer microwaves to enhance convenience.

Add a Bathroom Heater and Towel Warmer

A small heater keeps your bathroom comfortably warm on chilly mornings. Convenient wall-mounted units with adjustable thermostats fit easily out of the way. Select a compact size with a quiet fan.

Integrated radiant heat in the floor is another wonderful comfort option. Electric mats beneath tile raise surface temperature. Towel warmers add functionality by heating your towels while you shower. Available in electric and hydronic models, they come in various sizes to fit your space.

Install New Flooring

Updated floors can make a dramatic impact. In both kitchens and baths, water-resistant luxury vinyl plank flooring imitates wood or stone with authentic visual texture. Hundreds of styles suit any decor. Pro-grade vinyl is durable and installation-friendly for DIYers.

For kitchens, classic materials like hardwood, tile, and stone are also great options that withstand heavy use. Just keep the bathroom flooring smooth and slip-resistant. Completely update the look by running new flooring under vanities and into showers.

Refresh Wall Finishes

Painting kitchen or bathroom walls with light, neutral hues makes the space feel fresh and uplifted. Bold accent walls in hues like navy, green or brick red add drama. Consider materials like beadboard paneling, shiplap or subway tile to add texture and dimension.

In humid areas around sinks and tubs, use mold-resistant paint formulated for bathrooms. Make grout lines look clean and crisp by sealing and regrouting tile as needed. Take care of any drywall or caulking repairs for a seamless finished look.

Add Architectural Interest

Simple architectural details give character to plain kitchens and baths. Add a vintage-look apron front sink, arched mirror, or panelled refrigerator. Interesting ceilings like coffered, tray, or beadboard styles add appeal. Box beams, brackets, and trimwork embellish basic bones.

Kitchen islands, prep sinks, and banquette seating improve function while providing visual appeal. Turn an unused corner into a coffee station. Add structure with shelving or glass-front cabinet displays. Even just painting or removing upper cabinets transforms the look.

Update Entryway Flooring

The entryway helps set the tone when you walk into the house. Old, worn flooring in the space can detract from your other updates. Refinishing or replacing entry flooring creates an inviting first impression.

For high traffic areas, durable stone, tile, or luxury vinyl are smart options that withstand wear and tear. Cohesive design comes from matching or coordinating with adjacent rooms. Adding a patterned accent rug over hard flooring defines the space while protecting the surface.

Be sure to check the threshold height if changing flooring. Adjustments or transitions may be needed between floor levels in adjoining rooms. This prevents potential tripping hazards.

Improve Entryway Storage

The entry is prone to clutter from shoes, coats, keys, mail, and accessories. Beautifully designed storage solutions keep necessities at hand while hiding mess. builtin shelving with hooks, benches, and cubbies give every item a place.

Opt for materials like powder-coated metal and solid wood that resist moisture. Baskets and bins corral smaller items. A console table with drawers adds both storage and an attractive surface for decor. Mirrors visually expand tight spaces. The right entry storage makes coming home a pleasure rather than a scramble.

Add Statement Lighting

Beautiful lighting transforms any space. For the entry, make a bold first impression with eye-catching fixtures. Try a sparkling two-tier chandelier, modern geometric pendants, or gleaming sconces. Bathrooms and kitchens also benefit from decorative lighting that complements task lighting.

Look for interesting materials like antique brass, filigreed metal, colorful glass or fabric shades. Place lighting to create a focal point or illuminate specific areas like a breakfast nook. Dimmer switches enable you to set just the right ambiance. Statement lights reflect your personal style better than basic flushmounts.

Install a Kitchen Backsplash

Few things impact a kitchen’s style as much as the backsplash. This relatively small area packs a big visual punch. Backsplashes protect the wall behind sinks and stoves while adding color, texture, and personality.

Subway tile, marble, and handmade ceramic are perennial favorites. Go bold with eye-catching glass or metallic tile for a contemporary look. Accent with pops of color, interesting shapes, or decorative trim. Coordinate with countertops for a cohesive feel. Installing a fresh backsplash instantly gives your cooking space a face lift.

Improve Bathroom Ventilation

Proper ventilation keeps bathrooms comfortable by reducing humidity, odors, and moisture damage. If your bath lacks a vent fan, installing one is a must. Replace any old units with new Energy Star rated models that move more air quietly. Make sure vents release outside, not just into attics or wall cavities.

For fresh air, open windows whenever possible after showering. Run fans for a several minutes after to remove lingering moisture. Consider adding a dehumidifier if the space has no windows. Keep fans and vents clean so air flows freely. Good ventilation means you’ll be less likely to see peeling paint and mold growth.

Install New Plumbing Fixtures

Replacing worn or outdated faucets, showerheads, and toilets improves functionality and aesthetics. New water-efficient plumbing fixtures also conserve resources and save you money on utility bills.

Look for EPA WaterSense labeled products when selecting new pieces. Options like low-flow showerheads, high-efficiency toilets, and sensor faucets cut back water usage without sacrificing performance. Coordinate finishes on fixtures for a cohesive look. Upgrade to models with convenient features like hand showers, spray modes, and touchless operation.

Add an Accent Wall

Accent walls create visual interest through color, texture, materials or decorative treatments. They’re ideal in kitchens and baths for adding personality without overpowering the space.

Try painting one wall in a bold hue. Use beadboard paneling, decorative tiles or natural stone on one surface. Airy open shelves or a mosaic tile backsplash behind the stove make artistic statements. Experiment with geometrics, custom shapes or murals for something truly unique. Accent walls draw the eye while keeping the rest of the space neutral.

Update Window Coverings

Replacing dated or worn window treatments instantly gives your rooms a lift. Sturdy wood blinds and natural linen or cotton curtains stand up to humidity and food splashes. Roll-up shades keep the light out for sleeping in.

In kitchens and baths, look for window coverings that layer well together for privacy and light control. Hang curtains high to emphasize tall ceilings. Add stylish yet functional touches like decorative rods, ornate finials, and swag valances. Keep the color and patterns simple to avoid overwhelming the smaller spaces.

Add Undercabinet Storage

Maximize kitchen and bathroom storage with inventive undercabinet additions. Models mounted on tracks slide out to access hard-to-reach items. Try pull-out shelves for small appliances, utensils, towels and more. Spice racks, utensil holders and tip-out trays organize essentials.

Cutting board, trash or recycling bins that tuck away save major countertop space. LED under cabinet lighting illuminates tasks while freeing up outlets. Take measurements to find organizers sized for your cabinets. High-quality hardware ensures smooth operation and longevity.

Install a Kitchen Sink Farmhouse Apron Front Sink

A farmhouse apron front sink is a great way to update an old-fashioned kitchen on a budget. These vintage-style sinks feature a large front lip that slightly overlaps the cabinet face for a seamless look. They’re available in budget-friendly materials like fireclay and enameled cast iron that withstand heavy use.

Farmhouse sinks come in various sizes and configurations. Double bowl models are popular for keeping clean and dirty dishes separate. Styles with an integrated backsplash and side panels provide a finished built-in look. Choose a crisply white sink in traditional fireclay or a bold color for fun. Paired with new faucets and cabinet hardware, an apron front sink gives your kitchen a fresh farmhouse vibe.

Update Cabinet Hardware

If your existing cabinets are structurally sound, a simple hardware update can give them an entirely new look. Swapping out old worn pulls, knobs, and hinges for new ones takes just a couple hours. For a unified look, replace all the hardware rather than just mix and match pieces.

Sleek bar pulls in matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, or satin brass are suitable for both kitchens and baths. Black iron or rubbed bronze knobs look classic and sophisticated. Soft-close hinges prevent loud slamming. Paint or finish cabinets to complement the new hardware style. The impact of small hardware swaps is impressive.

Add Under Cabinet Towel Storage

On the never ending quest for more storage space, use the narrow area under bathroom and kitchen sinks to neatly tuck away towels. Freestanding


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