I’ve had many a moment staring at my rental bathroom mirror and feeling like the beige nightmare that surrounds it is sucking the soul out of my mornings.
My last apartment had a bathroom that I could only describe as being trapped in 1985 – almond-colored everything; brass fixtures that were clearly well past their prime; and linoleum that sounded so sad when you walked on it. My lease was very specific about “no permanent changes”, which I felt was essentially telling me that I was allowed to live there, but never truly be able to make it my own.
However, after living in five different apartments, I’ve come to learn that you do not have to rip down walls or replace floors to give a space a new look. In fact, I’ve been amazed by how many of my favorite bathroom transformations occurred using no more than command strips, clever storage ideas, and removable solutions that would make any landlord happy with you at the end of your lease.
The first big break-through for me was discovering peel-and-stick wallpaper. I know, I know – it sounds like it may fall off in humid environments and leave a sticky mess. However, the good stuff (I am referring to brands like StickTILE and Tempaper, which will cost you a bit more money upfront, but actually work) can endure the humidity of a bathroom if you apply it properly. I applied a soft geometric design behind my toilet – nothing crazy, just enough to add visual interest and make the wall appear intended, rather than forgotten.
When applying peel-and-stick wallpaper in a bathroom, you should avoid placing it near areas that get sprayed with direct water. Behind the toilet is perfect. Near the towel bar is great. Near the shower, where the steam creates condensation? Avoid it. I learned the hard way that a corner of mine began to lift after three months of enthusiastic showering. But honestly, the impact was well worth it.
Storage was my next passion project. Rental bathrooms always seem to be created by someone who has never owned a toothbrush, let alone any real skin care products. Over-the-toilet shelving units made a huge difference for me – the type that uses tension and weight to remain secure without having to drill into anything. I bought mine at Target for approximately $40.00 and immediately gained space for plants (yes, plants in bathrooms work if you choose the right plants), decorative containers, etc., and all the products that previously crowded my little vanity.
Plants were also probably my best discovery. Placing a snake plant in the corner of your bathroom not only looks great – it thrives in bathroom humidity and low light. I have had the same one for three years now, and have moved it from apartment to apartment like a little green friend that adds life to every place. Pothos are also a good choice, especially if you hang them from high shelves, though they require slightly more light.
In general, mirrors in most rentals are… depressing. Typically, it’s a basic rectangle that is screwed directly into the wall and cannot be removed without causing damage. However, you can still accomplish things. I found a vintage ornate picture frame at a local thrift store for $12.00. I then measured the frame to fit around the existing mirror, and attached the frame to the mirror using construction adhesive. This resulted in the appearance that I had replaced the entire mirror, but really, I only gave the boring mirror a personality. When I moved out, the frame came off easily with a putty knife and some gentle pressure.
Lighting can make a big difference in a bathroom, however most rentals only provide one harsh overhead light that makes everyone look like they are auditioning for a horror movie. I have battery operated LED strips that have greatly improved my experience in this regard. I hung them under my medicine cabinet for task lighting, and behind a floating shelf for ambient lighting. The warm white LED strips (not the clinical daylight LED strips – trust me on this) added a spa-like quality to my morning routine rather than making it feel clinical.
Shower curtains may seem like a simple issue, but they are your largest chance to express yourself. Don’t settle for clear plastic liners – go with something that has a fun design or texture. I’ve gone with bold deep jewel tones, subtle botanical prints, and even a black and white striped curtain that elevated the entire room to a more sophisticated level.
Since you are renting, you can afford to take risks with temporary items like this.
The vanity area usually requires the most attention, since rental vanities are typically builder grade basics that lack charm. Using decorative trays to corral my daily products helped to create a clean and clutter-free look. Using a small wooden stool (mine is from World Market, around $35.00) provided me with additional seating and storage without utilizing much floor space. Additionally, changing the drawer pulls (if your lease permits) made a surprising difference. Just remember to save the original pulls for move-out day.
Textiles will warm up cold bathroom spaces quicker than almost anything. Using a good bath mat, a few fluffy towels that match in color, and possibly a small rug if you have the floor space, can totally change the ambiance of the room. I learned to consider color temperature when selecting textiles for the bathroom – cool grays and blues create a clean feel, but can be too harsh in morning light, while warmer neutral shades, soft greens, or muted pinks create a more inviting ambiance.
One of my best decisions was creating a small “spa corner” using a bamboo caddy that housed nice smelling products, a good candle (as long as you are careful not to burn it unattended), and a small speaker for music. The total cost for this little area was roughly sixty dollars. It transformed my mundane, functional bathroom into a space where I actually enjoy spending time.
The key to doing all of these types of projects is thinking like a decorator, not a contractor. You are using what exists in the space, not working against it. At times that means embracing the limitations – if you have pink tile, find ways to give it a vintage-chic look rather than fighting it with clashing colors.
Lastly, do not undervalue the importance of maintaining cleanliness and organization. No matter how great the decorating tricks are, a disorganized and dirty space will never feel like home. However, when you pair good maintenance with thoughtful, removable improvements, you can create a sense of home in even the most basic rental bathroom.
You keep your landlord happy, protect your deposit, and create a space that truly represents your personality. That’s what I call a win-win-win situation.
