Small bathroom remodeling can be a massive undertaking, so it’s crucial to have a plan and a clear idea of the costs involved. From installing new fixtures and windows to using light colors or glass shower doors, there are many ideas to consider as you embark on the remodel. Depending on the materials, brand, and area, it might cost you between $5,500 and $15,000.
To DIY remodel your small bathroom, you must undergo demolition, plumbing, and electric adjustments, floor and wall treatments, and fixtures installation. To do this, you’ll need essential tools and a battery backup solution like solar generators. Jackery Solar Generators are designed to power various power tools, such as impact drills, miter saws, and plumbing tools. They are safe and have a sturdy handle to move them anywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Small bathrooms present challenges regarding space, light, ventilation, and storage. Therefore, adjusting the constraints and creating a unique remodeling layout is crucial.
- For a small bathroom remodeling, you can install multi-functional bathroom fixtures, utilize every inch, and use innovative materials and smart technology.
- To rebuild a small bathroom, start with demolition, do the plumbing and electric work, treat the floor and wall, and then install fixtures.
- An average small bathroom rebuild costs between $5,500 and $15,000, depending on the fixtures, materials, and other factors.
Why Small Bathrooms Pose Unique Challenges in Design and Functionality
The first step in undertaking a small bathroom remodeling project is to understand the unique challenges it presents. The most apparent yet significant challenge is the limited space available. Tight quarters make it a struggle to move around comfortably, impacting the bathroom’s functionality.
Besides space constraints, limited light, ventilation, and storage also complicate the design process. Adjusting to the constraints and planning an aesthetically pleasing yet functional layout requires careful consideration.
High-Impact Small Bathroom Remodeling Ideas for 2025
Limited space often presents design and functional challenges but opens the door to creativity. Whether there’s a compact nook or a tight corner, a well-thought-out plan can transform your bathroom in a way you enjoy. Here are some of the small bathroom remodeling ideas you can consider:
Space-Enhancing Layout Adjustments: Understand how you and others in your household move within the available bathroom space. Accordingly, keep the sink, toilet, and shower placement for a smooth traffic flow. If there’s enough space, follow the “three-foot rule.” It involves maintaining three feet of open space in front of the fixtures. If you can’t accommodate that, keep the space to access the most frequently used area clean and uncluttered.
You can also keep the door swing outside, a well-designated area to store your toiletries, and invest in multifunctional furniture.
Vertical Space Utilization: In a small bathroom, every inch counts. So, you must be smart about utilizing it and making necessary arrangements. You can install wall-mounted shelves or cabinets to store your essentials and save a bit on floor storage. Or, use vertical design elements like tall cabinets, wall tiles, vertical stripes, etc., to provide an illusion of more height in a bathroom.
Innovative Material Choices: Materials also help make the most of the available space without compromising style. As mentioned earlier, tall and large wall tiles give the illusion of ample space. Other than that, opt for sleek materials like glass shower doors to save space and provide an aesthetic look to your bathroom.
Smart Technology in Bathrooms: Technology can also be a great way to optimize space; even minor changes can do the job. For example, sensor-activated faucets enhance hygiene and keep the space clutter-free without protruding handles. Sensor-activated cabinets also fulfill a similar purpose.
Small Bathroom Remodeling Layouts and Floor Plan Ideas
Design is a key aspect of a small bathroom remodeling project, making it feel more spacious and visually appealing. Following are the three best ideas for small bathroom remodeling with pictures you can take inspiration from:
Small Bathroom With Bathtub
Bathtubs take up much space, so keeping them in a small bathroom might seem pointless. However, tubs might be essential for people who bathe their kids and pets. If you’re one of them, consider a low-profile tub. This allows a quick get-in and out and makes the bathroom more open.
Orient the door outward to ensure maximum space inside and install wood-trimmed casement windows to add decor and airflow to the room. Also, install a wood cabinet to conveniently store toiletries and decor, like a green plant.
Small Bathroom With Washing Machine
This small bathroom remodeling plan suits a square space with a stacked washing machine. Similar to the previous design, you can install an outward or pocket door. The floating vanity sink and toilet provide a sense of space, while the storage drawers under the sink help stack your toiletries. To add aesthetics, keep the shower in a corner with a rounded glass panel.
Small Bathroom With Shower
If you have a small rectangular bathroom, follow the “three in a row” style, where the sink, toilet, and showerhead are on a single line. Install a floating toilet and a glass partition for the shower to make the bathroom spacious and easy to clean. As in the previous plan, keep the storage drawers below the sink and install swinging doors. A glass shelf above the toilet is good for keeping a candle, plant, or other decorative items.
How to Build a Small Bathroom Remodel
Learning to remodel a small bathroom DIY can be rewarding but complicated. It requires planning, designing, and building skills, as well as focusing on minute details.
Phase 1: Demolition & Prepping the Space
First, a small bathroom rebuilding requires the right supply of materials. Although it varies with project type, the following are the staples:
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
- Mask
- Tape measure
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Paint brushes
- Knife
- Drill
- Circular Saw
- Screwdriver
- Wiring
- Paint
- Rags
Now that you have the materials per your chosen design, it’s time to remove the flooring, tiles, and fixtures.
However, before you pick up the sledgehammer, shut off the water supply and electricity and put a protective cloth over anything you’re keeping. Remove moldings and baseboards, drain the toilet before removing it, and remove the bathtub, mirrors, sink, vanity, and others.
Phase 2: Plumbing & Electrical Adjustments
Once the room is clear, begin the plumbing work. If you plan to relocate any fixtures, reroute the plumbing pipes. Plumb the shower tub or water supply lines, drain lines, and sink drains. Then, start with the electrical adjustments. You might need to run new circuits. Keep the outlet within 3 feet of each basin and along its length to be used comfortably.
If you keep lighting fixtures above showers or bathtubs, ensure they are specifically rated for wet conditions. Make the final connections for lights, outlets, exhaust, and others. Both plumbing and electrical appliances need power to work. In case of a power outage or a rolling blackout, you’ll need a power source like Jackery Solar Generators. These have enough power to run most of your tools for hours.
Please Note: Although plumbing and electrical adjustments are doable, they involve risks and are prone to damage if not handled properly. It’d thereby be wise to hire a professional for such tasks.
Phase 3: Flooring & Wall Treatments
Once the plumbing and electrical tasks are complete, you can install and finish the flooring and wall treatments. Install a cement board and vapor barrier in areas prone to moisture and dampness. A cement board prevents moisture and is a good backer for wall tile. For other walls, use drywall.
Moving on, install floor tiles that are waterproof, simple to install, easy to clean, and attractive. Common flooring materials include porcelain, ceramic, or plank vinyl flooring. Avoid using engineered wood, solid hardwood, or laminate flooring in small bathrooms.
Phase 4: Installing Fixtures & Storage
It takes some time for the floor tiles and drywall to set firmly and dry. Once they do, install the shower tub. If you plan to install a shower enclosure, add a curtain rod or a glass shower door. Wait for the caulk and adhesives to dry completely, then install the amenities, like the vanity, faucet, toilet, and cabinets.
Phase 5: Final Touches & Deep Cleaning
Now that you’ve completed small bathroom remodeling, it’s time to add the finishing touches of bath decor and any extra storage you need. Install mirrors, shelves, towel bars, and finishes that match the vanity hardware. Then, deep clean the bathroom. Spray an all-purpose cleaner on the surfaces and use a brush to scrub and make your bathroom as good as new.
Jackery Solar Generators for Small Bathroom Remodeling
Small bathroom rebuilding can be time-consuming and delayed if there’s a power outage or blackout in your area. To prepare for a power outage, invest in a highly efficient solar generator that can power your power tools and essential appliances.
Jackery is a leading manufacturer of solar-powered generators, portable power stations, and foldable solar panels. The Jackery Solar Generators combine Jackery Portable Power Stations and Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels to collect and convert sunlight to usable electricity. You can plug the appliances into the battery backup and start powering them anytime.
Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus
Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is a high-capacity battery backup solution to efficiently power most electrical tools and household appliances. This includes a power drill, caulking gun, electric saw, ACs, refrigerators, etc. The best part is you can connect the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus to an electric panel using a Jackery Smart Transfer Switch, and it seamlessly switches you to backup power within 0ms during an outage. This way, your DIY project won’t be interrupted when the power goes out.
Appliance Working Hours
- Power Drill (1500W): 2.8H
- Circular Saw (1600W): 2.6H
- Impact Driver (1300W): 3.2H
- Central AC (1800W): 2.3H
- Orbital Sander (1200W): 3.4H
Customer Review
“High-quality product with amazing power generation capabilities. I will be purchasing a second bundle to increase our kWh to 60.”- S.M.
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 is your next-gen home battery backup solution capable of powering most DIY bathroom remodeling tools, such as power drills and angle grinders. It has enough battery capacity to provide an uninterrupted power supply during a sudden outage. Besides, its foldable handle lets you carry it anywhere and power the electronics whenever needed.
Appliance Working Hours
- Impact Driver (1300W): 1.3H
- Orbital Sander (1200W): 1.4H
- Circular Saw (1000W): 1.7H
- Refrigerator (800W): 2.1H
- Power Drill (600W): 2.8H
Customer Review
“I wanted this Jackery 2000 because we lose power in the summer and winter. Easy to move around and keeps my appliances running for long periods.”- Dave McCormick.
How Much Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Cost?
In 2025, a small bathroom remodeling cost roughly between $5,500 and $15,000. The numbers typically vary with square footage and the type of fixtures, flooring, wall tile, and other amenities. The detailed breakdown is as follows:
|
Feature |
Average Cost |
|
New shower or tub |
$600 to $2,000 |
|
Glass shower door replacement |
$500 to $1,000 |
|
Retiling a shower |
$1,500 to $4,500 |
|
New cabinets or vanity |
$850 to $2,000 |
|
New toilet |
$500 to $1,000 |
|
New sink |
$500 to $1,500 |
|
New Flooring ($8 per sq. ft.) |
$320 to $480 (for a 40-60 sq. ft. bathroom) |
|
New Mirror |
$80 to $120 |
|
New Light Fixtures |
$50 to $200 |
|
Fresh Paint |
$100 to $200 |
|
Plumbing Adjustments |
$500 to $2,000 |
|
Total |
$5,500 to $15,000 |
Please Note: These are estimated values, and the actual costs vary with the type of materials, brands, and the area you live in.
How to Design an Urban Apartment Bath Under $5,000
A small bathroom can be made functional yet stylish, even on a low budget. Here are some creative and cost-effective small bathroom remodeling ideas on a budget:
- Use Light Colors: Colors like beige, white, or pastel shades give your bathroom a bigger look. Use tiles or paint of such color to create an airy feel.
- Compact and Multi-functional Fixtures: Corner basins, wall-mounted sinks, and floating vanities save space without compromising aesthetics. Wall-mounted toilets can also be used for this purpose.
- Use Smart Lighting: Wall-mounted or LED lights brighten up your space while enhancing the appearance.
- Optimize Ventilation: Making space for fresh air circulation prevents mold and foul odor. It also allows natural light to enter.
- Upgrade Small Details: Replace old taps, handles, and knobs with modern options to provide a refreshed look to your bathroom.
FAQs for Small Bathroom Remodeling
What is the cheapest way to renovate a bathroom?
The cheapest way to renovate a bathroom involves quick and cost-effective updates like replacing fixtures, painting, and using peel-and-stick wallpaper or tiles. This would refresh the look of your bathroom without costing a lot.
How much does it cost to redesign a small bathroom?
A full-fledged small bathroom remodeling project might cost between $5,500 and $15,000. However, the numbers might vary depending on the materials, brand, and the area you live in.
What is the hardest part of renovating a bathroom?
Plumbing and electricity adjustments are the most challenging part of a bathroom renovation. These involve potential risks of water damage, unexpected costs, and others.
What makes a small bathroom look bigger?
Using light colors, mirrors that reflect light, ventilation, and lighting enhances the sense of spaciousness without spending thousands. You can also install glass shower doors and minimize clutter for this purpose.
Can you redo a bathroom for $5000?
Yes, you can redo a bathroom for around $5,000, but the primary focus should be cosmetic changes rather than structural or high-end finishes.
Conclusion
Small bathrooms offer unique challenges, such as limited space, light, ventilation, and storage. Undertaking a small bathroom remodeling requires a considerable investment and careful research, planning, gathering supplies, and investing in a portable battery backup solution. Jackery offers reliable and efficient solar generators designed for various appliances and needs. These can power most of your tools for hours during a power outage so that you can uninterruptedly undertake your project.
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