Tired of looking at your kitchen and wishing it felt fresher or more inviting? You’re not alone! In fact, 42% of Americans have been motivated to remodel their kitchens simply because they weren’t happy with how they looked anymore.
The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to give your kitchen a new look. These 13 simple and budget-friendly updates you can make to transform your space without breaking the bank.
1. Repaint Your Cabinets
Repainting your cabinets is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to refresh your kitchen. If your cabinets are looking a little worn or outdated, a fresh coat of paint can make them look brand new.
- How-to: Start by removing the cabinet doors and hardware, then sand the surfaces lightly to help the paint stick better. Next, clean off any dust and apply a primer. Once the primer is dry, go ahead and paint with your chosen color.
For best results, use high-quality paint and apply at least two coats. Finally, let the paint dry completely before reattaching the doors and hardware. It’s a simple, DIY project that can completely change the vibe of your kitchen.
2. Install a Backsplash
A backsplash can add both style and protection to your kitchen. Installing one doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. You can use peel-and-stick tiles for an easy DIY project.
- How-to: Start by cleaning the wall where you want the backsplash, making sure it’s smooth and free of dust. Then, peel the backing off your tiles and press them onto the wall, working in small sections.
Cut any tiles that need to fit around corners or edges with a tile cutter. If you’re feeling bold, choose a bold color or pattern for a fun pop of style. After everything’s installed, grout the seams and wipe off the excess. You’ll love the new look!
3. Update Your Cabinet Hardware
Changing the knobs or handles on your cabinets is a quick update that can make a huge difference. All you need is a screwdriver and a few new pieces of hardware.
- How-to: Simply remove the old knobs or handles, then install the new ones where the holes align. If the holes don’t line up, you can use a filler to cover the old ones and drill new holes for your new hardware.
This small change can give your cabinets a more modern or stylish feel, and it’s a simple update that won’t break the bank.
4. Swap Out Your Light Fixtures
Your kitchen’s lighting can completely change the atmosphere. Swapping out an old light fixture for something new and modern can really elevate the space.
- How-to: First, make sure the power is off before working with any electrical components. Then, remove the existing fixture by unscrewing it and disconnecting the wires. Install the new fixture by connecting the wires to the new one (matching the colors: black to black, white to white).
Once it’s all wired up, secure the fixture in place, screw it in, and turn the power back on. Choose a fixture that suits your style—whether it’s something sleek and modern or a bit more rustic!
5. Add Some Open Shelving
Open shelving is a great way to make your kitchen feel more spacious and showcase your favorite dishes or cookbooks. Installing open shelves is pretty straightforward, especially if you use floating shelves.
- How-to: Find the studs in your wall (you can use a stud finder), mark where the shelves will go, and screw in brackets or mounts. Then, place your shelves on the brackets and secure them.
Once they’re up, you can arrange your dishes, glasses, or even plants for a charming display. Open shelving is not only functional but also adds a personal touch to your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to organize things you use often.
6. Replace Your Faucet
If your faucet is old or looks worn out, swapping it out for a new one can really change the feel of your kitchen. It’s a relatively simple project that you can do yourself with a few basic tools.
- How-to: Start by turning off the water supply under your sink. Then, use a wrench to disconnect the old faucet and remove it. When installing the new faucet, follow the instructions carefully—most faucets just need to be screwed into place and connected to the water lines.
You may need some plumber’s tape to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks. Once it’s all hooked up, turn the water back on and check for leaks. A new faucet can add a sleek, modern touch to your sink area.
7. Install New Countertops
Countertops take up a lot of visual space in your kitchen, so replacing them can make a huge impact. While installing new countertops might sound complicated, there are plenty of affordable options like laminate, butcher block, or even concrete that are easier to install.
If you’re going for a DIY approach, measure the space carefully and order your countertops to fit.
- How-to: To install, remove the old countertops first, then place the new ones on top, securing them with adhesive or screws, depending on the material.
You’ll also need to make sure the sink fits into the new countertop, so cutting out the hole may require a jigsaw. It’s a little work, but having brand-new counters can completely transform the look of your kitchen.
8. Upgrade to a Stylish Sink
Upgrading your sink is another way to make your kitchen feel more modern. New sinks come in many materials like stainless steel, granite, and even ceramic. To install a new sink, first, you’ll need to remove the old one.
- How-to: Start by disconnecting the water lines and removing the sink’s mounting clips. Once it’s free, you can place the new sink into the hole in your countertop, securing it in place with clips and silicone caulk to prevent leaks.
Hook up the water lines, and you’re done! You’ll be amazed at how a sleek, stylish sink can completely refresh your kitchen’s look.
9. Add Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to add color or pattern to your kitchen, peel-and-stick wallpaper is the way to go. It’s a fun DIY project that requires no messy glue, and it’s easy to remove if you want to change things up.
- How-to: Start by cleaning the walls where you want to apply the wallpaper. Measure and cut the wallpaper to fit the space, then peel off the backing and stick it to the wall. Smooth out any bubbles with a smoothing tool or credit card.
If you’re working around corners or edges, you might need to trim the wallpaper to fit. This is a quick and easy way to add a pop of color or texture without the cost of painting or tiling.
10. Change Your Flooring
Changing your flooring is one of the bigger updates you can do, but it can totally transform the look of your kitchen. If you want to keep it budget-friendly, consider options like vinyl, laminate, or peel-and-stick tiles.
- How-to: Remove the old flooring and clean the subfloor. If you’re using vinyl or laminate, simply lay the new planks down and snap them into place. Peel-and-stick tiles are easy to apply—just peel off the backing and stick them onto the floor.
Be sure to leave a small gap around the edges for expansion, and use grout if needed. The new floor will make your kitchen feel fresh and updated, and you don’t have to break the bank doing it.
11. Organize with Drawer Dividers
If your kitchen drawers are a mess, drawer dividers are your new best friend! They help you keep everything neat and easy to find, so you won’t have to dig around every time you need something.
- How-to: Measure your drawers to figure out what size dividers you’ll need. You can find adjustable dividers in most stores, which can be customized to fit your drawer size.
Simply place the dividers in the drawer, then organize your utensils, cutlery, and kitchen gadgets into neat sections. If you want something more customized, you can even build your own dividers out of wood or cardboard.
12. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint to Your Walls
One of the quickest and cheapest ways to give your kitchen a new look is to add a fresh coat of paint to the walls. Over time, kitchen walls can get stained or scuffed, and a new layer of paint can brighten up the space and make it feel clean and fresh.
- How-to: Choose a color that works well with your kitchen’s style. Light colors like soft blues, whites, or pastels can make the space feel larger and more airy, while darker colors like navy or deep green can give it a cozy, intimate feel.
Before painting, clean the walls so the paint will stick well. Cover the floors and any furniture to protect them from splashes and use painter’s tape along the edges of the walls to get crisp lines. Apply the paint with a roller for larger areas and a brush for corners or trim.
These updates are easy to do on your own and can save you both time and money. So, grab your tools, get creative, and enjoy the process of turning your kitchen into a space you’ll love to spend time in.
13. Illuminate Your Space with Undercabinet LED Lighting
If your kitchen feels dim or lacks ambiance, undercabinet LED lighting can make a dramatic difference. This simple yet impactful upgrade enhances visibility for tasks like chopping or cooking while creating a warm, inviting glow. Plus, LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a practical choice.
- How-to: Start by measuring the length of your cabinets to determine how much LED strip lighting you’ll need. Choose a kit that includes adhesive backing for easy installation. Clean the underside of your cabinets to ensure the adhesive sticks properly. Peel the backing off the LED strips and press them into place.
Plug the lights into a nearby outlet or connect them to a hardwired system for a seamless look. Many kits also come with dimmers or remote controls, allowing you to adjust the brightness to match your mood. This small touch will make your kitchen feel both functional and modern without a big expense.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.