How to Save Money on a New Bathroom in the UK

1. Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It

Before starting your bathroom project, determine how much you can afford to spend. Consider the cost of materials, labour, and unexpected expenses.

Money-Saving Tips:

• List your priorities – focus on essentials first, then add luxuries if the budget allows.
• Research average costs to ensure you’re getting fair prices.
• Leave a contingency fund (around 10-15%) for unexpected costs.

2. Keep the Existing Layout

Changing the layout of your bathroom can significantly increase costs due to additional plumbing and electrical work.

Ways to Save:

• Keep toilets, sinks, and showers in the same position to avoid expensive plumbing alterations.
• Upgrade fixtures and fittings rather than relocating them.

3. Shop Smart for Fixtures and Fittings

You don’t have to buy the most expensive brands to get high-quality bathroom fixtures.

Where to Find Deals:

• Check discount retailers like Victoria Plum, Bathstore, and Wickes for sales.
• Buy ex-display or clearance items at a fraction of the retail price.
• Consider second-hand or refurbished fixtures from eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or salvage yards.

4. Choose Affordable Materials

The materials you choose can have a big impact on your total cost, but there are budget-friendly options that still look great.

Cost-Effective Alternatives:

• Use ceramic tiles instead of expensive stone or marble.
• Opt for vinyl flooring instead of real wood or tiles.
• Consider acrylic bath panels rather than glass or stone.

5. DIY Where Possible

Hiring professionals can be expensive, but if you have some basic DIY skills, you can save a significant amount.

What You Can Do Yourself:

• Painting the walls and ceilings.
• Installing towel rails, mirrors, and shelving.
• Fitting vinyl flooring or click-in laminate instead of tiling.

However, always hire professionals for plumbing and electrical work to avoid costly mistakes.

6. Compare Quotes from Tradespeople

If you need professional help, always get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting the best price.

How to Save on Labour Costs:

• Use websites like Checkatrade, MyBuilder, and Rated People to compare reviews and prices.
• Ask for recommendations from friends or family to find reliable, affordable tradespeople.
• Consider hiring a handyman for small jobs instead of a specialist contractor.

7. Buy Bathroom Suites as a Set

Purchasing a full bathroom suite instead of individual items can often be cheaper.

Where to Look:

• Retailers like B&Q, Homebase, and Victorian Plumbing offer bundle deals.
• Look for package discounts that include a toilet, sink, and bath or shower.

8. Consider a Shower Instead of a Bath

If you rarely use a bathtub, replacing it with a walk-in shower can save you money on installation and running costs.

Benefits:

• Showers generally cost less to install than full-size bathtubs.
• They use less water, reducing your water and heating bills over time.
• A simple electric shower is cheaper to install than a power shower.

9. Use Paint Instead of Tiles

Wall tiles can be expensive, so consider using waterproof bathroom paint instead.

Money-Saving Options:

• Use paint for most walls and only tile high-moisture areas like around the shower and sink.
• Opt for tile panels or shower wall panels, which are often cheaper and easier to install than traditional tiles.

10. Reuse and Upcycle Where Possible

If your current fixtures are in good condition, consider refurbishing them instead of replacing them.

Upcycling Ideas:

• Refinish an old bathtub instead of buying a new one.
• Repaint vanity units or replace just the doors rather than buying an entirely new cabinet.
• Polish or replace taps and handles instead of buying a whole new sink.

11. Take Advantage of Seasonal Sales

Big retailers often have sales at key times of the year, so plan your purchases strategically.

Best Times to Buy:

• Boxing Day and January sales.
• Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.
• End-of-line or clearance sales from retailers.

12. Save on Bathroom Accessories

Finishing touches like mirrors, storage, and towel rails can add up, but there are ways to save.

Budget-Friendly Ideas:

• Buy from budget-friendly stores like IKEA, Dunelm, and The Range.
• Use stick-on tiles or waterproof decals for a budget-friendly decor update.
• Opt for wall-mounted storage to keep things organised without expensive cabinetry.

Conclusion

Creating a beautiful new bathroom doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By shopping smart, sticking to a budget, and making small savings in different areas, you can achieve a stylish and functional space without overspending. Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or a simple upgrade, these money-saving tips will help you get the best value for your investment.