10 Steps to a New Bathroom

Before you take a sledge hammer to your bathroom wall, step back and evaluate the bathroom. Do all the appliances function correctly, or are they coated in rust and showing signs of age? Are the cabinets aligned, and do the drawer pulls match the rest of the cabinetry? Or, does your shower curtain simply need to be replaced?

Consult your list of features you'd like to change or replace in your bathroom. Now compare standard pricing for these fixtures. Some-like replacing a tub-can be pricey. By estimating how much you're going to spend, you'll be able to start saving what you need to remodel your bathroom.

Every item you want to replace, throw out or donate. Get rid of that ugly light switch cover you've always hated and donate the stained rug to the dog's bed. Getting rid of everything is beneficial and therapeutic. If some of your items are still usable, donate them or save them for a future yard sale.

Now is your chance to make the spa bath a reality. Bathtubs with spa jets are even more affordable. Or, if you're trimming your budget, instead splurge on a luxurious shower head. Newer showerhead models offer a variety of settings to create an equally soothing feeling as a spa bath. When replacing your showerhead, match it to your existing shower drain.

If you've got leaky faucets or rust-covered faucet handles, it's time to replace them. Installing a new faucet is simple and can totally change the look of your sink. Choose a finish that matches the walls and other cabinets in your bathroom. Typical options include chrome, bronze, polished brass and satin nickel.

The toilet, or porcelain throne, can be disguised to look less functional and more like a decorative seat. Purchase matching floor rugs and toilet seat covers in plush materials for added comfort. Place decorative candles in varying heights on the back of the toilet for an attractive, scented design. Also, free standing toilet paper holders are perfect to unify the room's hardware and are convenient and portable. Mounted toilet paper holders also can be matched to your current hardware. For a dark, elegant look, choose an aged bronze or matte black. For lighter, more modern styles, pick for a polished or satin chrome or satin nickel.

Every household has extra towels, and storing them in an accessible area can be tricky. In addition to a closet or cabinet, extra towels can be stored hanging in the bathroom as decoration. By using hooks, towel rings, towel racks and towel bars in different lengths or finishes, you can create a truly unique design that helps keep your towels organized. This way, you'll never be using your full sized towel as a make-shift hand towel.

Finding and storing soap can be, well, a slippery situation. Choose a decorative soap dish or soap pump dispenser. If you're concerned about breaking free standing soap dishes, install a wall mounted soap dish, like those offered by Kohler. For ultra technology lovers, purchase an automated soap dispenser and you'll never have to worry about kids using too much soap.

Whether you're under budget or not, it's always fun to have additional accessories and gadgets for your bathroom. To preserve toothbrushes for longer and keep them germ-free, purchase a sleek, discreet UV toothbrush sanitizer. For high-volume bathrooms, buy an automatic toilet flushing system.

With all your hard work behind you, it's time you got to enjoy the benefits of your new bathroom. So run the water, add bubbles and relax in your newly designed, luxurious bathroom.