10 Sustainable Ways To Give Your Bathroom A Makeover

Looking to give your bathroom a makeover? Here’s how to do it sustainably, easily, and with very little cash!

By Diane Small

For many of us, the bathroom is more than just a functional space. It’s a quiet retreat where we can enjoy some much-needed alone time—whether that’s soaking in the tub, grooming in front of the mirror, or simply taking a break from the hustle of daily life.

While bathrooms should be relaxing, they also need to be functional and healthy. Over time, issues like dampness, outdated styles, or poor storage can make even the most cherished bathroom feel a bit lacklustre.

A full remodel can be costly, with average renovations nearing $10,000, but giving your bathroom a fresh new vibe doesn’t have to break the bank—or harm the planet.

Here are 10 eco-friendly and affordable ways to give your bathroom a stylish, sustainable makeover.

Sustainable Ways To Refresh Your Bathroom

1. Incorporate Houseplants

Many indoor plants thrive in the warm, humid conditions of a bathroom. They naturally purify the air and add a serene, spa-like atmosphere. Ideal low-maintenance options include ferns, spider plants, snake plants, and orchids—just make sure they have access to indirect sunlight.

2. Upgrade Your Fixtures

Swapping out old taps and shower heads is a fast, impactful way to modernise your space. Sleek matte black or brushed gold fixtures can bring a contemporary or vintage look depending on your style.

Sustainable tip: Opt for water-saving models to reduce usage without sacrificing performance.

3. Coordinate Accessories for a Cohesive Look

From bath mats to robes, your accessories should look and feel luxurious. Choose organic cotton or bamboo for softness and sustainability.

In addition, matching soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and even your shower curtain (waxed cotton or PEVA over PVC) can tie a whole bathroom look together.

4. Create a Spa-Like Bathing Experience

Elevate your bath game with organic bath oils, Epsom salts, flower petals, and eco-friendly candles. Add a bamboo bath caddy to hold a book or a glass of wine, and rest your head on a plush, waterproof bath pillow.

Small upgrades can make everyday cleaning routines feel indulgent!

5. Invest in Natural Bath and Body Products

Switch to sustainable bath products with biodegradable packaging and clean ingredients. Some of our favourite products? AESOP. Not only are these effective, clean grooming products, but their brown glass containers make your bathroom look chic, too!

Tip: Keep your essentials—like exfoliators, creams, and oils—neatly organised to avoid clutter.

6. Use Beautiful, Eco-Conscious Storage Solutions

Avoid plastic bins and choose storage baskets made from natural materials like wicker, bamboo, glass or jute. They’re stylish, functional, and blend easily with most bathroom aesthetics, while helping to cut down on waste.

Why not upcycle some Mason jars for storing QTips, cotton balls and toothbrushes?

7. Install Water-Efficient Toilets

Modern low-flow or dual-flush toilets use significantly less water per flush than older models—some saving up to 13,000 gallons annually. While the upfront cost is higher, you’ll save on water bills in the long run and reduce your environmental footprint. Alternatively, try a more powerful macerator toilet. Or even a more rustic, compost based model.

There are lots of water saving options!

Image below: Trondecor.com

8. Add Art for Personality

Bathroom-safe artwork—like waterproof canvas prints or ceramic wall hangings—adds personality and depth to your walls. Avoid paper-based art or photo prints that may warp in humidity. Choose themes that make you feel calm, happy, or inspired.

9. Incorporate Reclaimed or Sustainable Materials

Consider installing shelves or countertops made from reclaimed wood, recycled glass, or bamboo. Not only are these materials eco-friendly, but they also bring a warm, natural texture to your space. You can even thrift items like mirrors or small furniture for a unique touch.

10. Opt for Refillable Toiletry Dispensers

Ditch the clutter of plastic bottles by using glass or stainless steel pump dispensers for your shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Then, buy your grooming products in bulk, or use refill stations where available to cut down on single-use packaging and maintain a clean aesthetic.

Tip: Buy gorgeous brands like Grown Alchemist, then just refill their beautiful bottles with whatever you like!

With a little creativity and some eco-conscious choices, your bathroom can become a sanctuary of both relaxation and sustainability. You don’t need a full renovation to refresh the space—just a few thoughtful upgrades that benefit you and the planet.

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Diane Small

Senior Features Writer at Eluxe Magazine

A University of Texas journalism graduate and serious chocolate enthusiast, Diane was a sub-editor at the Houston Chronicle before falling pregnant. Today, she is the proud mom of two kids under the age of three, and freelances for Eluxe in between nappy changes and feedings.