17 Cheap Kitchen Upgrades that Make a Huge Difference
Updated: Mar. 09, 2023Sometimes the biggest impact on a room can stem from the smallest changes. Read these tips to freshen the look of your kitchen, without the headache of a big remodel. These projects take a few hours, some take a weekend.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Add Under-Cabinet Lighting
Switch Out the Hardware
One way to update the kitchen without spending a lot of money is switching out the cabinet hardware. This project can be done in one day and can help tie together the look of a room. For the best way to install the hardware check out these tips.
Change the Cabinet Color
Gray has become the go-to neutral, for good reason. Depending on the shade it fits well into most home color schemes. The color also helps to hide any finger prints or food splashes. Check out our other color ideas for kitchen cabinets.
Plus: Check out five kitchen flooring ideas that are trending right now.
Install A New Island Countertop
If you don’t have the money to switch out all the countertops in your kitchen, focus on the island. By changing the island countertop a new-look can be tested in a small way. Find more kitchen island ideas here.
Build an Herb Garden
Freshen up your kitchen by bringing the outdoors in with a new hanging herb garden. This project is a good one to build in the late winter/early spring so you can transplant the herbs outside when the growing season starts. Herbs need a lot of sunlight, so make sure the hanging garden is placed near a sunny window.
Update the Appliances
Stainless steel has been the go-to appliance finish for years, but tastes change. Black stainless steel appliances with a matte finish offer better protection against fingerprints and they contrast beautifully against light-colored cabinets. This is a highly effective, but expensive, way to freshen up your kitchen.
Photo: Courtesy of Kitchen Aid
Replace Old Flooring With Vinyl Tiles
Update or Add a Tile Backsplash
Tile adds interesting texture, color and style to any kitchen. Plus, tiling a backsplash is a very DIY-friendly project. Here are tips on installing a subway tile backsplash and a mosaic tile backsplash.
Install a New Sink
The kitchen sink is used every day and can get worn and tired looking before other elements in the kitchen. Replace the sink to give your kitchen a boost. To make sure the installation goes smoothly, avoid these pitfalls.
Install Expandable Shelves in Cabinets
Replace the Faucet
If you replace the kitchen sink, you’ll likely want to replace the faucet as well. Another benefit of updating the faucet is it may save water. When choosing a faucet there are a few things to consider, in addition to style. Make sure it aligns with the sink-hole pattern and your family’s lifestyle.
Update the Lighting
A statement light fixture can change the whole look and feel of your kitchen. Find something that doesn’t look out of place, but also doesn’t look like the light in every other kitchen on the block. Then, carefully choose the right bulb(s) to cast warm or cool light, as you prefer. For guidance on light installation projects, check out these tips.
Photo: Ekachai Sathittaweechai/Shutterstock
Resurface the Countertops
Did you know that you can resurface your countertops? You can! It’s no more difficult than a painting project, so basic tools and skills are all you need. Here are the step-by-step instructions.
Create a Rustic Produce Basket
Sometimes all that’s needed to spruce up a space is organization. This creative way to store fruits and vegetables is inexpensive and attractive. It’s also a bonus that this project will free up valuable counter space.
Remove Countertop Stains
Maybe all your kitchen really needs is a good cleaning. Depending on the surface, and the stain, some elbow grease may be needed. These tips on stain removal can help make your countertops look like new.
Strip Away Old Paint and Redo Your Cabinets
