How to Update Your Kitchen on a Budget

Things You Need:

• Paint
• Sponges
• Ceramic tile or laminate
• Cabinet hardware, screwdrivers
• Old table or dresser

With some elbow grease, anyone can give their kitchen a significant makeover without breaking the bank. Learning how to update your kitchen on a budget is easy and rewarding and will save you an enormous amount of money in the end.

Update Your Kitchen:

1. Clean up. The most obvious, affordable way to get your kitchen looking its best is to clean. Clean every possible surface of your kitchen, from cabinets to appliances using warm water, soap and rags. Be sure to clean surfaces you don't normally notice, such as the top edge of cabinet doors and drawers as well as behind appliances. If you have stubborn cleaning issues, use specialty cleansers and a scraper.

2. Reuse and recycle. Getting a brand new kitchen island can be a costly investment, so why not repurpose an old piece of furniture you have lying around? A dresser or even certain tables that are the appropriate size and design can be transformed by simply adding a tile top and changing the hardware to match the kitchen. Add a variety of hooks for various kitchen tools and you have a new island ready for use. If you like, you can paint the island in a fresh and bold color to add interest.

3. Change up the hardware. Something as simple as changing the hardware on your shelves and cabinets can add some interest to the kitchen. You can remove the old hardware and use the same hole for the new hardware. You can even purchase unique pieces from antique shops and secondhand stores for a more distinct look.

4. Take on the countertops. Next, tackle your kitchen countertops. Your countertops can make a world of difference in the look and feel of your kitchen. Marble or granite may be out of reach on a budget, so think about laminate instead. It comes in a huge number of patterns and styles, plus it's easy to clean. Ceramic tile is another affordable option.

5. Add a fresh coat of paint. Paint can do amazing things for your kitchen if you want a fresh new look. It's the cheapest way to transform a kitchen, and you can easily do it yourself. Semi-gloss latex paint is an excellent option, as it is durable and can endure cleaning. When painting your cabinets, prime them first using de-glossing primer paint rather than handling the messy work of sanding. Painting takes time, but the end result is worth it and cost-effective.