Does your bathroom look better with the lights off and door closed? If so, it might be time for a makeover. Small changes can make a big improvement, and even if you have a small budget, there are many ways to make your bathroom shine.

"Updating a bathroom benefits the home's overall appearance and is something the homeowners can enjoy every day," says Dan Auer of Faucet.com, a Web site with a vast inventory which includes all the fixtures and accessories needed for bathroom remodels. "Simple updates can have a big impact and can be done in a small amount of time."

Easy bathroom updates include:

The Faucet
The faucet is a focal point in the bathroom and should be one of the main considerations when remodeling. If yours looks like it's from a bygone era, it's time to consider something new. Fashion and functionality are now available with many styles and finishes.

Consider replacing the sink to really freshen up the look. Pedestal bathroom sinks and countertop sinks are easy to replace and can make an immediate improvement.

Bathroom Accessories
Updating the hardware and other bathroom accessories is a fast and affordable way to give the room an instant facelift. Towel rings, vanity shelves and even drawer handles can all make or date a room. New accessories come in a variety of finishes, including chrome, brushed nickel and bronze.

Looking to add some bath accessories but not sure where to start? Try a towel ring by the sink for a hand towel so guests don't reach for your bath towels. Sink a little cluttered? A vanity shelf adds stylish extra space; some models even have towel bars built-in. A towel warmer is a great addition to any bathroom and surprisingly affordable. The luxury of a toasty warm towel right outside the shower can't be beat. These small items, in matching finishes, can add up to one great change to your bathroom's look and function.

Lighting
New light fixtures can update the look of your bathroom as well as ensure safety while in the bathroom. Remember, because you use this room for your daily preparations, you want to have adequate lighting. Choose an overhead light and/or light above the mirror for ease and convenience. Choose from two, three or four bulb fixtures to adequately light the mirror area. Consider adding side sconces and adjustable lighting, so in the mornings you can turn the lights up to get ready and in the evenings, turn them down for a softer illumination during a relaxing hot bath or shower.

Shower-head
When updating your bathroom, add something you can enjoy every day. New shower-heads come with a variety of options. They can be handheld, adjustable or even massaging. Many people find a custom shower system is a luxurious way to update their bathroom. Try a two-wall diverter system that sprays in several areas for the feeling of a spa shower at home.

Paint
The walls of bathrooms get abused with steam, hairspray, perfume and many other items that are involved in a family's routines throughout the day. A fresh coat of paint will add a new, clean element that will update any room. Integrate fun colors into the bathroom by trying a new shade of paint, or stenciling in details to fit the overall room theme. When buying paint, consider having the paint store stir in a non-mildew additive because of the extra humidity in bathrooms.

"These five steps can be done in a short time for DIYers or within one day for a professional contractor, meaning you can enjoy the updates almost instantly," adds Auer. "The bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the house. Easy updates will make sure it's more enjoyable for both you and your guests."