13 budget ways to update your kitchen

1. Remove everything unnecessary

First, take out all. We know this sounds too radical, but the only way to organize space is to start from zero. When you take everything out of cabinets and drawers, you can see what you have and decide what to keep and what to throw away.

2. Thorough cleaning

Now that everything is out of cabinets and drawers, it's time for a deep clean.

This is a great opportunity to wipe all those places you usually can't reach. For example, easily access corners and empty the lower parts of cabinets.

You'll be surprised how this step makes your cabinets look new again, and you'll feel good when you start putting everything back in place.

Then put things back — but so it makes sense to you. When the kitchen is organized, it will look better, seem less cluttered and become more convenient for cooking!

3. Use matching containers

When you look at shelves in magazines or on TV, have you ever wondered how they got such an amazing look? We'll reveal the secret! The secret is in choosing containers and jars by color! It might seem strange, but if you look closely, you'll notice that all containers in these photos are either identical or well-matched. Good news: you don't need to buy anything new! You probably already have many jars at home that just collect dust. Be creative! Wash them, fill with spices and arrange them. You'll be surprised how much this changes your kitchen.

4. Multi-functional furniture

Have you considered buying a kitchen island? This is excellent furniture that can be used in different ways. Many choose this option for children, as it's the perfect place for them to eat, but it can also help if you need a bit more storage space or extra places.

The trend of open shelves is not disappearing. And that's good — if you want your kitchen to look bigger and airier, this is exactly the way!

5. Remove cabinets and install open shelves

Installing open shelves is cheaper than replacing cabinets, and it adds a feeling of spaciousness to the kitchen. Moreover, you can decorate the space with items like bowls, vases and candles that add style and interest. It's easy and cheap, and no matter if you choose a handmade wooden shelf or hanging oak one, they will definitely look great.

6. Paint the walls

Even if you recently painted your kitchen walls, cleaned and rearranged everything in place, it can still be hard to achieve a fresh impression. If this is your case, we have a secret for you: the problem may be in the paint color.

If you're not afraid to pick up a brush, try painting the walls in another color! It's fun and simple, and an excellent way to make a big impact on how you feel in the kitchen. Also, paint is inexpensive — so even if you don't like the new color, it's easy to change it again!

When choosing a new paint color, it's important to think about how it will match the rest of your kitchen. Are there cabinets or other fixed elements that might conflict with the new color? Also, pay attention to how much light comes into your kitchen. Dark colors can work well in a well-lit room, but in a dimly lit one they may create an unpleasant atmosphere.

7. Decorate the refrigerator

If you want a new fridge but can't afford to buy one — this is the perfect solution for you.

The first step is to remove everything unnecessary from it. The refrigerator often serves as a place for random papers you don't want to lose. Find another place to store these things so you can start with a clean slate.

Then cover the old refrigerator with your favorite wallpapers or paint it! Many of them are easy to apply or have contact paper, and painting is simple. Remember that this is your home and the main thing is to feel comfortable — you can allow yourself any ideas.

8. Install new light fixtures

Lighting is a powerful tool for transforming space. With it, even the smallest room can look big and beautiful, and your kitchen is no exception.

The first step to good lighting in the kitchen is to assess what activities happen there most often. This will help determine where different types of light should be placed. For example, if you do a lot of work on kitchen countertops — pendant lights under cabinets can be an excellent solution.

As for bulbs, it's important to find the right balance between task and ambient lighting. If you want a warm atmosphere in your kitchen, try incandescent bulbs! They also work great for task lighting. If you want brighter light, look into halogen lamps!

9. Add accessories

When it comes to updating the kitchen and achieving a magazine-like appearance, accessories can play a big role.

You can choose a theme for your kitchen and select accessories around it. Here are some ideas:

• Matching jars add charm. Try to find ones that match your kitchen's color palette for a more unified look.
• A coffee stick or dish rack provides storage. These hanging rods are perfect for hanging everything from S-hooks — just don't overload them with too heavy items!
• Recipe frames become a cozy decoration. They look great on countertops or walls and give the space a cozy, homey feel.
• Baskets, trivets, cutting boards and more add a cottage style to any space.

10. Update kitchen cabinets and furniture

It's easy to think that the only solution for worn-out kitchen tables is buying new furniture. But now, with quality furniture becoming harder to find without a big price tag, there are ways to refresh and modernize your home without going over budget!

There are many affordable paint options that can decorate kitchen cabinets, tables, chairs, stools, shelves and more. There are even all-in-one compositions — primer, paint and protective layer. It can be used on almost any item: kitchen cabinets, restored wooden tables and chairs. You can even use it on furniture.

11. Modern tiles

Replacing kitchen tiles can be time-consuming and expensive. Fortunately, there's a simpler way to liven up your kitchen without replacing tiles.

You can use paint and sealer to make outdated kitchen tiles modern in minutes. The easiest way is to paint the tiles entirely in one color, but you can also experiment with various finishes or use interesting stands for a more complex design. If you're looking for something a bit unique, you can even use an epoxy polymer system!

If you're tired of the look, simply repaint them — just as easy!

If you want to update your backsplash, excellent substitutes made from self-adhesive tiles are available that can be easily applied over existing ones!

12. Show off your appliances

If you want to make the kitchen a cozy and inviting place, show what you use. You can arrange all your appliances on hanging shelves or countertops if you have enough space. As long as it doesn't look overloaded and messy, proudly display your appliances!

13. Change cabinet hardware

If you're looking for a quick, budget-friendly way to update your kitchen, look at cabinet hardware.

Replacing handles on cabinets is a simple and budget-friendly way to give your kitchen a completely new look. A fresh coat of paint on the walls is pleasant, but doesn't help cabinets. Instead of spending thousands on new cabinets (or even more — for new countertops), simply update the handles and pulls!

There are many styles from different metals — from modern to classic, from brass to silver, from modernism to vintage — this can really create the feeling that the cabinets are new.

This is a very simple swap, and there are infinitely many options!

If you're interested in updating your kitchen but want to avoid costly full renovations, definitely try these simple and affordable tips first.