With rental homes, bathrooms tend to be plain and outdated. Are you looking to spruce up yours? While a complete overhaul is out of the question (lest you want to irk your landlord), there are simple and practical touches you can add to turn the space from drab to fab.

Window treatments

There are two important factors to consider with bathroom windows. One, being a small space, natural light needs to shine through. Second is the issue of privacy. No other room in your home requires as much cover-up.

For a relatively inexpensive solution, you can apply privacy window film on the bottom half of the window and leave the upper portion as it is. By obscuring visibility, this ensures you are protected from prying eyes. Your decorative options include frosted, etched and stained glass designs.

Static cling window film can also be used to dress up your shower enclosure or bathroom window. Privacy on the lower section and light from the upper half can also be achieved via interior shutters and café curtains.

Or you might want to try wooden blinds. This gives you the option of closing the slats as needed, or leaving them in an open position to let the light in. Plus, wooden blinds are easy to clean and can go with different types of décor.

Storage accessories

Bathroom in rental apartments seldom come with built-in storage. Mount shower caddies or shelves against the walls, so you will have something to hold your toiletries, candles or scented oils. Just make sure the ones you pick out are suction-cupped, tension-mounted or silicone-glued. This way, you are assured the tile will not be damaged.

Tension rod

It may seem old-fashioned, but a tension rod is a tried-and-tested alternative to shower curtain poles that require drilling. Do not worry, the selection is no longer limited to metal models. Versions in chrome or bamboo are now available.

Wall covering

Look for cover-up, heavy-duty appliqués or stickers that can be applied to tiles, in case the wall surface is decked in not-so-attractive patterns. Most require just peeling off the paper backing and pressing them into place. The removing process is easy, just heat each section for a few minutes using a hairdryer.

Freestanding furniture

Since you cannot incorporate any permanent installations, go for freestanding furniture. Depending on the floor area, you can add a bathroom stool, chair, cabinet or chest. Besides being functional, such additions can make the space feel homy, cozy and luxurious. But remember to select only waterproof pieces, as steam and moisture can damage uncoated surfaces.

Lights

Removing the actual light fixture may not be allowed, but you can probably update the replaceable components or parts. For instance, pick out a bulb with a more flattering color rendering index. Or change the existing shade with a more stylish one.

If there is a hands-off policy on the entire light fixture, place candles instead along the bath or shower area to create a more romantic feel. A battery-operated table lamp is another option, but you will need to place it in a spot that always stays dry.

From window treatments to storage and comfort add-ons, there are various ways to jazz up your rental bathroom and disguise any of its imperfections. Just do not forget to review the lease rules before beginning your makeover. Remember, there is no need to fight against the tide, with a little resourcefulness and creativity, you can work around any obstacle.