6 DIY bathroom upgrades you can try Roberta Pescow NerdWallet.com When budget matters, do-it-yourself bathroom upgrades can be a simple, low-cost way to dramatically improve your bathroom’s appeal. Here are six projects that you can do on your own without hiring a contractor or buying expensive equipment. 1. Install a plug-in towel warmer Cost: About $60 (basic) to $700 (high-end). Difficulty: Moderate. A fluffy warm towel after showering is delightful, and with today’s plug-in towel warmers, you don’t need electrical skills to install one yourself. These warmers plug into your existing outlet, so all you’ll need is a drill, stud finder and a level to attach these fixtures to your wall.