A Luxe, 2-Minute Bathroom Upgrade Renters Can Do Without a Handyman

After seeing how toilet bolt covers can add a little sparkle to a once-boring bathroom, I’ve been looking at my bathroom fixtures a bit differently. No sink, toilet, or tub is safe anymore! The next target on my mini upgrade list is my toilet handle because I saw a video on Instagram that showed how you can get a custom-looking toilet with a really affordable Amazon product that requires zero tools to install it. And the best part about this DIY is that it takes just a few minutes to do — plus it’s totally renter-friendly.

“This two-minute Amazon upgrade has made every bathroom look custom,” Andrea from @my.blessed.home on Instagram wrote over a recent video. “We immediately changed all our bath handles and it made a huge difference,” Andrea adds in the caption.

Upgrading a standard, builder-grade plastic flush lever to one similar to this brass-coded handle from Amazon has serious visual power. Yes, the brass makes the toilet look so much more expensive and custom — but this handle also features a spring-loaded mechanism that makes flushing smoother (quite literally!). And it’s made with non-corrosive materials, so it will appear “new” much longer than any of the handles that come standard on toilets (especially if you’re just moving in!).

This flush lever, made by the brand Korky and sold on Amazon, is designed to fit a range of different tank styles. It comes in brushed gold, brushed nickel, matte black, and chrome, so you can choose the finish that works best for your bathroom.

This DIY is so simple, you can do it yourself at home without needing to hire a professional. The above handle comes with easy-to-follow instructions and the arm is customizable to fit exactly how you need it. If you’re looking for something a bit simpler, the same brand makes a lever in matte black that comes with a customizable arm, too. This handle sells for just under $12, and could be a great option for those going for a rustic farmhouse look with a lot of dark metal accents.

Who knew you could modify and customize your toilet in so many different (and renter-friendly) ways? It’s amazing how much a simple $20 upgrade can change the look of your toilet and, subsequently, your entire bathroom. Once you see how much of a difference these handles make, you’ll never settle for standard toilet handles again.