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60 Cheap Tricks Decorators Use To Make Homes Look 10x Better

Interior designers share their (sneakily affordable) secrets.

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Nonexistent backsplashes, barren floors, and dull walls — some homes just need a little extra TLC to get them looking as good as possible. But if you’re trying to stick to a budget (or if you don’t know where to start), don’t worry. I’ve reached out to a few professional decorators and designers who were happy to share their favorite cheap home-decorating tricks when it comes to making any space look 10 times better. Keep scrolling for more ways to make your home look great without spending a ton of money.

1

This 2-Pack Of Elegant LED Night Lights That Add Ambiance

Night lights don’t have to be purely functional — they can also add an elegant touch of ambiance to your room. This two-pack of LED night lights comes in 11 different styles — from brushed nickel with soft white light to more vibrant rainbow light hues — so you’ll be sure to find the right look for your space. Plus, you can adjust the brightness for the perfect glow.

2

Cover Your Old Throw Pillows With These Cheap Velvet Covers That Only Look Expensive

Farris Wu, the founder and CEO of DecorMatters, suggests using these throw pillow covers throughout your home. They’re made from soft velvet that makes them perfect for napping — and they even come in more than 35 colors to suit any style, as well as nine different sizes.

3

A 93-Slot Battery Organizer With A Transparent Lid For Visibility

Batteries rolling around in a junk drawer can be a bit haywire, but this battery organizer can help to corral the chaos — it has 93 individual slots for various batteries, plus a tester to ensure they’re actually still usable. A transparent lid allows you to easily view the batteries that you have on hand.

4

This Area Rug That Looks Vintage

You don’t have to go dumpster diving for a vintage-looking rug — this one recommended by Wu is available with free two-day Prime shipping. It’s also stain-resistant, as well as easy to clean in the event of spills. Plus, you even have the choice of 12 different colors.

5

A Sleek Glass Pitcher With A Locking Lid

Get rid of the OG container that your favorite beverage came in and pour it from this 68-ounce glass pitcher instead for a more elevated drinking experience — it’s also great for homemade refreshments like juices, sangria, lemonade, and more. The glass pitcher features a wide mouth for easy filling and a built-in spout for mess-free pouring. The lid actually locks in place to minimize spills. And this pick is dishwasher-safe.

6

These Long Curtains That’ll Help The Room Look Bigger

If you’d like to create the illusion that your room is bigger than it is, Wu recommends hanging up these luxurious curtains that are extra long. Each panel is made from soft linen, giving them a timeless appearance. Plus, each order includes two panels. Choose from various sizes and colors in the listing.

7

A Trio Of Decorative Ceramic Jugs That Jazz Up An Empty Corner

If your shelves look a little bare, don’t fret: These ceramic jugs can help fill the area while also providing a space for flowers. They were recommended by Marco Bizzley, a certified interior designer at HouseGrail, and they have a rustic touch that looks great in kitchens. Plus, each order comes with three that you can arrange however you like.

8

These Blackout Curtains That Come In Tons Of Colors

Kate Diaz, an interior designer and co-founder of Swanky Den, recommends putting these blackout curtains up. They’ll help dim the room, and they’re especially great if you like sleeping in on the weekends. The curtains come in 33 different colors, as well as 13 sizes. Plus, the thick fabric can even help insulate your home.

9

A Set Of Motion Sensor Lights You Can Put Almost Anywhere

Under cabinets, inside dark closets, above workbenches — Madison also suggests using these lights that can help brighten up your home. The best part? Each one features a built-in motion sensor so that the rechargeable battery doesn’t go to waste when no one is around.

10

A Candle That’s Actually Effective At Getting Rid Of Unwanted Odors

Sure, candles are cozy and relaxing, but sometimes we need them to rid whatever horrid odors are lingering around our home. This scented candle is highly fragranced and claims to eliminate 95% of smells with a burn time of up to 80 hours. Choose from 25 different scents.

11

This Chic Tablecloth That’s Resistant To Stains

Beth R. Martin, the founder at designer at bethrmartin.com, recommends using a tablecloth — like this one — to make any dining room look 10 times better. The tassels along the border give it a fresh, modern touch. And unlike some cloths, it’s also made with a layer of waterproofing that can be wiped dry.

12

A Stainless Steel Kitchen Caddy To Keep Your Sink Organized

Create a space in your kitchen sink for your sponges, dish soaps, and brushes. This sink caddy easily attaches to any faucet. And because made from durable stainless steel, it's waterproof, rust-proof, and fingerprint-proof.

13

These Faux Succulents You’ll Never Need To Water

If you don’t have time to water your plants on daily basis, don’t worry: These faux succulent plants — which were also recommended by Shaffer — can help bring little pops of green. You’ll never need to water them, yet they look incredibly lifelike — even when you get in up close.

14

The Rug Gripper That Stops Corners From Curling

When the corners of your rugs curl up, it creates a dangerous trip hazard. Fortunately, that’s easy to fix. Stick a rug curling sticker to the bottom of the rug, at each of the corners. They will hold the corners down and secure the rug to the floor so pet zoomies don’t turn your floor coverings into chaos.

15

The Luxe (Yet Affordable) Satin Pillowcases That Stay Cool`

Add a luxurious touch to your bed with these satin pillowcases. The lustrous material isn’t just silky smooth, it also stays cool to the touch all night long. Just as good, unlike with cotton, your hair will glide across the material, resulting in less hair breakage overnight.

  • Available sizes: Standard, Queen, King, Body
  • Available colors and styles: 27

16

These Throw Pillow Covers That Offer 4 Distinct, Trendy Designs

Devan Shaffer, the lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design, recommends these throw pillow covers. One pack comes with four that each have a different design, so they can be used in one room or many. Aside from the faux leather option, they’re made from linen. Plus, the zippers are fairly hidden so that they won’t snag on your clothes.

17

The Decorative Mirror With A Sunburst Frame That Adds Light To A Dark Room

DelMonico is also a big fan of this decorative mirror — and for good reason too. The sunburst frame looks great above a side table in an entryway, while the reflective center can even help bounce light around dark rooms. Choose from two finishes: gold or silver.

18

These Floating Shelves With Gold-Toned Frames That Look Magazine-Worthy

Got open wall space? Madison also recommends putting these floating shelves up. They’re made from high-quality, damp-proof cedar wood, and the guard rail around the edges helps keep your things from falling off. Choose from two colors: white or brown.

19

This Handy Organizer That Can Hold Brooms, Mops, & Other Tools

If you have brooms, mops, rakes, or other tools that could use a little organization, this handy holder is the way to do it — and Amazon reviewers seem to agree since this pick has a 4.5-star rating overall on the site after 55,000 reviews. The organizer mounts directly to the wall, and it has five spring-loaded grippy slots to securely hold the handles of your tools, as well as six hooks for hanging up other items. Use it indoors or out as desired.

20

These Plush Throw Pillow Covers That Instantly Refresh Your Couch

If your throw pillows could use an update, Patrician recommends grabbing this stylish set of two. They’re made from an ultra-soft cotton-wool blend, with a touch of faux fur that feels oh-so plush. One reviewer even wrote “I’m so happy with how cute they look.”

21

A Set Of Picture Frames That Won’t Break The Bank

Need a good set of picture frames that won’t break the bank? You can’t go wrong with this set of five that comes recommended by Martin. You can grab them in 17 different colors, as well as nine sizes. And since the covers are made from plastic instead of glass, they won’t shatter if dropped.

22

A Shag Area Rug That Adds Warmth & Texture

When it comes to tying a room together, an area rug does some heavy lifting. This shag area rug won’t just create a cohesive aesthetic, it’ll also add warmth and texture to your space. It also has a non-stick backing so you don’t have to worry about it slipping around and is so soft, you just might want to curl up and sleep on it.

  • Available sizes: 5
  • Available colors: 10

23

These Pretty Botanical Art Prints For Minimalist-Chic Walls

Sometimes soft, minimalist artwork makes the biggest impression. This set of four botanical prints can be arranged in a number of ways on your walls and match any decor. They each measure 8-by-10 inches and come without frames, so you can add any colored frame you’d like to create the walls of your dreams.

24

A Set Of Flameless Candles That Are Infinitely Reusable

If you’re looking for fake candles that look extremely realistic, these flameless candles are the way to go; they can be controlled with a remote. The LED bulb flickers just like real fire — but unlike regular candles, these ones provide 350-plus hours of light using just two AA batteries (which are not included).

25

A Pair Of Wall Sconces That Are Easy To Install — No Complicated Wiring Needed

Sabrina Beaumont, the interior designer and CMO at Passion Plans, recommends hanging up these wall sconces. There’s no complicated wiring needed to get them working, as each one is powered by three AA batteries (which are not included) — and you can even set a timer so that they turn on and off automatically.

26

A Trio Of Woven Baskets For Cute, Cleverly Disguised Storage

Need some extra storage space in your home? Wu also recommends grabbing these woven baskets. They’re perfect for office supplies, toiletries, and more. Each one is hand-crated from 100% recyclable paper rope — and they even come in six different colors to suit any room in your home.

27

This Subway Tile Backsplash That’s Easy To Install — & Looks Professionally Done

If your home didn’t come with a backsplash already installed, Wu suggests putting up this one on your own. Each panel of tile is backed with adhesive, allowing you to put them on your walls just like a sticker. And since they easily wipe clean, there’s no need to worry about them getting dirty with food splatter.

28

A Roll Of Contact Paper That Looks Like White Marble

Wu also suggests using this roll of contact paper if you’re looking to update various surfaces without spending a lot of money. Not only does it look just like white marble, but it’s also made from tough vinyl that’s meant to holds up against moisture. Use it on counters, bookshelves, boxes, and more.

29

A Trio Of Glass Jars With Chic Cork Tops That Looks Expensive

Looking for decor that’s functional and fashionable? Shaffer recommends incorporating these glass jars into your decor. Each one is made from tough borosilicate glass, while the natural cork tops create an airtight seal. Use them for jams, rice, sugar, hair ties, Bobby pins, and more.

30

These Alexa-Controlled Smart Strip Lights That Brighten Dark Spaces

If you ask me, affordable home upgrades are never a bad idea — and likes these smart strip lights are a great, cost-efficient addition to you home. Shaffer recommended these as well; pair them with Alexa, and you’ll be able to control them using voice commands from the comfort of your couch. Plus, they easily install under cabinets, counters, behind televisions, and more.

31

The Frame That Looks Like It’s Made From Golden Bamboo

Chanel of Coco on Fifth, a Latina lifestyle blogger and interior decorator, is a big fan of this metal bamboo frame. It’s perfect for desktops, as it adds a touch of bright gold to dull cubicles — and the high-quality velvet backing helps keep your photos safe from moisture.

32

This Toothbrush Holder That Can Double As A Flower Vase

Not only does Beaumont recommend this toothbrush holder, but it’s also made from tough galvanized steel. It’s so versatile that you can even use it as a small vase for flowers — though when used as a toothbrush holder, there are enough slots for up to four of them.

33

These Affordable Cabinet Pulls That Add A Modern Touch

Andra DelMonico, the lead interior designer at Trendey, recommends swapping out your tired cabinet pulls with these modern ones. Not only is it an easy (and affordable) way to update your kitchen, but this set in particular is also made from rust-resistant stainless steel.

34

A Roll Of Self-Adhesive Moulding That Looks Professionally Installed

You don’t have to spend a ton of money to add trim throughout your walls; DelMonico recommends using this roll of moulding all over your home, and it’s only $26. Add it around mirrors to give them a stylish frame, or even put it into corners where wall meets ceiling. Plus, the back is lined with adhesive for easy installation.

35

These Candle Bowls That Come In Soothing Scents & Look Chic

Kristin Patrician, the owner and principal designer of Dwelling Envy Interiors, is a big advocate for these candles that were set in dough bowls. Each one is handmade in Dallas, Texas, and they even use 100% all-natural organic soy wax that smells like lavender. There are five total scents available.

36

These Stylish Food Storage Containers That Upgrade Your Counters

Looking for a chic alternative to plastic food bins? Patrician suggests taking a look at these glass containers. Each one is made from tough borosilicate glass that’s temperature- and odor-resistant. Plus, the lids are as elegant as they are durable in stainless steel.

37

Another Flameless Candle Set With Glittery Pillars That Add Sparkle

These flameless candles will help you add some sparkle to your space because the pillars are covered in glitter. They’re also battery-operated and remote-controlled, giving you the option to determine the brightness, timer, and flame flicker from afar. The set has a 4.4-star rating, but it wasn’t specifically recommended by a designer.

38

A 4-Pack Of Clear Storage Bins To Help With Decluttering

According to Alice Moszczynski, an interior designer at Planner 5D, decluttering and organizing “is the most cost-effective way to improve the look of your home.” These four storage bins are particularly great for this. They each can hold a good number of items and since they’re clear, you can keep track of the contents inside without issue. The built-in side handles make it simple to pull the bins in and out for access.

39

These Under-Bed Organizers For Up To 24 Pairs Of Shoes

Sticking with Moszczynski’s organization theme, don’t underestimate the area underneath your bed — it’s a goldmine spot for storage. This pair of under-bed organizers can each hold up to 12 pairs of shoes. The sturdy zipper, transparent window on top, and reinforced handles round out the smart design.

40

A 9-Shelf Hanging System To Organize A Closet

If your closet is overflowing, Moszczynski says to “remove unnecessary items, organize what's left, and create a sense of space.” This hanging organizer will take advantage of any available vertical room. It boasts nine shelves in total — and some contain smaller bins to corral loose items. There are also mesh pockets stitched on the side for accessories.

41

This Guided Journal To Kickstart Your Decluttering Mission

Stuck on how to implement Moszczynski’s advice to declutter items throughout your home? You’ll find this decluttering challenge book useful. The guided journal helps you learn how to better navigate the chaos that is clutter — it’s filled with inspiration and open-ended questions to guide you along your journey.

42

A 30-Pack Of Fresh Cabinet Pulls For Under $30

Another cheap trick to make your home look way better? “Replacing outdated hardware on cabinets, doors, and drawers can instantly modernize a space,” explains Moszczynski. These matte black pulls cost under $1 each (the set includes 30 of them), and they’d look beautiful installed in a bathroom or kitchen. Other finishes and sets can be found in the listing.

43

These Champagne Bronze Knobs To Replace Tired-Looking Ones In Your Bathroom Or Kitchen

For something a little more unique, these champagne bronze knobs will do the trick. And they still deliver that modern vibe that Moszczynski was referring to. The 10 knobs in the pack (other sets can be found in the listing if you need more) are made from sturdy aluminum to last the long haul.

44

These Fresh Plants To Breathe Life Into Any Space

“Plants can add life and color to any room,” explains Moszczynski. And in addition to that, this set of three live plants helps to keep your air fresh and clean by filtering out pollutants. The specific plants that you’ll receive vary, but you can expect them to be about 8 to 10 inches tall.

45

These Budget-Friendly Faux Potted Plants For A Colorful Addition

These artificial potted plants are the way to go for a no-maintenance option that’ll still give you that colorful touch that Moszczynski is talking about. The set includes a eucalyptus, boxwood, and rosemary plant, each of which comes in a paper mache pot for display. Best yet, this pick costs under $20.

46

A Bamboo Plant Stand That’s Highly Adjustable

No potted plant is complete without a stand — and this bamboo one is modern in looks, but sturdy by design (with the ability to support up to 150 pounds). It adjusts in width from 8 to 12 inches and also in height by giving it just a quick flip. Pair it with any potted plant you want, though if you don't have a green thumb, “look for low-maintenance options like succulents or snake plants,” adds Moszczynski.

47

These Smart Light Bulbs For A Way Better Lighting Setup

As Moszczynski puts it: "Good lighting can make a huge difference in the look and feel of a room.” And she specifically notes that you should consider swapping all of your regular bulbs for LED ones like these. The smart bulbs can be set to 16 million color options, dimmed, and turned on/off with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

48

These Coasters Made From Stainless Steel That Add A Pop Of Color

Michelle Madison, an event designer, award-winning journalist, and lifestyle expert, suggests using these sleek coasters that’ll provide little pops of gold on your coffee table. Each one is made from stainless steel, making them resistant to rust — and the nonslip backs helps prevent scratches to your table.

49

The following Amazon products weren’t recommended by designers, but they can also help make your home look even better.

50

A 20-Pack Of Eraser Sponges That’ll Clean *Anything*

Any home decorator or cleaning professional knows that a good pack of eraser sponges can go a long way when it comes to sprucing your space. With just a little water, the sponges can tackle anything and everything, and they’re safe to use on most surfaces. Use them to remove scuffs on walls, baked-on stove stains, and coffee stains on. your mugs.

51

A Hygge-Enhancing Electric Throw Blanket With 3 Heat Settings

This electric throw blanket is just the home accessory you need to add color and texture to your couch while making your room cozier. It features three heat settings and an auto time-off function for safety and comes in two sizes and six colors. The cherry on top: detach the electrical components and toss it in the washing machine and dryer to keep it clean.

52

The Privacy Film For Windows That Looks Like Frosted Glass

Add privacy and polish to your windows with this frosted window privacy film, which conveniently relies on static cling (not a drop of adhesive or glue) to stay on without leaving residue behind. The reusable clings block UV light and come in eight sizes.

53

This Stainless Steel Polish For A Fast Kitchen Upgrade

The fastest and cheapest way to give your kitchen an instant upgrade is by decluttering, cleaning, and polishing notoriously hard-to-clean areas like stainless steel appliances. This plant-based stainless steel polish does just that — it removes grease, dirt, and even water marks from dishwashers, ovens, and refrigerators. The cruelty-free formula cleans like a dream and won’t leave streaks behind.

54

A Stainless Steel Utensil Holder That Can Double As A Vase

Glass flower vases are beautiful, but they may not always jive well with your home decor. For a more modern look, consider repurposing this metal utensil holder as a vase. It has a divider that can help with arrangements, and it rotates, so you can always ensure the freshest blooms are facing forward.

55

These Slim Dispensers To Pour Oil In Style

These oil dispensers are equally stylish and functional. Made from crystal-clear glass, the dispensers are sleek and slim (they’ll look amazing displayed in your kitchen or dining room), and they have convenient measurement markings on the side that’ll allow you control the amount of product that you dispense. Included are four spouts — two have a flip-top for pouring, while the others feature a seal to keep air out for freshness.

56

The Spice Rack Organizer That Mounts To Your Fridge

Save precious kitchen counter and cabinet space by mounting this spice rack organizer right onto your fridge, where it looks great and conveniently gives you access to what you need, whether that’s a salt shaker or bottle of olive oil. No drilling is required — just use the removable hooks and magnetic clips to keep it adhered to metal appliances or surfaces. It comes in a pack of two and boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating.

57

These Glass Bottles For Drinks & Flower Stems That Add Casual Beauty

For an easy everyday upgrade, you can pour your water, juice, or other beverages from these glass bottles. The narrow design means they’re easy to store in the fridge, and the BPA-free swing-top lids create a tight seal. You can also use them as vases for single stems to add a little casual beauty to your day.

58

These Mirror Tiles That Are Sneakily Easy To Install

Looking for a mirror solution for your bedroom, home office or gym, closet, or foyer? These customizable mirror tiles are perfect for adding a mirror that looks totally custom to your space. They’re available in several different pack sizes (the four pack is featured), so you can create a grid of any size. And the best part is that they simple adhere to your wall surface, no drilling required.

59

A Slip Cover That Makes Your Sofa Look Brand New

Whether you have an older sofa that could use a quick exterior refresh or you’re looking to protect a new couch investment, this stretchy slip cover is the answer. Made of a durable, washable polyester-spandex blend, it promises to slip on easy and keep that couch of yours looking brand new. It protects against stains, pet hair, and general wear of daily use. Choose from dozens of colors and multiple sizes.

60

Some Magnetic Duvet Clips To Keep Your Comforter From Slipping & Bunching

There’s nothing worse than having your comforter slip and slide around inside the cover, ultimately ending up in a bunch at the bottom of the bed. Enter: these magnetic duvet clips. There are 8 pins in a pack for safely (and easily) securing your comforter or duvet. As one reviewer raved, “I bought these because there was no way to affix my duvet cover to my down comforter. All I can say is Wow. They were really easy to install and hold my cover in place perfectly.”

61

A Mason Jar Set To Stylishly Store Food In Your Pantry

With their half-gallon capacity, these mason jars can be used to store *all* the things — including staples like rice, flour, and pasta, or homemade goodies like pickles, jams, and sauces — and stylishly, might I add. Each jar is made from thick glass with a metal lid that’ll create an airtight seal for freshness. This specific set comes with two jars, but other quantities are also available.

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