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48 Cheap Things Interior Decorators Secretly Rely On To Upgrade A Home

Sneakily clever tips you’ll want in your back pocket.

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Let's face it: You have outdated countertops, plain white walls, and floors that are scuffed all over. That's OK, though. It's common for houses to need little upgrades here and there, but that doesn't mean you have to spend an arm and a leg on renovations. Just stick to all the cheap things on Amazon that interior decorators use to upgrade homes.

Giving your dull or worn-out surfaces a makeover can help breathe new life into a room — but if you're living in a rental, you'll probably want something that's removable. The white marble contact paper I've included will bring your outdated space from 1970 into 2020. And if your counters are already pristine, you can just as easily use it as an accent wall to your kitchen (or even as a peel-and-stick backsplash).

Contact paper isn't the only thing that decorators use to upgrade homes for less. According to designer tips by Family Handyman, you can prevent your home from feeling stale by switching up the textures in every room. Faux fur step stools and a wrought iron wine racks are not only functional, but they make your home feel more "you." And in the event your home is already something straight from HGTV, there's also a pastel rug that's subtle yet chic, pendant lights for a farmhouse vibe, and even a mulberry silk pillowcase to upgrade your bedding.

So what are you waiting for? When you're looking to upgrade your home for less, you can't go wrong with all the products that designers secretly rely on. Keep scrolling to discover their picks.

1

The Molding Trim That's Ultra-Versatile

You can stick this adhesive molding trim up on your walls or even use it to update old picture frames and table edges. The adhesive is formulated to stick onto almost any surface, and it shouldn't leave behind any residue upon removal.

2

This Roll Of Peel & Stick Chalkboard Paper For Your Accent Wall

If your rental doesn't let you paint, you can still update your walls using this peel-and-stick wallpaper that doubles as a chalkboard. In fact, it can work great as an accent wall — and one roll is enough for 9 feet of space. Plus, the order arrives with five pieces of chalk that you can draw with.

3

These Smart Light Bulbs That Are Compatible With Alexa

Just pair these smart light bulbs with Alexa or Google Home, and you'll be able to control them using voice commands. In addition to being LED and energy efficient, they're easy to install: Just screw them in like a normal lightbulb. You can also sync them to change colors along with whatever music you’re playing.

4

A Light Switch Plate That Looks Like Glittery Granite

Sometimes, the smallest details are what make your home "yours." This faux granite wall switch plate not only adds glamour to mundane switches, but it's also been UV-cured for a high-gloss finish.

5

The White Noise Machine That Makes Your Ceiling Look Like Art

If you're regularly having trouble falling asleep, it might be time to give this white noise machine a try. Unlike many competing machines, this one features soothing aurora night lights to help you ease into sleep, along with six built-in nature sounds. Plus, adding ceiling decor can revamp a room — and these lights can help.

6

An Affordable End Table That Comes In Different Colors

Coffee tables can easily add decor to any living room — and with raised edges along the top, this end table is a great addition. (It also makes it hard for drinks and items to fall down to the ground.) It's made from rust-resistant metal with a wear-resistant coating, and there are six colors to choose from: mint blue, pink, dark green, and more.

7

These Wooden Frames To Create Fake Windows

Creating fake windows inside a dark or small space can have many benefits — and these frames can make the process of creating those fake windows simple. The two-pack includes two wooden structures that can be displaced to help create the appearance of additional windows inside your room, and they’re available in three shades.

8

A Set Of Round Mirrors To Help Brighten Dark Rooms

Adding mirrors to dark rooms can help redirect light to brighten things up, and this set comes with seven you can arrange however you'd like. They're lightweight so that there's no mounting necessary, and each one features a hook on the back.

9

These Velvet Throw Pillow Covers That Come In Various Shades

Just stuff these throw pillow covers with shredded memory foam, and they'll add pops of color throughout your home. They're made from soft velvet, and each one is fade- as well as stain-resistant. One enthusiastic reviewer even wrote that "we all can get that interior designer look with Amazon."

10

A Pack Of Flameless Candles You Can Control Remotely

Grouping things in three just looks better when it comes to design, and these flameless candles already come in a convenient pack of eight that you can rearrange accordingly. The included batteries are meant to last 72 hours at a time, and you can determine how bright they shine with the remote.

11

These Floating Shelves That Are Perfect For Books

Got a giant blank wall that could use a few decorations? These floating shelves are not only fashionable, but they're heavy-duty enough that they're able to hold up to 15 pounds each. All the necessary hardware for mounting comes included with your order.

12

A Different Set Of Wall Shelves Made With Bamboo

Made with bamboo shelves and rope suspensions, this set of wall shelves is the perfect way to add a hint of stylish storage to any space. Choose from two- or three-tier options, or even grab them in a pack of two.

13

The Picture Frames That You Can Mix & Match

Using varying picture frame sizes is a great way to break up large walls, and this pack of 20 includes three different sizes so you can mix and match. They're made with ultra-clear glass and have durable wood frames. Plus, the pack has a 4.7-star rating and many customers wrote that it’s “great quality.”

14

A Pack Of LED Lights For Your Bathroom Or Vanity

Just add these LED lights to your vanity, and you'll instantly have a Hollywood-style mirror for doing makeup, hair, or even just admiring yourself. The smart-touch dimmer lets you adjust the brightness, and installation doesn't require any tools.

15

This Decorative Rug That Adds Subtle, Lovely Color

If you're looking for a decorative accent rug, this one adds a pop of color that can inspire the room’s decor. It's available in three different colors as well as eight different sizes ranging from 3-by-5 feet to 10-by-13 feet, so you can choose one that fits your space best. Plus, one reviewer wrote, “This coordinates with all types of decor; design-wise it is extremely versatile and timeless.”

16

The Rustic Pendant Lights For A Vintage Look

Pendant lights are great for drawing your eyes upwards, and these ones feature a classic rustic design that are gorgeously vintage. The cord is adjustable depending on how high your ceilings are, though bulbs do not come included.

17

These Ceramic Planter Pots With Gold Details

Decorating with plants is an easy, green way to make your home stand out — so why not grab this plant stand? It’s made from chic bamboo and is even adjustable to help fit planters of various sizes (from 8 inches to 12 inches wide). Plus, if you’re hoping to display a plant up high, you can simply flip the stand over so the pot’s elevated.

18

A Pair Of Macrame Wall Hangings Made From 100% Cotton

Spruce up a reading corner with these macrame wall hangers, or even just add them to your home for a light bohemian touch. They're made from 100% cotton cord, and the symmetrical weave is exceptionally eye-catching.

19

This Slip Cover For Old Sofas

When your sofa is old and torn, give it a cost-effective update with this slip cover. The elastic strap lets you adjust it to fit your specific couch, and there are multiple patterns to choose from: palm leaves, oranges, flowers, and more.

  • Available in eight designs.

20

A Stylish Wine Tack That’s Available In Black, Silver, & Rose Gold

Display it on your counter or a bar cart — either way, this tabletop wine rack adds enough storage for up to five bottles. Its stylish, decorative wire design helps change up the textures in any room, and it arrives pre-assembled so that it's easy to install.

21

The Ladder Shelf That's Fashionable & Functional

Bookshelves aren't your only means of adding storage — you can also use this set of ladder shelves to help switch things up. Each order comes with all the tools necessary for assembly, and it's available in six different finishes.

22

This 4-Piece Bedsheet Set That’s Resistant To Fading

Instead of decorating your bed with patterned sheets, solid-colored options may be better (when it comes to decor). Not only are these sheets affordable, but they’re also designed with soft microfiber feels plush against your skin. Plus, they're even stain- and wrinkle-resistant.

23

These Plates You Can Use For Food Or Decor

Use these plates for a fancy dinner, or even hang them up on your wall as eye-catching pieces of art. Each order comes with four in varying patterns, and they're made from durable ceramic — not plastic.

24

A Dimmer Switch For Softer Overhead Lighting

Set a relaxing or romantic mood in your home simply by dragging your finger down this dimmer switch. It's compatible with Alexa so that you can control it using voice commands, and the downloadable app even lets you set schedules so your lights are on when you come home.

25

The Fig Tree You Don't Have To Water

Want to add green to your home, but can't be bothered to water plants? Just grab this faux fig tree. The leaves are made to feel realistic, and they're even waterproof so you can clean them if they get dirty.

26

Some Markers That Help Make Furniture Look Like New

Fix nicks, scuffs, scratches, and dings in to time — and for practically no money — with this set of wood repair markers and crayons. They come in six different natural shades, so you can find the perfect match.

27

These Stackable Storage Boxes That Are Cute & Functional

Keep your home looking neat and tidy with these storage boxes. The stackable boxes are made from non-woven fabric, plus they each have a sturdy insert for the bottom and reinforced sides to give them structure. The window on the front makes it easy to see what's inside without having to unpack it.

28

A Pair Of Wall Sconces That Cast Cozy Warm Light

Wall sconces look best when installed in pairs or groups, so why not grab a few of these decorative sconces? The warm lighting they provide is perfect for indoor spaces, and the wooden backings add a rustic style. Each requires two AA batteries to work, and they have a 4.5-star Amazon rating.

29

These Blackout Curtains That Help Insulate Your Room

Not only do they make your room extra-dark for sleeping, but these blackout curtains also insulate your home against the sun's warming rays. They're available in more than 10 rich shades, and the fabric is even wrinkle-resistant.

30

These Motion-Sensing Lights That Create A Subtle Glow

You don't have to sacrifice function for fashion while updating your lights. These motion-sensor lights not only casts a cozy warm light, but they’re also wireless and designed to last 100 hours before changing the batteries. Thanks to the adhesive that’s included, they’re simple to install throughout your home.

31

This Set Of Lanterns You Can Use For Any Occasion

Weddings, parties, holidays — you name it, these lanterns can help liven up any space. Assembly only takes a few minutes, and each one is made from high-quality tissue paper that you can easily hang anywhere.

32

A Tablecloth That's Resistant To Wrinkles

Adding a light tablecloth to your table can help brighten up a dark dining room, and this one comes in four pale colors: coffee, gray, slate, and brown. It won't shrink in the wash, and it's even resistant to wrinkles.

33

These LED Lights With Tons Of Color Options

It's always a good idea to stick to one color scheme when decorating — and with these lights, you can choose which color you want per bulb. The remotes let you pick from tons of shades, and you can even decide how bright you want them to be. Not to mention, they’re wireless and require three AAA batteries each.

34

These Strip Lights That'll Add Some Extra Color To Your Space

While decorating, vibrant colors are ideal — and these strip lights can help bring those shades to your space. You can install them underneath your cabinets, or even behind your television to upgrade your entertainment center. The adhesive makes installation simple, too.

35

This Paint That’ll Help You Refresh Your Old Furniture

If you’re hoping to repaint your furniture like a pro, this best-selling matte, chalk-style paint can help. Not only does it have over 8,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, but it also dries quickly and is available in numerous colors. The lid is simple to twist on and off between painting projects, too.

36

A Fruit Bowl That'll Never Go Out Of Style

One of the easiest ways to make sure your home never goes out of style is to mix timeless pieces with modern ones — like this fruit bowl. The brushed stainless steel finish pairs effortlessly with any style, and the unique design makes it a great table centerpiece.

37

This Set Of Fake Fruit To Add Green Without Waste

Fake fruit lets you add green to your home without having to worry about spoilage, and this set is available for less than $20. They're made from realistic foam rather than plastic, and many reviewers wrote about how they look like the real deal.

38

A Kit To Help You Hang Pictures That Aren't Slanted

The ideal height to hang artwork is about 3 to 8 inches above your furniture — so use this kit to make sure that everything is even and un-slanted. It comes with all the nails and hangers you'll need to hang photos, posters, and more. Plus, the hooks are even able to hold up to 100 pounds.

39

The Plush Throw That Adds Texture To Your Furniture

Using different textures throughout your home will help prevent it from feeling too uniform, and this fuzzy throw is a perfect example. The mink-esque faux fur adds an enticingly sumptuous texture and makes it, of course, very soft. For some of the color options, there’s also a reversible print with a solid color on one side and an animal print on the other.

40

A Pillowcase Made From Soft Silk

If all of your pillows are made from cotton, you might want to change up your textures with this silk pillowcase. It's made from mulberry silk, and the zipper is tucked away so that it won't snag on your clothes while you're sleeping. Another bonus: Silk helps regulate your body temperature at night, keeping you warm in cooler temperatures and vice versa when the seasons change.

41

This Kitchen Knife Set That Comes In A Chic Acrylic Block

Organization is key when it comes to keeping a crisp kitchen, and this knife set comes with its own acrylic stand that's chic in its own right. Each order also comes with a pair of scissors, as well as a potato peeler and knife sharpener.

42

A Faux Fur Rug That Looks So Luxe — & Is Under $30

Sheepskin area rugs are typically pretty costly, but this faux fur rug has that same look and feel — and for under $30. Made from artificial animal wool, this rug has a nonslip bottom coating and comes in a handful of size and color options for those areas of a room that could use a little decadence. Opt for a softer color — such as white, champagne, or black — for that sophisticated look.

43

The Book That Helps You Make Your Home More "You"

Written by HGTV's Joanna Gaines, Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave helps you design your home so that it's truly "you." Using examples from her own farmhouse as well as other homes, Gaines teaches you how to create the looks that you're drawn to by blending them with your own personality. And more than 3,000 positive four- and five-star reviewers agree that it's worth the read.

44

A Floor Lamp That Adds Both Lighting & Storage

This floor lamp not only adds a warm glow and doubles as overhead lighting — but it also has three shelves underneath to display books, frames, and other decor. Coming with one LED bulb, the accompanying lampshade diffuses the glow nicely. It’s an ideal blend of practicality and ambiance.

45

These Cotton Baskets That Double As Decorations

Not only do baskets provide extra storage around the house, but they can also be decorative. These baskets, made with cotton, are available in various color options to match the space you’re organizing. Plus, they can be easily folded and have a 4.7-star Amazon rating.

46

A Color Wheel To Help You Pick Matching Shades

If you have trouble figuring out what colors pair well together, just use this color wheel for reference. Just spin the wheel to the color you want to use, and it'll show you which colors match. Many reviewers even raved about how it's "easy to use," with one writing that "I bought this for my closet so I could quit asking my designer wife what matches. She also uses it for work sometimes so win win!"

47

The Putty That Easily Repairs Holes In Your Walls

Particularly if you’re renting your home, this drywall repair putty will be a real lifesaver when it comes time to move out. Whether you’re looking at holes from hanging pictures or dents from a doorknob hitting a wall, this putty will help solve the problem. Just swipe the stick across the hole while filling it, then wipe away the excess with a putty knife or rag.

48

A Roll Of White Marble Contact Paper To Update Your Counters

You can use this roll of white marble contact paper for so much. Add it to old countertops for a quick update, or even put it behind your stove as a backsplash. It's made from thick PVC, and you can put it up against sinks without worry — it's completely waterproof.

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