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45 Dope Ways To Upgrade Your Home That Are Cheap As Hell
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Take it from someone who can’t bear the sight of outdated countertops: There are tons of dope ways to upgrade your home that are cheap as hell. And “cheap” doesn’t mean what it used to — in fact, I’d even argue that some of these affordable upgrades are just as good, if not better than the more expensive alternatives.
Dark cabinetry, scuffed furniture, and tile counters straight out of 1985 — these are only some of the problems that these cheap products can fix. Take these LED light bars, for example. If you adhere them underneath your cabinets, they’ll instantly brighten up dim kitchens. Or, if your wood furniture is looking a little worse for wear, this repair kit is great for hiding scuffs and scratches. But if you want to know what my favorite item I’m featuring? This roll of white marble contact paper instantly updates tired countertops, and it’s so tough that it can hold up against puddles overnight. So go ahead and make a few spills — there’s no rush to wipe it up whatsoever.
With so many cheap ways to upgrade your home, don’t be surprised if you feel the urge to add more than a few of these to your cart. And if you don’t own your home? You’re still in the right place — most (if not all) of these products are suitable for renters as well.
1This Contact Paper To Refresh Tired Countertops
If your kitchen counters could use a refresh, this white marble contact paper is a must-have. It’s made from tough vinyl that can hold up against water if you place it around a sink — to the point where I’ve left puddles overnight without any problems. The best part? You can easily peel it off once it’s time to move out, making it great for renters.
2A Mattress Protector That’s 100% Waterproof
Made to fit extra-deep mattresses, this protector is made with a 100% waterproof membrane that keeps your bed safe from spills. Unlike some protectors, this one won’t crinkle as you toss and turn — and the top is even made from soft terry cloth rather than vinyl.
3These Door Locks That Can Withstand 800 Pounds Of Force
Looking to upgrade the locks on your doors? These ones are so sturdy that they can withstand up to 800 pounds of force — up to 12 times stronger than some deadbolts. Installation only takes a few minutes using a screwdriver and drill, and many reviewers wrote about how the extra security gave them “peace of mind.”
4A Peel-And-Stick Backsplash That Comes In 6 Colors
Whether you’ve got warm or cool tones throughout your kitchen, this peel-and-stick backsplash likely comes in a shade that’ll match. Not only are there six different colors to choose from, but each tile is moisture- as well as heat-resistant so that your cooking doesn’t affect them. Plus, the glossy finish makes them look like real tiles — but for a fraction of the price.
5These Squares That Add Windows To Plain Garages
You don’t have to buy a new garage door if you want it to have windows — just grab these window decals for a fraction of the price. They’re made from weather-resistant PVC that looks great year-round, while the magnetic backing allows you to readjust them if needed. Reviewers even raved about how they “look like real windows.”
6The Power Tower That’s A Step Above The Rest
With its sleek faux wood exterior, this power tower blends effortlessly into any room. It features four USB ports in addition to eight outlets, which means there’s no need to go looking for a charging brick the next time you need to plug in your phone. Choose from seven different finishes — including a rich shade of walnut.
7A Draft Stopper That Also Insulates Against Noise & Pests
Stick this draft stopper to the bottom of your door, and it can help you save on your energy bills by keeping the cold air out. It also provides insulation against noise, dust, as well as small pests. And with four different colors to choose from — white, grey, brown, or black — it’s easy to blend into most doors.
8A Screen Door That You Can Easily Pass Through
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve put a foot through my screen door, completely unaware that it was even there. This magnetic version, however, instantly opens up whenever pressure is applied, allowing you to pass through without poking a hole. It’s designed to fit most screen doors — though seven different sizes are available — and the seams are even double-stitched for added durability.
9These Smart Light Bulbs That Are Compatible With Alexa
Pair these smart light bulbs with Alexa or Google Home, and you’ll be able to control them from the comfort of your couch — no getting up required. Or, if you don’t have a smart home, you can use the downloadable smartphone app to change their color, adjust the brightness, as well as set schedules so that they’re on when you come home.
10The Covers That Blend Into Your Chair Legs
Available in wood-friendly colors like walnut, black, brown, and more, these covers blend into your chair legs so that they’re hardly noticeable. They’re also easier to install than some covers — just stretch the silicone over the leg, no gels or nails required. Plus, they’re designed to fit most chair legs.
11This Toilet Paper Holder With A Handy Shelf On Top
Made from rust-resistant stainless steel, this toilet paper holder is a sleek upgrade in any bathroom. The small shelf on top is perfect for holding a spare roll, or even just your phone while you’re in the shower. Choose from three different finishes to match any style: chrome, silver, or black. And unlike some toilet paper holders, this one comes with adhesive so that you don’t have to drill into your walls during installation.
12The Wall Charger With A Built-In Night Light
Plug one of these wall chargers into any outlet, and it’ll instantly add two USB ports and five additional outlets so that you can easily charge your devices. The built-in night light features a dusk-to-dawn sensor, ensuring that it only turns on when the room is dark. What many reviewers wrote about, however, was how convenient it is whenever their phones need a charge.
13A Furniture Pair Kit To Hide Scuffs & Scratches
I bought this furniture repair kit to try and hide the scratches on my coffee table, and let me tell you — it exceeded my expectations. The colors blend effortlessly into nearly any type of wood, from mahogany to oak. And while I was concerned that the colors might streak or fade, it’s been weeks since I used it — and my table is still looking good as-new.
14This Paint Marker To Refresh Dark Grout
When no amount of scrubbing will get your grout looking clean, you might as well just paint it over with this marker. The long-lasting ink is perfect for all types of grout, whether it’s in your bathroom walls or kitchen floors. Plus, each pen comes with enough paint inside for up to 60 meters’ worth of grout.
15The Burner Covers That Help Your Stove Stay Clean
Tired of wiping up your stove after every meal? Put down these burner covers before you start cooking. Not only do their non-stick surfaces easily wipe clean once you’re done — no scrubbing necessary — but they’re also heat-resistant against flame. And unlike some covers, these ones can even be trimmed to fit your stove.
16A System That Cleans Your Toilet Bowl With Every Flush
Don’t waste time scrubbing your toilet clean — let this automatic cleaning system do the work for you. Every flush injects powerful cleansers into your toilet water to help wash away grime before it builds up. The best part? It’s designed to fit most toilets, with many reviewers finding that installation only takes a few short minutes.
17This Box That Hides Bulky, Messy Cables
If the space behind your TV has devolved into a mess of wires and cables, this box can help tidy things up. It also works great behind desks, as there are multiple openings where you can thread cables through. One reviewer even wrote about how they “love that it hides all the cords, and makes everything look neater.”
18A Wireless Doorbell That Can Withstand Harsh Weather
Not only is this wireless doorbell waterproof, but it can also withstand temperatures ranging from -4 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Choose from 52 different chimes, or adjust the volume up to. five levels. And unlike some wireless doorbells, this one’s battery lasts for up to three years.
19These LED Lights That Are Motion-Activated
Stick these LED light bars underneath your kitchen cabinets, or even attach them to your workbench using the magnets on the back. They’re powered using four AAA batteries (not included), which means there’s no complicated wiring to deal with. Plus, the built-in motion sensor means they only turn on when someone is around.
20An Pest Repellent That Doesn’t Rely On Harsh Chemicals
Using ultrasonic waves that are virtually undetectable by humans and pets, these pest repellents are a chemical-free alternative to harsh sprays. Each one is so powerful that it can provide up to 1,600 square feet of protection — and it even runs at an ultra-silent level that won’t disturb anyone nearby.
21This Kit That Turns Mirrors Into Hollywood Vanities
I used a kit just like this one to add lights to my vanity mirror, and my makeup is now all the better for it. The LED bulbs have adhesive backs, allowing them to stick easily stick to glass. Plus, you can even switch between 16 different colors — perfect for setting the mood when you aren’t doing makeup.
22These Apothecary Jars For Small Vanity Items
Cotton swabs, Bobby pins, hair bands — you name it, these apothecary jars are a great place to keep it. The lids keep your items safe from dust, while the thick, smooth plastic is extra-durable. Plus, each order also comes with four blank labels.
23A Shelf That’s Perfect For Mail & Keys
Don’t lose your mail after you walk through your front door — place it on this shelf. There are five hooks on the bottom where you can keep keys, while the farmhouse style blends effortlessly with nearly any style. Plus, each order comes with all the mounting hardware needed for installation.
24These Hooks That Can Hold Up To 13 Pounds
These adhesive hooks are great for adding little storage hacks around your home. I’ve used similar ones to hang up oven mitts, Christmas stockings, gaming headphones — the applications are endless. And unlike some hooks, these ones are so sturdy that they can support up to 13 pounds.
25A Dish Rack That Takes Up Little Space
Many dish racks are bulky, whereas this one rolls out over the unused space overtop your sink. Not only does it help you save space, but the rungs are made from mold-resistant bamboo. The best part? You can also use it to dry washed greens, or as a trivet for hot cookware.
26The Hangers That Help You Save Space
Got a closet that’s overflowing with clothes? Allow these hangers to help save you some space. Each one has six hanger slots, which means the entire set has enough space for up to 30 garments. Plus, they’re made from high-quality beech wood — not plastic.
27These Floating Shelves That Are Easy To Install
Made from solid Paulownia wood, these floating shelves come with all the mounting hardware necessary for installation. Each one is so sturdy that it can hold up to 40 pounds — and with seven different finishes to choose from, you’ve got options when it comes to matching them to your decor.
28A Smart Plug That Doesn’t Require A Hub
Unlike some smart plugs, this one doesn’t require a hub in order for it to work. Pair it with Alexa or Google Home to use voice control, or simply use the downloadable app to control it from your smartphone. The best part? Its narrow profile won’t block your second outlet.
29The Fairy Lights That You Can Control Via Remote
Put these fairy lights into a Mason jar for a cute tabletop centerpiece, or even thread them throughout your bed’s headboard for some warm ambient lighting. The waterproof LEDs are suitable for use outside — and each order even comes with a remote so that you can adjust the color, brightness, and more from afar.
30A Bidet That Can Help You Save Money
Not only can this bidet help you save money on toilet paper, but the ultra-slim design allows it to sit evenly with your lid. The hose is made from rust-resistant stainless steel — not plastic — while the water inlet is made from tough brass to help prevent leaks. Choose from two finishes: silver or rose gold.
31This Umbrella Light That Lets You Dine In The Dark
Add this LED light to your patio umbrella, and you’ll be able to eat dinner outside — even if it’s dark. It’s designed to fit most umbrella poles, and the LED bulbs are powered via four AA batteries (not included). “Holds well to a wooden umbrella pole and is very easy to operate,” wrote one reviewer.
32The Tape That Keeps Your Carpet In Place
Tired of your carpets and rugs curling up? This double-sided tape can help. The ultra-strong adhesion tightly grips onto nearly any type of floor — including carpet — yet won’t leave behind any sticky residues upon removal. Many reviewers also wrote about how it “works like a charm.”
33A Shower Head That Filters Out Impurities
With its multi-layer filtration system, this shower head removes impurities to soften your water. Not only can it help with smoother hair and skin, but the high-pressure design saves up to 30% more water when compared to some shower heads. Plus, it even features three modes: rainfall, massage, or jet spray.
34This Gentle Light For Getting Up At Night
Instead of blinding yourself with a bright ceiling light, allow this soothing under-the-bed light to help guide your way through the dark. The warm LEDs are gentle on your eyes, while the built-in motion sensor means it’ll only turn on when you get up.
35A Diffuser With 7 LED Colors To Set The Mood
Whether you’re napping or working from home, this diffuser can help set the mood so you’re ready for the task at hand — even if you’re just flipping channels. Choose from seven LED colors to help you get into the proper headspace, including green, red, purple, and more.
36The Feeder That Gives Birds Fresh Fruit
If you’d rather give your backyard birds something other than seed, make sure to give this fruit feeder a look. It’s made from tough, powder-coated steel that can handle multiple birds at the same time. And unlike other feeders, this one has space for two orange halves, jelly, nectar, or even a small container of mealworms.
37These Outdoor Lights That Are Powered By The Sun
With solar panels built into the tops, these outdoor lights power themselves — no complicated wiring necessary. Each one also features a motion sensor so that they only turn on when someone is around, while the waterproof housing will keep them working for seasons to come. “These lights cast a good amount of bright white light,” wrote one reviewer. “Very pleased with their performance.”
38An Adjustable Coat Rack Made From Quality Pine
Whether you’ve got small children or teens at home, people of all ages can use this coat rack. The height is adjustable so that it’s easy to reach everything, and there are enough posts for up to eight jackets, hats, or even scarves. Plus, it’s made from real pine wood rather than cheap plastic.
39The LED Candles That Flicker Like Real Fire
Constantly replacing your candles quickly adds up, whereas these LED ones are an easy way to save some green. Not only do the bulbs flicker like real flames, but each order also comes with a remote so that you can control them without getting up. Choose from three styles: birch, burgundy, or ivory.
40A Wireless Weather Station That’s Easy To Read
With its colorful LCD screen, this weather station is easy to read from across the room. Simply provide your own three AAA batteries, and the wireless connection will work from more than 200 feet away. “I was blown away by the amount of information it can detect,” wrote one reviewer. “I checked the temperature and humidity against some thermometers and hygrometers I have and it's all accurate, so it's safe to assume all other measurements are just as accurate, too.”
41This Flatweave Rug For Indoors & Outdoors
Stain-resistant and easy to clean, this flatweave rug won’t shed — even if you put it outside. It’s available in more than 10 sizes, ranging from 2 by 3 feet, to 10 by 14 feet. And with eight gorgeous earth-toned shades to choose from, no one will think twice if you find yourself adding more than one to your cart.
42A Pack Of Grippers To Stop Rugs From Curling
Unlike tape, these rug grippers use hundreds of tiny suction cups to keep your rugs laying flat on the floor. They’re designed to work with any rug on a wide variety of surfaces, from concrete and laminate to outdoor campsites. They’re sold in a pack of eight, and won’t damage your rug or the floor.
43The Rack That Stacks Up To 36 Cans
You can make the most of your cabinet or pantry space using this rack, as it allows you to stack your cans on top of each other — up to 36, in fact. It’s designed to work with most cans, while the plastic dividers keep them from shifting left or right. Choose from four finishes: bronze, chrome, white, or silver.
44These Bins To Help Organize Your Fridge
Whether you’ve got loose fruit rolling around or simply have a messy fridge, these bins can help you get organized. Not only are they BPA-free, but the transparent walls make it easy to see what’s inside without having to unpack anything. Plus, each bin features handles to help you pull them out.
45The Cushioned Mats That Help Prevent Fatigue
Standing at your kitchen counters can leave your legs sore over time, so why not try out these cushioned mats? They’re ergonomically designed to help improve your posture and blood circulation, which can help reduce fatigue or soreness. “This are really comfy under my feet,” wrote one reviewer. “The design compliments my kitchen well.”
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