40 cheap ways to make your home look so much better with almost no effort

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ByClaire Epting
Updated: 
Originally Published: 

If the era of isolating at home taught us anything, it’s that our living spaces play a huge role in our overall well-being. After all, a home should be a sanctuary, where you can unwind and relax. I’m constantly looking for ways to improve my apartment — but I don’t always have the time to dedicate myself to an intensive DIY project. That’s why I love looking for cheap ways to make any space look better, like swapping out your plastic laundry basket for this foldable hamper made of lightweight bamboo or cheering up any space with this set of colorful ceramic vases. (See? Easy.)

Whether you’re looking to transform your walls with a botanical peel-and-stick wallpaper or add a rustic touch to your dining room with a macramé table runner, you’ll find tons of surprisingly wallet-friendly home upgrades here that elevate your home’s look. Even better? They require little to no effort on your part. Keep scrolling for some amazing tips.

01

Use this rattan catchall tray for small items

The next time you unwind in an indulgent bubble bath, prop this bamboo tray table up for a catered experience. Create a space for a glass of wine, candles, a book, or even your laptop. This caddy can also be used to keep other bathtub accessories such as your shampoo and soaps organized. It’s versatile enough to fit almost any tub ranging from 29.5 to 43 inches across.

02

Replace your bath mat with this modern bamboo one

This modern bamboo bath mat features an elevated, slatted design that allows for plenty of air circulation, which makes it fast-drying. Durable and water-resistant, the mat has a series of anti-slip gaskets on the bottom so it doesn’t slide around on your floor. It’s also a great addition to your camper van, protecting your feet during outdoor showers.

03

Place this bonsai-shaped light on a side table

This striking bonsai tree light casts a gentle, ambient glow wherever you put it, whether that’s on your nightstand, desk, or coffee table. The entire tree measures 20 inches tall, and the end of each branch features a small LED light. To turn it on, you have the option of using batteries or plugging it into a power source via USB cable.

  • Available styles: 6

04

Use these Turkish towels in the bathroom & kitchen

Made from 100% organic cotton, these Turkish hand towels are oh-so soft. Woven with a unique diamond pattern and finished with tassels along the edges, they have a rustic look that complements any kitchen or bathroom. They’re lightweight and absorbent, and can easily be cleaned in the washing machine. Choose from a wide array of colors, from gray to orange to turquoise.

  • Available colors: 14

05

Install this ceiling light with an industrial look

Designed with a vintage-inspired glass shade and matte base, this ceiling light can be installed in your hallway, dining room, living room, or anywhere else you want to add a sleek touch. It includes all of the required mounting hardware — just add any bulb with an E26 medium base. “It’s beautiful. Looks exactly like the pictures. It’s great quality, and was super easy to install,” one reviewer raved.

  • Available colors: Black, Gold, Silver

06

Add cheerful color with these 3 ceramic vases

Perfect for holding a couple dried flower stems or faux greenery, these eclectic ceramic vases add a pop of color wherever you place them. The rustic accent pieces look great on a coffee table, bookshelf, or kitchen counter. There are also white, red, and two-toned options available for those who prefer a more uniform appearance.

  • Available colors: 4

07

Hang some peel & stick wallpaper with a lush botanical print

Add a lush, calming feel to your bathroom, bedroom, or kitchen with this self-adhesive wallpaper that sticks directly to your wall. The matte-finish paper can also be used to create accents along your staircase or on your kitchen backsplash. Perhaps the best part? There’s no commitment — you can peel off the wallpaper when you’re ready to switch up your decor.

08

Set up this wireless doorbell with 50 different chime options

This battery-powered doorbell is super easy to install indoors or outdoors, with either double-sided tape or screws. Operating at a range of up to 1,000 feet, the doorbell has four volume settings and over 50 different chime sounds, giving you full customizability. It works in all weather conditions — even rain and snow — for total peace of mind.

09

Hang this light-filtering paper shade

Made from pleated paper, these self-adhesive black window shades offer privacy and light control in your home. Simply cut to size, then press the blind to the top of your window frame — it’s as easy as that. When you want to keep the blinds open, use the included clips to keep the bottom lifted.

10

Add lights to your vanity mirror

If you’re trying to create an old Hollywood-style vanity mirror, you’ll need to pick up some of these LED bulb lights. The self-adhesive light strip measures 13 feet long, wrapping around the perimeter of any mirror. Adjust the brightness of the lights using the built-in controller near the end of the cord.

11

Swap out your light switch plate for this one with a unique granite pattern

When it comes to decorating, it’s all in the details — even something as simple as your outlet cover can be artful. This steel wall plate has the appearance of granite, with streaks of green and gold throughout. Adding a low-key but elegant touch anywhere, the outlet cover is easy to install with included color-matched screws.

12

Lay down these hardwood patio deck tiles with a retro look

Give your outdoor patio or deck the look of high-quality, retro hardwood flooring with these wallet-friendly wood tiles. Available in several different shades such as oak, teak, and espresso, the weather-resistant tiles interlock together for an even, uniform appearance. “Gorgeous panels. Did WONDERS for my porch!!” one reviewer raved.

  • Available multipacks: 10

13

Upgrade your bed with a silky bamboo duvet cover set

Made from OEKO-TEX-certified bamboo viscose, this duvet cover set is luxuriously soft and silky. Plus, bamboo is naturally temperature-regulating, making it a fantastic choice for hot sleepers. In addition to the duvet cover with four corner ties, you also get a pair of matching pillow shams for a cohesive look.

  • Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
  • Available colors: 8

14

Level up you hosting game with these cheese knives

Impress your guests during your next wine and cheese night with this six-piece set of stainless steel cheese knives. Designed with easy-grip, ergonomic handles, the knives make easy work of slicing and spreading hard and soft cheeses. The ultra-sharp blades are also stain- and rust-resistant, so they’re easy to maintain over time.

15

Customize your LED light strips with this dimmer

This USB switch and remote set gives you full control over your LED light strips and fairy lights. You get a USB-powered switch and dimmer, as well as a wireless remote that allows you to toggle between 20 brightness settings as well as turn the lights on and off. It’s a great way to add some customization with minimal hassle.

16

Trade in your plastic laundry hamper for this bamboo version

Constructed from lightweight bamboo, this hamper features two compartments for separating your laundry before it goes in the washer. The hamper folds up for easy storage when not in use, making it ideal for compact living spaces. The flip-top design conceals your laundry from view, and a built-in handle makes the hamper easy to transport.

17

Install this self-adhesive backsplash behind the stove

Want to elevate the look of your kitchen or bathroom without spending a ton of money on installing new tiles? These self-adhesive backsplash tiles have a 3-D texture, giving them the look of real marble. Each pack includes 10 sheets that can cover up to 8.2 square feet. Simply cut the sheets to size, and press the mess-free tiles onto your wall. It’s as easy as that.

18

Tidy up your garage with this socket organizer

Gone are the days of digging around your toolbox for the right socket. This set of six durable trays makes it easy to organize your deep and shallow sockets using a color-coordinated system. “Bright, visible markings for each socket and a place for each one to be hung up. Definitely worth the money!!” one reviewer wrote.

19

Add visual interest with these rustic-chic wooden accent mirrors

Designed with sturdy wooden frames, these rustic mirrors make great accent pieces in your living room, hallway, or bedroom. They have a hand-carved floral pattern on the surface, giving them a sophisticated touch. Available in brown, black, caramel, and white, the mirrors complement a wide range of design styles, from farmhouse-chic to contemporary.

  • Available colors: 4

20

Place trinkets on this unique floating wall shelf with a criss-cross design

Easy to assemble and incredibly versatile, this unique floating shelf creates the perfect space to display your ceramic vases, candles, or other small trinkets. You can even place it in the kitchen as a makeshift spice rack. Made from durable wood with pre-drilled holes, the shelf comes with all the required mounting hardware for stress-free installation.

  • Available colors: 4

21

Store vinyl & magazines in this macrame rack

Designed to hold 12-inch vinyl records, magazines, books, tablets, and more, this macramé rack adds an artful touch to your home. The front and back are constructed from cotton cord, while the sides are made of solid wood. Place it near your bed or couch for easy access to your favorite reading materials, or place it high on an end table for easy storage.

  • Available sizes: 2

22

Turn you bathroom into a makeup counter with this vanity mirror

Equipped with an LED light border and a magnifying side panel, this vanity mirror makes applying makeup and tweezing hairs so much easier. It rotates 180 degrees on its base, so you can get the perfect angle. The lights can be powered with batteries or via USB — whichever you prefer. Since it’s so lightweight and portable, you can even pack this mirror with you while traveling.

  • Available colors: 6

23

Serve cheese on this board with accompanying utensils

Made from sleek, easy-to-clean bamboo wood, this charcuterie board is all set for your next dinner party. It’s designed with deep grooves around the perimeter for holding crackers, fruit, and more. A built-in drawer conceals a set of four stainless steel utensils, which can be used for slicing and serving cheese and meats.

24

Display pictures on these floating shelves

Unlike traditional floating wall shelves, thes shelves are designed with built-in ledges, so your picture frames and small trinkets don’t fall off. Made from wood in your choice of five finishes, the minimalist shelves are easy to mount with the included hardware. Use them to display artwork and books in your living room, or place them in your kitchen as a double-level spice rack.

  • Available colors: 5

25

Brew tea & pour-over coffee with this stainless steel kettle

Sturdy and built to last, this stainless steel kettle will help you achieve the perfect cup of pour-over coffee or a piping mug of tea. The gooseneck kettle is equipped with a built-in thermometer, so you’ll know exactly when it’s ready to pour. It’s safe to use with electric or gas stoves and comes in 34-ounce and 40-ounce sizes.

26

Put this full-coverage bath pillow in the tub

Your bath time could be even more relaxing, if you invest in this ergonomic bath pillow that supports your head, neck, and shoulders. Made with heavy-duty ventilated mesh fabric, the breathable pillow won’t get soggy or hot. It has six suction cups on the back that keep it securely fastened to the tub and a convenient hook at the top allows you to hang the cushion to dry in between uses.

27

Add some green with these faux potted plants

Even if you’re always on the go and don’t have time to water plants, you can still brighten up your space with some greenery. These potted faux plants look just like real shrubs, but they don’t need to be maintained at all. Each plant sits in a rustic vessel made from lightweight paper pulp. Place them all together on an end table, or scatter them around your house.

28

Straighten up your electronics with this charging station

Designed with six USB ports, this compact charging station allows you to power up multiple smartphones and tablets at once. It also includes adjustable dividers that keep your electronic devices upright and separated from each other while charging. Not to mention, you get six USB charging cables that are extra short, so they won’t get in a tangle.

29

Warm up your kitchen with this macrame table runner

Give your dining room a homey, rustic vibe by adding this handwoven macramé table runner. Made with 100% natural cotton threads, the two-tone runner has fringed edges for a slightly 70s-inspired look. “This table runner is the perfect addition to my dining room table. I love the lace and how it looks old-fashioned and elegant,” raved one reviewer.

  • Available sizes: 72 inches, 108 inches
  • Available colors: White, Cream

30

Maximize space with this expandable drawer organizer

Here’s a drawer organizer that can expand from 13 inches wide to 20 inches wide, fitting a variety of spaces, so you can get as much storage as possible. Made from eco-sustainable bamboo wood, the organizer features several slotted compartments for holding your cutlery, serving utensils, and more. It’s also water-resistant and easy to clean with just a damp cloth.

31

Hang these abstract art prints inspired by nature

Display your love of nature with this trio of art prints that depicts three abstract mountain scenes. Designed with cool, calming colors, the wall art adds a serene feeling to any room. Available in three sizes, the canvas pieces look fantastic when hung up in a row on your wall. You also get a set of hooks for quick, easy installation.

  • Available sizes: 12 inches x 16 inches, 16 inches x 24 inches, 20 inches x 28 inches
  • Available styles: 4

32

Serve drinks from these super sleek carafes

Whether you’re serving mimosas at brunch, ice tea with lunch, or water with dinner, these glass carafes will instantly bring some style and class to your table. With a sleek design that’s suitable for parties and other special events, these carafes also come with plastic lids, so you can use them to store milk or infused waters in your fridge without worrying about spillage.

33

Add ambience with these flameless candles set in sophisticated glass vessels

Made of real wax, these flameless candles realistically flicker with an LED flame. The battery-powered candles are set in translucent glass pillars, giving them an elegant look. You get three candles of different heights, as well as a remote control that allows you to set timers, adjust the brightness, and even choose between flicker modes.

  • Available colors: Gray, Gold

34

Store your tea in this minimalist bamboo box

Keep your collection of tea sachets sorted with this bamboo box organizer. Featuring eight adjustable compartments and a pull-out storage drawer, the sleek box can be placed in your cabinet or displayed on your counter. A transparent, hinged lid allows you to view your selection of tea before opening the box.

35

Organize everything & anything on this 2-tier bamboo lazy Susan

Organize your spices, skincare supplies, or vitamins on this two-tiered lazy Susan. Made of neutrally-colored, timeless bamboo that can work in any room, this 360-degree rotating platform has tons of functions. It’s 10 inches wide and 7 inches high, and the raised lips on the edges will keep whatever you’re storing on it firmly in place.

36

Hang this modern-looking metal wall decor

Featuring three different flower vase shapes, this trio of metal wall decor adds a fresh, contemporary look to your kitchen, living room, or dining room. Each simple yet elegant piece is made of premium iron that’s coated in matte black paint. A pre-drilled hole makes it easy to hang the piece up on the wall with a single nail.

37

Elevate your entertainment setup with this TV backlight

Transform your ordinary TV into an impressive home entertainment setup with this LED backlight. The light strip adheres to the back of your television with sticky tape, plugging into the monitor’s USB port. For total customization, use the included remote to switch between 16 different hues and four lighting modes.

38

Hang this wall decor that reflects the phases of the moon

Made from lightweight wood, this set of wall decor is easy to hang. The five-piece collection is inspired by the different phases of the moon — each shape is finished with ornate details that add a whimsical touch. Plus, there’s no drilling required — the pieces stick to your wall with double-sided adhesive dots.

39

Install these outdoor string lights that cast a warm, ambient glow

Perfect for patios, porches, and other outdoor spaces, these durable string lights create a warm, festive glow for a dreamy atmosphere. The bulbs are dimmable, so you can control how brightly they shine. Not to mention, they’re weather resistant — so they’ll withstand extreme temperatures, wind, and even rain.

  • Available colors: 6

40

Add storage with this tiered macrame wall shelf with lush faux ivy leaves

With this hanging macramé wall shelf, you can display your small trinkets and vases while also adding some greenery to your space. The floating wooden shelves are held together with sturdy rope, accented by vibrant faux ivy leaves. The package includes all the installation hardware you’ll need, so you can set it up in no time.