55 clever, cheap things that make your backyard so much better in the fall & winter

String lights are an easy way to boost ambiance and create a cozy vibe in your yard. These colorful string lights are even more fun thanks to the array of hues they come in. The teardrop-shaped lights and accent beads hanging from them make these even more funky and cool. They let emit a warm white light and they’re shatterproof.

This mini fire pit is perfect for making any meal or hangout sesh feel cozy and special, thanks to a compact size that fits on your tabletop. It’s also smokeless, so you don’t have to worry about it affecting your food, and it’s easy to clean as needed. The size also makes it easy to take this on the go for picnics and more.

Keep dirt, mud, and other outdoor debris out of your house with this textured door mat. Rough coconut fibers and metal coils help scrape off crud when you rub the soles of your shoes on it. “Have one at every door leading outside,” one shopper wrote in a review. “They are awesome. Neat, clean and do the job. Plus they look nice and stand up to my family's running in and out.”

Add these solar lights to outdoor pathways or around your driveway to pave the trail so it’s all lit up. These come on stakes and are so easy to push into the ground, and they work on solar power, so they’re really low-maintenance. They come in a pack of 12.

Having a bird bath in your yard is a great way to attract different birds and give them a safe space to drink and relax. That’s possible even on the coldest winter days with this heated bird bath. The built-in temperature control makes it a breeze to use, and the adjustable clamp lets you put it almost anywhere.

These durable camping lanterns are useful to have for any outdoor adventure, whether you’re camping, hiking, or just hanging out in your yard. They are super bright (but can be dimmed to 50 percent if you want), offer 360-degree lighting, and have convenient carry handles. They’re also collapsible for easy storage as needed.

Add a little extra warmth to any room with this electric space heater. It uses ceramic heating technology to heat up fast, with angle adjustment so that you can direct it exactly where you want. The sturdy base keeps it in place, and the handle makes it portable. “Heats up super fast and makes outdoor nights much more comfortable,” one shopper wrote in a review.

Keep outdoor faucets or spigots covered and protected through harsh winter weather with these faucet covers, which come in packs of two up to 24. They slide on easily and are secured with a hook and loop strap to prevent moisture from entering. This helps prevent freezing or bursting and the reflective strip means you can always spot it.

Say goodbye to snaking multiple long extension cords through your yard to get decorations or lights to actually work. This outdoor power stake uses just one 6-foot extension cord, with six outlets altogether. There are timer and sensor modes for convenience, and a remote control so you can turn things on and off from the warmth of the house.

Even plants need a blanket sometimes. If you have persnickety bushes or flowers that need a little extra love on the coldest days, these plant covers do the trick. They’re lined with an ultra-soft fabric that still lets in air and moisture so the plants can breathe even while keeping warm. The drawstring makes these a cinch to open or close.

Treat your cat or small dog like the king or queen they are with this self-warming bed suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Three layers of a snuggly, cozy fabric make it comfy enough on its own, but it also has insulation and a self-warming material that keeps them extra warm even on chilly days.

These versatile solar lights can be used in many different ways thanks to sharp stakes that are easily stuck in the ground. Use them to light up a pathway or driveway, put them in the ground around your patio to illuminate the area, or use them in your garden as little spotlights. They are surprisingly bright with three light modes, and work on solar power for convenience.

This versatile waterproof mat can be used inside or outside. Made of a thick and durable material with raised edges to contain any mess, this is great for stashing your dirty shoes before going inside, but can also be used as a place to keep your plants or even a spot for tools in the garage.

You can immediately elevate the look of your deck or porch with these solar lights. Designed to clip onto a railing, stairs, or a fence, installation is very simple. And because they work on solar power, they turn on and off by themselves and charge on their own, too. They give off a warm light that offers a nice ambiance.

Consider this steel fire pit an essential for the coziest backyard. It is easy to use, lightweight and simple to move around, and just the right size for almost any outdoor space. It comes with a heat-safe cover and can be used with open-fire cooking tools as well. It even comes with a poker to help you keep the flames going.

Made of durable and fade-resistant rubber, this doormat is built to be used outside, in all seasons. It’s waterproof, fade-resistant, has a nonstick backing so it doesn’t budge, and it helps absorb excess moisture and dirt. With a cool leaf pattern, it hits all the marks.

These clamp clips make it easy to hang decor or other items on brick walls. They’re made of a heavy duty stainless steel that can hold up to 30 pounds, with an adjustable clamp design to fit nearly any brick. Use them for hanging plants, lights, holiday decor, signs, and more.

There’s a lot to love about these outdoor torch lights. They’re easy to install since they don’t require complicated wiring, they run on solar energy so they use less energy, and they have a flickering “flame” look that makes them seem more realistic. This pack of six is inexpensive and you can also select the 12-pack option for an even bigger punch.

If you use your fire pit or grill on your deck or patio, help protect the surface with this handy fire pit mat. Made of fiberglass and an insulated material, this is highly heat-resistant as well as water- and oil-resistant. “It creates a strong, heat-resistant barrier that protects surfaces from grease splatters, sparks, and high temps,” one reviewer raved. “I used to worry about damaging my outdoor rug or leaving scorch marks, but this mat gives total peace of mind.”

These commercial-grade solar string lights are 27 feet in length with 12 bulbs that glow surprisingly brightly. A solar panel makes it easy for them to all charge at once for consistent lighting, and they’re weatherproof and durable. Plus, they’re backed by more than 26,000 five-star ratings.

Made of soft and plush chenille, this durable doormat feels nice to step on. It’s also very absorbent and is made to trap mud and dirt from dog paws that would otherwise be all over your house. Leave it right outside your doors to keep anything from getting in — even the most particular pets will enjoy stepping on it.

Add this pretty copper lantern to your outdoor space to add eye-catching decor. It has a floral print all around that the light shines through, creating a gorgeous reflection on the ground or wall. You can hang it from a tree or pole or place it on a surface. It runs on solar power and is very durable.

No outdoor furniture set is complete without some comfy pillows to lean on. Don’t make a rookie mistake and use just any throw pillow — instead, spring for these outdoor pillow inserts. They’re water-resistant but fluffy, and you can easily put a cover over them to make them look more interesting. Choose between a wide variety of sizes.

This wearable blanket is an essential for anyone who loves camping or spending time outdoors. It has eight heating pads throughout that heat up fast to keep you cozy, with three temperature settings. It also zips up the front for a cape-like look that allows you function with it on, and it’s cordless for portability. Unzip it and use it as a blanket, too.

With their globe-like shape and pretty crackle pattern, these mini lantern lights add a nice glow anywhere in your yard. They give off a warm light and they’re very low-maintenance: They run on solar power, so charge in the sun and turn on and off automatically. They’re also weather-resistant and waterproof, so should stand up to the elements.

Don’t pass up this thick blanket. Made with real wool, it’s super-warm, cozy, and durable, and can be used inside or outside. It’s very big, so you can pack it for camping or hiking, then wrap it around yourself when you’re sitting by a fire. You can choose between several different colors.

Stay toasty using these HotHands warmers whether you’re hanging out in the yard, working outside, or playing outdoor sports. This variety pack comes with hand warmers, toe warmers that can stick onto the bottom of your socks, and larger body warmers. They heat up upon contact with the air and are disposable when they’re done.

Frozen pipes can be an annoying and expensive inconvenience, but this valve shield makes it a little easier to avoid it from the get-go. Place this over outdoor faucets and spigots — it automatically activates once the temps dip under 37 degrees Fahrenheit. “During our rare week of sub-freezing temps, this worked like a charm,” one shopper promised in a review.

A decorative outdoor rug can really pull together the look you’re going for, and leave the space looking so much more elevated. This one is UV-resistant to minimize fading and easy to clean when you spray it with a hose, but it’s also double-sided if you feel like you need to flip it over. Choose between several different bold prints.

These unique solar lights instantly make any garden feel more whimsical — like a fairytale come to life. The flexible rods sway in the breeze, making them look almost like fireflies while they accent bushes or your garden. They require almost zero effort once put in place and look good even when the light is off.

This outdoor lantern is a great buy for your yard, as it doubles as a Bluetooth speaker as well. You can hang it from a tree branch or pole, mount it to siding, or use the included stake to place it in the ground as a torch. The flickering flame adds a unique festive touch, too.

This outdoor cat house is a perfect addition to your yard if you have cats who spend time outdoors, or mind a lot of strays in your neighborhood. The insulated, double-sided design helps keep them warm and cozy, and there’s a waterproof and cool side, along with a plush, soft side. And while it’s made with cats in mind, any small animal can seek shelter here.

Make your outdoor table or patio area cozy and well-lit with this portable metal lamp. It’s small enough to be placed on your tabletop and to be moved around (outside or inside) as needed. There’s a dimmer function to control the lighting and it’s cordless, so you don’t need to worry about finding a way to plug it in.

Give your yard a little personality with this tree face decoration. It’s made of a durable resin that can withstand the elements and it’s easy to install. The beard doubles as a bird feeder where you can put food or even water, making it functional as well as fun.

If you have a patio or ice-covered yard, you need this artificial grass rug. It looks and feels like real grass, has drainage holes to help prevent mold and water buildup, and a durable bottom that will last. Pets will love this, but even if you don’t have any, it adds a nice decorative element to your space.

Give outdoor pillows a refresh with these waterproof pillow covers. They’re weather-resistant and durable, with a hidden zipper that won’t get in the way. When shopping, you can choose between six different sizes and a variety of colors to match your setup.

Bring this seat cushion with you when you’re camping, going to an outdoor sporting event, or just hanging in your backyard. It heats up to keep you warm with three temperature settings that you can easily control. The plush fabric is comfortable, and two side pockets offer storage for the essentials. It also folds and is easy to carry.

The diamond shape of these reusable hand warmers makes them so easy to hold in the palm of your hand, and they’re also small enough to fit in your pocket or bag. They heat up in just a few seconds to keep you feeling warmer right away, and they’re rechargeable, so you can use them over and over again through the years.

Add this transparent bird feeder to a window so that you can get a birds-eye view (sorry) of the feathered friends hanging out. It’s large, has strong suction cups to keep it in place, and has two compartments to display different foods. The birds can easily get in and out, and it’s weatherproof and designed to last.

Make your indoor fireplace or outdoor fire pit or bonfire much more exciting with these powder packets. When you toss one in, it turns the flames into a rainbow of hues that’s mesmerizing to look at. The effects last for about an hour and are a fun addition to any get-together. This set comes with 12, and they’re easy to take on the go.

This gorgeous bird feeder certainly doesn’t look like your typical fare — it’s easy to mistake it as just another piece of outdoor decor thanks to the blue mosaic design, but the hollow inside is actually the perfect spot for some bird food. So, it’s functional and really cool.

If you can never seem to remember to actually care for outdoor plants you bought for the season, try these artificial mums. They are bright and colorful and made of a UV-resistant fabric to keep them that way. There is no watering or clipping required, and one shopper wrote that they’re very “realistic looking” adding, “These are in the blazing hot sun [for] weeks and have not faded at all.”

Don’t be fooled by the small size: This tiny speaker packs a punch. It offers impressive volume and booming bass, and is waterproof enough to even be taken into the shower. The compact size makes it travel friendly and portable, and it’s easy to control and connects with Bluetooth devices as well.

These bright flower lights are a fun and colorful addition to your garden, walkway, or patio space. This pack of six comes with staked lights in different colors and designs, and they’re strikingly tall. Place them in the ground wherever you want, then leave them to charge in the sun. They’ll turn on and off automatically and they’re waterproof.

These fence-mounted solar lights have a sleek, sophisticated look, with vintage LED bulbs that create a romantic, vibey atmosphere. “They give off the perfect amount of soft light to accent a fence, mailbox, or doorway without being harsh or distracting.” one shopper wrote. “ I installed them along my fence, and they create a warm, inviting glow at night that looks fantastic.”

Not everything in your yard has to be super practical. This wind spinner is really just there for the vibes. It’s colorful and has a cute little owl in the center, and does exactly what it sounds like: It spins wildly in the wind, and looks nice even when it’s staying still. It’s available in other patterns if owls aren’t your thing.

Delicate stemware and an outdoor meal is a recipe for broken glass. Instead, stick with these stainless steel wine glasses, which are not only shatter-proof and essentially unbreakable, but also insulated to keep your drink at the right temperature. They come with two useful wine accessories as well: an aerator for a more delicious wine and a pump to keep the bottle fresh.

These wind chimes deliver a magical sound when swaying in the breeze, leaving your outdoor space feeling so much more peaceful and zen. The hummingbird design is whimsical and pretty, and it looks great during the day and at night. That’s thanks to the solar powered light feature, which makes these glow in different colors once the sun goes down.

If you have any kind of stairs outside, whether it’s a large staircase or just a few steps, it’s always a good idea to keep them lit. These solar deck lights make that so easy, with installation that’s a total breeze and a wireless design that charges in the sun. They help keep people safe and make the space look more elevated and expensive.

Create a beautifully put-together patio or deck without spending a lot by skipping a few (expensive) steps and using these wood tiles. They come in a pack of nine and click together in seconds, and they’re made of acacia wood for a really nice look. They’re waterproof with a drainage system to prevent pooling and they have an anti-slip coating to make them safer.

This small electric snow blower is a fraction of the price of heavy duty options, a lot less bulky, and much easier to store. It’s perfect for the average household where you just need to clear the driveway or sidewalks. The cordless design makes it very convenient and the lightweight feel means it’s easy to maneuvar.

Adding a simple welcome sign like this one to your front yard can immediately make your home feel more , well, welcoming. The cute smiling bear will put a smile on anyone’s face, and is heavy enough to not fall over. It even features a solar-powered LED light that adds a bit of brightness when it’s dark out.

If you’re trying to encourage pollinators and other insects to come into your garden or yard, get this insect hotel. Not only is it cute to look at, but it is filled with tree bark and wood chips to entice insects like honeybees and butterflies. It’s sturdy as well, made of wood with a metal roof, and can be used all year long.

Add a little greenery to your windows with these hanging planters. The mini planters are attached to suction cups that make installation so simple, and you can fill them with low-maintenance plants like succulents. These look so lovely in your windows whether you’re sitting outside or in.

Perfect for outdoor parties or late night beach hangs, this cooler light is waterproof, rechargeable, and very bright. Place it among the drinks and ice in your cooler so that it illuminates everything even when it’s really dark outside — it makes it so much easier to find the exact drink you were looking for.