Contractors say these cheap, clever things make your home look 10x better than it usually does

Budget-friendly hacks for a just-flipped look.

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Helping your home live its best life doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With that in mind, I’ve reached out to a handful of contractors who were happy to share their favorite tips on how to make your home look 10 times better than it usually does. From upgrading cabinet pulls to affordable smart lighting, you’re sure to find some budget-friendly tricks in here to get your home looking like it was freshly flipped.

01

This splash guard that helps keep your sink top clean

No matter how persistent you may be when it comes to wiping your sink top, a few little drips will quickly leave it looking messy once again. Luckily, Justin Cornforth, CEO at Ace Plumbing, has an easy fix: splash guards. “There are so many options [...],” he tells Mic. “But I recommend paying attention to the ones made of rubber instead of textile splash guards. Rubber splash guards are not susceptible to mold and mildew growth and look better than textile splash guards.”

Not only is this particular splash guard made from silicone, but it also features a sloped edge that allows water to drain right back into your sink. Raised slats along the top keep your soap bottles and scrubbers lifted away from pooling moisture. Choose from two colors: black or dark gray.

02

An absorbent splash guard that dries in just 1 hour

You aren’t solely limited to silicone or rubber splash guards if they don’t suit your kitchen. “Splash guards made of absorbent materials are also a great choice,” explains Cornforth. “Absorbent splash guards quickly soak up water splashes, which can help in keeping the area around the sink dry and clean.”

This absorbent splash guard acts like a giant sponge, soaking up water so that your sink top stays looking oh-so clean. Its rubber backing helps keep it from shifting out of place — and since it only takes about an hour to dry, it’s also much less likely to develop any mildew.

03

The shatterproof mirror that won’t fog in the shower

Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest impact, like adding a fogless mirror to your shower. “Such mirrors are cheap and make life much easier,” Cornforth tells Mic. “All you need to do to activate this mirror’s anti-fog properties is to fill in the basin in the back with hot water to heat the mirror surface and prevent it from fogging.” Installation is as easy as pressing the built-in suction cup against your nonporous shower wall. And the shatterproof design ensures that it won’t crack, chip, or break into pieces.

04

An easy-to-install faucet aerator that comes in 4 finishes

An outdated kitchen sink faucet isn’t just unpleasant to look at — it can also make it harder to clean dishes. The solution? “A faucet aerator that swivels 360° [...],” says Cornforth. “This allows you to easily direct the flow of water, making it simpler to clean dishes, rinse vegetables, or fill pots without moving them around. It looks sleek and adds a stylish touch to a kitchen sink.”

With that in mind, this aerator swivels 360° just like Cornforth recommends. It’s also incredibly easy to install, as it’s designed to fit nearly any male thread faucet — though adapters are available if your faucet thread is female. Choose from five finishes: chrome, matte black, polished chrome, or brushed nickel.

05

This 3-tier shoe rack that doubles as a bench

Regardless of how well you’ve decorated, an entryway with tons of clutter sitting out in the open will always look worse than one that’s tidy and organized. According to Jeff Palla, president of Mr. Handyman, “An entryway is the first thing someone sees when they enter a house. [...] Simply adding some storage space (ie. A shoe rack, coat rack, etc.) is a great way to make your entryway look organized and welcoming.”

With three tiers of storage space, this shoe rack is a clever way to organize shoes, umbrellas, plants, or any other small items that are currently cluttering up your entryway. It’s made from sturdy bamboo, and has a weight limit of up to 300 pounds. Plus, many reviewers were able to put it together in 30 minutes or less.

06

A freestanding coat rack that’s *so* easy to put together

If your entryway has a pile of coats stacked on top of a chair or washing machine, consider taking a look at this coat rack. Six hooks give you ample room to hang coats, bags, umbrellas, and more. Its height is also adjustable up to three levels — and assembly took most reviewers 15 minutes or less. Choose from four finishes: natural, black, cherry, or vintage.

07

The entryway mail holder with extra space to hang keys

Continuing with Palla’s tip of streamlining the entryway, don’t let mail pile up by the door — instead, store it inside of this basket. Five hooks underneath give you somewhere to hang keys the moment you walk through the door. Plus, the steel frame features a rust-resistant finish to help keep it looking good for years to come.

08

These key rack magnets that can hold up to 3 pounds

If your entryway doesn’t have space to hang up that basket, opt for these magnets instead. Installation is a total breeze, as they twist into your light switch plate in place of the screws on the bottom half — and each one can hold up to 3 pounds.

09

A freestanding hall rack with space to store shoes

If your entry is lacking in storage space, this combination coat rack is right up your alley. Shelves on the bottom give you somewhere to place shoes, while hooks at the top let you hang coats, bags, and more. Plus, you can even adjust the hooks in order to accommodate larger items as needed.

10

These LED bulbs that cast a soft, white glow

Stale lighting can make even the warmest homes feel cold and uninviting. Palla says, “Harsh, bright white lights can make a house feel cheaper. He suggests you replace those bright bulbs “[...] with ones that are not as harsh.”

Luckily, this four-pack of LED bulbs is available for less than $20. They cast a soft, white glow, making them suitable for kitchens, closets, and every room in between. Since they’re energy-efficient, the manufacturer states that they’ll only generate about $81 in utility costs over the entire life of the bulb.

11

The smart bulbs that work with an app or Alexa

These smart bulbs may be one of the easiest upgrades on this list. Once paired with Alexa or Google Home, you’ll be able to change their color, brightness, put them on schedules, and more — all using simple voice commands. Though if you don’t have either, you can still use the downloadable Govee app to do all of the above.

12

These ceiling lights with a modern, industrial look

Speaking of outdated light fixtures, these ceiling lights are sure to look better than that dome light that’s currently hanging in your entryway. Their industrial style complements nearly any decor style — and each order comes with two bulbs included, both of which are dimmable. “Really lights up my front porch,” wrote one reviewer. “So easy to change bulbs when the need occurs. Installation was very easy.”

13

The plug-in wall sconces with 3 adjustble light temperatures

Whereas some light fixtures require hard wiring, these sconces plug into any outlet, making installation oh-so simple. They’re also dimmable up to three levels, and feature three adjustable light temperatures: warm white, daylight, or natural white. Plus, their 5-foot power cable makes it easy to use them with distant outlets.

14

These sheer curtains that come in more than 20 colors

When in doubt, a good pair of curtains may be what you need to pull that room together. “Adding curtains to a window can elevate your space instantly,” explains Palla. “All you need is a curtain rod and curtains that match your design choices and it automatically makes that space look more put together.”

These particular curtains come in more than 20 colors, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a shade that suits your home. The sheer material allows light through while still giving you some privacy — and unlike some curtains, each order comes with two panels rather than one.

15

A sleek curtain rod that can hold up to 25 pounds

This curtain rod is a solid choice if your windows don’t have a rod already installed. The matte black finish and ball-capped ends give it a modern look — though you can also grab it in five other finishes if black doesn’t suit your home: brown, silver, white, or nickel. And with a weight limit of up to 25 pounds, there’s no need to worry about how it’ll fare if you decide to load it up with heavy blackout curtains.

16

This all-in-one paint that doesn’t require priming or sanding

You don’t have to do a full refurb if your kitchen is looking less than fresh. According to Palla, “If your cabinets look old and outdated, you can easily paint over them,” which he says “immediately” makes your house look better.

With that in mind, this can of paint is a solid pick for anyone looking to DIY their cabinets. There’s no sanding, priming, or top coat required, as the thick formula delivers smooth, even coverage after just one coat. You also have the choice of more than 40 colors, ranging from deep green to light almond.

17

An affordable paint sprayer that features 3 spray patterns

Now that you’ve chosen the paint color for your cabinets, it’s time to get the right tools you need in order to complete the job — like this paint sprayer. Three spray patterns (horizontal, vertical, or circular) help you achieve full coverage, even in tight little nooks and crannies. Plus, each order includes six copper spray nozzles to get you started.

18

The gallery wall picture frames that come in 5 finishes

If you’ve got an empty wall that you don’t know what to do with, according to Palla, “Adding a few pieces of artwork or photos (choose the appropriate amount for the wall) will add extra personality to the space and elevate the look [...].”

With that in mind, print out your favorite photos and then create a gallery wall using these frames. The varying sizes are already styled to look good when placed together. And if you decide not to hang all of them up, the kickstand in the back of each one lets you display the remaining ones on shelves, tables, or nearly anywhere else in your home. Choose from five finishes: black, brown, gray, natural, or white.

19

A laser level that extends out for 100 feet

When it comes to hanging anything, Palla says, “When adding the artwork make sure to have a level handy to ensure the pieces are straight.” This laser level makes quick work of the job. Not only does it make it easy to ensure your pictures are hung evenly, but it also extends out 100 feet, making it easy to level multiple photos at the same time. Each order comes with batteries included.

20

These geometric floating shelves made from rustic paulownia wood

If those picture frames don’t suit your style, consider hanging up a few floating shelves instead. According to Palla, they’re “[...] easy to install yet make the home look more put together.” These particular shelves are lightweight as well as sturdy, making it easy to mount them on walls. They’re also great for helping maximize the storage space in your home — and each one is made from rustic paulownia wood that can hold up to 13 pounds.

21

A landscape light that puts your outdoor space on display

Homes with a dark exterior will always look less inviting than ones that are lit up at night. “Illuminate outdoor spaces such as pathways, decks, and gardens with strategically placed fixtures,” explains Mike Marlow, founder of Blingle! Premier Lighting. “You could use solar string lights or spotlights, which are a cheap and effective way to elevate your outdoor space.”

Speaking of spotlights, this landscape light is an easy-to-install option that you can point in nearly any direction. The beam angle can be adjusted up to 90 degrees, while the base rotates 260 degrees — and its 5-foot power cable makes it easy to use with distant outlets. Plus, the waterproof exterior ensures that it’ll keep working come rain or shine.

22

These solar-powered garden lights that look just like swaying fireflies

Now that the outside of your home is lit up, it’s time to illuminate your garden with these whimsical lights. A solar panel built into their base keeps them lit for hours at night — and their flexible shafts sway in the wind, making them look just like fireflies. Installation is as easy as pressing them down into the ground, then waiting for them to light up once the sun goes down.

23

The outdoor string lights that can handle the weather

Continuing Marlow’s lighting suggestion, you can hang these string lights across your patio for a warm, inviting vibe. The sockets are waterproof, so there’s no need to take them down if it starts to rain — and you can even connect up to 60 strands together to cover extra-large spaces. Choose from two strand colors: black or white.

24

These LED deck lights that are *so* easy to install

Add these lights to your deck railing, and they’ll automatically turn on once the sun goes down. Installation is as easy as screwing them right into place — and their waterproof design ensures they’ll stay working for the foreseeable future. Plus, the solar panel built into the top of each one keeps them lit for up to 10 hours at night.

25

The solar-powered pathway lights that cast a sunburst pattern

Pathways are another location that benefits from an illumination upgrade, as per Marlow’s suggestion. These solar-powered stake lights make another ambience- (and safety-) enhancing option. They cast a sunburst-shaped light pattern on the ground, giving them a unique look that’s sure to have your house stand out from the rest of the neighborhood. The stainless steel pole won’t rust over time — and since the lampshade is made from durable acrylic, there’s no need to worry about it shattering.

26

These stylish round mirrors that make your space appear larger

To enhance the lighting and airiness of your space, consider hanging up a few mirrors across from the windows. According to Michael Campbell, owner of SAT Stained Concrete, “[Adding] mirrors strategically can make a room appear larger and brighter.”

Not only are these mirrors are available for less than $35, but they also come in three finishes: gold, black, or silver. The rustproof frames won’t corrode over time, while the HD glass lets you see your reflection in crystal-clear clarity. Besides — at less than $35 for two of them, I think we can both agree that they’re an absolute steal.

27

The live house plants that come in chic pots

When in doubt, decorating with a few house plants is an affordable way to make any home feel warm and inviting. “Don't overlook the power of plants either,” says Campbell. “Indoor plants not only add visual appeal but also purify the air.”

Not only do these live house plants come in adorable pots, but you only need to water them about once a week in order for them to thrive. They do well when placed in bright, sunny rooms — and their small footprints mean they should fit on most window sills.

28

A tiered plant stand made from real eucalyptus wood

Now that you’ve picked up some house plants, it’s time to figure out where you want to put them. Personally, I’m a fan of this stand. It’s made from eucalyptus wood, with space for a minimum of seven pots — and the lack of solid walls allows light to reach all the plants you place on it.

29

This mini table lamp that comes in a gorgeous shade of red

If you’ve got a room in your home that feels a little dull, consider giving color drenching a try. “Color drenching a room is a popular trend right now which creates a bold and impactful statement by saturating an entire space with a single hue,” explains Barry Krall, brand president of Groovy Hues. “You can create a rich look that's wallet friendly.”And if you aren’t sure what color to use, red makes a snazzy option as TikTok’s Unexpected Red Theory attests. Even if it doesn’t match the rest of your decor, bold red tends to instantly make a space look more curated.

With that in mind, this mini table lamp comes in a bold shade of red that perfectly fits the bill. Its compact footprint takes up hardly any space on your nightstand or desk. And if you aren’t a fan of red, don’t worry — you still have the choice of more than 10 other colors.

30

A vibrant area rug that won’t slide around underfoot

If you’re a fan of how that red table lamp looks, this area rug is a must-have — especially if you’re into the idea of color drenching. It’s just as soft as it is vibrant, and features a nonslip underside that helps keep it from shifting out of place. With seven sizes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble fitting it into nearly any room.

31

This chalk paint that lets you color-drench furniture you already have

No color-drenched look is complete without a stunning accent wall or piece of furniture — and this chalk paint is a must if you plan to DIY. It dries to a chalky, matte finish within about 30 minutes, so you won’t have to wait around for a long period of time in order to complete a second coat (if needed). Plus, the self-leveling formula delivers a smooth texture that’s free from brush strokes.

32

These throw pillow cases made from 100% cotton

Made from 100% cotton, these throw pillow cases are a cute way to tie your furniture into that color-drenched room. They’re made from 100% cotton, with a hidden zipper on the back that keeps the filling from sliding out. With seven sizes to choose from, it should be simple to find one that suits the color of your couch or bed.

33

The peel-&-stick crown molding that looks more expensive than it is

Sometimes the smallest details make the biggest impact — like adding crown molding to your walls. “One of the things that separates homes on the higher-end of the market from those that aren’t is crown molding,” explains Josh Rudin, owner of ASAP Restoration LLC. “A savvy DIYer with a modest budget can take on this project over a weekend or two and completely transform the feel of the interior of the home.”

With that in mind, this crown molding is an easy DIY option that’ll only set you back $32. Simply press it into place on your walls the same way you would with a giant sticker — and if your walls are on the shorter side, you can trim the PVC material to fit as needed. Choose from three colors: white, gold, or white/gold.

34

This rustic paneling made from 100% reclaimed wood

A bold accent wall is one of the many clever tricks you can do in order to make any room feel fresh and new. “It may go out of style in a few years, but at the moment, an accent wall can make a home look totally transformed,” Rudin tells Mic. “Use shiplap, or just a starkly different contrasting color than the rest of the property and it will pop!”

If the shiplap look speaks to you, give this rustic wood paneling a try instead. It’s made from 100% reclaimed wood that’s been naturally weathered — and each order comes with enough to cover up to 8 square feet of space.

35

These statement-making wall panels in textural 3-D

For another easy — yet totally statement-making accent wall option, these 3-D panels are a solid choice. They’re made from premium, lightweight PVC that’s, fire-resistant, waterproof, as well as easy to hang up. And with five colors to choose from, you can easily find one to complement your home: black, gold, silver, walnut, or white.

36

These polka dot wall decals for whimsical freestyle accenting

It can be challenging to find a balance between fun and stylish (and even kid-friendly) when designing a room — which is only part of the reason why I’m a fan of these decals. Not only can you use them to create an accent wall, but they’re also incredibly easy to install, as they’re essentially large stickers. Each order comes with 150 stickers in 15 different colors.

37

These stylish cabinet pulls made from rust-resistant stainless steel

Swapping out the hardware in your home may be the last thing you think of when it comes to upgrades — but that doesn’t mean it can’t make a big impact. “Every home has hardware to upgrade, and doing so can make the entire property look new again,” explains Rudin. “Old brass handles can be swapped out for a few dollars each with modern clean ones that will give the kitchen or bathroom a totally new feel to it.”

These particular cabinet handles are made from rust-resistant stainless steel, making them suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and every room in between. They come in a variety of sizes to suit nearly any drawer or cabinet. Plus, the matte black finish won’t go out of style anytime soon.

38

This decorative film that adds privacy to windows

If you don’t like the way your windows look with curtains hanging up, consider opting for this film instead. “[One] game-changer is a decorative window film,” explains Ryan Vaughn, owner of SD Epoxy Flooring. “It provides privacy while allowing natural light to filter through, giving any room a fresh and inviting look.”

With that in mind, this window film transforms plain windows into gorgeous stained glass. There’s no adhesive required in order to set it up, as it stays in place using static cling — so you won’t have any trouble adjusting it if need be. It adds privacy while still allowing light to shine through, making it great for homes with a shortage of natural light.

39

These outlet plates that look way more expensive than they are

Once you’ve covered your windows with that film, it’s time to take a look at your outlet and switch plate covers. “Additionally, installing new switch plates and outlet covers can make a surprising difference in the overall aesthetic,” Vaughn tells Mic. “Upgrading light fixtures with sleek and contemporary designs can also elevate the ambiance of any space.”

These particular plate covers have an aged bronze finish, making them look way more expensive than they are. Each order includes matching screws for a sleek, finished look. They come in a variety of styles to suit nearly any outlet or switch, including rocker, toggle, and more.

40

A plaid outdoor rug that makes the entry so polished

If your entryway feels like it’s missing something, the answer could be as simple as adding a door mat. “[Don't] underestimate the power of a vibrant front door mat,” says Vaughn. “It adds a welcoming touch and sets a positive first impression.”

Not only does this door mat come in a variety of sizes and colors, but the plaid pattern is sure to stay in style for years to come. And if it gets dirty, cleaning is as simple as tossing it into the wash — though you can just as easily wash it by hand if you choose a larger size that doesn’t fit inside your machine. Plus, the low pile is unlikely to snag on doors.