55 mistakes that make your home look bad — & are actually so cheap to fix

Your home will feel like heaven on earth once you remedy these little missteps.

Shopping
By Erin Celletti and Amanda Pellegrino
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

Ever walk into your home or look around your space and realize that something just feels off — but you can’t quite put your finger on it? Odds are, it’s one of those tiny, sneaky home mistakes quietly sabotaging the whole vibe. The good news? Most of them are shockingly cheap (and fast) to fix. From clutter magnets and worn-out basics to lighting mishaps and organizational chaos, we rounded up common home slip-ups along with budget-friendly Amazon finds that fix them instantly. Ahead, you’ll find small tweaks with big glow-up energy — zero renovations required.

01

Mistake: Scratched & scuffed walls

Fix: Refillable paint pens that were made for easy touch-ups

These refillable touch-up paint pens are such a game changer for quick fixes. You just load one with your wall paint for a perfect match — no brushes, trays, or mess. The twist tip gives you total control, the fine brush stays drip free, and the airtight design even keeps paint fresh for years. They’re perfect for scuffs, dings, rentals, and last-minute DIY touch-ups.

02

Mistake: Torn window screens

Fix: Mesh screen tape that solves the problem in seconds

If you’ve got a ripped screen and zero patience for a full repair, this tape is such a lifesaver. Just cut, peel, and stick — no tools, no skills, no drama. It sticks well, holds up to weather, and works on windows, doors, and even tents. It’s super durable and honestly one of those “Why didn’t I buy this sooner?” fixes.

03

Mistake: Kitchen towels & accessories strewn everywhere

Fix: Towel hooks that stick right on — no hardware required

These bamboo push towel hooks are such a simple, genius upgrade. You just push your towel in (or oven mitt or dish glove) and it stays put until you pull it out. They keep towels off your counters and right where you need them. Plus, you can stick them on or screw them in. They’re a total kitchen (and bathroom) game changer.

  • Available colors: 7

04

Mistake: Dusty surfaces

Fix: Specialty dust sponges that literally soak up grime

If baseboards, vents, and blinds make you want to pretend dust doesn’t exist, this sponge is your new bestie. Just soak it in water and it softens up to grab dust, hair, and grime like magic. The grooved, U-shaped design get into all those annoying crevices, making it weirdly satisfying to use. With these, cleaning feels faster — and way less gross.

05

Mistake: Cord & power strip chaos

Fix: Discreet boxes to hide excess cords & cables

Are all your cords driving you absolutely bananas? Then this all-in-one cable management set is for you. You get two sleek boxes in different sizes, plus clips and ties — basically everything to hide power strips and tame the chaos. The wood-style lids are elegant, making your space instantly feel calmer and more put together.

  • Available colors: 2

06

Mistake: Cracked driveways & walkways

Fix: Cement crack filler with a squeeze-on formula

This ready-to-use concrete crack filler is such a win for quick fixes. Just shake, pour, and let the self-leveling formula do the work — no mixing, no mess. It dries gray to blend right in, works indoors or out, and is ready for foot traffic in under an hour. It’s paintable, durable, and perfect for knocking out repairs fast.

07

Mistake: Rugs curling up at the corners

Fix: Rug grippers that keep things neatly & firmly in place

Curling rug corners are so annoying, but this little four-pack of grippers fixes them instantly. With a smart V-shape, they grip the rug (not the floor), keeping corners flat without damaging hardwood or tile. Strong, weatherproof adhesive works indoors or out, while the flexible rubber blends seamlessly with the rug. They’re easy to install, add zero bulk, and rugs finally stay put.

08

Mistake: Scratched floors from chair legs

Fix: Chair leg covers that let furniture glide without damage

Chair leg floor protectors are one of those small upgrades that actually makes a huge difference. They slip on easily, protect hardwood, tile, and laminate from scratches, and seriously cut down on that awful scraping noise. The flexible silicone design fits chairs, tables, and more without looking bulky, blending right into your space while keeping floors safe and furniture moving smoothly.

09

Mistake: Smudged, cloudy stainless steel

Fix: A cleaning kit made specifically for the job

Kitchen stainless looking dull? This plant-powered stainless steel cleaning bundle brings appliances back to life fast. The pH-neutral formula cuts streaks, smudges, and fingerprints without harsh ingredients, while the plush microfiber cloth buffs everything to a polished, streak-free shine. Safe for regular and black stainless steel, it even leaves behind a protective barrier so surfaces stay cleaner for longer.

10

Mistake: Fur-coated furniture

Fix: A pet hair remover that doesn’t need sticky tape or refills

Fur everywhere? This reusable pet hair remover is a best-seller that addresses the problem like a champ. A few back-and-forth passes pull dog and cat hair off couches, rugs, pillows, car seats — basically anywhere fur loves to hide. Just roll, pop it open, empty the chamber to dump everything into the trash, and move on with a clean, hair-free space.

11

Mistake: Damaged wood surfaces

Fix: Touch-up markers that conceal scratches instantly

Furniture scratches don’t stand a chance with this handy set of wood repair markers. Multiple shades blend seamlessly to hide scuffs, nicks, and scratches on tables, desks, chairs, and cabinets in minutes. The mess-free pens are super easy to use, compact enough to stash anywhere, and perfect for quick touch-ups that restore wood’s natural look — no pros, tools, or stress required. You’ll even get crayons for filling in deeper damage.

12

Mistake: Dark kitchen counters

Fix: Under-cabinet lights — no wiring required

Kitchen, closet, and hallway lighting just got so much smarter. These motion-sensor under-cabinet lights turn on automatically in the dark, shut off on their own, and adjust to five brightness levels for late-night snacks or full-on meal prep. Rechargeable and wire free, they’re super easy to install — and help make fumbling in the dark a thing of the past.

  • Available colors: 2

13

Mistake: Dirty exterior windows

Fix: A window squeegee that extends to 46 inches

This two-in-one window squeegee will forever change the way you clean your windows. The soft rubber blade and sponge scrub away grime without scratching, while the rotating head locks into different angles for tricky windows and glass doors. The adjustable aluminum pole makes reaching high spots easy, so you can use this cleaner anywhere: on exterior windows, showers, mirrors, windshields, and more.

14

Mistake: Heavy drapery

Fix: Light & airy linen curtains

Light, airy, and effortlessly pretty, these linen-blend curtains instantly soften a room. The open-weave fabric lets sunlight filter in beautifully while still giving a bit of privacy. The grommets make hanging super easy, and the natural texture works with literally any decor style.

  • Available sizes: 7
  • Available colors: 20

15

Mistake: Dingy faucets & fixtures

Fix: A tiny automatic scrub brush with big power

Make stubborn messes a thing of the past with this handheld power scrubber. It has an oscillating head that scrubs 60 times per second, cutting cleaning time in half and saving serious elbow grease. It’s water resistant, battery powered, and perfect for tight spots like grout, sinks, appliances, patio furniture, car wheels, and even sneakers.

16

Mistake: Dark, depressing corners

Fix: Night-lights with soothing bubbles in 14 different colors

Dark corners are never cheery, but these sleek plug-in night lights add cozy illumination wherever you put them. Available in 14 colors, the customizable brightness and color temperature ensure the glow is never too harsh or too dim. The bubble-style design feels modern and unique, while the dusk-to-dawn sensors handle everything automatically.

  • Available colors: 14

17

Mistake: Gaps between counters & walls

Fix: A gap-filling trim that goes on in seconds

This peel-and-stick caulk trim is such a game changer for quick home touch-ups. It flexes to fit edges around sinks, tubs, and counters, giving a clean, professional look without messy caulking tools. Just peel, press, and smooth — it’s that easy. Waterproof, mold resistant, and paintable, it’s perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and anywhere else you find gaps.

  • Available colors: 6

18

Mistake: Dirty window screens

Fix: A dual-sided screen cleaner that multitasks

Cleaning window screens just got so much easier thanks to this double-sided screen cleaner that scrubs both sides at once — no removing screens, no drama. Long fibers reach deep into mesh holes to lift pollen, fuzz, and grime, whether you use the brush wet or dry. Use it on its own or attach the 13-inch handle for extra reach. It’s gentle, reusable, and oddly satisfying to use.

19

Mistake: Open-top trash cans

Fix: An automatic trash can you don’t have to touch

Instead of an open bin, keep discarded items out of sight with this sleek motion-sensor trash can. Just a simple wave of your hand opens the lid, then it closes automatically — so no touching, no mess. The compact size is perfect for bathrooms, the waterproof design handles splashes easily, and the lid keeps everything out of sight.

  • Available colors: 10

20

Mistake: No kitchen backsplash

Fix: Peel & stick backsplash tiles that look expensive, but aren’t

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are such a budget-friendly way to quickly upgrade your kitchen or bathroom. These adhesive-backed sheets go on in minutes — no grout, no glue, no mess — and actually stay put once they’re set. They’re humidity resistant, easy to wipe clean, and won’t yellow or crack over time.

  • Available colors: 12

21

Mistake: Grimy baseboards

Fix: A baseboard cleaner that’s easy on your back

Keep your baseboards clean and shiny with minimal effort when you use this baseboard cleaner tool. The long handle saves your back (no bending), and the head gets into all those annoying corners. The washable pads swap out easily for wet or dry cleaning, and they’re gentle on paint, too.

22

Mistake: Water puddles at the sink

Fix:A quick-drying sink caddy that keeps things neat

This instant-dry sink organizer makes your space look elevated and gets rid of those gross water puddles once and for all. It keeps soap, sponges, and scrub brushes neatly contained while soaking up splashes before they have a chance to spill over — then dries in minutes. Made from bamboo and diatomite, it boasts a minimalist, natural look that blends in anywhere.

  • Available colors: 3

23

Mistake: A gap betwen the toilet & floor

Fix: Peel & stick caulk tape that seal things up in seconds

That annoying gap around the tub or sink? Gone. This peel-and-stick caulk tape gives instant, clean lines without messy caulking tools. It’s flexible, waterproof, and easily fits corners, seams, and edges in kitchens or bathrooms. Just peel, press, and smooth for a fresh, finished look that stays put with minimal upkeep.

24

Mistake: An old showerhead with weak water pressure

Fix: A spa-like showerhead with a rainfall flow

Instantly upgrade your old, dated showerhead with this rain showerhead that’s so spa like. Available in seven chic finishes, it delivers serious pressure with a full downpour that feels luxurious. It installs in minutes with zero tools, won’t clog thanks to easy-clean nozzles, and still saves water. With a strong flow and sleek look, this is one of those cheap upgrades that makes every shower feel wildly better.

  • Available finishes: 7

25

Mistake: Washcloths hung over the bath faucet

Fix: Suction-cup hooks that buy you extra hanging storage

Stop your towels and washcloths from piling up on the floor with these suction cup hangers that securely stick to flat surfaces with ease and no damage. Available in four finishes, each can hold up to 15 pounds while looking sleek and modern and installing in seconds. Use them to hang loofahs and bathrobes, too.

  • Available finishes: 4

26

Mistake: Crumbs & other floor messes

Fix: A broom & dustpan set with a self-cleaning design

This broom and dustpan set makes sweeping up messes so much easier. The adjustable handle extends so you don’t have to bend or reach, while the heavy-duty bristles actually grab dust, crumbs, and pet hair in fewer passes. The dustpan’s built-in comb cleans the broom bristles for you (so satisfying), and the clip-on design lets it stand upright for easy storage.

  • Available colors: 7

27

Mistake: Appliance cords snaking on the counter

Fix: Cord organixers for a way less cluttered look

Kitchen cords getting wildly out of control? These cord organizers are such a simple fix. Thick or long appliance cords wrap neatly around the prongs, while the super sticky adhesive keeps everything firmly in place — no slipping, no residue. They stick to curved or flat surfaces and work on everything from coffee makers to air fryers.

28

Mistake: Dim outdoor walkways

Fix: Solar-powered lanterns to light the way

Add elevated illumination to your home’s outdoor area with this eight-pack of solar pathway lights. They have a vintage look and add the prettiest glow along walkways, patios, and gardens. Fully solar powered, they charge during the day and light up automatically at night for up to 12 hours. No wiring or tools are necessary — just stake them in and enjoy weatherproof, low-maintenance curb appeal year-round.

29

Mistake: Drips & crumbs between the stove & counter

Fix: A gap filler that keeps spills out

That annoying gap between the stove and counter is basically a crumb graveyard — and this set of gap covers fixes it instantly. Flexible, heat-resistant silicone slides right into place to block spills and gunk — and you can even trim the strips to fit. The matte finish hides smudges, wipes clean in seconds, and is totally dishwasher safe.

30

Mistake: Wall dings from door handles

Fix: A door stopper that’s so chic, it doubles as decor

Door slams and wall dents are such a vibe killer, but this sleek floor-mounted doorstop prevents them from happening in the first place. A sturdy satin brass design absorbs impact, keeps doors exactly where you want them, and protects walls and furniture from handle damage. It works on hardwood, tile, or carpet, blends right into your space, and feels way more elevated than those clunky old stoppers. It’s a small upgrade, but a big visual win.

  • Available finishes: 4

31

Mistake: Dangling cords from your mounted TV

Fix: TV cord organizers that hide wires behind the wall

These cord organizers expertly hide all your wires and chargers by securing them directly into the wall and out of sight. Simply add the saw attachment to your drill to create a small hole in the wall, then string your wires through the back for a totally seamless-looking entertainment center without any tangled wires and cords.

32

Mistake: Crowded, cluttered countertops

Fix: A sleek caddy that adds 3 shelves of attractive storage space

This three-tier shelf sits nicely in the corner of your bathroom or kitchen countertop, giving you a ton more storage for your toiletries, skin care, cooking essentials, and more. It’s super easy to assemble and has a solid, waterproof wood shelf that’s durable and adds a touch of elegance to your bathroom.

33

Mistake: Filthy surfaces in need of deep cleaning

Fix: A portable steam cleaner with 7 interchangeable heads

From fan-favorite brand BISSELL, this best-selling portable steam cleaner gets your surfaces looking professionally scrubbed. It comes with seven different heads specifically designed for every corner of your home — from grout to tile, windows, and kitchen faucets. It heats up to 215 degrees Fahrenheit to blast through grime and gunk with just water.

34

Mistake: Old, dingy switch plates

Fix: A decorative light switch cover that looks clean & expensive

One way to instantly elevate your space is to swap out an old, discolored, and dated light switch cover for this clean, gorgeous wall plate. It has a white finish with matching screws that blend right in for a totally seamless look. Complete with an embossed border, it will make your whole room feel so much more polished.

35

Mistake: Sad, wilted plants

Fix: Terra-cotta stakes that water your plants for you

These self-watering stakes stick directly into the soil of your indoor plants and work like a mini irrigation system to keep them hydrated. Simply soak the stakes in water, then place a filled water bottle upside down into the mouth of the stake. The porous construction of the terra-cotta ensures your plants can soak up just the right amount of hydration to keep them happy.

36

Mistake: Stained plastic food storage containers

Fix: Leakproof glass containers that stay looking fresh

These clear glass containers are great because not only can you see your leftovers at a glance so you always know what’s inside, but they have silicone seals and snap locks that make them 100% airtight and leakproof. Plus they’re oven, microwave, freezer, and most importantly, dishwasher safe — no more ugly food stains.

37

Mistake: Crumpled-up plastic bags under the sink

Fix: A grocery bag dispenser that keeps things neat & tidy

This plastic bag dispenser can be mounted to a wall or a cabinet door to store all your crumpled-up plastic bags for easy reuse. It has a wide-mouth opening at the top for adding bags and a long opening on the side to dispense them one by one as you need them. The design is also fingerprint resistant so it always looks neat and clean.

38

Mistake: An address sign that’s hard to see

Fix: Illuminated house numbers that are waterproof & extra large

These illuminated house numbers can be mounted onto the wall or secured into the ground with a stake. Either way, they’ll be easy for your guests and delivery drivers alike to spot. The numbers are solar powered and automatically charge during the day and will run for up to eight hours at night for enhanced visibility.

39

Mistake: Coats & purses littering the entryway

Fix: Wall-mounted hooks that instantly organize your space

This set of five hooks mounts onto your wall to give you the perfect go-to spot for your jackets, umbrellas, purses, backpacks, hats — you name it. The hooks are even rounded and smooth so they won’t scratch your stuff. This mini rack comes with all the mounting hardware you need for a DIY install and can help you save a ton of space while keeping your home organized.

40

Mistake: Pictures hung in dark areas

Fix: Small picture lights with adjustable brightness

These small picture lights are battery operated so you can install them above the artwork around your house to give them that expensive, museum-quality look. They have three color temperatures and an adjustable brightness so you can make sure they highlight each portrait or art piece perfectly.

41

Mistake: Holes & cracks in the wall

Fix: A wall-repair kit that fills nail holes, cracks, & more

This wall-repair kit comes with spackle, scrapers, and sanders to help you fix nail marks, accidental holes, foundational cracks, and more in your walls. It dries quickly and has everything you need to create a streak-free, waterproof, professional-looking fix.

42

Mistake: Harsh overhead lighting

Fix: Rechargeable cordless lamps with a gentle glow

Say goodbye to harsh glare, because these gentle rechargeable lamps can be used indoors or outdoors. Since they’re battery powered, you can bring light into dark areas of your home that might not have access to an outlet. They can run for up to 45 hours on a single charge and they have three brightness levels with 100% adjustable brightness.

43

Mistake: Pictures hung crookedly

Fix: A laser level tool with a built-in measuring tape

This laser level is the the multipurpose tool you need to fix almost anything around your home — including crooked pictures. It has everything from multiple levels to an 8-foot measuring tape to standard metric rulers. It’s a great, easy-peasy tool to have around to make everything in your house look even and precise.

44

Mistake: Nowhere to put items while they charge

Fix: A mini outlet shelf for extra device storage

This mini shelf installs directly above your standard wall outlet, giving you an easy, go-to spot to store your devices while they’re charging. It’s great for everything from phones to toothbrushes and more. It even has secret cord storage inside the shelf to prevent your wires from tangling and looking messy.

45

Mistake: A messy, disorganized fridge

Fix: Clear, stackable refrigerator bins that tidy everything up

These bins are great for organizing your refrigerator because they’re clear, allowing you to see what’s inside at a glance. They can be used organize everything from cans to produce to leftovers. And when they’re not overstuffed, they’re stackable to take advantage of vertical storage space.

46

Mistake: Greasy kitchen cabinets

Fix: Kitchen cabinet cream that leaves behind long-lasting shine

This kitchen cabinet cream removes built-up dirt and grease to leave your wooden kitchen cabinets clean and shiny. It buffs the cabinets with a gentle formula that’s tough on grime without damaging surfaces. It doesn’t use any wax, silicone, or harsh solvents, and helps keep wood from drying out and cracking.

47

Mistake: Shower essentials littering the floor

Fix: A wall-mounted caddy that holds up to 20 pounds

This shower caddy uses strong adhesive to mount to the tile or glass of your shower to store up to 20 pounds of your toiletries — from shampoo to conditioner to body wash. It even comes with four hooks to hold your exfoliating brush, razor, washcloth, and more.

48

Mistake: Sagging couch cushions

Fix: An invisible support board that props up tired cushions

This couch support board slips seamlessly underneath the sofa cushions to prevent them from sagging so you can stay comfortable. It’s made of dense, solid wood with rounded corners and a grippy, nonslip exterior fabric that won’t scratch or damage your furniture. Better yet, it’s way cheaper than replacing your older furniture.

49

Mistake: Miscellaneous items without a home

Fix: Large closet storage baskets with cute faux leather handles

These large storage baskets are so versatile, you’ll find reasons to use them all over your home. From linens in the closet to dog toys in the living room, these baskets fit a ton of stuff and instantly organize your space with very little effort. The faux leather handles look expensive and help you easily maneuver them.

50

Mistake: Tumbler lids falling out of cabinets

Fix: A vertical storage rack that holds up to 10 lids

This vertical tumbler lid organizer can hold up to 10 lids, giving you the perfect way to store your collection so it’s not falling out every time you open the cabinet door. With a clutter-free design, this organizer is practical, lightweight, and easy to store anywhere — on your countertop or in a cabinet.

51

Mistake: Stained rugs & furniture

Fix: Powerful stain-removing spray that tackles all kinds of messes

This stain-removing spray gives you a professional-grade clean that treats stains from blood, dirt, grass, juice, coffee, red wine, pet accidents, and way more. Because it’s chlorine free and color safe, the spray won’t damage your furniture and rugs while it works its magic to remove stains.

52

Mistake: A messy coffee table

Fix: A remote control holder with plenty of compartments

This remote control holder has five divided compartments to store all your television and device remotes in one easy-to-find place. This way, you can officially say goodbye to loosing them between the couch cushions. It was a textile exterior and can sit on your coffee table or side table so you always have a go-to spot to store your remotes.

53

Mistake: A bare front porch

Fix: A washable outdoor rug that looks so inviting

The most important part of this outdoor rug isn’t that it helps prevent dirt and mud from being tracked into your home, but that it’s machine washable — an absolute must for rugs in high-traffic areas like your entryway. It has a reversible design made of woven cotton that’s ultra durable and long-lasting. Layer it with a doormat for a warm, welcoming vibe.

54

Mistake: Spaces that don’t feel cozy

Fix: A plush throw blanket made of buttery soft chenille

This plush throw blanket is made of buttery soft chenille that feels so luxurious while you’re snuggling underneath it. It features a woven design that’s perfect for relaxing with or gently tossing over the back of your couch or the foot of your bed for some inviting texture.

55

Mistake: Mail scattered on the counter

Fix: A mesh metal mail holder with multiple compartment sizes

This metal mail holders has four compartments that are perfect for storing all the letters, magazines, postcards, and mail you get daily. Place it on your entryway table or in your kitchen drop spot and all your mail will be perfectly organized until you’re ready to go through it all.