55 mistakes that make your home look cheap as hell (but they're so easy to fix)
Correcting these little missteps will make your home feel so expensive.

Sometimes a home that feels expensive has less to do with how high your mortgage or rent is each month, and more to do with how much attention you give to small details. Things like worn-down grout, tangled nests of power cables, and scratched-up surfaces can all read “cheap” — but luckily, they’re also cheap to fix. In fact, you might be surprised by how much more luxurious your house will feel once you start correcting little mistakes here and there. Keep scrolling to discover the tiny missteps you might be making, along with easy solutions that'll bring your living space to the next level.
01
Mistake: ripped & broken window screens
Fix: mesh tape that makes repairs easyFix torn mesh screens in seconds with this peel-and-stick repair tape. Made with a durable three-layer design and backed with adhesive, it sticks firmly to keep repairs in place through daily wear and tough weather. Great for indoor or outdoor use, it works on window and door screens like a champ.
02
Mistake: annoying, curled-up rug corners
Fix: corner-shaped grippers that keep your rug in placeKeep rug corners flat and frustration free with these V-shaped rug grippers. Designed with strong yet flexible rubber and a weatherproof adhesive, they instantly stop curling, sliding, and lifted edges — without ever sticking to or damaging your floors. Safe for hardwood, tile, laminate, and even outdoor spaces, they work with any rug or mat. Just attach to each corner for a seamless, stay-flat look that lasts.
03
Mistake: paint scratches & damage
Fix: easy-to-use paint pens for touch-ups on demandTouch up scuffs, dings, and scratches like a pro with these refillable touch-up paint pens. Just load in your own paint for a perfect color match and use the bristle tip to repair — no bulky brushes or messy rollers needed. The airtight, vacuum-sealed design keeps paint fresh for up to seven years, while the twist-control tip gives smooth, precise coverage. They’re great for walls, trim, doors, furniture, and DIY projects.
04
Mistake: an ugly doorbell chime
Fix: a decorative, vintage-looking coverGive your entryway an instant upgrade with this aesthetic doorbell chime cover. Designed to fit most standard chime boxes, it hides bulky hardware while adding a clean, design-forward touch to your walls. The durable wood construction protects internal components, and the white finish can be painted to match your decor. Easy to install and effortlessly stylish, it’s a simple way to elevate your space.
05
Mistake: holes in the wall
Fix: a spackling tool to easily fill them inSmall holes in the wall aren’t uncommon, but they can make your home look worse for wear. This small hole repair tool makes it so easy and fast to patch things up, even if you’re not super handy. Fill the hole with the primer-enhanced spackle inside, smooth it with the putty knife on the end, then sand it over with the sanding tool on the cap.
06
Mistake: cords cluttering kitchen counters
Fix: stick-on organizers for tangle-free tidinessKeep messy kitchen cords under control with these cord organizers for appliances. They stick securely to most surfaces using adhesive that won’t leave residue behind. Perfect for everything from air fryers and mixers to coffee makers and pressure cookers, they keep your counters tidy and your kitchen running smoothly.
07
Mistake: dirty blinds
Fix: a soft duster that gets in the hard-to-reach spotsDusting window blinds is a tedious task that’s no one’s idea of fun. This blind duster is a smartly designed items that easily swipes dust and debris off of two blind sections at once, thanks to three microfiber-covered brush heads. “This tool allows me to get every last bit of dust between the slats,” one reviewer wrote. “The handle is light weight, sturdy and easy to hold. The microfiber dusting pieces fit perfectly over the handle and attract dust like a magnet.”
08
Mistake: cracked caulk on bathroom & kitchen surfaces
Fix: caulk tape that creates an instantly refreshed lookRefresh your kitchen or bathroom with this easy-to-use, waterproof caulk tape. Designed with a flexible crease for perfect seam placement, it sticks effortlessly to tubs, sinks, counters, toilets, and more. Made from durable PVC, it creates a clean, professional look that covers cracks and gaps without the mess of traditional caulk application.
09
Mistake: TV cables snaking down your wall
Fix: a quick fix to hide your dangling cordsIf you have a wall-mounted TV, the cords dangling below can become a visual distraction that downgrades your decor. Luckily, you can keep messy cables safely tucked away with this cord-hiding raceway kit. It creates a sleek, seamless look and can even be painted to match your wall. The snap-on design makes installation fast and frustration free — no tools or pro help needed.
- Available sizes: 9
- Available colors: 5
10
Mistake: litter scattered on the floor
Fix: a thick mat that captures stray litterAny kitty owner knows that cats can make a huge mess in the area around their litter boxes. This double-layer litter mat is an effective way to keep the mess to a minimum. It traps scattered litter before it gets all over the floor, keeping it contained in an inner pocket so you can easily reuse or toss it. Washing it is as simple as rinsing it off.
11
Mistake: a couch covered in pet fur
Fix: a protective, comfy cover you can throw in the washProtect your fur-niture (see what I did there?) from scratches, pet hair, and spills with this cozy nonslip couch cover. Made from thick, plush fabric with a grippy backing, it stays securely in place while keeping your sofa looking fresh. It’s the kind of thing your pet will love cuddling up on and it's machine washable for easy care.
- Available sizes: 3
- Available colors: 6
12
Mistake: cracked concrete walkways & driveways
Fix: easy-to-use liquid cement that instantly fills gaps & cracksFix concrete cracks quickly and easily with this ready-to-use cement filler. Designed for horizontal cracks indoors or outdoors, it dries to a gray finish that blends with most concrete surfaces. Just shake, pour, and let it set — it’s self leveling and ready for foot traffic within 45 minutes.
13
Mistake: unsealed sink & counter joints
Fix: transparent caulk tape that seals gapsGaps between appliances and countertops can lead to an accumulation of dust and crumbs, and can be a pain to clean. This transparent caulk tape offers an easy fix even beginners can do. Applying it is as simple as using a roll of tape, but unlike regular tape, it’s thicker, stronger, and provides a waterproof seal. Choose between white, black, or clear.
14
Mistake: messy cords jutting out of your sockets
Fix: an outlet concealer that blends in with your wallCreate a cleaner, sleeker space with this outlet and cord concealer kit that does away with the look of bulky plugs. The flat extension cord hugs the wall, but lets you plug appliances into the three outlets at the end — just tuck it behind furniture. Easy to install, it includes adhesive strips and cord clips for a seamless look.
- Available sizes: 5
15
Mistake: mineral buildup on surfaces
Fix: spray cleaner that targets hard water depositsMineral buildup is, unfortunately, inevitable in most homes, and cleaning it can require a bit more than your standard cleaner. This mineral stain remover is designed to combat stubborn hard water deposits of calcium, lime, and rust, and can be used on nearly any surface, from stainless steel to porcelain, glass, and even brick.
16
Mistake: worn-out kitchen rugs
Fix: cushioned mats that looks like chic decorMake long hours on your feet feel easier with this anti-fatigue kitchen mat set. The cushioned 0.5-inch profile helps support your feet, knees, and back, while the heavy-duty, nonslip rubber backing keeps each rug securely in place. Waterproof, stain resistant, and easy to clean, these two vintage-style mats add comfort and charm to kitchens and laundry rooms.
- Available sizes: 5
- Available colors: 13
17
Mistake: mold-stained surfaces
Fix: a mold remover gel that doesn’t require scrubbingTackle stubborn mold and mildew stains with this powerful gel cleaner designed to whiten, lift, and dissolve grime with minimal effort from you. Perfect for washing machine gaskets, refrigerator seals, bathroom tile, grout, tubs, and shower caulking, the thick gel stays in place without running — just wipe it clean after five hours.
18
Mistake: old & dingy light switch covers
Fix: a light switch cover with an elevated lookAdd a touch of timeless elegance to your home with this wall plate switch cover. Its crisp white finish creates a clean, polished look that complements any style, from traditional to modern. It installs easily with the included matching screws.
- Available styles: 4
19
Mistake: cord chaos at your workstation
Fix: a hidden cable management system that goes under the deskCreate a cleaner, more professional workspace with this sleek cable management raceway kit. Designed for tool-free installation, the strong adhesive backing sticks securely under your desk to hide up to 10 power cords and Ethernet cables. The non-locking channels make it easy to add or remove wires any time, keeping your setup flexible and tidy.
- Available colors: 3
20
Mistake: uneven flooring in doorways
Fix: a floor transition strip that covers gaps & helps prevent trippingUneven floor transitions don't just look jarring, they can also present some risk. You can quickly fix gaps with this heavy-duty transition strip. Designed to handle daily wear, its low-profile design helps prevent tripping while covering gaps up to 2 inches between tile, wood, carpet, or laminate. Just cut, peel, and stick — no tools required.
- Available sizes: 10
- Available colors: 7
21
Mistake: dirty fridge shelves
Fix: easy-to-clean liners that catch drips & spillsKeep your fridge clean and organized with these refrigerator liner mats. They’re waterproof, anti-skid, and most importantly — easy to wipe clean, so you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying a sparkly fridge. Not to mention, the bright colors add a pop of style.
- Available colors: 2
22
Mistake: a scratched-up stovetop
Fix: a protective cover that acts as extra workspace, tooProtect your stove and expand your kitchen workspace with this silicone stove cover that works with both glass-top and electric ranges. It shields your cooktop from scratches, spills, and stains, while doubling as a heat-resistant trivet and a drying mat for wet dishes. Waterproof, flexible, and dishwasher safe, it wipes clean in seconds and rolls up for easy storage.
- Available sizes: 10
- Available colors: 6
23
Mistake: dim, poorly lit areas
Fix: LED lights you just stick right onDim areas of your home can feel dreary, so light up dark stairways and hallways with these battery-powered motion-sensor lights. Delivering warm illumination, they turn on automatically within 10 feet and shut off after 30 seconds to save energy. They install in seconds using screws or heavy-duty adhesive — no wiring needed.
24
Mistake: smudged TV & computer screens
Fix: cleaning spray for crystal-clear screensKeep every screen in your home spotless with this gentle, streak-free screen cleaner kit. Safe for TV, computer, and device screens, it removes fingerprints, dust, and smudges without harming sensitive surfaces. The included microfiber cloth leaves behind a crystal-clear finish with no streaks or lint.
25
Mistake: a mess of device chargers everywhere
Fix: a 3-in-1 charging station that minimizes device clutterCharge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once with this three-in-one wireless magnetic charger. It’s compact and space saving, with a strong magnetic alignment that locks your phone into place. With everything grouped together and only one cable needed, it's a great way to clear up desk or nightstand clutter.
- Available colors: 2
26
Mistake: damaged trim
Fix: caulk trim that’s so much less messy than real caulkGive your home a clean, finished look with this flexible peel-and-stick caulk trim. Designed to bend and conform to any edge, it creates smooth, professional lines around sinks, tubs, counters, floors, and more — no messy caulking required. Waterproof and stain resistant, it seals out moisture in high-humidity areas and holds up to regular cleaning.
- Available sizes: 6
- Available colors: 4
27
Mistake: dangling mounted TV cords
Fix: a cord hider that takes 20 minutes to set upHide messy TV and media cables in just 20 minutes with this in-wall cable pass-through kit. Perfect for HDMI, aux, and other low-voltage cables, the kit includes a drywall saw for the perfect hole cut and locking grommets that stay securely in place. Each flexible grommet fits up to four thick HDMI cables and can be painted to match your wall.
28
Mistake: dirty exterior windows
Fix: an extendable tool that reaches where you can’tCleaning your outside windows often calls for professionals, but this squeegee makes it possible to tackle them on your own. The tool features a sponge on one side and a rubber blade on the other, so you can wet the glass, then wipe it all away. The sturdy aluminum pole telescopes from 20 to 46 inches to reach high or hard-to-access spots. Use it on shower doors, tiles, and even car windshields, too.
29
Mistake: an uncovered bathroom trash can
Fix: a motion-sensor trash can with a secure lidUpgrade your bathroom with this sleek motion-sensor trash can. Powered by two AA batteries, its smart infrared technology opens the lid automatically when your hand approaches, then closes it after five seconds. The water-resistant design makes it perfect for bathrooms and kitchens, while the removable bag-fix ring keeps liners secure and hidden.
- Available colors: 11
30
Mistake: dirty window screens
Fix: a double-sided screen cleaning brush for a thorough scrubbingClean window screens quickly and safely — without removing them — with this double-sided screen cleaning brush. The long, flexible fibers reach into mesh openings to lift dust, pollen, and stubborn grime, whether used dry or with cleaning fluid. Use the brush by hand or attach the 9-inch handle for extra reach.
31
Mistake: smudged stainless steel
Fix: a highly rated cleaning & polishing solution in oneKeep your stainless steel looking flawless with this plant-powered cleaning solution. Boasting a 4.6-star overall rating, the 16-ounce cleaning spray and polisher in one removes smudges, streaks, grease, and grime while leaving behind a protective finish that resists fingerprints and scratches. Safe for appliances, grills, sinks, and even black stainless steel, the set comes with a premium microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
32
Mistake: an exposed toilet paper stash
Fix: an understated storage solution that can hold up to 12 rollsKeep your bathroom stocked and looking stylish with this toilet paper storage basket that holds up to 12 regular or nine mega rolls. Made from durable fabric with a sleek bamboo lid and frame, it features elevated feet to keep rolls dry and a clear side window, so you always know when to restock. Built-in handles make moving it easy, and the foldable design saves space when not in use.
- Available sizes: 3
- Available colors: 4
33
Mistake: dingy, discolored grout lines
Fix: a grout pen that instantly refreshes up to 150 feetMake dingy grout look brand-new with this easy-to-use grout pen. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and tiled floors or walls, it applies a gentle, water-based colorant that instantly brightens and refreshes grout lines. Each pen covers up to 150 feet of thin grout, making it great for small touch-ups or full-room makeovers. Just shake and glide — no scrubbing required.
34
Mistake: an unattractive headboard reading light
Fix: an elegant reading light with a lampshadeReading lights can be boring and utilitarian, but this bedside light has an elegant look that blends in with the rest of your room. The over-the-headboard design concentrates the light, while the pleated fabric shade creates a soft, warm glow that illuminates your book — not the entire room. Easily adjustable hooks let it slide onto most headboards with no tools required and you can use the remote to adjust the brightness or set a timer.
- Available colors: 2
35
Mistake: damaged wood floors or surfaces
Fix: a filler that hides imperfections with easeDamaged surfaces are no match for this wood putty filler that repairs holes and imperfections. Perfect for furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and more, it’s designed not to shrink or crack and can be stained or painted for a seamless match. The set comes with sanding pads and scrapers for a clean finish.
- Available colors: 8
36
Mistake: fur on furniture & rugs
Fix: a reusable roller that picks up every stray hairKeep furniture, rugs, and more fur-free with this pet hair remover. It’s basically a big lint roller with grippy panels that capture every strand of hair out there. It also boasts more than 105,900 five-star ratings. “This pet hair remover is amazing!” one shopper wrote. “You will think your cushions are clean but roll over it with this simple tool and be surprised by how much it catches!”
37
Mistake: visible under-bed storage
Fix: a decorative bed skirt to keep everything hiddenUsing the area under your bed for discreet storage is an excellent idea, but if everything is on full view, it kind of defeats the purpose. This budget-friendly bed skirt is the answer: Made of a soft material that pleats nicely, this creates a neater, more cohesive look with very little effort.
38
Mistake: cleaning tool clutter
Fix: a tidy wall rack that saves spaceThis cleaning tool organizer is the best way to keep clunky tools, like mops and brooms, neat and orderly. It comes with everything you need to mount it the wall, garage, or inside a pantry or closet door, and features five slots to slide in items — each slot can hold up to 7.5 pounds. There are six hooks for smaller brushes and tools as well.
39
Mistake: dusty ceiling fans
Fix: an extendable cleaner that gets the top & bottomYou might not always spot the dust caked on your fan blades, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there. This extendable fan cleaner makes a normally annoying task a lot simpler, with a double-sided duster that gets the top and bottom of the blade at once. It’s covered in soft chenille to prevent damage while it collects dust, and the long handle makes it easy to use on ceiling fans without needing a ladder.
40
Mistake: burnt food on the stove
Fix: a scraping tool that removes stubborn grimeCleaning the stovetop sometimes requires a bit more than a paper towel and your favorite cleaner. Stubborn food stains and burnt-on debris are no match against this razor blade scraper tool. This one is a breeze to use, cleaning right down to the glass surface without scratching, and has easy-to-replace blades and a locking position for safer storage.
41
Mistake: messy toothpaste tube & sink
Fix: silicone caps that seal automaticallyTired of cleaning dried toothpaste off the sink and counter? Help prevent that from happening by using these cleverly designed toothpaste caps. Made of easy-to-clean silicone, after dispensing toothpaste, these self-seal to prevent any extra from leaking out and making a mess on and around the tube. They come in a pack of three and couldn’t be simpler to use.
42
Mistake: scratched wood furniture & floors
Fix: scratch concealer to restore & protectScratches on wood floors and furniture can make them look dingy and old, even if that’s not the case. Try this wood concealer before spending a lot to replace those pieces. It works to camouflage nicks, scuffs, and scratches, leaving behind a smooth, streak-free finish. It also serves to restore and condition wood surfaces.
43
Mistake: disorganized devices & chargers
Fix: a station to charge everything in one spotA slew of assorted devices and corresponding chargers can make any room look cluttered. Grab a charging station like this one to give tech items a dedicated home. This one acts as a central hub with six short cables, a USB-A to USB-C adapter, and an Apple Watch charging stand. Separated compartments mean you can neatly store up to six devices at once.
44
Mistake: no outdoor lighting
Fix: low-maintenance solar lightsDon’t be intimidated by the idea of installing lighting in your yard. These solar spot lights are incredibly easy to install and even simpler to maintain. They’re on stakes, so you can place them in the ground wherever you want, and they charge in the sun so there’s no wiring involved. They turn on and off automatically and have three light modes.
45
Mistake: furniture is scratching the floors
Fix: transparent covers for chair legsAvoid the costly repairs that accompany scratched-up floors by using these chair leg covers. Made of durable silicone with a soft felt bottom, they’re gentle on floors of all types. Stretchy enough to be easy to slip onto your chair legs, the clear design makes them nearly invisible.
46
Mistake: stained shelves & drawers
Fix: floral shelf liners to protect & decorateThese shelf liners have to be the most aesthetically pleasing way to keep shelves and drawers protected from damage. The delicate floral pattern is unexpected and pretty, and you can choose between a few colors. You can cut it to size, it has a nonadhesive bottom and nonslip grip, and it’s water- and stain-resistant.
47
Mistake: cat-scratched couch
Fix: transparent shields that act as a barrierIt can feel impossible to keep your cats’ claws off your furniture, but these transparent scratch protectors can do the trick. The extra-large size offers great coverage and creates a barrier between furniture and claws — beyond that, your feline probably isn’t going to love the texture of this under their paws. Adhesive backing makes installation a breeze.
48
Mistake: electric toothbrushes crowding the counter
Fix: minimalist holders that mount to the wallIf your electric toothbrushes are currently in a heap in a drawer or cluttering up your bathroom counter, consider these wall-mounted holders a real upgrade. Stick them to the wall in the shower or near your sink and they’ll hold almost any electric toothbrush. The bottom is ventilated to allow water to drip through and they come apart for easy cleaning.
49
Mistake: old, worn-out kitchen towels
Fix: durable, quick-drying towels in bold printsConsider this your sign to replace those old dish towels that have been in rotation for years. These microfiber dish towels are lightweight and super absorbent, with the ability to hold up to five times their weight in liquid. They dry quickly and come with hanging loops for convenience. They’re nice to look at and available in a slew of bold, colorful prints.
50
Mistake: food wrap boxes creating clutter
Fix: an organizer that keeps boxes neatThis organizer has a very specific job: It’s meant to hold food wrap boxes that can otherwise create a cluttered mess in drawers or cabinets. Three tiers offer space to hold six boxes or more, depending on size, and everything is easily accessed. And, of course, you can use this to organize nearly anything.
51
Mistake: scattered shoes
Fix: a sleek shoe rack that’s so budget-friendlyIdeal for a large closet, entryway, or mudroom, this bamboo shoe rack helps keep a collection of shoes orderly while also saving space. The seven-tier design holds plenty of shoes and it’s easy to put together. And if you ever want more storage, placing multiple sets side by side creates a cohesive look.
52
Mistake: messy vanity
Fix: a tiered organizer with a modern lookEven leaving a few products on the bathroom counter can leave the space looking messy. This bathroom organizer holds an array of items of different sizes, and with its eye-catching design it actually looks nice on display. It’s sturdy, and the spacious tiers allow you to easily find and grab what you need.
53
Mistake: paper towels on the counter
Fix: a magnetic holder that can stick to the fridgeThe more items that live off your countertops, the better. This magnetic paper towel holder can be stuck on the side of your refrigerator (or microwave, or grill) to create a convenient spot for your paper towels. The nonscratch magnet is strong and it saves space while making it a breeze to tear off your towels.
54
Mistake: coffee table chaos
Fix: an aesthetically pleasing organizer for remotes & moreThis versatile holder box can be used in so many different ways. One handy option is to place it on your coffee table and use it to stash your assortment of remote controls. Not only does this help prevent you from losing a precious remote, but it also looks a lot more put together. It also works just as well for office supplies and other small sundries.
55
Mistake: items without designated storage
Fix: chic, versatile bins that hold it allThese large storage boxes are a go-to organizer for any closet space and can hold everything from bulky clothing to linens, accessories, or shoes, with plenty of space inside. Chic rope handles let you move them around as needed, and the sides are sturdy and hold their shape. These instantly make any space look more organized, and when not in use, they fold flat for storage.