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43 Cheap & Clever Things That'll Make You Like Your Home A Lot More

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by Cliché Wynter
Updated: 
Originally Published: 

As you spend more time indoors, you might find yourself wanting to give your space a little refresh. It's always important to make sure your home feels warm and inviting — especially to you. (After all, you do spend a lot of time there.) You can start upgrading your living space by finding a few cheap and clever things that will make you like your home a lot more, without putting a dent in your bank account. You can start by warming up your space with this soft and plush faux sheepskin rug that will add a luxe touch to any room you put it in, whether that's at the foot of your bed or under the coffee table in your living room. It's a simple touch that instantly adds dimension and style, and since it comes in various sizes, you can choose the best fit. Oh, and get this: It’s completely wallet-friendly.

Once you’ve gotten your decor up to scratch, turn your focus to a little self-care. I love the idea of taking long baths at the end of the day, but I enjoy them so much more since having invested in a bamboo bathtub caddy that has space for a book, candle, and a cup of tea — essentials that make any soak feel more relaxing.

Loving these items? Check out the full list of cheap home upgrades below.

1

The Multipurpose Shower Mat Made From Bamboo

This eco-sustainable bath mat is made from bamboo and has widely-spaced slats to allow water to drain freely. The nine anti-slip feet on the underside keep it firmly in place, and the water-resistant coating helps prevent mildew growth. You can also use the mat in the kitchen, sauna, or by the back door.

2

This Amazon Echo Flex Smart Speaker That's 60% Off Right Now

Expand your Alexa throughout your home with the Echo Flex, which has 36,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating. It plugs into any open outlet so you can control your smart electronics, manage your day, and ask for instant information — plus it has a built-in USB port for your phone charger or an add-on night light.

3

A Throw Blanket That's Cozy In Every Season

This flannel throw blanket will look great draped over your couch, and it's the perfect thing to wrap up in on lazy days on the sofa or during movie nights spent indoors. The medium-weight blanket is ideal for year-round use, and it's available in array of patterns, all in muted colors.

4

These 2 Compact Essential Oil Diffusers That Mist For Up To 10 Hours

These high-performing essential oil diffusers emit a fine, cool mist and can run for up to 10 hours on the low setting, so you can enjoy the delicate fragrance of lavender, ylang ylang, or any other essential oil all day long. Compact enough for desks and nightstands, the two diffusers also boast a quiet sleep mode, and optional LED lights that can be switched off for a peaceful night's rest.

5

A Tub & Tile Refinishing Kit That Will Make Your Bathroom Look Brand New

Give your bathroom an instant upgrade with this tub and tile refinishing kit.The formula leaves tubs and tile with a shiny, waterproof, porcelain-like finish that won't yellow over time, and it has excellent wear and abrasion resistance. It's safe to use on ceramic, porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, cast iron, and steel, and one reviewer wrote, "This stuff worked wonders on our old 1980's tub."

6

The Chic Storage Basket That's Incredibly Versatile

What I love most about this woven storage basket is its versatility. Not only does it give off major bohemian vibes, but it can be used to store just about anything: laundry, extra blankets, toys, and more. It's made from cotton and hemp rope and features two faux leather handles, so you can carry it from room to room.

7

These Shower Hooks For All Your Bath Products

Mount shampoo, conditioner, and body wash bottle to the shower wall with this three-pack set of shower hooks. They have self-adhesive on the back, so they can be installed anywhere without the use of tools or additional hardware. Each hook can hold up to 8 pounds, and they stick to tile, glass, marble, and smooth wood surfaces.

8

The Key Holder That Will Keep Your Entryway Organized

Keep your entryway clutter-free with this rustic wooden key holder that can be mounted to the wall. It has three key hooks, a top shelf for displaying small items, and a side basket that's suited for mail and miscellaneous papers. It's available in both light and dark wood options.

9

These Self-Watering Plant Stakes That Make Gardening Easy

Being a plant parent just got a whole lot easier with these terra cotta self-watering stakes. Just place the stake into the soil, then stick a water-filled bottle into the stake; water will slowly seep through the terra cotta at just the right pace, so your plant will thrive. Each set comes with four. (P.S. This is the easiest way to keep plants alive when you're out of town.)

10

The Amazon Streaming TV Stick Light For 40% Off — Including An Alexa Voice Remote

For less than $20 while it's on sale, get the new 2020 Lite version of the fan-favorite Amazon TV Stick. If you don't need to control your television with the Stick, this affordable little unit has you covered for effortless streaming you can control with your voice. It doesn't just work for Netflix and Prime video, either. Use it to play music, watch live TV, and more. It has a 4.8-star overall rating after more than 18,000 reviews, so you know it's a tried and true option. For another great deal, check out the Amazon Stick 4K that comes with a voice-controlled Alexa remote. It's on sale for $39, which is 20% off its original price of $49.

11

The Shelf That Attaches To The Side Of Your Bed

If you don't have a formal nightstand, this bedside shelf is a worthy substitute. It utilizes a strong clamp to secure to the side of the bed and is sturdy enough to hold a 15-pound load, so it won't buckle under pressure. Use it to keep coffee mugs, notebooks, your phone, and other must-haves right by your side.

12

A Pair Of Smart Light Bulbs You Can Control Remotely

These smart light bulbs are compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can voice control them, but you can also use the compatible phone app to customize the lighting in your home. Log into the app to turn the bulbs on and off remotely, set schedules, or toggle through 16 million RGB colors that range from vivid brights to soft whites.

13

The Minimalist Bamboo Shoe Rack

This two-tier bamboo shoe rack is minimal in design, but does an excellent job at keeping your footwear organized. You can keep it by your entryway, at the foot of your bed, or even store in your closet. It has two durable shelves that can bear up to 44 pounds — plenty sturdy for all your favorite footwear.

14

A Fluffy Area Rug You Might Want To Nap On

This soft, fluffy area rug will liven up your space and add some warmth to cold wooden floors. It has a generous 3-centimeter velvet pile, a sponge in the middle that supports tired feet, and anti-slip dots at the bottom that keep it in place.

15

A Hand-Carved Himalayan Salt Lamp For Soothing Vibes

There's just something about a Himalayan salt lamp that immediately makes any room calmer and cozier. It emits a warm amber glow, while the negative ions it releases helps induce peaceful feelings. The dimmable, hand-carved lamp is made from authentic Himalayan salt and sits on a rubber wood base.

16

The Faux Sheepskin Rug That Adds A Luxe Touch To Your Home

This faux sheepskin rug is soft and plush and gives your home an extra luxe look. It’s available in over a dozen fun colors and 10 sizes, so you’ll be able to choose the right one for your space. It's surprisingly easy to keep clean too — just use a damp cloth, lay it flat to dry, and you’ll be all set.

17

A Bathtub Caddy That's Built To Last

With over 8,000 reviews, it's safe to say that this bamboo bathtub caddy is a fan favorite. The caddy has expandable handles and accessory slots that can store everything from washcloths and scrubs to books and candles, and there are even holders for your phone and table. A thin protective lacquer keeps it protected, ensuring you get long use from it.

18

These Under-Shelf Baskets That Increase Storage Space

These under-shelf baskets are probably one of the most clever items I've seen in a while. They immediately add more storage space to cabinets, and all you have to do is attach them to the underside of your existing shelves, and you're all set. You can use them to pack away napkins, dish towels, dinnerware, and more.

19

A Slim Storage Carts That Fits Into Tiny Nooks

This slim storage cart allows you to make good use of those small corners of your home that would otherwise go underutilized. The unit is designed with wheels and three narrow shelves that can be used to store cosmetics in the bathroom, cleaning products in the laundry room, or spices and condiments in the kitchen.

20

The Cozy Heating Pad With Adjustable Heat Settings

Fair warning: It’s going to be really difficult to leave home once you cuddle up this cozy heating pad. It has six heating settings so you can customize to your comfort and space, and the exterior is made of a soft, microplush fabric that can be removed and machine washed.

21

A Chic Bed Skirt That Will Upgrade Your Bedroom

This soft and hypoallergenic bed skirt is one of the quickest and easiest ways to give your bedroom a design update. Made from wrinkle-resistant polyester, it's pleated at the corners for a streamlined look, and it's available in 16 colors, like taupe, blush, and stone gray.

  • Available sizes: Twin, Full, Queen King
  • Available colors: 16

22

The Heat-Resistant Skillet Holders That Are Dishwasher-Safe

Protect your hands from scalding pans with this set of skillet handle holders. The pack includes three silicone holders that slide directly onto the ends handles of skillets to enhance your grip and keep your hands protected. The non-stick surface can be wiped with a damp cloth, but you can also throw these in the dishwasher. Choose from bright colors, like orange, purple, and yellow.

23

These Adjustable Mats That Protect Your Kitchen Sink

A set of non-slip sink mats can be used to protect both your sink and glassware while you're doing the dishes. The two non-slip mats provide barrier a soft barrier between your dishes and the sink, and the drainage holes allow water to flow through. They can also be placed in different configurations to fit perfectly around the drain.

24

A Pillow That Provides Full-Body Support

When a standard pillow just won’t do, turn to this memory foam body pillow for support. Measuring a generous 20 by 54 inches, it's made from smooth bamboo-derived viscose that's soft to the touch and cool on the skin. The huggable pillow makes for a good nighttime cuddle buddy, and it can even help align your hips more comfortably if you sleep on your side.

25

This Compact White Noise Machine That Will Help You Sleep

If you're having difficulty sleeping, try using this compact white noise machine to get back on track. About the size of an alarm clock, it has four relaxing sounds to choose from — white noise, summer night, ocean waves, and rain —and an auto-timer that you can set for 15, 30, or 45 minutes. And since it's battery-operated, it's great for travel too.

26

A Peel-And-Stick Backsplash That Looks Like The Real Thing

Give your kitchen a modern upgrade at a fraction of the cost with this peel-and-stick backsplash tile. The set comes with 10 sheets of 12 by 12-inch tiles, and all you have to do is peel and apply directly to smooth surfaces — no glue or installation required. It’s heat-resistant, easy to wipe clean, and won't yellow over time.

27

The Amazon Echo Auto That's 60% Off Right Now

Add Alexa to your car with the Echo Auto, which syncs to your phone and plays directly through your car’s speakers. Use it to check traffic and weather, stream music, listen to books on Audible, and more — all hands free.

28

This LED Bed Light With Motion-Activated Sensors

Add some extra illumination to your home with this LED bed light that's motion-activated. It emits a soft, warm glow that provides a welcoming ambiance, and can be programmed to shut off from 30 seconds to 10 minutes after inactivity. Place it under your bed, kitchen cabinets, or inside your closet.

29

These Satin Pillowcases That Are Gentle On Your Hair

These satin pillowcases not only offer a luxurious look and feel, but they’re good for your hair and skin as well. The smooth surface creates less friction on your strands, helping to preserve curly hairdos and prevent hair breakage. The satin also prevents sleep lines, so you can wake up looking fresh-faced and well rested.

30

The Marble Contact Paper That Makes Anything Look High-End

Why even consider emptying your pockets for marble when you can use this contact paper instead? For a surprisingly affordable price, you can use the waterproof paper to transform your home by placing it on kitchen counters, tables, bookshelves, or inside drawers. The paper can be easily removed without leaving behind any residue, which is a plus if you want to switch things up later on.

31

A Foot Peel Mask That Exfoliates Rough Skin

Looking to give your tired feet a makeover? Then try these foot peel masks for a convenient, at-home spa night. They're made from natural ingredients like lemon, apple, and milk that work together to eliminate old skin cells and deeply nourish your feet. With over 4,000 five-star reviews, the masks deliver on their promise to leave you with soft and smooth feet.

32

The Spa Pillow You Can Use In The Bathtub

This spa pillow is just the thing you need for a proper self-care night at home. Designed with six suction cups that grip firmly to the side of the tub, the pillow features two panels to give soft support to your neck, back, and shoulders while you soak.

33

This Ingenious Way To Conceal Scratches On Wooden Furniture

No need to fret if you (or the kids) scuff or scratch your wooden furniture — you can get it back to pristine condition with this repair kit. The kit includes markers and wax sticks in a variety of eight colors (walnut, cherry, oak, etc.) that can be applied to nicks and minor marks to cover blemishes. It’s an effective, permanent, and quick-drying way to make your furniture look brand new.

34

The Blackout Curtains That Have Thermal Insulation

These blackout curtains utilize triple-weave technology to provide thermal insulation, which means they can increase the energy efficiency of your air conditioning and heating. They also blocking out 85 to 99% of light and UV rays, so you can cut down on ambient light and get some sleep. The curtains are available in multiple sizes and a wide variety of colors, like biscotti, teal, and cappuccino.

35

This Rack That Keeps Your Towels Organized

This six-tier, wall-mounted rack is the perfect place to store your extra towels. The open, vertical design optimizes the space in your bathroom, so you don't have to cram towels in your drawers or linen closet. The rack is easy to assemble and includes all the necessary hardware to mount it to the wall.

36

The Floating Bookshelves That Are Practically Invisible

These floating bookshelves are a cool and creative way to store your latest reads. The set comes with three shelves that can be mounted to the wall, and they can support up to 22 pounds each. And the higher you stack the books, the more invisible the shelves become, making for a whimsical, floating design.

37

The Soothing Foot Spa That Collapses For Storage

Give yourself a relaxing pedicure with this collapsible foot spa. The extra-deep tub lets you plunge in all the way up to your calves, and the floor of the spa features rollers, so you can massage your feet while you soak. It has no-skid legs that keep the spa in place, and when you're all done, it collapses for easy storage.

38

These Shelves That Are Perfect For Window Gardening

Put your green thumb to use by installing these window planter shelves when your seedlings are just getting started. They're made from high-quality clear acrylic with double-ridged suction cups that keep them firmly affixed to the window, and each shelf can hold up to 10 pounds.

39

A Handheld Back Rubber With Four Interchangeable Massage Heads

This cordless back rubber wand has nearly 2,000 glowing reviews, and it's easy to see why: It comes with four interchangeable massage heads that give you just the massage you want, like an acupressure head, a shiatsu attachment, or a U-shaped head that's great for your calves and shoulders. With three speed settings and a heat function, it gives you a full 80 minutes of massaging power before it needs to be recharged.

40

The Rechargeable Lighter That's Wind-Proof

This rechargeable candle and grill lighter is flameless, so it won't go out in the wind if you're using it outside. The flexible neck can easily reach into small spaces, and the portable USB cable lets you charge it on the go. It's safe too, thanks to the childproof switch that prevents little ones from igniting it accidentally.

41

This Cold Brew Coffee Maker That's So Chic

This cold brew coffee maker allows you to brew your own coffee simply and easily, so you get a perfect beverage every time. The 34-ounce capacity pitcher comes with a built-in infuser, so you can add the amount of coffee you desire and get a strength customizable to you. The longer you keep it steeping, the stronger your coffee will be.

42

The Motion-Activated Night Lights That Are Perfect For Dark Corners

These mini motion-activated LED lights can be used in dark cabinets, on stairs, in the bathroom, or any other poorly lit areas of your home. The battery-operated lights turn on when they detect motion within 10 feet and automatically shut off after 20 seconds of inactivity, and they're easy to install with the included double-sided tape or screws.

43

These Throw Pillow Covers That Will Add Understated Luxury To Your Home

There's just something about these faux fur throw pillow covers that really livens up a space. They're soft, plush, and add dimension to any room, and better yet — you don't have to invest in entirely new pillows. They're available in ombré colors like black, pink, burgundy, and the gray pictured here.

44

The Curtain Tiebacks That Are Magnetic

These curtain tiebacks are made from sturdy woven rope with faux pearl embellishments, and they feature magnetic ends that secure together for an easy, foolproof way to let the light in. "I love these curtain tiebacks," raved one reviewer, "The magnets are strong enough to hold my curtain panels back without any issue." Choose from four colors.

45

A Convenient Side Table With Detachable Wheels

This C-shaped side table is open on one side, so you can place it over your lap while you're sitting on your couch or in bed. (Of course, you can just use it as a side table, too.) Plus, you have the option of using it with or without the included wheels, depending on how much portability you want. It has a warm wood tone and sturdy steel black frame that seamlessly blends into the decor of most rooms. The table is also available in a few other colors, including dark walnut and hazelnut brown.

46

These Outlets That Can Be Operated By Remote Control

Step into the future with these remote control outlets. With the press of a button, you can turn appliances and electronics on and off, helping to save on your electric bill. Plus, the extra-tall design means they won't block your lower outlets. Each set comes with four outlets and two remote controls.

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