33 Renter-Friendly Upgrades That’ll Keep Your Home’s Aesthetic *And* Security Deposit Intact
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Just a couple of ways to distract from the landlord specials all over your apartment.
Posted 13 hours ago
by Divinia Tarin BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff
I’m a resident writer on the BuzzFeed Shopping team covering a variety of topics in a fun and mindful way, including travel, home, beauty, gift guides, and anything that’ll add just a bit of whimsy into people’s lives.
BTW, the privacy film comes with everything you need for installation: a pocket knife, a scraper, and a spray bottle to clean your windows.
Promising reviews: "Love love love!!! ...It was so easy to install, and it looks so nice! I love that it came with everything I need to get the job done. The cling film sticks to the glass very well as long as you wet the glass with soapy water. It makes it easier to get rid of bubbles and ensures it sticks on evenly. Excellent value, quality, and color clarity!!! It was so clear and clean that I did the bathroom window and the bit on my front door!" —Molly S.
"Gorgeous print, easy to install, and gives just the right amount of privacy. We live in a place where the homes are super close, so your neighbor could see into your home... I decided to install this on all the lower windows to give privacy without shutting out the light, and this film is perfect for that! I adore the stained glass look of it." —Tracy Carlin
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 10 sizes and two styles).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "The feel of these velvet pillow covers is fantastic! I was a bit skeptical at first but they are absolutely worth every penny! Luxurious thick fabric that gives major cottagecore vibes! Fits a standard throw pillow and the ruffles just fall into place naturally. If you are looking for something to add instant casual elegance, these velvet pillow covers are it! Great colors to choose from as well." —Mary Jane Gearbart
Get a set of two from Amazon for$21.99 (available in five colors).
And you can get a two-pack ofpillow inserts here.
Tulip
Each shade comes with a ceiling mount and an installation kit.
Tulip is a small business from Lori Smyth, who was inspired by the drab lighting in her college dorm! Check out the different styles and how easily they install via Tulip's TikTok.
BuzzFeed Editor Chelsea Stuart owns and loves it!: "I just had a chance to try one of these, and I am simply OBSESSED. I live in NYC in a rental, and I have a really drab light in my kitchen that even an electrician couldn't get off of the ceiling without breaking... so I gave up on replacing it right after I moved in. Alas, fast forward a year, and I found Tulip on TikTok! Instantly, I thought 1. This is absolutely genius, and 2. How has no one come up with this before?!?!
Installing it (installing makes it seem way more involved than it is) took all of 10 minutes and that includes removing it from the box, Command Strip-ing the ring to the ceiling, and then popping the magnetic shade in place. (Honestly, the thing that took me the longest was fishing my step stool out of the depths of my junk closet.) Not only is the shade itself beautiful, but the diffused light is just so soft and pretty. I can't wait to get another one for my entryway!!!"
Promising review: "Finally got rid of the dreaded boob light and this completely transformed the space. It looks way more high-end than I expected and instantly made the room feel warmer and more intentional. Setup was straightforward and honestly easier than I thought. Huge upgrade for such a simple swap." —Tyler L.
Get it from Tulip for for$179 (available in 11 other designs, and in a drum and lamp shape).
Promising review: This stuff is amazing. We are renting a home with manufactured dark wood floors that scratch easily. I have a three-year-old that likes to push furniture around and drop stuff, a giant cat with razor claws, and a father-in-law who has a boxer that scuffs up the floors when they visit. Spread it on with a rag and wipe it off, let it dry, and it looks shiny and amazing. It doesn’t fill gouges, but you almost can’t see them and can only feel them running your fingers over the surface. Serious 100/10 rating." —maximillion
Get it from Amazon for $4.82.
Poppy and Honey Bee / Etsy
Poppy and Honey Bee is a small business based in California that specializes in creative and functional laser-cut jewelry and home decor.
Promising review: "These are the stuff of my maximalist dreams. I love them — super fun and were easy to install. Perfect fit." —Megan
Get it from Poppy and Honey Bee for $26 (available in three styles and 18 colors).
Promising review: "This bracket is awesome and was extremely easy to install. We were able to hang curtains over our vertical blinds in just a few minutes and didn't even need any tools. Great product!!!" —Amazon Customer
Get a set of three from Amazon for $18.95 (also available in gold and brass, and also as inside-mount brackets).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I knew I wanted something to finish off my bench seat windows. These blinds were not only easy to install, but I am impressed with the quality and how easy it is to raise and lower them. I think all four were out of the box and installed in 15 minutes. Offers light filtering, which is perfect for my needs. If I want to take them down for my holiday garland, it will be super easy to remove and put back up after the holiday." —doug huntley
Get each panel from Amazon for $47.19+ (available in 10 styles and a range of sizes).
Promising review: "These worked wonderfully to give some privacy to my back yard without blocking out everything. I have had them up for about a year now, and they hold up well to weather conditions (snow, rain, freeze, heat). Color has lasted so far. No issues with hanging them. I used green zip ties purchased separately. Easy to cut and adjust the size. Recommended." —Don't Be Hateful
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two sizes).
Promising review: "I’ve had my eye on the Anthropologie mirror in this similar style for years. But I cannot bring myself to spend that kind of money on a mirror. I don’t care how nice it is. But this mirror is gorgeous, much more affordable, and while not an exact [substitute], it’s very similar and brings just as much charm to a room. It’s incredibly sturdy, detailed, and well-made. I do notice a bit of waviness in the mirror itself, but it’s not extreme and serves its purpose while adding beauty to a space." —Deborah L.
Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in nine sizes and four colors).
And since it's waterproof, it works in humid bathrooms!
Promising review: "Where do I start? I absolutely LOVE this product. I wanted to replace our bathroom mirror, but due to the size, it would have cost a lot! I came across this on Amazon and decided to give it a try. The application process was super easy and applied without bubbles as long as you go slow and rub it down as you go. I kid you not. It looks like wood and feels like it, too! You can feel and see the 'wood grain.' It’s absolutely stunning and looks like I bought a whole new mirror." —Taylor
Get it from Amazon for $8.98+ (available in two sizes, seven colors, and as a two-pack).
Promising review: "We moved into our new home, and the shower had a really yellow grout. Cleaning didn’t do anything, and I saw this grout pen online. What a saver! Otherwise, I would have just hired someone to replace my shower. I used this grout pen, and my husband was so impressed :D The tip loses its shape fast, but just pull out the TIP AND FLIPPED IT OVER, and you’ll have a new tip." —jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in two sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
The kit comes with a silicone funnel so you can easily transfer your favorite toiletries. It includes three wall-mount brackets with adhesive, six waterproof labels (hand soap, dish soap, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash), and a three-chamber no-drill wall mount. You can see how one TikTok user styled these in this TikTok.
Promising review: "We have a narrow bathtub/shower with little space. I love this product, it’s so easy to install. I used a level to keep them aligned. Wait 24 hours before you use them. Great price, great quality, I highly recommend." —Karen Kopecki
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $34.99 (available in nine styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "The design of this is great. I always hated putting plugs behind furniture and either not using the plug, or the furniture being inches away from the wall. This is the perfect solution. I have a few of these now behind couches and dressers in the house and they are great. This is more expensive than some other flat extension cords but I think the look and quality of these is worth it." —Adam C.
Get it from Amazon for $21.95+ (available in three lengths, a standard or inverted configuration, and a dual or smart design).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
These lights are charged via USB-C cables (included!) and can also be set to always-on for longer tasks. After motion is detected and lights are activated, they'll automatically turn off once no motion is detected for 20 seconds. The lights are magnetic and can easily attach to magnetic surfaces OR you can use the included adhesive iron plates for installation in other areas.
Promising review: "These lights are very cool. They feel and look like they are made well. First, I charged them. Then cleaned under the cabinet with a good degreaser and then stuck them on. They attach with magnets. They come off easy for recharging. Also I LOVE you can set them for automatic on (when you get close) or full on or off. I chose the soft white and they really are perfect. I will be buying more!" —Janis Tomasone
Get a set of two from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in two sizes, two light temperatures, and a version with three light temperatures)
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
The set includes four hinges and two handles. And btw, they won't rust out at all because they're made to be super durable and UV- and weather-resistant!
Promising review: "These magnetic hinges and door handles arrived quickly, as described. and dramatically altered the dreary appearance of the garage, especially from the street! Highly recommend this product as it adds to curb appeal!" —rita m. egan
Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in three styles and faux window accents).
As with all peel-and-stick products, these may leave some adhesive behind when you remove.
Promising review: "Great product. Purchased years ago for our kitchen and now again for our bathroom. The kitchen tiles have had major spills, and furniture moved across the floor and they still look like the day we installed them. They adhere to the floor well but are also easy to take off if needed." —Molly
Get a set of 10 for $19.80+ (available in six colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Living in Hawaii, you have to select wise items that are weather-, salt-, and red dirt-proof, etc... In total, I ordered 11 boxes to complete my yoga deck. I have a few left over to make steps on the back. Very pleased and happy. May order more for an outdoor shower project!" —Adelia
Get 10 tiles (covers 10 square feet) from Amazon for $77.48 (also available individually and as end or corner pieces).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Absolutely love these. My daughter’s toilet was missing the original caps, so I thought I would give these a try. They are so nice looking!! She loves them. Great quality and fits perfectly over the screw. Going to buy some for my bathroom now! Buy it, you won’t regret it." —Valentine Girl
Get a pair from Amazon for $12.98+ (available in 11 styles).
Promising review: "I have never been so excited about a slipcover. Total transformation of our couch and loveseat. I was worried about it not working on our leather couch, but it stays on really well due to the straps and the separate cushion covers. LOVE." —Brian/Liz
Get it from Amazon for $47.89+ (available in eight sizes and 21 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Btw — one reviewer did an in-depth comparison of these in champagne brass with some they found at Home Depot (which were $9.99 each) and, spoiler, there was barely any difference at all!
Promising review: "They are so beautiful in person, they have a great weight to them, which makes them feel expensive, and they are affordable!... No complaints. I am happy I gave them a try <3" —Taylor Ray
Get a set of 10 from Amazon for $13.50 (available in three finishes, three sizes, and large packs).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I LOVE this wallpaper!!!! It was so easy to put up. Easily repositioned and had no problems matching the pattern seams. It cut without tearing and turned my horrible gallery kitchen from a room we tolerated to a room we absolutely enjoy. It covered wall imperfections well. I even had a hole in one wall, and now you’d never know it’s there! I’m on a budget, and I’m so glad I did this upgrade! So far, it’s stayed up beautifully and I cook daily. It’s definitely been worth the small investment." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $14.98+ (available in four patterns and three sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
This measures 6x14 inches, and includes four painted screws and pre-drilled mounting holes.
Promising review: "We bought this register to replace two 'plain Jane' builders grade ceiling registers for our home HVAC system. We purchased the lower-cost white models since we intended to repaint the registers with a hammered metallic paint finish — which we did. The registers look great and have an expensive look at a very reasonable cost. Since we purchased those two, we have purchased an additional six air registers of the same design to replace the other builder's grade registers at our home." —DonSpansk
Get it from Amazon for $21.30 (also available in a five-pack and other sizes and colors; check out their store page for other designs).
Amazon
Promising review: "Very good quality liner. I love the daisy print and it is a good thickness. Super easy to cut (I used a box cutter). Definitely recommend!" —Karen
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 16 sizes and 17 patterns).
Promising review: "Developed a garden on the apartment patio and wanted to add some lights along the railing to give it some character. These solar lights are not too bright and were easy to install. All the lights work, which is great. Better than I could have hoped for. 👍" —KMF
Get a pack of 16 from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in a warm white or color-changing style, and sets of 20 and 24).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
These can be set to a constant or flashing mode and withstand light to moderate rain. And since they're made of wire, they can be bent into any shape you'd like!
Promising review: "I love, love, love these yard decorations. I have them in both the front and backyard EVERYWHERE!!! These decorations are fun and colorful — they blink or not, depending on how you set them. Super affordable for their long-term wear and tear. I leave them out year-round — we are in Northern California and winters can get chilly, and sometimes in the low 30s, and they continue to work. Make great outdoor Christmas decorations vs the normal lights." —kathleen Becker
Get a pack of four from Amazon for $25.39+ (available in four colors, a wired style, and packs of two, six, and eight)
Promising reviews: "We absolutely love this rug! We bought it for our cottage, and it completely transformed the space. The colors are beautiful and cozy without being too busy, and the quality exceeded our expectations. It’s incredibly soft underfoot, which makes it perfect for barefoot mornings at the lake and for kids lounging on the floor playing games. It also lays flat quickly and feels durable enough for a high-traffic cottage area. Highly recommend if you want something comfortable, cozy, and stylish!" —maggie
"This rug came folded nicely and was very soft! It has a non-slip back, and it does the job! The colors reflect the product photos perfectly. It looks like a [swap] for a Ruggable rug, and to me, that’s a plus. I’ve already got compliments on it! For the price, I couldn’t be happier!" —Alexandria
Get it from Amazon for $22.09+ (available in 10 sizes and six colors).
Promising reviews: "It has doubled my closet space in my apartment where I can’t make any damage in terms of adding another permanent shelf — so this has been a perfect solution. It was easy to assemble and is sturdy. I’ve had it for a couple of weeks now with no issue. Your closet has to be pretty high for this to work or else your shirts above are going to get caught on the hangers below and for my case, some of my shirts are dragging on the floor — just keep this in mind when you’re thinking about purchasing." —Alex
Get it from Amazon for $19.87 (available in a chrome and black finish and a pack of two).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Bought this shelving to hold all my spices and have their labels visible. Holds everything securely and the magnetic strength is exceptional. A very good buy." —evrhandyman
Get a set of four from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in 19 colors and in sets of two, six, and eight).
Chelsea Stuart / BuzzFeed
The cord cover comes with a flexible hinge so you can add more wires after you adhere it to the wall. Btw, onereviewer suggests hanging this with Command strips to avoid damage.
Promising review: "These look great and are super easy to apply. This is the perfect solution for hiding a cord! It looks like it is just a part of the baseboard. Mine is covering a cable wire only, but I think they are big enough to hide more than one cord if needed. I didn’t cut mine, and I bought two. You can tell where the two meet if you look closely. However, I do not think anyone would notice. I can’t believe I let our cable cord sit across the floor for this long. I wish I would have found these sooner!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in six sizes, four colors, and in packs with accessories).
To apply, just unroll, position where you want it, slowly smooth it down with a credit card, and then trim the excess. Oh, and don't forget to wipe down the area you're covering first so it sticks.
Promising review: "I absolutely loved this contact paper. It completely transformed my countertop. It was super easy to apply, and if I messed up, it was extremely easy to redeem myself. I did this alone with no help, and I’m pretty proud of the outcome. Took me about 30 minutes to complete it. I used the whole roll of the smallest option, and it was enough for me. Super awesome, and I will be buying more of this contact paper soon when I transform another room in my home! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!" —Mariah
Get it from Amazon for $5.99+ (available in four styles and 12 sizes).
KnotMaille / Etsy
KnotMaille is an Illinois-based small business run by Emma, who has been making chainmaille and 3D designs since 2020.
Promising review: "We got these because my four-year-old thought they were cool, but we love them, too! Such a simple yet fun design, and I love that they glide across the rod quietly and smoothly, too. Very cool addition." —Libby
Get a set of 12 from KnotMaille for$14.99+ (available in 15 colors or a customized option).
Amazon
Promising review: "Perfect for what I needed! I wanted these to hang out on my ugly porch to kinda spruce it up! I needed them to be sturdy and able to withstand outdoor conditions but be cute and boho and these are perfect! Ive had them for several months now and they haven't showed any signs of wear and tear and are just a beautiful addition. 10/10 recommend!" —KimRN
Get a set of two from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in three sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "I painstakingly searched for hours for a 6x9 faux fur white rug that had solid reviews and didn't cost an arm and a leg. I'm so glad I did my research because I didn't find this one until right at the end! If feels so soft and luxurious and totally pulls my room together!! Most of the similar rugs I looked at were at least $250 if not a lot more, so when I found this for $140 I just couldn't beat it! My living room is very large, and somewhat narrow and it filled the space perfectly! I also bought the 2x3 throw, which is just as soft and awesome as the larger rug!! Highly recommend!!!" —Isiah Abraham
"I originally purchased a similar rug from Target but then later saw this one and ordered it. I love it so much more. I love Target as much as the next girl but the color and softness of this rug was so so much better. What’s even better is that it’s machine washable. It looks great in our nursery and of course the dogs love it too, ha." —John
Get it from Amazon for $19.49+ (available in 19 colors in varying shapes and sizes).
* Quick Home DIYs You Can Pull Off, Even If You Couldn’t Pick A Screwdriver Out Of A Lineup
* If Your Home Is In Desperate Need Of A Glowup, Here Are 75 Easy Upgrades
* $20-And-Under Finds That Can Completely Transform Your Space
* You've Got A Lovely Home, But What If It Were...Lovelier? Here Are 37 Things To Help With That
Plus, finds from Walmart, Wayfair, and World Market.
BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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