15 Decorating Hacks for Renters (That Won’t Cost You Your Security Deposit)

Family Finances, Living & Spending
on May 23, 2017
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Wallsneedlove
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Calling all rented home- and apartment-dwellers! You can live in the home of your dreams right now—all you need is a little creativity and some elbow grease. These DIY projects and clever hacks can dramatically transform your humble abode without costing you your security deposit. Here’s an added bonus: you can take several of these upgrades with you to your next place, too.

 

“Upgrade” your appliances.

If you’ve always dreamed of stainless appliances, you’re in luck! With a few dollars and a couple of minutes, you can completely transform your black or white appliances with stainless steel contact paper.

Get the tutorial here.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Julie Blanner

 

Spruce up your kitchen with removable subway tiles.

Subway tiles instantly elevate a kitchen or bathroom. 3D subway tile wallpaper or stick-on tiles will give you the same look—without grout or adhesive.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Lisa Hauenstein

 

DIY your own faux-marble countertops.

Bet you didn’t think a countertop makeover was on the table! Thanks to a little marble contact paper, you can have elegant (and still durable) countertops in just a few hours.

Get the tutorial here.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Make Do and DIY

 

Swap out old hardware.

This upgrade is almost too easy to be true. Exchange your rental’s outdated pulls and knobs for hardware that suits your style. Make sure to keep the original hardware on hand—before you move out, change it back and take your new hardware with you.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

The Fresh Exchange

 

Remove cabinet doors.

You don’t need anything extra to achieve this look. Simply take your cabinet doors off their hinges! Store them in a safe place until you’re ready to move out, and then reassemble.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Better Homes and Gardens

 

Hide those ugly plastic blinds.

We’ve all been there. Pull up those horizontal blinds and hide them behind DIY no-sew faux Roman shades.

Get the tutorial here.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

The DIY Playbook

 

Install a new lighting fixture.

Old lighting fixtures are quick to date a home. Remove your existing lighting fixture to instantly update your space. We love these budget farmhouse lighting fixtures from The Turquoise Home. Wondering how to install a new fixture? Check out this how-to guide from Apartment Therapy.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

The Turquoise Home

 

Create an accent wall with removable wallpaper.

An accent wall brings instant flair to a bland space. Check out these companies to find the removable wallpaper that’s right for you.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Wallsneedlove

 

Cover outdated flooring with a vinyl floor cloth.

Masking ugly flooring is easier than you’d think. Whether you like dramatic tile or something simple and understated, vinyl flooring could be the perfect upgrade for you!

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Bill O’Leary | The Washington Post

 

Create a custom shower floor mat.

Cover old or damaged shower tiles with a DIY teak shower mat.

Get the tutorial here.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

TeakWorks4U

 

Mask a dull patio with temporary outdoor decking.

Weather can do some serious damage to an exposed balcony or back deck. Give yours a temporary facelift with easy to install outdoor flooring.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Dust Jacket Attic

 

Decorate with washi tape wall decals.

Washi tape is great for creating designs on walls and taping up posters or photographs. When you’re ready for a change, it peels off without leaving any residue. Try this simple Scandinavian design made with black washi tape—it’s great for a children’s rooms.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Everything Emily

 

Build a cover for your bulky radiator.

Whether you want your radiator to blend in, or you’re looking for some stylish storage, a radiator cover is a great way to turn this bulky necessity into a desired piece.

Get the tutorial here.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Miss Mustard Seed

 

Create a reclaimed wood wall.

If you’re a fan of shiplap, this is the next best thing—perfect for renters! These removable, reusable reclaimed wood planks easily create the wall of your dreams.

Buy it here.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Artis Wall™

 

Make a landlord-approved chalkboard wall.

Always dreamed of having your very own chalkboard wall? Good news! Chalkboard contact paper exists. We think this idea is absolutely perfect for a home office or kitchen.

15 Decorating Hacks for Renters That Won't Cost You Your Security Deposit

Icing on the Cake

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