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Housing costs are astronomical, but these picks can help make your space worth every penny.

Let's face it — simply existing is wildly expensive right now. If you’re determined to make the most of your exorbitant rent or mortgage payment, these upgrades can help make staying in feel more like a choice and less like a compromise. Ahead, we found renter-friendly peel-and-stick murals, cozy under-cabinet light strips, clever cord covers, and no-drill window shades sure to make your space even more homey. 

Promising review: "These lights are great. Easy to assemble. Love that they can be plugged in or hardwired. They’re dimmable, which is the best part. Also love that you can turn it on with the knob on the light or by the switch on the cord. Comes with light bulbs, which are a warm, nice light. Highly recommend!!" —Alesa R Wilson

Get it from Amazon for $31.99+ (available in a set of one or two and three finishes).

Promising review: "This comes just as pictured and described. It is comfortable and looks luxurious. It's great for floor seating." —AKhan

Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in eight colors).

You can see how one TikTok user styled hers in this TikTok video by Miriam Gin. PS: They come from MaisoNovo — a small biz!

Promising review: "I get compliments on these dispensers and they feel sturdy on the tile wall. Would buy again 5 out of 5!" —DCorb

Get it from Amazon for $24.70+ (available in six different styles and quantities of one, two, or three).

Promising review: "The mural came sooner than expected. My daughter and I cut the strips and laid them under a carpet to straighten them out. It went up well. It did not take long at all and it came out awesome." —Paula Harris

Get it from Amazon for $77.99+ (available in 9 sizes and 11 styles).

Promising review: "This lamp is absolutely perfect. Exactly as described and the perfect fusion of simplicity and a subtle pop of golden light and color." —Micah

Promising review: "The best bath product you didn't know you needed! Very easy to install and works well, even in my contoured soaker tub. It's made of a comfortable, sponge-like material, not inflatable like other bath pillows. Feels great on my back and makes reclining in the tub much easier on my neck! The bath pillow can be hung by its hook from your shower head to dry. Dries very quickly and doesn't get heavy despite absorbing some water. Mine dries completely overnight, no problem!" —Allison

Promising review: "So Pinteresting! I used this adhesive film to turn two cheap Ikea tables into less-cheap-looking Ikea tables because I'm not made of money, but I would like others to believe I am. Super simple to use, and a ton of it for the price. I was really pleased overall. The pattern actually looks like marble, not a weird pixel-y repetitive pattern, so that's great as well. Also, it was delivered the same day, which was miraculous as my DIY inspiration tends to fade approximately 48 hours after I discover a project I want to do." —Spencer House

The full kit — from small biz Giani Inc. — comes with two cans of cabinet paint, a roller arm, two roller covers, and an angled paint brush; it requires no stripping, priming, or top coat or sealer, and there's no need to remove your cabinet doors. 

Promising review: "Amazing! Amazing! Amazing. Did take more than one coat, though. My cabinets were bare wood, and I still needed a couple of coats. My kitchen is medium-sized, not too big, and it only took one can. This took my kitchen from looking like a cheap rental apartment kitchen to a high-quality kitchen with just this paint and new knobs. The paint is perfect for cabinets — it's not too thick, so you still see the wood grains. It comes with EVERYTHING you need. I didn't have to buy a thing. The project is super easy, the paint dries fast, and I did it at first by removing the cabinets, but it wasn't necessary at all. I would recommend EVERYONE to purchase this and give your cabinets a chance before making a big investment in new cabinets. Wood is wood, and it can be refinished." —Brandon Moronta

Get it from Amazon for $36.95+ (available in 11 colors and two styles).

The portrait lights are battery-operated and wireless so you don't have to worry about hiring an electrician or doing any installation your self. Each unit runs off of three AAAs (get a 36-pack here before you forget!) and an included remote lets you set the light to different brightnesses and schedule a timer for 15, 30, 60, or 120 minutes.

PS: If you're going for an antique look but don't have the budget to buy vintage, I saw a TikToker DIY these with some gold Rub 'n Buff metallic finish and an old makeup brush, and it looked truly incredible!

Promising review: "For the price, you can’t beat it. Super easy to install and lightweight. The gold had a slight orange tint to it, so be mindful of that. I actually just taped over the light and spray painted ours with gold spray paint I had left over, and then they were absolutely perfect." —Paris Seder

Get it from Amazon for $23.59+ (available in three colors).

I've had this for a couple of months now, and wow, I don't even reach for any other throws I own. In fact, I drag it from my bed to my couch and back again at the end of the day. It's fuzzy on both sides — which I think is what makes it an absolute winner!! Other blankets I own are only faux fur on one side and then the other side is still soft, but a smooth polyester that just doesn't hit the same — especially when my cats want to use the fuzzy side and I inevitably let them have it because I would give them the world if I could. The other thing about this blanket is the sheer size! I have it in a large (60 x 72 inches), so I never have to choose between having my toes or shoulders covered. 

Promising reviews: "I was so skeptical about the hype around a blanket… my family has a Costco knock-off that we fight over, so when I saw 45% off I took the plunge and o.m.g. SO WORTH every penny. I don’t even understand how they accomplish the comfort level of this blanket! They can fight over the Costco blanket, I’ll be wrapped in my Lola." —Camille

"OMG! This XL blanket is amazing! My entire family can enjoy many movie nights snuggling in the negative degrees! I used to be an Ugg blanket user until I felt the softness and warmth of Lola! I highly recommend this!!!" —Tiffani

Get it from Lola Blankets for $125+ (available in 5 sizes and 30 colors/designs).

The mold-resistant tiles are sold in 11.43 x 9-inch sheets, and each pack comes with five in total. The sheets are finished with self-adhesive so you can literally peel and stick them to any surface. They can also easily be cut to size since they're thin and lightweight. Removal is just as simple — peel them off, wipe the wall down, and you're back to square one.

Promising review: "So easy to install and they look stunning. People are shocked when I tell them that these are peel-and-stick. I'm very impressed with the look. Makes our powder room look very modern." —BonStuch

Get a pack from Amazon for $37.98+ (available in 11 styles). 

Promising review: "It is a very cool device, and I love using it with my Kindle and Kindle page turner for hands-free reading!!! It is very secure and doesn’t move once attached properly. It is tough to adjust if it’s not attached, and I like that. Highly recommend!" —Dottie

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in black and white).

Promising review: "When I first saw this I immediately thought it was completely ridiculous. But it kept popping up in my periphery, and one day after seeing it on YouTube I bought it on impulse, along with a page turner. And so glad I did! It is so easy to clip in your Kindle and twist/extend it into the perfect angle, and the bowl is a great spot to stash my page turner, earbuds, etc. Paired with the page turner it's a total game changer, you can get cozy under blankets and not even have to move your hands, which is significantly more comfortable for bedtime reading (and safer — who else has dropped a Kindle on their face??). I am very nearsighted and it's easy to tuck the pillow in and angle the Kindle close to my face. I also like using it just in my lap, where I can elevate the Kindle and avoid neck and wrist strain on those long reading sessions! I don't even feel embarrassed when my husband makes fun of it, it's that good :P If you love your Kindle, you will love this pillow!" —J Thornberg

Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in three colors). 

Promising review: "I’ve had this warmer for nine months now and I loooove it. Not only is it just a beautiful piece of decor, but it also works very well. I use it for hours a day most days, and I only needed to change the bulb after 6 months. It’s much safer than burning, and it has a timer, and also greatly prolongs the life of your candle. Overall, I highly recommend!!" —PugsRock

Get it from Amazon for $42.99 (available in two colors).

And pick up a $6 wallpaper tool kit — with smoothing tools and a utility knife  — to make the process even easier. 

Promising review: "My foyer needed some color and personality. This did the trick! I’ve gotten so many compliments on it. This wallpaper was reasonably priced and easy to apply by myself. I have been hesitant to use wallpaper in the past because I’m so afraid I’ll like it for a few months and then get tired of it. This is a great solution. It’s an easy DIY so no hiring a professional to install it, and the product itself is fairly inexpensive, as wallpaper goes. Plus, it’s easy to reposition, and it doesn’t damage the wall, so you can easily remove it. The seams lined up pretty well, and it was easy to smooth out any bubbles. I’d definitely buy this brand again." —Jennifer Bacon

Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in two colors). 

This is IP44 waterproof certified, meaning it can withstand splashes of water. DO NOT put this in the water with you (obviously!) or place it somewhere precarious where it can fall into the water or will get wet — but know that it'll be ok if splashed. Your nighttime shower mood lighting will be just as cozy with this on your bathroom counter or shelf. Safety first!

Hear one TikToker's thoughts on the shower lamp.

Promising review: "I bought this kind of as a joke for our shower, but it's the best thing I've purchased so far in 2025! It's easy to use, love the dimmer, and it creates a nice ambiance." —Holla

Get it from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in six colors).

Promising review: "This Lake George painting was a great addition to our home in upstate NY! The size options let us get exactly what we were looking for. The frame is understated and doesn’t compete with the art or other decor. Lots of compliments from friends who couldn’t believe it came from Amazon!" —Channing Hailey

Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in seven sizes and 32 designs). 

Promising review: "These photos are so nice and great quality for the price. My family room needed a little changing, and these photos were awesome! I also love that the seller provides a sheet of different ways to hang the photos." —Critic

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in two sizes and five different styles).

Reviewers attached these in different ways, with some just using mounting tape in apartments for no damage to walls. Others installed them on doors and kitchen islands!

Promising review: "I really wanted an accent wall but don’t have any tools to create my own frames from molding, so this was such an easy DIY solution! I used liquid nails only to adhere to the wall and had no issues." —Megan

Get a single panel from Amazon starting at $19.16+ (available in sets and tons of sizes).

Promising review: "This is worth every penny! I love snuggling my dogs, but the recliner and couch are too small for all of us. This bed accommodates me, two huskies, a lab, and a cat in a big cuddle puddle. It’s so comfortable for watching TV and taking naps. It folds up into a little couch to take up less space when not in full bed mode. One of our dogs just had ACL surgery and I’ve been sleeping in this with him at night to monitor him while recovering. We are both comfy and cozy. I do keep a queen fitted sheet over it because pulling it apart to wash the cover will be a huge pain. If this one wears out I’ll immediately buy another. This would even make a great guest bed for company or grandkids or friends of your kids spending the night. Love love love!" —amy

Get it from Amazon for $94.99+ (available in three colors). 

Promising review: "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 had found these sooner!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in three sizes and five colors).

Promising reviews: "Great for a small space for a coffee table and extra seating." —Lisa

"Perfect as foot rests, extra seating, and coffee table book storage! So happy we purchased these…exactly what our reading room needed." —Elizabeth

Promising review: "I love this couch cup holder tray. I made a small, portable office in my bedroom. I often work from the bed so I can keep my feet raised to prevent my ankles from swelling. I put the couch cup holder tray on the bed next to me, and keep the TV remote, my tablet, my drink, and other items in it for easy access. I have moved all over to see if the tray would tip, but no tipping occurred. (Note: I have a firm memory foam mattress). It is sturdy, easy to clean, and doesn’t tip over when you move around. Because of its size, you can use it anywhere… like on the couch, or when you are outside sunbathing or working on the deck/porch. It is a good buy for the price!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $28.14+ (available in five colors). 

Charlotte, North Carolina-based small biz Eucalyptus Blooms sells all sorts of fragrant products from scented potpourri and sachets to lavender-infused loofahs and soaps.

The steam from the shower releases the aromas of fresh eucalyptus, which opens up sinuses and fuels relaxation. It even comes with a stainless steel stick-on hook for easy hanging!

Promising review: "So impressed! It made such a difference in my shower. It was a major upgrade to the space and the experience. Arrived in great condition and looks just like pictures. Plus the included hook made for quick, easy and sturdy hanging. Highly recommend!" —Tara Finkelstein

Get it from Eucalyptus Blooms on Etsy for $11.99+ (originally $14.99+; available in seven sizes).

The set comes with a 10-key remote so you can turn them on/off and/or put them on a timer. 

Promising review: "These candles are JUST what I was looking for to complete my space! I have been burning through real candles like it's my job and it just wasn't making sense financially anymore. These battery-powered candles are the perfect solution. They create that warm, cozy vibe without the hassle of buying a new candle every week! I love the look of them, the natural flicker they have, and the ease of the remote control. What makes these stand out to me is the natural look of a melted candle. Other LED candles I own don't have this element and they look more fake. Guests always compliment them and I couldn't be happier with this purchase. The only downside is the cost of replacement batteries. I think a helpful function would be to make these rechargeable. Other than that, I'm satisfied!" —Dylan T.

Get a set of five from Amazon for $21.58+ (available in four styles). 

Each kit comes with six pre-cut LED light strips (9.8 feet in total) and adhesive strips for mounting. The 17-key remote can control basic functions like turning the lights on/off, setting a timer, dimming the lights, etc. Plus, it works at distances up to 60 feet. 

Promising review: "Awesome product!! I love the ease of installation and the extra included pieces for a good fit. Perfect for adding some much-needed light to my dark kitchen. Dimmable and comes with a remote! There's no downside!" —Breezy Lady

Get a set of six from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in two sizes and three styles). 

Promising review: "Quality product. Exactly as described and so very easy to install. Sturdy construction. Fits snugly and does not move when opening from the bottom or top. Perfect privacy for the large primary bathroom window. Perfect room darkening. Opens from the top and bottom easily. I plan to buy several more." —Christine O'brien

Get them from Amazon for $41.99+ (available in dozens of sizes and 12 colors).

A La Maison Ceilings is a small biz that sells all sorts of moldings, ceiling medallions, and ceiling tiles. 

Promising review: "If you’re even considering doing it, JUST DO IT!! I can’t even begin to tell you how easy this was, and the end result is mind-blowing! When people come over (we’re remodeling our newly purchased home, built in 1865), their jaws drop. When you actually get them on the ceiling and look at your finished product, you’d never guess it’s Styrofoam. My advice (from watching hours of YouTube videos and doing research) is to find the center of the ceiling and work your way out. It took us two hours to do a fairly large space. We definitely overestimated how many it would take, but I’m glad we had extra on hand in case we messed one up. Also — make sure your blade is SHARP!" —Steven

Get it from Amazon for $31.92+ (available in packs of 8, 48, 96, 144, and in eight colors).

Promising review: "Wow. I’m so impressed with this floor, especially considering what it cost! It’s absolutely perfect in my 1920s era home! With the exception of a couple of places, it matched up well. Easy to install, and the adhesive is working great! I recommend this for a quick and inexpensive update for a floor." —Rebecca Sayer

Get a pack of 10 tiles from Amazon for $17.

Tulip is a small business from Lori Smyth. Her inspiration? The drab lighting in a college dorm! Her innovative design requires no rewiring, no power tools, nothing! Check out the different styles and how easily they install via Tulip's TikTok. 

Promising review: "I have been searching for a paper lamp or replacement for my current apartment lights, but they either wouldn't fit or it would require too much effort that my landlord wouldn't appreciate. That's when I came across Tulip. I can't be more blunt than this — you literally Command Strip the ring to the ceiling and the shade attaches via magnet... seriously ingenious." —Oliver O.

What's included: Ceiling mount, Tulip shade, 12x removable tape, and 3x screws (as needed for textured ceiling applications). 

Get it from Tulip for $149 (available in 12 designs; check out other styles).

Promising review: "A must-buy product for your messy home or office. Exactly what I was looking for to help save space and hide my cable cords." —Andrew Olson

Promising review: "This stainless-steel wrap worked out great! Our fridge now matches the rest of our appliances. I like how it's thicker than normal contact paper. It made it much easier to install." —rach

Get a 15.8-inch x 78.8-inch roll from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in four sizes).

EcoconLinen is a Riga, Latvia–based small business that specializes in organic linen apparel, bedding, and decor. 

Promising review: "SOOOO beautiful. Ethereal. I just placed another order. Big thank you. 🌹" —Anna Brusanowski

Get them from EcoconLinen on Etsy for $31.34+ (originally $44.78+; available in 11 widths, 18 lengths, and 15 colors). 

Promising review: "These medallions were much prettier than I expected and were super smooth for the reception of paint. It took me a few days to decide on the color placement and style, as they will be in rooms that are visible to one another. Pre-colored medallions are expensive; doing it myself saved me money I used to upgrade my chandeliers." —Cris

Get it from Amazon for $34.19+ (available in dozens of colors).

Promising review: "This shower curtain is such a good find! The linen texture looks high-end and adds a soft, neutral vibe that works with any bathroom style. It’s lightweight but hangs beautifully, and the length is perfect for extra height. I’m honestly shocked at how much it upgraded the whole space for such an affordable price. If you want a simple, chic, easy bathroom refresh — this is it!" —MrsBlandford

Get it from Amazon for $16.95+ (available in six sizes and 22 colors).

Promising review: "I love this light! The stars are beautiful, the colors are beautiful. I like that it shuts off in four hours. I use it in my house so I don’t have to turn the lights on all the time. I like it so much, I just ordered three more to give to my grandchildren. It also has sounds like rain and ocean waves. And you can even play your regular music on it. Don’t be afraid to try it! It’s like having the northern lights anytime you want." —Amy J Nelson

Get it from Amazon for $31.99 (available in four colors). 

Promising review: "So cute, warm, and soft in my Louis XV counter-height chairs that I work from every day at a table. Really adds a luxurious touch and will add to the warm and cozy feel. I might be tempted to buy more for other seating areas! Economical way to upgrade a chair!" —Dr. Lori Lind

Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in 12 shapes/sizes and eight colors). 

Promising review: "The perfect runner for a bathroom superrrr soft and beautiful pattern. Get tons of compliments on where I found this rug def a great buy!!" —Panda

Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in six sizes and nine colors). 

Promising review: "Super easy assembly, perfect size, does come with a bulb (huge plus), nice length for the cord, and a convenient on-and-off switch on the cord. Will buy more and def recommend! It is so much more affordable than other brands that sell the same style. The dimensions make it seem small, but honestly ,it’s pretty big and brightens the room with a warm yellow glow." —Sam

Get it from Amazon for $23.71 (available in various styles and sizes).

And you can grab a fun pillowcase here! 

Promising review: "The most comfortable pillow and the best sleep ever with it. I hate that it took me so long to realize these pillows exist!! Now I can never go back to sleeping without one. Love!!!" —Amanda A.

Get it from Buffy for $87.20 (originally $109)

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Plus, options for your WFH space, and finds from Anthropologie, Etsy, Ikea, Urban Outfitters, Walmart, and Wayfair.

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.

Chelsea Stuart is a seasoned Shopping Editor with more than 10 years of experience covering travel (her favorite), home decor, fashion, and pet products under her belt. 

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.