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Clever Things That Make A Mediocre Home Seem More Expensive For Under $35

Give your home the upgrade it deserves without breaking the bank.

by Maria Sabella
Clever Things That Make A Mediocre Home Seem More Expensive For Under $35
Amazon
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Sometimes, all it takes is a quick refresh and a couple of new things to take your home from blah and boring to stylish and elevated. If that sounds like you, scroll on for dozens of clever ideas on how to make a mediocre home seem more expensive. It includes everything from chic storage solutions to game-changing smart upgrades, all of which can be had for $35 or less.

1This Rolling Tray Equipped With A Nonslip Pad

Move small appliances effortlessly and keep your fancy countertops scratch-free with the help of this rolling tray. It’s designed to hold countertop appliances such as blenders, food processors, and coffee makers, so you don’t have to lift or drag them, but instead slide them out with one push of the lever. The nonslip pad on the top prevents the appliance from sliding and the black finish is neutral enough to fit in any kitchen.

2A Chrome-Finished Coffee Pod Holder With A Space-Saving Vertical Design

Save a ton of countertop space with this coffee pod holder whose compact design takes advantage of vertical space. It holds up to 40 pods and has a curved design which looks cool while keeping the pods visible and easy to grab. The iron base and frame work to ensure stability and the polished chrome finish gives the organizer a sleek shine and makes it look way more expensive than it really is.

3This Space-Saving Magnetic Knife Holder That’s Easy To Install

For a sleek-looking and practical kitchen update, you can’t go wrong with this magnetic knife holder that’s made from sturdy stainless steel. The 17-inch bar has strong magnets that securely hold any type of knife, from a big cleaver to a tiny little pairing knife, and it includes all the necessary mounting hardware for quick installation. Unlike a bulky knife block, it doesn’t take up any counter space, yet always keeps chopping utensils within easy reach.

4This Minimalist Basket With A Bamboo Lid

Instead of extra rolls of toilet paper ruining your bathroom’s aesthetic, store them in this minimalist lidded basket. It’s tall and narrow to save space, but fits as many as 12 rolls and protects them from dust and moisture using the built-in bamboo lid. The basket is available in four solid colors and is collapsible for easy storage when not in use.

5These Chic Wall-Mounted Dispensers In Sets Of 1 To 3

Get this chic wall-mounted dispenser for a cheap way to instantly elevate your bathroom. The plastic dispenser looks like amber glass and comes with a handy funnel so you can easily transfer your favorite body wash or shampoo. The dispenser includes a self-adhesive bracket with a gold finish for drill-free mounting and waterproof labels that add a stylish finishing touch.

6A Stick-On Waterproof Backsplash For An Easy-To-Clean Upgrade

Get this stick-on backsplash to upgrade your kitchen on the cheap and without the hassle of messy grout. It’s designed to look like classic white subway tile with dark grout and the vinyl surface is waterproof so you can wipe it down as you would regular “tile”. The backsplash conveniently comes in sheets with self-adhesive backing for easy installation and can be cut down to size for a custom fit to your space.

7These Stackable Ceramic Bowls That Are Chip-Resistant

Update your everyday dishware with these ceramic bowls that have a unique shell design perfect for serving pasta, salads, and desserts. The four-piece set is made from lead-free ceramic, is sturdy and chip-resistant, and is easily stackable for space-saving storage. The bowls are microwave and dishwasher-safe for convenience, and besides the points they score for practicality, the bowls’ lovely shape scores them extra points for adding a special touch to everyday meals.

8These Silicone-Coated Magnetic Shower Curtain Weights To Eliminate Billowing

Sometimes a cheap little update makes all the difference, which is definitely the case with these magnetic shower curtain weights that eliminate billowing. The powerful magnets have a silicone coating to prevent rust and noise and can be attached to the bottom of any shower curtain. They have a strong grip so they won’t slide whether you use them on a fabric or plastic curtain, and additionally, you can also use them to hold down other things such as tablecloths, drapes, or flags.

9A Compact Lidded Trash Can With A Motion Sensor For Touchless Use

Swap out a dingy old trash can for this motion sensor trash can whose compact design is ideal for a small bathroom given its under-six-inch width. It uses infrared sensing technology for a touchless way to open the lid — whenever your hand or an object is over the sensing area, the trash can automatically opens. The lid creates a tight seal to contain trash and odors, and the trash can requires two AA batteries for operation.

10A Double-Sided Faux-Fur Blanket That Comes In 18 Colors

This faux fur throw looks ultra-luxurious and way more expensive than its budget-friendly price tag. Made from high-quality polyester microfiber, the double-sided throw has a soft fleece side and a shaggy plush side for ultimate comfort. It’s washer and dryer-safe for easy care and is a stylish accent for a bedroom or living room where it adds coziness and texture, all for under $20. You can buy it in one of 18 colors.

11This Gorgeous Marble Diffuser With 2 Misting Modes

Use this essential oil diffuser to fill your home with a beautiful scent that sets the tone for the entire space. The diffuser is coated with Italian marble for a high-end look and makes for a stunning addition to any space. It gives off a cool mist and offers two misting modes — normal and intermittent — and there are seven soothing colors to choose from if you want to use it as a night light.

12A Self-Adhesive Silicone Cord Organizer To Eliminate Tangled Messes

Get this cord organizer to eliminate tangled messes that make a room look cluttered and pose a tripping hazard. The silicone organizer is flexible, self-adhesive, and can be attached to a variety of surfaces including wood, glass, and plastic. This two-pack provides two cable organizers, one with three slots and another with five, so you can declutter your surfaces and keep cords neat and tidy.

13This Easy-To-Mount Tempered Glass Corner Shelf That Can Hold Up To 11 Pounds

Maximize storage space in a small bathroom with this tempered glass corner shelf. It has a curved stainless steel rail and can either be mounted with the rail on top to prevent toiletries from falling, or on the bottom in which case it doubles as a towel holder. The glass shelf holds up to 11 pounds and provides a clean and elegant storage solution for your bathroom.

14These Utensils Crafted From Acacia & Premium Silicone That Prevent Scratches On Cookware

Replaced mismatched cooking utensils and protect your pots and pans from scratches with this five-piece set of silicone utensils. The set includes a slotted spoon, serving spoon, soup ladle, solid spatula, and a slotted turner, all of which have premium silicone heads and acacia wood handles. The utensil heads are firm yet flexible, and the set provides a cheap way to upgrade your kitchen practically and aesthetically.

15A Thick Acacia Wood Cutting Board That Comes To Your Door Oiled & Ready To Go

This beautiful acacia wood cutting board is a real bargain for what you get. The large board can be used for chopping as well as serving since it’s thick, durable, and easy to wipe down. It has an elegant square shape, although it’s also available in a round size if you prefer, and comes oiled and ready to make your next gathering both stylish and delicious.

16A Slim Rolling Cart Designed For Tight Spaces

Add function to a narrow bathroom or laundry room nook with this slim rolling storage cart which is designed to maximize tight spaces by gliding effortlessly. In addition to four tiered drawers, the cart comes with multiple hanging hooks for extra storage. And if you decide you could use some cabinet organization instead, you can take the casters off and disassemble the cart into a pair of two-tier shelves.

17An Automatic Soap Dispenser That Will Also Help Eliminate Waste

Give your bathroom a modern upgrade and trade in flimsy soap dispensers for this ultra-sleek automatic soap dispenser. The touchless design makes it extra hygienic and the large volume container ensures you don’t have to constantly replace the bathroom soap. It dispenses the perfect amount of soap every time to help eliminate waste and has a nonslip bottom to secure it in place.

18This Set Of Bamboo Compartments With Raised Edges To Organize Drawers

Whether it’s the kitchen junk drawer or a bedroom dresser drawer, organize it with this set of bamboo compartments. The five-piece set includes a variety of sizes to allow for different arrangements and the raised edges keep items neatly contained to prevent messes. The bamboo is durable, can be cleaned with a damp cloth, and it looks nice and elegant in whatever room you use it in.

19This Pleated Velvet Throw Pillow That Comes In 13 Beautiful Colors

Refresh your sofa with this round velvet throw pillow that adds an elegant pop of color and texture. The unexpected shape is a great way to break up a grouping of square or lumbar throw pillows and as far as the price goes, you really can’t beat the under-$25 price tag. The pillow is plush and comfortable, the pleated pattern and tufted button center give it a classic look, and you can choose from 13 beautiful solid colors to fit your style and space.

20This Faux-Marble Bathroom Organizer With 5 Compartments To Declutter Countertops

If you can barely see your vanity surface because of your extensive skin care collection, get this bathroom organizer to declutter the countertop. The five-compartment organizer keeps items upright and neatly divided into categories, while its open top allows for quick and easy access. The marble-like finish adds an elegant touch, while the drainage holes and nonslip pads on the bottom make the container sturdy and easy to clean.

21A Smart Plug That One Reviewer Says Is “Super Easy To Set Up And Connect”

This smart plug offers an inexpensive way to add a smart feature to your home and allows you to control the space remotely. You can pair it with any Roku Voice, Alexa, or Google Assistant-enabled device and use the coordinating app to set timers and schedules, group devices, and turn things on and off whether you’re at the house or away on vacation. The plug works with everything from lamps and fans to curling irons and chargers, but it does require a stable Wi-Fi connection. “This was super easy to set up and connect. [...] The timer feature is probably my favorite one,” said one reviewer.

22A Revolving Spice Rack That Holds Up To 15 Spices

Declutter kitchen cabinets with this revolving spice rack which keeps seasonings neatly stored and easily accessible. It holds 15 spice bottles, rotates 360 degrees, and utilizes vertical space to free up cabinet shelves and countertop surfaces. The spice rack has a sturdy and stylish wood and stainless steel construction, and it comes with a funnel for mess-free refills and 386 labels to mark the jars.

23These Easy-To-Assemble Shelves That Instantly Add Visual Interest To An Empty Wall

Add visual interest to an empty wall with these decorative floating shelves that feature a cool intersecting cube design. They add a decorative touch as well as a practical storage surface for small items, making them a great option for a small entryway, kitchen, or bathroom. The shelves are easy to assemble and include the necessary mounting hardware for quick hanging.

24This Rotating Remote Control Holder With 5 Interior Compartments

Organize your space and never waste time looking for a remote again with this clever remote control holder. The rotating caddy has five separate interior compartments to corral gadgets such as remotes and phones, allowing for quick and easy access thanks to its open top. It has an elegant gray linen exterior with a stitched edge detail for a sophisticated look. Besides a living or family room, the caddy would also work well to organize pens and stationery supplies in a home office.

25A Polished Chrome Shower Head With 7 High-Pressure Modes

Upgrade your bathroom and your morning routine for less than $20 with this polished chrome shower head. It offers seven high-pressure modes and uses a 16-stage filtration system designed to improve hair and skin health. The shower head is available in a round and square design, and four beautiful finishes, and you can easily install it yourself instead of having to pay for a plumber.

26These Flickering Flameless Candles You Can Operate With A Remote

Create an elegant centerpiece for your dining or coffee table with these flameless candles that have flickering LED wicks to make them look just like real candles. The gray glass exterior gives the set a sophisticated look and the three different heights are ideal for creating depth and dimension. Plus, the candles come with a handy remote so you can operate them from a distance, whether you want to adjust their brightness, set a timer, or turn them off.

27A Dishwasher-Safe Oil Dispenser That Doubles As An Infuser

Store any type of cooking oil in this glass dispenser which doubles as an infuser if you want to make your own flavored oils. The Danish-made dispenser has a sleek design, holding up to 17 ounces of liquid and featuring a tilt-sensitive lid that automatically opens and closes when tilted and then placed upright. A silicone component around the rim makes for an airtight seal, a wide mouth ensures mess-free refills, and the dispenser is dishwasher-safe for easy maintenance.

28This Reed Diffuser That Gives Off A Gorgeous Scent For Up To 120 Days

This reed diffuser fills your space with a lovely fragrance while adding a gorgeous — and expensive-looking — decorative accent. The premium diffuser produces a relaxing scent that lasts for up to 120 days and it comes in a beautiful gold-stamped gift box for a luxurious touch. The set includes a charcoal glass bottle, seven diffuser sticks, and a special essential oil mixture to create a calming ambiance throughout your home. You can buy it in up to six scent varieties, from bergamot and jasmine to lavender and eucalyptus.

29A Self-Adhesive Window Film For Privacy That Won’t Leave Behind Sticky Residue

Use this self-adhesive window film to gain privacy without having to spend money on frosting windows. It uses static cling to adhere to the glass surface, which means there’s no glue needed, you can reuse the film, and you don’t have to worry about a sticky residue. You can cut the film down to size to fit your windows. Besides adding privacy, it’ll fill your space with a beautiful rainbow-like effect as natural light pours in.

30A Vase Set Made From Bamboo & Ceramic That Looks High End

Get the look for less with this flower vase set that looks like a high-end designer store purchase but is actually a budget-friendly Amazon find. Featuring a mixed material bamboo and ceramic design, the trio of vases looks just as good on a mantel as it does on a bookshelf or coffee table. The different heights make for a visually balanced vignette. These vases are versatile enough to be used together or separately.

31These Adhesive Peel & Stick Tiles Made From Waterproof Vinyl

For a cheap and easy flooring update, get this set of peel-and-stick floor tiles which don’t involve ripping up your existing floors or a pricey installation. Featuring a gorgeous gray and white medallion-style pattern, the tiles are made from waterproof vinyl and have a washable semi-gloss finish. They come in a pack of 10 and can be installed in mere minutes; simply peel off their backing and stick them down.

32A Trio Of Faux Potted Plants For Year-Round No-Maintenance Greenery

Whether you weren’t blessed with a green thumb, you travel a lot, or simply don’t have the time to take care of plants, get these faux potted plants for a no-maintenance way to keep greenery around the house. The trio includes two eucalyptus and one rosemary plant, all of which are in paper pulp pots for a little bit of rustic charm. The mini size makes these a great accent for a desk or nightstand, no watering or natural light is necessary!

33A Space-Saving Handbag Organizer With Open Sides To Easily Access What You Need

Save closet space and neatly store bags in this hanging handbag organizer. It has four tiered shelves which have open sides for easy access and a mesh exterior so you can see each bag. The organizer hangs on a swivel hook to ensure it doesn’t fall and it can be split into a pair of two-tiered organizers if that better fits your closet space.

34These Nonslip Velvet Hangers To Streamline Your Closet

Replace mismatched hangers with this set of velvet hangers for a streamlined closet that looks like it was organized by a pro. In addition to creating a neat and uniform look, the hangers’ slim design saves space so you can hang more garments. Their nonslip velvet texture prevents items from slipping while lending the space an elevated, luxurious feel.

35An Acrylic Sunglasses Organizer To Safely Store Your Collection

If you can never resist buying a new pair of sunglasses but are running out of spots to stash them all, get this sunglasses organizer to neatly store your collection in one place. It has four-tiered shelves to keep them visible and accessible, it’s large enough to hold eight pairs, and the clear acrylic construction gives the organizer a chic, high-end look. Plus, it’s under $15, which is way less than having to replace a scratched pair of sunglasses.

36A Clever Space-Saving Roll-Up Drying Rack For The Corner Of The Sink

Every inch counts in a small kitchen, which is why this triangular roll-up drying rack is such a clever product. Designed for the corner of the sink, it consists of rust-proof stainless steel rods whose silicone ends keep it securely in place. Use it to dry a couple of small dishes or as a storage spot for sink essentials such as a sponge, brush, and dish soap.

37These Glass Highballs That Are Dishwasher-Safe

Replace chipped and mismatched glassware with this set of Italian highball glasses to elevate everyday meals. The 13-ounce glasses feature a simple silhouette and a classic design, making them perfect for casual as well as formal dining. The glass tumblers are lightweight but have a thick base for sturdiness and are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

38These Stackable Glass Food Storage Containers That Double As Baking Dishes

Save space in your fridge and safely store leftovers in these glass food storage containers that have flat bamboo lids for easy stacking. They’re an excellent alternative to plastic containers which get stained and flimsy over time, plus they double as baking dishes and can withstand temperatures up to 520 degrees Fahrenheit. The containers are also fridge, freezer, and dishwasher-safe, and since they are made from clear glass, you can see what’s exactly in them to eliminate the guesswork.

39A Rotary Grater That Comes With 5 Interchangeable Drums

Save yourself the arm workout and trade in an old-school cheese grater for this rotary grater that comes with five interchangeable drums. The clever gadget prevents painful hand injuries, works 18 times faster than a regular grater, and it’s easy to use thanks to an ergonomic handle and powerful suction base that secures it to your worktop. The drums have sharp blades and allow you to shred, finely and coarsely julienne, and slice thin and wavy veggie slices all with this one device.

40This 3-Tier Wire Fruit Basket That Promotes Air Circulation

Use this stylish three-tier fruit basket to hold produce from your weekly trip to the farmer’s market. The wire design allows air to circulate to prevent moisture from building up and causing produce to rot faster. The tiered design helps maximize space so you can store more produce without using up extra countertop space, making this a great addition to a small kitchen or pantry.

41These Blackout Curtains With Thermal Insulation

These blackout curtains are a must if street lights or the early morning sun seem to interrupt your sleep every night. They’re sold as a set of two panels and use thermal insulation to block light and noise, as well as help maintain room temperature which can result in lower energy bills. The panels have metal grommets to easily slide along a curtain rod without the need for rings and they are machine-washable for easy care.

42These Wireless Puck Lights For Ambient Lighting You Can Operate From Up To 15 Feet Away

Skip the pricey electrical work and add ambient lighting to your home with these wireless puck lights. They’re so versatile you can practically use them anywhere — under upper kitchen cabinets, inside a walk-in closet, or to add a custom look to built-in shelves. The LED lights can be attached to surfaces using the provided magnets or adhesive tape, and the three-pack includes a remote control that allows you to operate them from up to 15 feet away.

43A Gorgeous Copper French Press With A Heat-Resistant Handle

Get this gorgeous copper French press to make delicious coffee that fills your entire home with a delightful aroma. Not only does it look beautiful thanks to its clean-lined design and chic copper finish, this French press makes full-bodied coffee and eliminates the need for filters and pods, saving you a bunch of money in the long run. It’s made from strong borosilicate glass and has a sturdy stainless steel frame and heat-resistant handle for easy use.

44An Incredibly Lifelike Artificial Monstera To Liven Up Your Space

Liven up any space in your home with this large artificial monstera plant. The 28-inch size is perfect for filling an empty corner whether you place it on a side table, plant stand, or directly on the floor. Its polyester leaves look incredibly life-like and you can make the potted plant look even more realistic by topping the stones around the base of the stems with some faux moss.

45These Scented Non-Adhesive Drawer Liners To Elevate Your Dresser Drawers

Breathe new life into an old piece of furniture with these scented drawer liners which feature a lovely damask pattern. The paper liners can be cut down to size to fit any drawer and they are non-adhesive to make it easy to reposition them as needed. Each liner is infused with a Pacific sandalwood scent which diffuses softly to fill your space with a fresh and elegant fragrance for an elevated feel.

46These Thick & Sturdy Lidded Glass Apothecary Jars With A Tray

These glass apothecary jars provide a stylish and space-saving solution for everyday bathroom essentials such as Q-tips and cotton balls. They are made of thick, sturdy glass and come with bamboo lids which are easy to open and shut. If you want your home to look more expensive, removing everyday products from their bulky (and typically not visually appealing) packaging into uniform containers is a simple but highly effective trick.

47A Dimmable Candle Warmer Lamp To Reduce Flames & Smoke

Candles are a great way to elevate your home’s ambiance, but the open flame and unwanted smoke, not so much — that’s where this clever candle warmer lamp comes in. It consists of a wood base where you place a candle and an overhead light which will quickly warm the wax without you having to worry about a fire hazard. The lamp is dimmable so you can control the mood in the room and it also adds a lovely decorative touch with its wood base, brass neck, and vintage-inspired glass shade.

48This Crystal Decanter With A Heavy-Duty Stopper

Add an elegant touch to your bar cart with this crystal glass decanter. It has a nice weight to it, comes with a matching stopper, and features a beautiful carved design that makes it look like an expensive purchase instead of a bargain find. The decanter doesn’t affect the flavor or texture of the alcohol — in fact, the heavy-duty stopper prevents evaporation to preserve its taste.

49These Aluminum Rust-Proof Shower Shelves That Even Include Space For Your Razor

Declutter the shower floor or tub edges with this pair of corner shelves which have built-in razor holders for maximum practicality. The heavy-duty aluminum shelves are rust-proof and built to last, and the hollow design on the bottom allows for good drainage for faster drying. You can either mount them using a drill and screws or use the provided adhesive sealant with creates strong adhesion if you’re renting or would rather not drill into tiled shower walls.

50A 4-Tier Bamboo Bookshelf That Turn Your Reads Into Decor

Instead of messy piles of books covering every surface in your home, organize your favorite reads on this wooden bookshelf. The four-tier shelf is constructed from bamboo wood and cleverly utilizes vertical space to keep surfaces clean and clutter-free. The tree design puts a fun twist on regular shelving and makes this a great storage solution for any room, from a kids’ playroom to a home office.

51These Shatterproof Stemless Glasses That Come In 19 Different Colors & Designs

If you seem to lose a glass or two every time you entertain outside, get these shatterproof stemless glasses. Made of sturdy stainless steel and featuring a rustic wood grain pattern, the unbreakable glasses are dent-proof and maintain your drink’s temperature much better than glassware. The stemless design makes them easy to hold and adds a modern edge, and the four-piece set is available in 19 designs including solid colors and stylish patterns.

52A Pair Of Stylish Quilted Trays To Corral Your Small Items

Whether it’s jewelry, sunglasses, or perfume bottles, corral small items in these stylish quilted trays. They add a textured layer and decorative accent to a bedroom dresser or entryway console table, and their raised edges contain their contents to keep surfaces clutter-free. The trays have a sturdy frame and a luxurious-looking velvet exterior, and the set includes one large and one medium-sized tray.

53This Wine Holder That Doubles As An Engaging Puzzle

This two-in-one wine bottle holder doubles as a brain-teasing puzzle for a fun addition to your home or a unique housewarming gift. Made from high-quality wood, it’s built to last and has an intricate design that’s bound to be a conversation starter. It’s adjustable to fit a variety of bottles and provides hours of endless fun solving the puzzle over a shared bottle of wine.

54A Sleek Glass Butter Dish With 3,000+ 5-Star Ratings

This popular glass butter dish has garnered over 3,000 five-star reviews and for good reason; it has a sleek design, a slim shape to save space, and it creates an airtight seal to prolong freshness whether you store butter in the fridge or out on the counter. It fits a standard-size stick of butter and is available in a dark acacia or light bamboo finish.

55A Peel & Stick Patterned Wallpaper For A Stunning Accent Wall In No Time

Create a stunning accent wall with this mural-style peel-and-stick wallpaper. The cost of traditional wallpaper and its installation can be astronomical, so if you want to get the look for less, get this removable version. The blue and white wave pattern adds a playful touch and since the paper can easily be repositioned and removed, it’s quick and easy to “install” and an excellent option for renters.