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Carolyn Menyes

It's shocking how much more expensive these things under $30 make your home look

When it comes to my house, I have big dreams and a modest budget. Fortunately, Amazon is filled with clever upgrades that can help stretch your buck as far as it’ll go. If you, like me, have bougie taste but a limited bank balance, these things will make your home look so much more expensive — all while costing less than $30 each.

Peel-and-stick molding for DIY wainscoting

Create your own wainscoting in minutes with these pre-cut moldings. While they’re made from lightweight, paintable polystyrene, they look like real wood and they have a peel-and-stick adhesive backing for tool-free installation. “They look amazing!” said one reviewer who called them “simple and easy to use.”

  • Available sizes: 12 x 24 Inch — 31.5x31.5 Inch
  • Available styles: 3

Outdoor solar lights with motion sensors & multiple modes

Forget wires, plugs, and replaceable batteries. These outdoor LED lights have built-in solar panels that turn sunlight into illumination, so they work automatically and without hassle. The four modes include various brightness options and motion-sensing settings that save power and deter potential intruders.

  • Available sizes: 2 Pack — 4 Pack

The “best thing ever invented,” according to reviewers

Never again lose the TV remote or switch up the controllers for the fan, AC, lights, and sound bar. Reviewers called these magnetic remote control holders a “game changer” and “the best thing ever invented.” Using adhesive backing, one part attaches to the remote while the other attaches to the wall or matching device — and then they connect with strong magnets.

  • Available styles: 2

Quick-drying saucers for your potted plants

Made from absorbent, quick-drying diatomaceous earth, these plant saucers catch moisture before it can damage your furniture — and they’re way more modern and attractive than your average tray. I also keep one underneath my water pitcher to protect my countertop and prevent the growth of mildew.

  • Available styles: 4

A custom steel address sign that boosts curb appeal

Boost your curb appeal while ensuring that your address is clearly visible for guests and deliveries. This personalized address sign is laser-cut from durable steel and comes with a mounting kit that fits the pre-drilled holes. “Great quality for the price,” one reviewer said, while another raved, “Couldn’t be happier with the final product.”

  • Available styles: 5

Stackable organizers for produce, snacks & more

Put these kitchen organizers on the countertop to display produce or in the pantry to store snacks and ingredients. They’re made from transparent plastic with built-in handles, open fronts, and bamboo lids that allow for stacking. Some reviewers also use them to store cosmetics in the bathroom and dispense trash bags under the sink.

Stylish anti-fatigue mats for comfort in the kitchen

Yes, they add a cozy farmhouse or modern feel to your kitchen with their checkered design — but these anti-fatigue mats are also extremely practical. The rubber back is grippy to prevent slipping, the top is waterproof so you can wipe it clean, and the interior is filled with thick foam to boost comfort and support. You can put one next to the stove and one next to the sink.

  • Available sizes: 17.3" x 47"+17.3" x 29"--0.47 inches — 20" x 47"+20" x 32"--0.47 inches
  • Available styles: 4

A rechargeable crystal lamp you can put anywhere

Table lamps make your space feel cozy and curated, but outlets aren’t always accessible. This cordless lamp has a rechargeable battery with three color modes and a stepless dimmer, so you can customize your illumination on freestanding tables, in your entryway, on the mantle, or outside. It also has a gold-tone base with a faux-crystal shade that reviewers called “stunning.”

  • Available styles: 7

A spinning organizer for tumblers, syrups, & bottles

Keep your travel cup collection organized and accessible with this tumbler turntable. It’s compatible with most water bottles and Stanley cups between 20 and 40 ounces, and it has a rotating wooden base with a handle for carrying. You can also use it for everything from syrups at your coffee station or liquor bottles on your home bar.

A door mat that’s personalized to your home

Personalization only looks expensive when you know where to look and this custom door mat is proof. It’s made from natural coir fibers that trap dirt and moisture while enduring weather and foot traffic, and the UV-resistant ink won’t fade in the sun. The brand offers various other designs, too, including ones that feature the names of family members and pets.

  • Available styles: 3

Drink & can mats that save space in the fridge or pantry

They have such a simple design, but these silicone stacking mats are reviewers’ “best purchase of the year” and “a must-have for pantry organization.” Each one can store up to 15 cans of soda, beer, energy drinks, vegetables, or pet food. You can also use them for bottles, and they use vertical space to maximize storage in the fridge or cabinet.

A vintage-inspired runner for an incredible price

Area rugs don’t need to be super expensive, and this vintage-inspired runner proves it. Despite its low price tag, it has a non-slip rubber backing and a low-pile faux-wool construction that can handle high traffic and machine washing. Choose from seven prints and six rectangular sizes.

  • Available sizes: 2’ x 6’ — 9’ x 12’
  • Available styles: 7

A highly rated stove cover that boosts usable space

Whether you’re low on countertop space or you want to keep kids and pets away from hot surfaces, this electric stove cover is a fantastic find. Made from silicone, it’s heat-resistant up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and covers glass stovetops so you can use the space for food prep, serving, or dish drying. It also has an average 4.7-star rating from over 6,-00 reviewers because it’s easy to clean and easy to use.

  • Available sizes: 28"L x 20"W — 36"L x 21"W Thickened
  • Available styles: 8

Handle covers that keep your appliances clean

If you find yourself wiping down your appliances multiple times a day, these handle covers are a “lifesaver,” according to reviewers. The plush fabric catches moisture and prevents stains, smudges, and fingerprints on stainless steel. They’re also machine-washable for easy upkeep and the adjustable velcro closures fit a range of appliances, including refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers.

  • Available sizes: 4 Piece — 5 Pieces
  • Available styles: 4

A silicone mat that protects your sink & also works as a trivet

High-end sinks often have racks that promote drainage and prevent scratches, but this silicone protector comes in 13 different sizes for a custom-like fit in most sinks. Its raised feet boost protection and drainage, its chevron grid pattern looks attractive, and its heat-resistant design can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, so it doubles as a trivet.

  • Available sizes: 12.25"X11.5" — 29.5"X15"
  • Available styles: 2

A high-pressure showerhead that feels like a spa

It installs without tools and costs less than $30, but this luxury showerhead has an average 4.6-star rating from over 14,000 reviewers. “Fantastic water pressure,” one said. Get it in your choice of six finishes, all with a 6-inch rainfall face, a rotating arm, and over 90 self-cleaning silicone nozzles.

  • Available styles: 6

Acrylic organizers that tackle drawer clutter

Tackle drawer clutter once and for all with these acrylic organizers. The set of four includes two with dividers and two without, so you can separate your brushes and cosmetics in drawers or stack your toiletries on the counter or in the medicine cabinet. Reviewers love them because they’re clear, well-made, versatile, and easy to clean.

  • Available sizes: 2 — 4

A sheets set that feels like “sleeping on a cloud”

No one will have any idea you paid such a low price for these microfiber sheets, which have an average 4.5-star rating after more than 40,000 reviews. “Incredibly soft and smooth, almost like sleeping on a cloud,” one raved, while another said they’re “very easy to take care of.” The set includes pillowcases, a flat sheet, and a fitted sheet with a fully elastic border and stretchy corner bands to keep it in place.

  • Available sizes: Twin — Split King
  • Available styles: 43

Stick-on trim that transforms builder-grade elements

This peel-and-stick trim makes it easy to add depth, texture, and a high-end touch to your walls, furniture, mirrors, cabinets, and doors. Made from flexible vinyl with a self-adhesive backing, it’s easy to cut to size, and it comes in your choice of black, white, or gold. According to reviewers, it’s “worth every penny” when it comes to transforming builder-grade elements.

  • Available sizes: 0.26"W x 196.8"L — 2"W x 196.8"L
  • Available styles: 3

A gorgeous candle warmer that’s safer than an open flame

Using one of two included halogen bulbs, this candle warmer heats up the wax to diffuse the scent into your space without a flame. That said, it has automatic timer settings — and its wooden base, tinted glass tulip shade, and dimmable light add plenty of ambiance to your home.

  • Available styles: 11

A bedside water carafe that looks so expensive

Encourage yourself to hydrate or help overnight guests feel at home. This bedside carafe holds up to 33 ounces of water and has a matching tumbler that doubles as a lid. Both are made from thick, lead-free glass with a pink tint and an embossed texture, so the set “looks expensive” and feels “very sturdy.”

Sleek wooden spice grinders you’ll love to leave out

Made from natural rubberwood, these salt and pepper grinders are so gorgeous, you’ll love leaving them out on the table or countertop. Still, they’re built for functionality. The top comes off for easy refilling, the ceramic grinding core is efficient and non-corrosive, and the three coarseness settings let you choose between fine, medium, and coarse.

  • Available styles: 3

A 2-tier turntable that’s sleek & sturdy

What’s better than a turntable for organization? A two-tier turntable that doubles your storage. Use this stacked lazy Susan for cosmetics in the bathroom, spices or supplements in the kitchen, or ingredients in the pantry. The base spins 360 degrees for accessibility, the metal rods can support up to 33 pounds, and the clear trays look sleek enough to leave out on the counter.

  • Available sizes: 9.25in 1 Pack — 10.6in 2 Pack

A modern, minimalist lamp that’s rechargeable

With its cordless functionality and modern design, this minimalist LED lamp combines style and practicality. Its magnetic filament lights up inside the glass case, and the touch-control button lets you switch between three modes. It’s also USB-rechargeable, so you can use it outside, while camping, during emergencies, and on outlet-free surfaces.

  • Available sizes: 1 — 2

A book embosser to claim your library

For the bibliophile with an impressive book collection, this custom embosser offers a stylish way to claim your personal library. It’s a best-seller with an average 4.8-star rating because it’s “crafted with care and quality” to stamp an embossed design of your choice onto the page with “an easy squeeze,” and the result “looks phenomenal,” according to reviewers.

  • Available styles: 10

Minimalist wooden bookends with non-slip feet

Made from your choice of acacia or walnut, these wooden bookends offer style alongside structure. The triangular design is thicker on the bottom to support heavy books (or magazines, CDs, binders, notebooks, and records), and the bottom panels have four non-skid feet to prevent slipping and scratches.

  • Available styles: 2

A vertical hanger that frees up closet space

This space-saving hanger maximizes the storage in your closet with its vertical design and sturdy metal construction. Start by placing both metal hooks along the rod. Then hang up to six additional hangers in its notches, and release one of the end hooks. It’ll cascade downward to free up space on the rod, but it still prevents wrinkles and allows you to see all of your clothes at once.

A massaging shower mat that adds personality

Like your average shower mat, this one boosts traction to minimize slips. Unlike your average shower mat, it’s made from a loofah-like material that self-drains, rinses clean of residue, dries fast, and scrubs the bottom of your feet — and it comes in several unique patterns that add color and personality to your bathroom.

  • Available sizes: 16" x 39" (Rectangular) — 36" x 36" (Square)
  • Available styles: 18

A foam pillow that fills the headboard gap

“One of the most necessary purchases of my life!” said one reviewer who no longer has to deal with pillows getting stuck between the mattress and the headboard. This bed wedge fills that gap with supportive memory foam, and it has a removable, washable cover with side pockets for glasses or remotes. Others commented that it’s “super comfortable” when reading or watching TV.

  • Available sizes: Twin — King

Adhesive shelves with drainage that can support up to 20 pounds

If bottles are cluttering up your bathtub rim or shower floor, these shower caddies offer a sleek, easy solution. Thanks to their durable adhesive strips, they mount to most smooth surfaces without any tools or damage, and they feature a self-draining design with movable hooks to hold sponges, cloths, scrub brushes, and razors. The extra-large size can support up 20 pounds.

  • Available sizes: Large — X-Large
  • Available styles: 5

A bath mat that dries in seconds

“We will never go back to fluffy mats again,” one reviewer said about this soft diatomaceous earth bath mat, which has a rubber back and a faux-suede top layer. It’s still non-slip, well-cushioned, and absorbent, but unlike plush options, it dries in seconds to prevent the growth of mildew and unwanted odors.

  • Available sizes: 24" x 16" — 17"x27.5" + 17"x59"
  • Available styles: 24

A magnetic door stopper that protects & props

This door stopper does two things at once: It prevents a swinging door from slamming into the wall with its spring-loaded mechanism, and it props the door open with its magnetic design. Made from stainless steel, it’s constructed to withstand over 70,000 uses, and it installs with included double-sided adhesive so you don’t have to break out the drill.

  • Available styles: 9

A wooden organizer that’ll make your jewelry collection look boutique-worthy

Store, display, and protect your jewelry with this wooden organizer case, which holds up to 100 rings in its velvet-lined slots and has a clear glass lid so you can see your collection. Reviewers also use it for bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, and said that it’s “well made” and a “great value.”

Chic coupe glasses that are dishwasher-safe

Wine, margaritas, cocktails, mocktails, lemonade, iced tea — whatever you’re serving, these coupe glasses make your tablescape look so much more impressive. They’re made from lead-free glass with a classic stem and a ribbed bowl that holds up to 10 ounces, and they’re sturdy and dishwasher-safe for easy upkeep.

A rectangular turntable that’s an organization game-changer

This isn’t your average lazy Susan turntable. Instead of spinning around in a circle, its heart-shaped track and rectangular top allows it to turn and extend outward, so you can reach items all the way in the back. It also has suction cups to keep it securely mounted to refrigerator shelves, countertops, and cabinets. “Game changer for organizing my refrigerator,” one reviewer said. “Items no longer get lost in the back and forgotten.”

  • Available sizes: 14.56'' x 11'' — 15.67'' x 11.7''

A chic lamp shade you can arrange in 15 ways

With its interlocking jigsaw pieces that you can use to create 15 different designs, this puzzle lamp shade is a diffuser for harsh bulbs, a work of art, and an engaging activity, all in one. “I’ve received so many compliments!” one reviewer raved, while another said, “I may have to buy a third just to tinker with the different shapes.”

  • Available sizes: Small — XL

Floating book shelves that are strong & minimalist

According to one reviewer, these wall-mounted floating shelves are “strong and amazing for any space” — not to mention “really interesting to look at.” Made from metal, they support plenty of weight with only two screws, and their slim tiers make it appear as though up to 15 pounds of your book collection is levitating in mid-air.

  • Available sizes: 1 Pc 2 Tier — 4 Pcs 8 Tier
  • Available styles: 2

A rack that makes the most of your vertical space

Add a shelf almost anywhere you need additional storage with this expandable rack, which uses tension rods to anchor itself between two walls up to 31 inches apart — without any tools whatsoever. Its metal frame can support up to 22 pounds while its padded feet resist slipping and damage. Reviewers called it a “great solution” for tight bathrooms, kitchens, linen closets, and laundry areas.

  • Available sizes: 19.68-31.49 inches — 46.06-74.02 inches

Stackable containers for all your bath & vanity clutter

Cotton swabs, floss sticks, bath salts, scrunchies, clips, makeup remover pads, lipstick — whatever you store in these acrylic containers, they’ll look more like decor and less like clutter. Clear with spherical knobs on the lids, they’re sleek and moisture-resistant, and you can remove the lids to stack them one on top of the other.

  • Available sizes: 1 — 2

An under-sink mat that’s waterproof & non-slip

Made from waterproof silicone with raised edges and a honeycomb texture, this under-sink mat protects your cabinets, contains messes, and prevents slipping. It’s also easy to clean in case of spills and comes in eight color options and six sizes for a custom-like fit. No wonder it has an overall 4.7-star rating.

  • Available sizes: 19"W x 22"L — 22"W x 34"L
  • Available styles: 8

Modern handles that update your cabinets

New hardware can modernize your existing cabinets in just a few minutes. These cabinet pulls are made from stainless steel with a sleek bar design and a satin brass finish. Plus, they also come in tons of sizes to fit existing drill holes, and reviewers gave them an average 4.6-star rating because they’re “sturdy,” “gorgeous,” and “easy to install.”

  • Available sizes: 5-inch (15 Pack) — 7.38-inch (35 Pack)
  • Available styles: 5

A faux-stone landscape border that looks so real

“I couldn't believe how real these look and how easy [they were] to install,” one reviewer said about this landscape border. While they look like stone bricks, they’re actually made from weather-resistant resin with flexible interlocking pieces, so you can curve them around paths and garden beds easily. They also secure in place using a hammer and the included metal spikes, no digging required.

  • Available sizes: 1-Pack (4 FT) — 1-Pack (4 FT)
  • Available styles: 5

A pull-out filing system for your cookware

Reviewers called this pull-out cookware organizer a “great space saver” and a “simple solution to fumbling pots.” It files your pots, pans, lids, bakeware, and cutting boards vertically between adjustable wire racks, so you can grab what you need without upsetting anything else — and since it slides out like a drawer, you can reach the items in the back with ease.

  • Available sizes: 1 Pack — 2 Pack
  • Available styles: 2

Custom-engraved coasters that are “absolutely beautiful”

Looking for a stunning, custom accent that’s actually functional? According to reviewers, these personalized coasters are “absolutely beautiful” and “fantastic quality.” The two-tone design features marble on one side and natural wood on the other, and you can input a custom engraving in your choice of four designs. For $10 more, you can get a set of four with a free gold stand.

A revitalizing oil for your cutting boards & butcher block

Designed to protect, condition, and revitalize your wooden surfaces, John Boos board cream can be used on everything from cutting boards and wooden utensils to butcher-block countertops. Its formula contains food-grade mineral oils and beeswax, and it keeps reviewers’ stuff “sealed and durable” while looking “brand new.”

  • Available styles: 5

Mess-containing trays for your shoes, umbrellas, gardening supplies & more

Organize your shoes while keeping dirt, mud, moisture, and sand off your floors. These shoe trays have raised edges to keep the mess contained, and they’re made from easy-to-clean plastic in your choice of black, bronze, or gray color options. They’re also great for gardening supplies, umbrellas, pet foot, and more.

  • Available styles: 3

A matching bathroom accessories set made from ceramic

Turn your countertop essentials into chic decor with this bathroom accessories set, which includes a soap dish, a liquid soap dispenser, and a tumbler for toothbrushes, makeup brushes, or mouthwash. All of them are crafted from sand-colored ceramic with a speckled finish, so they look expensive and handmade.

A rechargeable wall sconce that doesn’t require wiring

Whether you want to illuminate a piece of artwork, set the mood, or create clutter-free light for reading, this wireless LED wall sconce delivers. It’s rechargeable with a rotating head, 15 RGB color options, three white temperature settings, and a magnetic base that you can install using adhesive tape or screws. It also comes with a remote control so you can change the color and brightness.

  • Available styles: 3

Solar lights that illuminate your steps

While your safety is priceless, an electrician isn’t cheap. Luckily, these solar step lights soak up sun during the day and turn on automatically at night so you can see where you’re going — and they make your outdoor space look significantly more expensive. Use the included screws or 3M adhesive tape for installation. You can also attach them to fences and railings.

  • Available sizes: 2 — 16
  • Available styles: 2

Under-sink organizers with drawers & adjustable dividers

These under-sink organizers did a “fantastic job” when it came to “transforming my sink cabinet from disorganized to tidy and efficient,” one reviewer said. The acrylic trays have movable dividers to hold bottles, cosmetics, cleaning supplies, towels, and ingredients, while the drawers slide out so you can reach items in the back. The two-tier design also maximizes storage while leaving space for the plumbing.

  • Available styles: 7

A cooling pet blanket that’s machine-washable

Comfort your pet in the heat while protecting your furniture from stains and fur. This cooling blanket is made from silky, innovative fabric that draws body heat away from your cat or dog. It’s also machine-washable and comes in five sizes and four color options, all with cute cloud-shaped stitching that keeps the pet-safe filling in place.

  • Available sizes: Small — Twin
  • Available styles: 4

Colorful magnetic photo frames for your fridge

Available in two colorful border options (film rolls or funky waves), these photo frames showcase your pictures while keeping them magnetically secured to your refrigerator, chalkboard, or locker. Reviewers said that the designs are “super cute” and the magnets are “super strong.”

  • Available styles: 2

A simple ceramic tray that makes clutter look elegant

“Simple, elegant, and long-lasting,” one reviewer said about this ceramic tray, which they’ve had for over a year and it still looks “absolutely perfect.” It comes in three colors (black, white, and marble) and several sizes, so you can use it to display soap in the bathroom, sponges next to the sink, candles on the coffee table, ingredients on the countertop, or jewelry on your vanity.

  • Available sizes: 6.3" x 3" x 0.6" — 9.8" x 4.7" x 0.7"
  • Available styles: 5

Condensation tape that catches moisture before it causes issues

Made from absorbent fabric with a strong self-adhesive backing, this condensation tape catches moisture from your doors and windows before it can create mold or damage your surfaces. “This product has literally saved my wooden window frames from rotting!” wrote one reviewer.

  • Available styles: 2

Cabinet shelves that maximize storage

These cabinet organizer shelves utilize vertical space to maximize storage while keeping everything accessible. They come in a set of two sizes, both made from clear plastic with curved edges for a sleek, subtle design. Reviewers said that their cabinets look “much more organized” and their kitchen essentials are “much easier to grab.”

  • Available sizes: Set of 2 — Set of 4
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