These things in your home look tacky but they're easy & cheap to fix
Common mistakes around the house don’t stand a chance.
Chances are, you spend a lot of time in your home, so it makes sense that you'd want it to look its best. And, while there may be a lot of little things that can keep your space from reaching its full potential, the good news is that there are fixes that are both easy and cheap. This list includes common, understandable “mistakes” that a lot of us make, and clever solutions that don’t require a big budget or a pricey contractor. So scroll on, and get ready to level up your living space.
01
Mistake: Leaving small holes in your walls
Fix: Drywall putty that fills holes instantlyGetting rid of all the little holes left behind on your walls from artwork or picture frames can feel like a huge hassle. But this clever drywall putty makes it super easy. Using the handy twist-up applicator, apply the putty over the hole in circular motions, wipe the excess with a damp cloth (or even your finger), and let it dry. It dries white, so you may not even need touchup paint, depending on your walls.
02
Mistake: Mismatched decor
Fix: Gallery wall frames that add a cohesive lookStyling your home can be tricky, especially when it comes to decorating the walls. One easy way to make things look better in an instant is to coordinate your art frames. This chic gallery set includes 10 picture frames in assorted sizes, and they’re available in a variety of colors. They can even be hung horizontally or vertically, for maximum versatility. One fan wrote, “I was impressed with the quality of these frames, especially for the price. They look great!”
03
Mistake: Scratches & dings in furniture
Fix: Furniture markers that conceal minor damageInstead of sanding and staining your old wood furniture or spending a fortune having a professional restore it, this easy touchup kit allows you to fill in scratches and scuffs by using a simple marker. With six shades that can match maple, oak, cherry, walnut, mahogany, and black finishes — along with six wax sticks and a sharpener — this set is works on just about everything from wooden dressers and bookcases to hardwood floors.
04
Mistake: Neglecting chips or other damage to your wall's paint
Fix: Touchup paint pens that are so easy to useIf your walls are marred with chipped paint or other imperfections, you’ll love these exceptionally simple (yet highly effective) touchup paint pens. They’re designed to help you fill in small spots without having to drag out the rollers and drop cloths; just dip the little syringe into your paint can and use the brush tip to easily target areas that need touching up. One reviewer wrote, “I LOVE these little pens! I have one filled with cabinet paint and one filled with wall paint for those random touch ups […] I just grab my pen and twist the end and the paint flows right out!”
05
Mistake: Discolored grout
Fix: A handheld power scrubber that does the hard work for youAnyone with grout in their bathroom or kitchen knows how tough it can be to keep it looking good. But this brilliant power scrubber is the perfect way to keep it clean and sparkling without a lot of elbow grease. The handy gadget boasts a powerful oscillating head that scrubs 60 times per second and comes with multiple brushes and pads for everything you need. One shopper wrote, “I love this little scrubber so much that I purchased 2!!”
06
Mistake: Dull or neglected wood cabinets & furniture
Fix: A polish & cleaner that leaves wood surfaces looking like newIf your wood furniture or cabinets are starting to look a little lifeless, this wood polish is an excellent way to help them shine again. The versatile cleaner — which features a subtle almond scent — is made with a smooth, non-sticky formula that wipes away grease and grime while helping to restoring wood’s original finish. “This is the best product I’ve ever used on my kitchen table,” wrote one reviewer. “It cleans well and leaves a good polished surface.”
07
Mistake: Tangled extension cords & hoses on your garage floor
Fix: Storage straps that you can hangIf your garage or shed is feeling a bit cluttered, these heavy-duty storage straps will help you keep everything organized and off the floor, courtesy of their sturdy fabric and strong hook-and-loop fasteners. Capable of holding up to 50 pounds, the weatherproof straps are equipped with stainless steel grommets for easy hanging, and they’re even great for storing tools and outdoor equipment. One reviewer wrote, “If you want the best, look no further! They are very well made, the Velcro holds tight and the grommet takes it to another level of organization!”
08
Mistake: Messy cords & cluttered outlets
Fix: A sleek outlet concealer with a handy power stripTechnology is amazing but all of the cords that power it can be eyesores. Fortunately, this outlet concealer makes everything look more aesthetically pleasing. The clever accessory replaces the tangled cords with a simple outlet cover and single cable that runs down the wall and behind your appliances, keeping the original cords hidden and out of the way. With more than 30,000 five-star reviews, it’s earned high praise from fans, with one reviewer noting, “This is one of the most useful things I was able to get for a little space… works great, excellent length!”
09
Mistake: Holes & tears in window screens
Fix: Adhesive repair tape that requires no toolsThis screen repair tape makes it easy to fix small holes and tears without replacing your entire screen. The durable, waterproof tape uses an easy three-layer adhesive to provide a strong, lasting bond. Simply cut the tape to size, stick it on, and voilà — your door or window screen is as good as new. “We had many holes in the window screens of our rented apartment,” wrote one reviewer. “This tape made it super easy to seal up the holes at no hassle and for a good price.”
10
Mistake: Bare windows that leave you with no privacy
Fix: Stylish linen curtains that come in lots of colorsAdd a layer of privacy to your home while also making it more stylish with these sheer linen curtains. Made with a breathable blend of linen and polyester, they’re the perfect solution for windows that feel a bit too exposed while still letting in natural light. Available in 19 colors to match your style, the curtains are durable, lightweight, and machine washable for easy maintenance. One reviewer wrote, “These [curtains] are so pretty, light and airy. This is just what I needed to complete my family room & dining room make over.”
11
Mistake: Appliances that are covered in smudges
Fix: Stainless steel polish that works like magicStainless steel appliances are so beautiful yet also such a magnet for fingerprints and smudges. This stainless steel cleaner, however, helps them look as good as new. The powerful cleaning solution will remove fingerprints and streaks, leaving a polished finish. What's more, the kit includes a microfiber cloth as a bonus. “This product works like a DREAM!” one reviewer wrote. “Not only cleaned my appliances to a level that I didn’t believe possible, but also kept my appliances clean for SEVERAL days!!”
12
Mistake: Outdated or worn out throw pillows
Fix: Chic throw pillow covers with a textured designGive your living space an instant makeover with these chic and modern corduroy pillow covers. Constructed with soft polyester and a chic textured design, the pillowcases are both cozy and stylish. Each set includes two covers with invisible zippers, and they come in 10 colors and five sizes. “I love these cushion covers. They are super soft, cute, and affordable.” wrote one shopper.
13
Mistake: Walls that are bare or sparse
Fix: Floating shelves that add visual interestTake your plain walls and make them more dynamic with these sophisticated floating shelves, which add storage space along with a dash of style. With a rustic finish, the natural paulownia wood looks beautiful, and it’s strong enough to hold up to 22 pounds. Available as a set of four, the shelves feature hidden brackets for a simple, streamlined look, and they come in four finishes. One fan wrote, “These shelves were easy to put up and just the right size for my half bath. They added that wood element I was looking for.”
14
Mistake: Extra rolls of toilet paper cluttering your bathroom
Fix: An attractive bin to stash your toilet paper supplyThis simple toilet paper container is a clever solution for cluttered bathrooms, providing a simple storage space that’s simple yet stylish. Capable of holding up to 12 rolls, it's constructed with sturdy bamboo that comes in multiple finishes, and it features a convenient lid to keep everything tucked discreetly out of sight. One reviewer wrote, “Looks great, and huge space saver. Definitely recommend!”
15
Mistake: Windows that look out on eyesores, like AC equipment
Fix: Stained glass film that gives windows new lifeApplying these stained glass film decals to your windows is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to add charm to your home with almost zero effort. Just stick the static-cling vinyl pieces to any standard window — they require no adhesive, and they block out 96% of UV rays as a bonus. Best of all, they cast beautiful, colorful light in your space when the sun hits them. It’s no wonder the popular decorations have a cult following on Amazon of more than 42,000 five-star reviews.
16
Mistake: Forgetting to dust your baseboards
Fix: An extendable cleaning tool designed especially for baseboardsCleaning baseboards is probably nobody’s favorite chore — and one that’s easy to neglect. But this extendable baseboard cleaner makes the job much simpler, with a swiveling microfiber head and a lightweight handle that extends up to 4 feet so you don’t have to bend over. The versatile cleaning tool can be used wet or dry, and it comes with three reusable cleaning pads. One reviewer wrote, “OMG this is genius! […] I literally did my whole house in minutes and couldn't believe all the dirt that came up!”
17
Mistake: Chaotic junk drawers
Fix: Colorful drawer organizers that give everything a homeBring some order to your life (and your junk drawers) with these handy organizing trays. The 20-piece set includes an assortment of organizers in various sizes that can be mixed and matched to fit everything from makeup and hair ties to craft and office supplies. “These are shockingly great!” one Amazon user wrote. Plus, they come in your choice of a monotone or multicolored set to suit your style.
18
Mistake: A messy jumble of sunglasses
Fix: An attractive organizer that makes sunglasses easy to grabIf your sunglasses are taking over all of the flat surfaces in your home, this wooden sunglasses stand will get them elevated, organized, and looking good. Featuring 10 sturdy pegs to showcase your collection, the simple rack is easy to assemble and super functional. One reviewer wrote, “So practical and makes for a great look on my dresser!”
19
Mistake: Dull, mismatched knives
Fix: A coordinated knife set with a protective storage blockReplace your worn-out knives with this elegant knife set that comes with a lovely storage block. The high-carbon German stainless steel blades are durable and sharp, while the ergonomic handles ensure a comfortable grip. Plus, you can choose from sets with seven, 15, or 19 pieces to suit your culinary needs. “They look and feel like a $300 knife set,” noted one reviewer. “Very heavy, classy and elegant design. Highly recommended, exceeded all my expectations.”
20
Mistake: Mismatched or chipped dishes
Fix: A matching set of modern-looking bowlsGive your table a fresh look with this set of cute ceramic bowls. Perfect for everything from pasta to soup to cereal, each 20-ounce bowl is made from durable, lead-free ceramic that’s safe for the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher. Available in black, red, or polka dot designs, the bowls are stackable for easy storage and feature vibrant interiors that add a fun pop of color to your kitchen. One reviewer wrote, “Good quality and sturdy. I love that they're different colors on the inside. Bonus at how affordable they were!”
21
Mistake: Tired flatware is bringing down your tablescape
Fix: Luxe silverware that elevates any place settingThis 16-piece flatware set, crafted from premium stainless steel with a stunning mirror finish, brings elegance to every dining experience. Its timeless design effortlessly enhances both casual meals and formal gatherings, making each bite feel like a special occasion. Durable and luxurious, this service-for-four set adds a touch of sophistication to your table.
22
Mistake: Your underwear drawer is chaotic
Fix: Drawer dividers to keep everything neatDon’t get your knickers in a twist — keep your drawers neat and tidy with this set of four divided organizers that are perfect for holding lingerie, socks, and underwear. Featuring various cell sizes with sturdy dividers — six for ties, eight for underwear, seven for bras, and 24 for socks — these make it easy to find what you need at a glance.
23
Mistake: Toiletry bottles are cluttering the shower
Fix: Best-selling dispensers that mount to the wallGive the bathroom (at home or your Airbnb) a bougie makeover with this set of two wall-mounted dispenser bottles. The pretty amber-colored bottles are made of durable plastic and come with a range of attractive pre-printed labels that are humidity resistant. Adhesive backings make these a breeze to install.
24
Mistake: Your wine bottles don’t have a home
Fix: This stylish honeycomb countertop rackStylishly store your wine with this freestanding metal wine rack, which can hold up to nine bottles. Its hexagonal design keeps your bottles ready to pour, while the sturdy, space-saving frame makes a chic statement for any kitchen or home bar. And there’s no assembly required — just pop it into place and let your collection shine.
25
Mistake: The silver isn’t looking so good
Fix: Polish that gently removes & prevents tarnishGive your silver the glow-up it deserves with this silver polish and cleaner. Whether it's jewelry, silverware, or the heirloom platter you only use for special occasions, this safe, ammonia-free potion erases tarnish in minutes — and leaves behind a protective barrier with a polished sheen.
26
Mistake: Too many products & nowhere to put them
Fix: An easy-to-install shower caddySleek, sturdy, and stylish, this rustproof stainless steel shower caddy is the storage solution you need for all your soaps, hair products, and scrubbers. Strong enough to hold up to 20 pounds of weight, it’s easy to install with the included adhesive, and promises not to damage your walls. It allows swift drainage and even has adjustable hooks for razors, sponges, or towels.
27
Mistake: Sickly plants are bringing down the mood
Fix: Pretty glass bulbs that keep plants hydratedDo you suffer plant-parent guilt? These vibrant, hand-blown glass watering globes are your new BFFs for keeping your leafy babies alive — even when you're on vacation. Just fill with water, flip, and press them into the soil for two weeks of measured hydration. Bonus: They double as colorful plant decor.
28
Mistake: Worn bedding is making your bedroom sad
Fix: Satin pillowcases with a 5-star hotel lookIf your bedding is looking a little tired, this set of two silky satin pillowcases is the ultimate — and most affordable — room refresh. They’re gentle on skin and hair, stylish, and here to rescue you from any sad, mismatched linen sagas. They’re wrinkle-resistant and come in three dozen colors.
29
Mistake: The decor around your house is dated
Fix: A stylish statement vase to brighten things upIt’s time to let your decor really bloom. This modern ceramic flower vase is available in three colors and has a luxe folded texture that says goodbye to drab and hello to fab. Perfect for fresh blooms, pampas grass, or to make a bold statement all on its own, it’s an easy and chic upgrade to your decor.
30
Mistake: Ugly trash cans are an eyesore
Fix: An aesthetic bin that fits in small spacesA trash can doesn’t have to look trashy. This embossed metal garbage can may hold waste, but it also elevates your space with retro-inspired elegance. Compact enough for tight corners and armed with a soft-close silent lid and odor containment, it’s made from stainless steel that’s fingerprint-resistant and easy to clean.
31
Mistake: Raggedy towels bringing down the vibes
Fix: A fresh set of luxe linens made from Turkish cottonOld, worn-out towels are doing your bathroom no favors. Upgrade to this plush towel set that’s absorbent and luxurious, instantly transforming your space to a personal spa. Lightweight, fluffy, and extremely soft, this set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths to keep your bathroom looking fresh and inviting.
32
Mistake: Clutter is taking over
Fix: A chic woven basket to organize (or hide) the messThis rope basket is an excellent and elegant catch-all for clutter. Ideal as a laundry hamper, blanket holder, or decorative storage, its soft cotton rope construction and wooden bead handles make it a practical way to tidy up your space. With a spacious 72-liter capacity, it’s designed to keep your essentials contained while enhancing your decor.
33
Mistake: Dust bunnies are out to play
Fix: A powerful handheld vacuum that gets into nooks & cranniesTackle life’s little messes with this compact handheld vacuum. This sleek, cordless number features a lithium-ion battery that provides up to 12 minutes of power to tackle quick cleanups in your car, home, or office. The included crevice tool and dusting brush make quick work of a variety of areas.
34
Mistake: The annoying space between the mattress & headboard
Fix: This wedge pillow that closes the gapThere will be no more midnight treasure hunts seeking lost eye masks, runaway remotes, and stuffed animals on the lam — this high-density foam wedge handily fills the gap between your mattress and headboard (or wall). With convenient side pockets for your essentials and a washable cover, it’s an excellent upgrade for any bed.
35
Mistake: Old bedding is less than fresh
Fix: Soft new sheets made of 100% cottonTired old sheets can make your whole room look worn. Transform your bed into a crisp, cool retreat with a fresh set of these 100% cotton sateen sheets. The breathable, silky fabric is luxuriously soft yet durable, and its deep pockets ensure a snug fit on mattress up to 16 inches tall. Machine washable and with a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases, it’s time to make your room feel like a hotel.
36
Mistake: Your office setup is not so ergonomic
Fix: This acrylic stand that raises your monitorGive your workspace a lift (literally). The two-tier design of this sleek acrylic monitor stand elevates your screen to reduce neck strain and offers smart storage for your keyboard, mouse, and office essentials. Durable and stable, it holds up to 50 pounds, helping keep your posture straighter and your desk clutter-free.
37
Mistake: Overflowing closets that look messy
Fix: Under-bed storage boxes that slip out of sightIf overflowing closets are cramping your style, these two under-bed storage containers are here to save the day. With plenty of room for clothes, blankets, and shoes, they slide neatly under your bed, freeing up your closet for the stuff you consistently need. Soft handles and clear windows make it easy to access whatever you have stored away.
38
Mistake: Random items are creating mountains of clutter
Fix: Stylish catch-all trays to keep odds & ends neatWith unique marble-like patterns and a durable, shatterproof design, this set of two silicone trays gives small items in your bathroom, kitchen, or vanity a neat and polished place to live. Flexible, anti-slip, and cleverly dishwasher safe, they’re elegant and practical, leveling up any space.
39
Mistake: Lumpy pillows are bumming you out
Fix: A cooling memory foam pillow that’s machine washableThis memory-foam pillow comes in a variety of sizes, with two different stuffing options, to keep you comfy whether you’re a back, side, or stomach sleeper. The fabric cover is infused with vented rayon bamboo designed to stay cool, while shredded memory foam comfortably supports your head and neck. You can also toss the whole thing in the wash for easy cleaning.
40
Mistake: The shoes are completely in disarray
Fix: An expandable rack that gives them a homeStep up your organization game with this expandable shoe rack that fits up to 15 pairs of shoes without hogging precious floor or closet space. Adjustable from 22.8 inches to 32.7 inches, it’s ideal for making the most of small spaces. With a durable metal tube construction, angled shelves to keep heels secure, and easy, tool-free assembly, it’s a stylish storage shoe-in.
41
Mistake: Makeup products are strewn across the vanity
Fix: This chic organizer with tiers & drawersContain the chaos of scattered lipsticks and runaway blushes — this four-layer makeup organizer has plenty of space for all your beauty must-haves. The bottom shelf is nearly 8 inches tall so can handle big bottles, while customizable dividers and stackable parts let you tailor the design to your needs. Anti-slip surfaces and smooth-glide drawers keep everything secure and easy to access.
42
Mistake: The plastic bottle your soap came in is an eyesore
Fix: A reusable glass dispenser that looks so bougieThis chic glass soap dispenser — with an eye-catching diamond design — is here to save your decor. With its sturdy glass construction, a stainless steel pump that’s resistant to rust, and a large, 12-ounce capacity, it makes any soap look sophisticated while adding a bougie touch to the sink-scape.
43
Mistake: Your bed is missing a headboard
Fix: Chic panels that affix to the wallEvery grown adult deserves a proper headboard. This set of four headboard panels transforms your bedroom into a sleek sanctuary with sumptuously plush panels that easily mount to the wall (hardware is included). They come in six finishes and 31 colors, so there’s an option to match every decor scheme.
44
Mistake: The kitchen lacks coordinated essentials
Fix: A set of mixing bowls with multi-use lidsThis versatile mixing bowl set features three sizes ranging from 1.5 to 4 quarts, and is suitable for everything from tossing family-size salads to mixing batter. They nest for clutter-free storage, and have airtight lids with spots for the included shredding and slicing graters. Nonslip bottoms, pour spouts on the side, and an easy-to-clean stainless steel construction make these perfectly practical.
45
Mistake: The drawers are a mess
Fix: Bamboo drawer dividers that make organization easierIf you’re tired of constantly rummaging through your junk drawer to find what you need, make use of this expandable bamboo organizer. Stretching from 13 inches to 22.2 inches, it’s ready to handle everything from silverware to makeup, or those mystery gadgets lurking in the office. With a smooth, splinter-free surface that’s easy to wipe clean, this organizer quickly tidies up — and may even make your life easier.