
Because you deserve a place that feels like you.
Let‘s be real: renting can be a little. boring. You get to come into a place, with dreams and Pinterest boards, only to be met with beige walls, scary lights, and rules that basically read “you can live here, but don‘t you dare make it cute.”.
But I‘ve learned something along the way:
- You don‘t need a toolbox
- You don’t need a contractor
- You don’t need your landlord‘s approval to create a home that is yours.
With the right renter-friendly gems (hi, Amazon), you can totally fake out a designer-level glow-up without risking your damage deposit.
Picture this: peel-and-stick magic, no-drill upgrades… and swaps that look like you spent $ when in reality, you‘re just a home decor genius with WiFi.
I‘ve compiled 10 of my favorite renter-friendly upgrades that I swear by — all tested and vetted by a fellow renter with commitment issues and a mild redecorating addiction.
If you’re ready to take your rental from “meh“ to damn, this is cute, you‘re going to want to scroll on down. These gems turn everything around.
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you! Read my full disclosure here
1. Peel & Stick Backsplash That Looks So Real
Okay, these should honestly come with a warning: addictive satisfaction ahead. Peel, stick, and suddenly your kitchen is giving modern, not meh.
2. No-Drill Motion Sensor Lights (Goodbye, Ugly Overhead Lighting)
If you’re still living with the landlord’s light fixtures... I’m sending hugs. These no-drill tap lights add a soft, designer glow — no wiring required.
3. Tension Rod Curtains (Yes, for Real)
Want dreamy floor-length curtains but can’t drill? Tension rods. Game-changer. Add instant coziness, height, and privacy—minus the commitment.
4. Chic Planter Stand Sets That Don’t Touch the Walls
Plants = instant personality. But these elevated planter sets? They’ll make your space feel professionally styled.
5. Vanity Mirror Lights
If your bathroom lighting is... rude, these are your solution. Easily attachable, totally renter-safe, and they make your mirror look expensive.
6. Shower Head Upgrade (Tool-Free & Totally Worth It)
Yup, you can change your shower head without tools. Suddenly your rental shower feels like a spa.
7. Command Hook Gallery Wall Setup
Gallery walls don’t have to be a landlord’s nightmare. Command hooks & lightweight frames = aesthetic and damage-free.
8. Stretchy Slipcovers That Save Ugly Furniture
Got hand-me-down furniture or Craigslist finds? Stretchy slipcovers can literally transform them. You’ll be shocked at how good they look — like, “wait, is that new?” good.
9. Removable Contact Paper for Countertops & Furniture
Granite? Marble? Wood grain? You can fake it all with contact paper. Perfect for covering ugly countertops, desks, or even the front of your fridge.
10. Stick-On Wall Molding or Faux Trim
Want that "high-end" traditional look? Stick-on trim molding gives your walls dimension without a single nail.
This post featured renter-safe home upgrades like peel and stick tile, no-drill lights, tension rods, and removable wallpaper — perfect for apartments or dorms.

Julia
Glow-Up Central
Helping you glow up your space, style, and lifestyle — one scroll at a time