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7 Genius Décor Products To Instantly Upgrade A Boring Rental Apartment

Just because you don't own it doesn't mean you can't update it.
By Alexandra Gater
Snazzy decals backsplash Etsy

Renters face a few obstacles when it comes to customizing their homes: they generally can't paint, wallpaper or create a gallery wall. But the truth is, there are so many products on the market that can beautifully update a space — without requiring a new paint job or holes in the walls. Here are some of the best (and quickest!) ways renters can make their space their own:

Updates for renters

Decorative window film

Maintain your privacy without having to hang curtains and add some pretty patterns to your space while you’re at it. Bonus: this stuff is removable and reusable. From $19, Amazon.

Leyden Modern Green Trees Decorative Glass Window Films Amazon updates for renters

Temporary bathroom subway tiles

Subway tiles can be for renters, too. Designed and manufactured in Quebec, you can find these peel-and-stick tiles by Smart Tiles at Lowe’s or Home Depot. They have popular tile designs (like faux carrera marble) for your entire home. The best part? No supplies needed to hang and they are easy to remove (and won’t leave any marks behind!) From, $10, Smart Tiles

Smart tiles Metro Blanco updates for renters

Wall decor

Jazz up boring walls without using nails with these adhesive confetti wall dots. $25/set of 16, Umbra

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Umbra confetti wall decor updates for renters

Vinyl backsplash

Not a fan of your kitchen backsplash? Replace it without the reno with these vinyl stickers that can also be used on your bathroom floor. From $20/pack of 12, Etsy.

Snazzy decals backsplash Etsy

Faux greenery wall

No balcony, but still want some green in your life? Build a DIY faux plant wall. Looks great and you can keep it thriving all year long! Artificial plants, $5/panel, Ikea

Ikea plant wall Fejka updates for renters

Removable wallpaper

Wallpaper is definitely making a comeback (just look at Instagram or Pinterest if you’re not convinced) and if you’re a renter, you can still hop on the trend. There’s tons of removable wallpaper out there, and it’s mess free to install and doesn’t leave any residue behind when you take it off. Use it on your rental walls, appliances and furniture to instantly update a space. From $40/panel. Chasing Paper

Chasing paper removable wallpaper updates for renters

Lusting after a gallery wall, but can’t make a million holes? Not only does Command have hooks of all kinds (their metallic ones look like real metal hooks), they also have these picture ledge shelves which holds on walls without nails, and removes cleanly when you want to take it down. 

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Command photo display shelves updates for renters

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