10 Renter-Friendly Decor Hacks That Won’t Jeopardize Your Security Deposit [CNET]

Refresh your tile, your backsplash and even your doorknobs with these removable decor ideas.

I might be a renter, but I’m not going to let that stop me from decorating my home the way I like it. However, like many renters, I still want to ensure that at the end of my lease, I’ll get my hefty security deposit back. This has led me into the world of renter-friendly hacks. 

On TikTok and other social media platforms, renters often share stylish, savvy — and most importantly — reversible ways they transform their homes. 

These hacks are especially useful now, as buying a home isn’t the best option for everyone due to high-interest rates and skyrocketing home prices. In fact, in 2023 rental units reached a peak, at 45 million, according to Statista. 

If you’re one of the millions of Americans, like me, who want to make your rental feel like home without making permanent or costly changes, then this guide is for you. 

Here are 10 ways you can add your personal style to your rental.  

Peel-and-stick tile

New floor tiles can make a world of difference, especially in an apartment or house that hasn’t had any recent updates. The best part of peel-and-stick tiles is that no grout is involved, making the process a lot simpler and cleaner than traditional tile work. 

You can use these renter-friendly tiles anywhere in your home, but we typically see them in kitchens and bathrooms. Many TikTok users also show the removal process when moving out. If you’re worried about a sticky residue being left behind after removing the tiles, you can line the floor with painter’s tape or a similar product before placing the tiles down. We recommend removing the tiles with heat to help the adhesive come off of the floor seamlessly. 

Removable backsplash

A new backsplash is one of the best ways to brighten up your kitchen, and luckily, there are many renter-friendly and removable options you can use. You can go with a pop of color or keep it simple with a classic white tile.   

You’d apply a removable backsplash the exact same way as the peel-and-stick floor tiles.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper 

You can use peel-and-stick wallpaper in numerous different ways. For example, I used it on the side of my fridge in my studio apartment to create a small, DIY bar. When I recently moved out of that apartment, the wallpaper peeled off the fridge in less than 10 minutes and left hardly any residue behind. 

You can also use peel-and-stick wallpaper for an accent wall in your home, like this TikToker did, or use it to cover your walls entirely, just make sure to measure before purchasing the size you need. 

Contact paper

If you don’t love the color of your rented home’s cabinets, but you also can’t paint or replace them, there’s a solution: Contact paper. 

Contact paper is similar to peel-and-stick wallpaper but usually has more adhesive. Some TikTok users have shown the removal process and said they used Goo Gone and similar products to get rid of any stickiness left behind on the cabinets. 

If you’re still leery about using contact paper, peel-and-stick wallpaper should also work on cabinets. (Tip: If you want to add a fun design element to your kitchen that’s less work than covering all your cabinets, try lining the inside of your drawers with trendy contact paper instead.)

Wall decals 

To update your walls without fully covering them with wallpaper or painting them, use removable decals. They come in numerous sizes and designs, and you can choose how many or how few you use. 

Stained-glass window film

Whether you want to ensure people can’t see through your windows or you simply want to add a unique touch to your home, stained glass window film could be perfect for you. Plus, there are other areas in your home where you can use it, too. For example, creator the Kwendy Home added it to the windows on a French door that led to her bathroom. 

If you’d rather have a neutral color, a simple privacy film is another great option. 

Electric sconces

Though electric sconces do require drilling into the wall, they’re more renter friendly than traditional sconces because there’s no wiring required. These types of sconces are battery-powered and offer numerous lighting options. If you eventually remove them from the wall, you can easily patch the holes. 

Light switch and outlet covers 

Changing an outlet or light switch cover might not sound like a huge deal, but you’d be surprised at the difference it can make. There are plenty of designs and colors to choose from, ensuring you can find one that’ll work with your style. Just remember to keep your original covers so you can swap them back on if you move.

Doorknobs 

Add some charm to your home with new doorknobs. I personally love crystal, brass and vintage doorknobs, which you can buy online or even find at thrift stores or flea markets. Doorknobs are another item you can take with you and reuse if you move, as long as you keep the original knobs the home was rented with. 

Cabinet and dresser hardware 

In a similar category as doorknobs, swapping out the hardware on your kitchen cabinets or dresser is another simple and effective way to add your personal style to your home. You can keep things modern or go the vintage-inspired route. 

Either way, your rental will feel more like you with these small changes. 

If you do, however, decide you want more permanent changes in your home that would require painting or even construction, be sure to reference your lease and speak with your landlord to get permission in writing before moving forward. 

More tips for renters: 

• Best Home Security Systems for Renters in 2024
• If You’re a Gen Z Renter, Solar Power Isn’t Out of Your Reach
• Get Prepared for Your First New Home or Apartment With These Tips
• Best Houseplants for Air Purification and Low Light Environments
• Moving Tips for First-Time Renters Embarking on Their New Journey
• 6 Gen Z Hacks for Saving Money When the Rent Is Too High