The Easiest Rental-Friendly Home Updates You Can Do in a Weekend

Living in a rental doesn’t mean you have to settle for bland interiors. You can personalize your space with a few creative upgrades without upsetting your landlord or risking your deposit. The best part? These updates are budget-friendly, reversible, and easy enough to finish in a weekend. Here are some of the simplest ways to make your rental feel more like home.

Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Decals

Removable wallpaper is a renter’s dream. It adds instant personality to walls, backsplashes, or even furniture without the long-term commitment. From bold patterns to subtle textures, peel-and-stick designs can completely transform a room and come off cleanly when it’s time to move out.

Upgrade Your Lighting

Swap out harsh or outdated light fixtures for plug-in wall sconces, stylish table lamps, or modern floor lamps. Lighting sets the mood in any space and is often one of the easiest features to elevate in a rental space. Just be sure to store any original fixtures safely so you can reinstall them later.

Add Removable Backsplash Panels

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are ideal for kitchens or bathrooms that need a refresh. They mimic the look of real tile and are easy to apply over existing surfaces. Best of all, they’re heat- and moisture-resistant, making them a practical and aesthetic boost in high-use areas.

Swap Out Hardware

One of the simplest changes with the biggest visual impact is replacing cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and even faucet aerators. Choose modern or vintage-inspired designs that match your style, and simply store the original hardware safely to reattach when moving out.

Use Area Rugs to Add Warmth

Flooring in rentals is often outdated or just plain dull. Area rugs help define spaces, cover wear and tear, and inject your personality into a room. Layer different textures or patterns for added coziness, and use rug pads to prevent slipping on hard floors.

Hang Art Without Drilling

Command hooks and adhesive strips make displaying your favorite prints, photos, or even wall hangings easy—no nails required. For a curated look, create a gallery wall with lightweight frames, or lean larger pieces against the wall for a laid-back, stylish effect.

Try Contact Paper for Temporary Countertops or Shelves

Cover unsightly countertops, shelves, or even appliance fronts with high-quality contact paper. Options like faux marble, terrazzo, or woodgrain instantly make dated surfaces look modern. Just make sure to choose a finish that’s easy to remove and leaves no residue.

Incorporate Stylish Storage

Clutter can make any space feel chaotic. Add visual appeal and function with attractive storage baskets, open shelving units, or under-bed organizers. Look for pieces that don’t require wall installation but still make your space feel intentional and tidy.

Weekend Makeover, Long-Term Comfort

You don’t have to wait until you own a home to create a space you love. These rental-friendly updates are simple, reversible, and surprisingly transformative. With just a weekend of effort, you can personalize your space, boost functionality, and make your rental feel like a true reflection of you.