31+ Must-Have Affordable Apartment Essentials For An Instant Makeover

This site contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

When embarking on decorating a new apartment or reviving an existing one, the multitude of choices and price points can often feel overwhelming. However, achieving a comfortable and stylish living space doesn’t necessitate breaking the bank. With carefully selected essentials, transforming your apartment into a welcoming haven becomes achievable and budget-friendly.

Within the confines of this article, we delve into over 31 essential items for the apartment that are both affordable and transformative. Ranging from adaptable furniture selections to charming decorative accents, readers will unearth an array of cost-effective options capable of enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of their living space. Whether you’re a budget-conscious college student or a young professional aiming to elevate your home’s ambiance, these carefully curated essentials promise to ignite inspiration and pave the way for a remarkable apartment makeover.

For more tips and tricks follow us on Instagram: @fromlemonstoluxury

This post is all about 31+ Must-Have Affordable Apartment Essentials For An Instant Makeover.

1. Cozy Throw Blankets

Snuggle up with these cozy throw blankets on movie nights or lazy Sunday morningsโ€”they’re honestly so comfortable, you’ll never want to leave your couch.

Bedsure Cream Throw Blankets for Couch - Textured Chunky Knit Woven Chenille Blanket - Super Soft, Warm Decorative Boho Throw with Tassels for Bed, Sofa and Living Room Decor, Ivory, 50x60 Inches

2. Statement Wall Art

Elevate your space with statement wall art that reflects your personality and style; whether it’s abstract paintings or vintage posters, let your walls tell your story.

4 Pcs Metal Minimalist Abstract Woman Wall Art Line Drawing Minimalist Single Line Art Female Home Hanging Wall Art Decor for Bedroom Kitchen Bathroom Living Room

3. Plants, Plants, Plants

Bring the outdoors in with lush greenery that not only adds a pop of color but also purifies the air and your space will thank you for the fresh vibes.

WOUSIWER Plant Pots, 7/6.5/6/5.5/5 Self Watering Plastic Planters with Deep Reservior and High Drainage Holes for Indoor Outdoor Flowers Plants, White with Terracotta

4. Versatile Storage Bins

Keep clutter under control with stylish storage bins that can hide away your essentials while doubling as trendy decor pieces. Say goodbye to the mess, and hello to the chic organization.

M4DECOR 12x12x12 Storage Cube, Water Hyacinth Storage Baskets, Wicker Storage Baskets for Shelves, Woven Baskets for Storage, Square Wicker Storage Basket for Bedroom, Living Room (4 Packs 12x12in)

5. Fairy Lights

Create a magical ambiance in your space with fairy lights that add a warm glow and a touch of whimsy. Perfect for setting the mood for cozy nights or intimate gatherings with friends.

Twinkle Star 200 LED 66 FT Copper Fairy String Lights 8 Modes LED, USB Powered with Remote Control for Christmas Tree Wedding Party Home Decoration, Warm White

6. Throw Pillows

Spruce up your seating areas with a variety of throw pillows in different shapes, sizes, and textures for a look that’s as inviting as it is stylish. Mix and match to your heart’s content.

HPUK Decorative Throw Pillow Covers Set of 4 Square Couch Pillows Linen Cushion Cover for Couch Sofa Living Room, 18'x18' inches, Blue

7. Candles

Set the mood and add a touch of luxury with scented candles that fill your space with soothing fragrancesโ€”perfect for unwinding after a long day or creating a romantic atmosphere for date night.

AOOVOO Lavender Scented Candles for Women - Aromatherapy Candle with Crystals Inside, 10oz Soy Candles for Home Scented, Birthday Gifts Candle for Women Mom

8. Area Rugs

Define your space and add warmth underfoot with a plush area rug that ties your room together. Choose a bold pattern or a subtle neutral hue to suit your style.

CHOSHOME Area Rug 5x7 Washable Rug Low-Pile Machine Washable Vintage Rugs for Living Room, Non-Slip Backing Non-Shedding Indoor Floor Rugs Carpet for Bedroom Kitchen Laundry Home Office,Green

9. Wireless Speaker

Take your music anywhere in your apartment with a wireless speaker that delivers crisp sound and effortless style. Whether you’re hosting a party or unwinding with some tunes, the soundtrack to your life just got an upgrade.

Yogyro Trenbader Artlink Stereo Wireless Speaker AM/FM Retro Wood Bluetooth Speaker with Built-in Speakers,Elegant & Vintage Design Portable Bluetooth Speaker for Home Office Outdoorโ€ฆ

10. Curtains

Update your window treatments with some stylish curtains. They can instantly elevate the look of your apartment.

NICETOWN Living Room Curtains for Windows 84 inch Long - Decorative Thermal Insulated Grommet Room Darkening Window Treatments for Bedroom/Porch, Burnt Orange, 2 Panels = 104' Wide

11. Accent Mirrors

Make your apartment feel bigger and brighter with some strategically placed mirrors. They reflect light and add depth to any room.

FRALIMK Bathroom Mirror for Wall Rectangle Vanity Mirror for Bedroom, Entryway, Living Room, Black Metal Framed, Horizontal Vertical

12. Coasters

Protect your furniture in style with some fun coasters. They’re a small detail that can make a big difference in your decor.

12 Pcs Drink Coasters with Seagrass Basket Holder Set, Handmade Boho Coasters for Drinks Absorbent, Minimalist Cotton Woven Coaster for Coffee Table Home Decor Tabletop Protection, Housewarming Gift

13. Desk Lamp

Upgrade your workspace with a stylish desk lamp. It’ll make working from home a little more enjoyable.

AXX Pink Desk Lamp for Home Office, Cute Table Lights for Bedrooms, Kawaii, Dimmable LED, Flexible Gooseneck, Pen Holder, Touch Control, Room College Dorm Essentials for Teen Girls Kids

14. Shower Curtain

Give your bathroom a makeover with a new shower curtain. Choose a bold pattern or color to make a statement.

NECSOLE Boho Leaf Shower Curtain for Bathroom Mid Century Moon Leaf Fabric Shower Curtains Set Beige Aesthetic Neutral Modern Minimalist Plant Bathroom Decor with 12 Hooks 72x72 Inch

15. Throw Rugs

Add some softness and warmth to your bathroom or kitchen with some small throw rugs. They’re practical and stylish.

Uphome Boho Hallway Runner Rug 2'x 6', Beige Cotton Washable Kitchen Rug Runner with Tassels, Hand Woven Western Entryway Runner Rug, Morrocan Accent Throw Carpet for Hallways Bedroom Bathroom

16. Drawer Organizers

Keep your drawers neat with some organizers. They’re a game-changer for maximizing storage space.

A-LuGei ใ€๐Ÿฎ๐Ÿฎ๐—ฃ๐—–๐—ฆใ€‘ Plastic Lilac Desk Drawer Organizer, Bathroom Organizers and Storage, Makeup Organizer, Organization and Storage Bin Container for Vanity Office Utensils Tool Pantry Cosmetic

17. Dish Towels

Swap out your old dish towels for some cute ones. They’re an easy way to add a little personality to your kitchen.

ACCENTHOME Lemon Yellow Printed Cotton Kitchen Towel Set - Absorbent Multi Purpose Kitchen Linen - 4 Drying Dish Hand Towels 20x28

18. Serving Trays

Entertain in style with some chic serving trays. They’re perfect for serving drinks or snacks to guests.

Set of 2 Decorative Serving Trays - Bamboo + Silver Stainless Steel Handles - Coffee Table or Ottoman Tray for Breakfast in Bed Jewelry, Decor Organization - 12'x17' - Stained Brown Finish

19. Entryway Rug

Welcome guests into your home with a stylish entryway rug. It’s the perfect way to make a good first impression.

Color&Geometry Door Mats Indoor, 20'x32' Front Door Mat Door Rugs for Entryway Indoor, Non Slip Washable Entry Rugs for Inside House, Absorbent Mat Floor Mat Entryway Rug

20. Decorative Wall Hooks

Keep your coats and bags organized with some decorative wall hooks. They’re practical and add a decorative touch to your entryway.

Tricune Vintage Flower Shaped Decorative Wall Hooks Rack Hangers for Hanging Clothes Coats Towels Keys Hats, 3 Pack Antique Metal Mounted Wall Hook

21. Ottoman

An ottoman is not only a versatile piece of furniture but also a stylish addition to your living space. Use it as a footrest, extra seating, or even a makeshift coffee table with a tray on top.

Amazon Basics Ottoman with Storage, Tufted Round Upholstered Footstool, Linen, Burlap Beige, โ€Ž20' x 17'

22. Bedside Table Lamp

Add some ambiance to your bedroom with a bedside table lamp. It’s a practical and stylish addition to your nighttime routine.

Fenmzee Bedside Table Lamp for Bedroom - 3 Way Dimmable Touch Lamp USB C Charging Ports and AC Outlet, Small Lamp Wood Base Round Flaxen Fabric Shade for Living Room, Desk, LED Bulb Included

23. Floating Shelves

Maximize your wall space with some floating shelves. They’re perfect for displaying photos, plants, or knick-knacks.

DOLLFIO Floating Shelves Set of 6, Black Wall Shelves with Lip, Display Shelves for Wall Decor, Modern Picture Ledge for Living Room, Bedroom, Nursery, Bathroom, Pictures, Books, Plants- Black

24. Laundry Hamper

Upgrade your laundry routine with a stylish laundry hamper. It’s a practical addition to any apartment.

Greenstell Laundry Hamper with lid, No Install Needed, 110L Wicker Laundry Baskets Foldable 2 Removable Liner Bags, 2 Section Clothes Hamper Handwoven Rattan Laundry Basket with Handles, Natural

25. Coffee Table

Choose one that fits your style and space โ€“ whether it’s sleek and modern or rustic and cozy. It’s the perfect spot to gather around for drinks, snacks, or a game night with friends.

Smuxee Nesting Coffee Table Set of 2, 27.6' Round Coffee Table Wood Grain Top with Adjustable Non-Slip Feet, Industrial End Table Side Tables for Living Room Bedroom Balcony Yard

26. Accent Chair

Add some extra seating and style to your living room with an accent chair. Choose a bold color or pattern to make a statement or opt for a neutral tone to complement your existing decor.

ATSNOW Peach Pink Sherpa Dining Chairs Set of 2, Mid Century Modern Upholstered Side Chairs for Dining Room Living Room Vanity

27. Wall Clock

Keep track of time in style with a decorative wall clock. Choose a design that complements your decor theme and adds a touch of personality to your space.

1st owned Wall Clocks for Living Room Decor,13' Vintage,Round Silent Non Ticking,Black Metal,Modern Wood Clocks for Home Bedroom,Kitchen,Garden,Office,Cafe,Modern Wall Decoration -Roman Numerals

28. Over-the-Door Hooks

Maximize your storage space with some over-the-door hooks. Use them for hanging coats, towels, or bags without taking up valuable floor space.

Mlesi Over The Door Organizer Hanging Coat Rack with 2 Mesh Baskets 11 Hooks, Stainless Steel Door Hanger Back of Door Storage Shelves Towel Rack for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen (Ivory)

29. Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Transform your walls easily with peel-and-stick wallpaper. Choose from a variety of patterns and textures to add instant character to any room without the commitment of traditional wallpaper.

NuWallpaper Cloud Blue Terrace Vines Peel and Stick Wallpaper, NUS6100

30. Aromatherapy Diffuser

Set the mood and promote relaxation with an aromatherapy diffuser. Fill your apartment with soothing scents like lavender or eucalyptus for a calming atmosphere.

VIVITEST Ceramic Diffusers,Stone Essential Oil Diffuser, Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffusers for Home

31. Photo Wall

Create a personalized gallery wall by displaying your favorite photos, prints, and artwork. Mix and match frames of different sizes and styles for a unique and eclectic look that adds character to your space.

SONGMICS Picture Frames, Collage Picture Frames Set of 10, Two 8x10, Four 5x7, Four 4x6, Photo Frame for Wall Gallery Decor, Table Display, Glass, Ink Black

This post was all about 31+ Must-Have Affordable Apartment Essentials For An Instant Makeover.

In conclusion, transforming your apartment into a cozy and inviting space doesn’t have to be daunting or expensive. By carefully selecting affordable essentials, you can achieve a stylish and functional living environment that reflects your personality and lifestyle. Whether you’re a student living on a tight budget or a young professional looking to spruce up your space, the key is to prioritize items that offer versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal. With the right combination of furniture pieces, decorative accents, and organizational solutions, you can create a home that you’ll love coming back to every day. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and turn your apartment into the ultimate sanctuary without breaking the bank.

You'll Also Love