As a renter, it can be challenging to personalize your living space while also ensuring you get your security deposit back at the end of your lease. With the housing market being out of reach for many, especially with high-interest rates and soaring home prices, more Americans are turning to rental units. In 2023, there were 45 million rental units in the US, according to Statista. To help renters make their spaces feel like home without making permanent changes, there are numerous renter-friendly hacks shared on social media platforms like TikTok. These hacks are reversible, stylish, and savvy, making it easier for renters to add their personal touch to their homes.
One popular renter-friendly hack is using peel-and-stick tiles, which can transform the look of floors in kitchens and bathrooms without the hassle of traditional tile work. The removal process is also shown on social media platforms, with tips on minimizing any sticky residue left behind. Removable backsplashes are another excellent option for sprucing up a kitchen without making permanent changes. Applying a removable backsplash follows the same process as peel-and-stick floor tiles, making it easy and reversible. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is another versatile option that can be used for accent walls, covering entire walls, or adding a pop of color to furniture like the side of a fridge.
For renters who don’t love the color of their cabinets but can’t paint or replace them, contact paper offers a solution. Similar to peel-and-stick wallpaper but with more adhesive, contact paper can be used to give cabinets a new look. Wall decals are another simple way to update walls without extensive painting or wallpapering, allowing renters to choose from various sizes and designs. Stained-glass window film can add a unique touch to windows or other areas in the home, providing privacy or aesthetic appeal. Electric sconces, although requiring drilling, offer a renter-friendly lighting option that can easily be removed and patched when moving out.
Small changes like updating light switch and outlet covers, replacing doorknobs, or swapping cabinet and dresser hardware can make a significant difference in personalizing a rental space. These changes are easy to implement and can be taken with you when you move, ensuring your next home reflects your style. Ultimately, renters should refer to their lease agreement and seek permission from their landlord before making more permanent changes that require painting or construction. By utilizing renter-friendly hacks and temporary solutions, renters can make their space feel like home without risking their security deposit.
