15 Proven Tips for Saving Money on Home Decorating

Decorating your home is an exciting venture, but it can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you start tallying the costs. However, creating a beautiful, comfortable, and stylish space doesn’t have to be expensive. You can transform your home on a budget by making smart choices, embracing creativity, and taking advantage of available resources. At Dealhack, we’re passionate about helping you save money while achieving the home of your dreams. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 15 tried-and-true tips for decorating your home without overspending.

In this post, you’ll learn:

• Smart shopping strategies to snag the best deals on decor.
• Creative ways to repurpose and upcycle items already in your home.
• Affordable DIY projects that add a personal touch without the high price tag.
• Insights on where to invest and where to save in your decor journey.
• Budget-friendly decor trends to elevate your home’s aesthetic.

1. Plan First: Your Guide to Smart Decorating

One of the most critical steps in saving money on home decorating is starting with a plan. Without a clear roadmap, it’s easy to get sidetracked by impulse purchases or trends that don’t align with your vision. Begin by assessing each room in your home and identifying the areas that need the most attention. Ask yourself:

• What do I love about this space?
• What isn’t working?
• What are the essential items needed to complete this room?

Once you have a clear idea, set a realistic budget. Allocate funds based on your priorities, allowing for some flexibility if you find something unexpected that fits perfectly into your space. Remember, a well-executed plan not only keeps you on track but also ensures that every dollar you spend contributes to your overall vision.

Create a Mood Board: Before you start shopping, create a mood board to visualize your color palette, textures, and styles. This will keep your purchases cohesive and prevent impulse buys that don’t fit your theme.

Break Down the Budget: Allocate specific amounts for each category (e.g., furniture, decor, textiles). This breakdown will help you stay within your budget and prioritize essential items over extras.

Pro Tip: Revisit your plan regularly as you shop to ensure you’re staying on track and not veering off-budget. Small adjustments can be made, but your overall vision should remain consistent.

2. Timing is Key: Shop Off-Season for Savings

Timing is everything when it comes to scoring the best deals. Shopping for items during their off-season is a surefire way to save money. For example:

• Holiday decor: Buy it right after the holidays when stores are clearing out their inventory.
• Outdoor furniture: Look for deals in late fall or winter when demand is low.
• Textiles: End-of-season sales are perfect for scoring high-quality bedding, rugs, and curtains at a fraction of the original price.

Monitor Price Drops: Use tools like Google Shopping or apps like Honey to monitor price drops on items you have your eye on. This way, you’ll know the best time to buy.

Sign Up for Sale Alerts: Many retailers offer exclusive sale alerts to email subscribers. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite stores to be the first to know about off-season sales and discounts.

Pro Tip: Purchase off-season items and store them until needed. This strategy not only saves you money but also gives you a head start on next season’s decor.

3. Discount Codes and Coupons: Your Savings Secret

In today’s digital age, there’s no reason to pay full price for anything. Before you check out, whether online or in-store, always search for discount codes and coupons. Websites like Dealhack offer a treasure trove of promo codes and discount coupons for a wide range of retailers, from big-box stores to niche boutiques.

For example:

• Furniture: Look for discounts on large pieces from retailers like Wayfair, IKEA, and Ashley Furniture.
• Decor items: Find coupon codes for popular decor stores like Pottery Barn, HomeGoods, and West Elm.

Stack Discounts: Whenever possible, stack coupons with ongoing sales or clearance prices. This can maximize your savings and allow you to stretch your budget further.

Use Cashback Apps: Sign up for cashback apps like Rakuten or Honey, which give you a percentage of your purchase back when you shop through their links. It’s an easy way to earn back some of what you spend.

Pro Tip: Combine discount codes, cashback offers, and store sales to triple your savings. This approach can result in some truly unbeatable prices.

4. Revive Old Items: Repurpose and Reuse

One of the most rewarding aspects of decorating on a budget is the opportunity to get creative with what you already have. Repurposing and reusing items not only saves money but also adds a unique, personal touch to your home. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Old ladders: Turn them into rustic shelving units or towel racks.
• Vintage suitcases: Stack them for a quirky side table or use them for stylish storage.
• Mason jars: These versatile jars can be transformed into anything from candle holders to bathroom organizers.

Upcycle Old Furniture: Sand and repaint old dressers, tables, or chairs to match your new decor. Adding new hardware can also give these pieces a modern twist.

Transform Fabric Scraps: Use leftover fabric scraps to create custom throw pillows, placemats, or even artwork. This is a great way to add color and pattern to your home without buying new materials.

Pro Tip: Before you discard any item, ask yourself if it can be repurposed creatively. Often, a little DIY can turn trash into treasure.

5. DIY: Personalize Your Space on a Budget

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own hands—and it’s often much cheaper than buying pre-made items. DIY projects allow you to customize your decor to suit your space and style perfectly. Some budget-friendly DIY ideas include:

• Wall art: Create your own abstract paintings or frame fabric swatches for a unique art piece.
• Custom cushions: Use leftover fabric or thrift textiles to sew your throw pillows.
• Refurbished furniture: Sand and repaint an old dresser or table to give it a fresh, modern look.

DIY Planters: Create stylish planters from old containers or pots. Paint them to match your decor and use them to bring greenery into your space.

Personalized Decor: Create custom signage, such as a welcome sign for your front door or a nameplate for your child’s room, using inexpensive materials like wood or canvas.

Pro Tip: Start with small DIY projects to build your confidence. As you gain skills, you can take on larger, more complex projects that will save you even more money.

6. Shop Secondhand: Discover Hidden Treasures for Less

Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay are treasure troves for affordable home decor. Vintage furniture, in particular, often comes with a lower price tag and offers a charm that new items sometimes lack. When shopping secondhand:

• Inspect items carefully: Ensure that furniture is sturdy and in good condition. Minor cosmetic flaws can often be fixed with a little DIY effort.
• Be patient: Finding the perfect piece can take time, but the savings are well worth it.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price, especially at garage sales or on marketplaces.

Join Local Buy-Sell Groups: Join Facebook groups or local community boards where people regularly sell or give away furniture and decor. You can often find great deals from neighbors looking to declutter.

Visit Estate Sales: Estate sales often have a wide range of items, from furniture to decor, and prices typically drop as the sale progresses. Visit toward the end of the sale to snag the best deals.

Pro Tip: Always bring a measuring tape and photos of your space when shopping secondhand. This ensures that the items you purchase will fit perfectly in your home.

7. Multi-Functional Furniture: Optimize Space and Budget

When working with a limited budget and space, multi-functional furniture is a game-changer. These pieces not only maximize your space but also reduce the need to buy multiple items. Consider options like:

• Sofas with built-in storage: Perfect for small spaces where extra storage is needed.
• Convertible coffee tables: Use it as a coffee table by day and a dining table by night.
• Murphy beds: Ideal for guest rooms or studio apartments where space is at a premium.

Modular Furniture: Invest in modular furniture like sectional sofas or shelving units that can be rearranged to fit different spaces or purposes, offering flexibility as your needs change.

Foldable Furniture: Foldable chairs, tables, and desks can be stored away when not in use, freeing up space in small rooms or apartments.

Pro Tip: Look for multi-functional furniture pieces at secondhand stores or online marketplaces to save even more money. You’ll often find gently used items at a fraction of the original cost.

8. Focus on High-Impact Areas: Prioritize for Maximum Effect

When your budget is tight, focus on areas of your home that will make the biggest impact. The living room, kitchen, and entryway are great places to start since these are the spaces that most guests will see. Small updates in these areas can have a big impact:

• Living room: Update throw pillows, add a new rug, or refresh the room with a new coat of paint.
• Kitchen: Swap out cabinet hardware, add a stylish backsplash, or paint the cabinets for a fresh look.
• Entryway: Add a statement mirror, update the lighting, or introduce a new console table.

Upgrade Window Treatments: Changing out old blinds or curtains for new ones can make a dramatic difference in a room’s appearance. Opt for light, airy fabrics to make the space feel larger and more inviting.

Focus on Flooring: Rugs are a great way to add color and comfort to a room. Look for large area rugs that define spaces and add warmth to high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways.

Pro Tip: Concentrate your budget on one high-impact area at a time. This allows you to see noticeable improvements in stages, keeping your momentum going as you work through your home.

9. Mix High and Low: Balance Quality with Affordability

Creating a designer look on a budget is all about balancing high and low-end items. Invest in a few statement pieces that will stand the test of time and complement them with more affordable items. For instance:

• High: A quality sofa or a standout piece of art that anchors the room.
• Low: Affordable throw pillows, lamps, or decorative accents from budget-friendly retailers.

Mix Designer and DIY: Combine designer pieces with DIY projects to create a unique and personalized space. A high-end table paired with DIY decor can create a balanced, stylish look.

Use Affordable Basics: Invest in high-quality, durable basics like a solid wood dining table, and complement it with inexpensive, trendy decor items that can be easily swapped out as styles change.

Pro Tip: Spend more on items you use daily or that are focal points in the room. Save on accessories that can be easily replaced as trends change.

10. Use Paint Wisely: Transform Your Space with Color

Paint is one of the most cost-effective tools in your decorating arsenal. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a room, making it feel larger, cozier, or more modern depending on the color you choose. Consider:

• Neutral tones: Perfect for creating a timeless, versatile backdrop that allows your furniture and decor to shine.
• Bold colors: Ideal for accent walls or smaller spaces where you want to create a focal point.

Try Paint Samples First: Before committing to a full can of paint, buy samples and test them on your walls. This allows you to see how the color looks in different lighting throughout the day.

Use Paint in Unexpected Places: Don’t limit paint to just walls. Consider painting furniture, interior doors, or even the ceiling to add a pop of color and interest to a room.

Pro Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, consider painting just one accent wall or a piece of furniture rather than an entire room. A small amount of paint can still make a big impact.

11. Update Hardware: Small Changes, Big Impact

One of the quickest and most affordable ways to refresh your home is by updating the hardware. Swapping out old cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and light switch covers can give your space an instant facelift. Hardware updates are relatively inexpensive and can be done in a single afternoon. Consider:

• Matte black or brushed nickel finishes: For a modern, sleek look.
• Vintage-inspired knobs: For a touch of character and charm.

Coordinate Hardware Throughout the Home: For a cohesive look, choose hardware finishes that complement each other across different rooms. Consistency in your hardware can tie your home’s decor together seamlessly.

Consider Unique Hardware: Look for unique hardware options like leather pulls, ceramic knobs, or hammered metal finishes. These distinctive choices can make your cabinets or furniture stand out.

Pro Tip: Update hardware on a budget by shopping at clearance sections or even repurposing hardware from thrift furniture. A coat of spray paint can also give mismatched pieces a cohesive look.

12. Layer Textiles: Create Depth and Comfort in Your Space

Textiles are an excellent way to add warmth, texture, and personality to a room without a significant investment. Layering different textiles—like rugs, throw pillows and curtains—can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Some tips:

• Mix patterns and textures: Combine different patterns, like stripes and florals, with varying textures such as velvet and linen for a rich, layered look.
• Use area rugs: Rugs help define spaces and add comfort underfoot, making them a great addition to living rooms and bedrooms.
• Add throw blankets: Drape them over sofas or chairs for an added layer of warmth and style.

Use Seasonal Textiles: Swap out textiles seasonally to keep your home feeling fresh and updated. Light linens and cottons are great for summer, while thicker wool and velvet work well in colder months.

Layer Different-Sized Rugs: Don’t be afraid to layer rugs of different sizes. A smaller patterned rug over a larger neutral one can add depth and interest to a room.

Pro Tip: Visit fabric stores during sales and buy remnants to create custom pillows, throws, or even wall art at a fraction of the cost of pre-made items.

13. Stylish Art on a Budget: Customize Your Space

Art is a crucial element in home decorating, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of affordable options that allow you to add personality and color to your space:

• Framing prints: Purchase prints from online platforms like Etsy or Society6 and frame them yourself.
• Create your art: Get creative with DIY art projects—paint a canvas, frame a piece of fabric, or create a collage.
• Support local artists: Many local artists sell their work at affordable prices, and you’ll get a one-of-a-kind piece in the process.

Rotate Art Seasonally: Keep your walls fresh by rotating your art seasonally. This doesn’t require a big investment—just swap out prints or create new DIY pieces as the seasons change.

Use Unconventional Art Sources: Consider using items like vintage maps, botanical prints, or even fabric remnants as art. Frame these items to create unique and personal pieces that tell a story.

Pro Tip: Save money on frames by shopping at thrift stores or using DIY framing kits. A great frame can elevate inexpensive art and give it a polished, high-end look.

14. Set the Mood: Thoughtful Lighting Ideas

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and tone of a room. Layered lighting—using a mix of overhead lights, table lamps, and floor lamps—can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. When shopping for lighting:

• Start with a statement piece: A chandelier or pendant light can serve as a focal point in your room.
• Mix and match: Combine different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, to create a balanced look.
• Shop smart: Look for deals on lighting fixtures during sales or clearance events.

Install Dimmer Switches: Adding dimmer switches allows you to adjust the brightness of your lights, creating a versatile and cozy ambiance that can be tailored to different moods and activities.

Use Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors and glossy surfaces help to reflect light around the room, making it feel brighter and more spacious. Consider placing mirrors strategically to enhance natural light.

Pro Tip: Opt for LED bulbs to save on energy costs. They last longer and use less electricity, which can reduce your utility bills over time.

15. Maximize Your Budget: Shop Sales and Clearance

One of the most effective ways to save money on home decorating is by shopping sales and clearance sections. Here’s how to maximize your savings:

• Sign up for newsletters: Subscribe to your favorite home decor stores to receive alerts on upcoming sales and exclusive discounts.
• Shop clearance: Both online and in-store clearance sections often have hidden gems at a fraction of the original price.
• Be patient: If you have your eye on a particular item, wait for it to go on sale or clearance before making a purchase.

Shop Outlet Stores: Don’t forget about outlet stores where you can find overstock or last season’s items at deeply discounted prices. These stores often carry high-quality items at a fraction of the cost.

Take Advantage of Holiday Sales: Major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Memorial Day often come with significant discounts on home decor items. Plan your purchases around these sales for maximum savings.

Pro Tip: Create a wishlist of items you want for your home and monitor their prices over time. This way, you’ll be ready to pounce when they go on sale.

Top 5 Apps for Budget Home Decorating

There are several apps available that can help you stay within your budget while decorating. These tools offer everything from design inspiration to price comparisons:

1. Houzz: Houzz offers design inspiration, and product recommendations, and even connects you with local professionals for larger projects.
2. Pinterest: Perfect for gathering ideas and DIY projects. Create Pinterest boards to plan out your decorating projects.
3. OfferUp: A marketplace for buying and selling used goods locally, often at very affordable prices.
4. Roomstyler 3D Home Planner: Allows you to create 3D room designs and experiment with layouts before purchasing.
5. IKEA Place: An augmented reality app that lets you see how IKEA products would look in your home before buying them.

Leverage Social Media for Decor Inspiration and Deals

Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok are treasure troves of home decor inspiration. Following influencers, designers, and brands in the home decor niche can spark new ideas and keep you informed about trends and sales. Here’s how to make the most of social media:

• Follow Home Decor Accounts: Follow accounts that align with your style to get daily inspiration and tips.
• Join Facebook Groups: Many communities on Facebook are dedicated to buying, selling, and swapping home decor. These groups often have exclusive deals.
• Search for Hashtags: Use hashtags like #BudgetDecor, #DIYDecor, or #ThriftedFinds on Instagram to discover new ideas and budget-friendly products.
• Participate in Challenges: Engage in social media challenges like DIY projects or room makeovers. These can motivate you to decorate creatively without spending much.

Practical Tips for Saving Money on Home Decorating

Tip	Estimated Savings	Impact	Additional Notes
Start with a Plan	N/A	Very High	Establishes a clear budget and priorities to avoid unnecessary spending.
Shop Off-Season	Up to 70%	Moderate	Buy items like holiday decor, outdoor furniture, and textiles during their off-season for discounts.
Use Discount Codes and Coupons	10%-30%	High	Always search for discount codes and coupons before purchasing online.
Repurpose and Reuse	100%	High	Utilize existing items creatively to save money and add unique touches.
DIY It	Varies	High	Engaging in DIY projects allows for customization and cost savings.
Shop Secondhand	50%-80%	High	Thrift stores and online marketplaces offer affordable, unique decor options.
Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture	Varies	Very High	Saves space and money by reducing the need for multiple pieces of furniture.
Focus on High-Impact Areas	Varies	Very High	Prioritize decorating areas that will have the biggest visual impact.
Mix High and Low	Varies	High	Combine a few high-quality pieces with affordable decor for a balanced look.
Use Paint Wisely	Under $50 per gallon	High	Painting is a cost-effective way to refresh and transform a room.
Update Hardware	$20-$50	Moderate	Simple hardware updates can modernize a space without a large investment.
Layer Textiles	Varies	Moderate to High	Adding and layering textiles like rugs and pillows enhances the coziness and style of a room.
Opt for Affordable Art	$20-$100	Moderate	Inexpensive art options like framed prints or DIY pieces add personality to your space.
Focus on Lighting	20%-50%	High	Proper lighting changes the ambiance of a room, and deals can often be found on fixtures.
Shop Sales and Clearance	30%-70%	High	Shopping during sales and clearance events maximizes your decorating budget.

Conclusion

Decorating your home on a budget is entirely achievable with the right strategies. By planning, shopping smart, and embracing creativity, you can create a stylish, comfortable space without overspending. From using discount codes to repurposing items and focusing on high-impact areas, these 15 tips will help you maximize your budget and transform your home. Remember, a beautiful home doesn’t require a big budget—just a bit of ingenuity and thoughtful choices.

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