When it comes to furnishing your home, it’s easy to get carried away with expensive decor and furniture. However, not everything is worth the splurge. In fact, there are a number of home items that are a total waste of money, according to many interior designers.
To help you save money and get the biggest bang for your buck, we’ve compiled a list of items that you should avoid spending too much on. While some items like a comfortable mattress or sofa are worth investing in, there are plenty of other things where spending less is a smarter idea in the long run. Keep reading to find out how you can cut costs, but stay stylish.
Rugs
If you’re in the market for a new rug, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the high prices of fancy Persian or antique oriental rugs. But there’s no need to break the bank when it comes to purchasing a rug for your home.
Online stores such as Wayfair or Rugs USA for a great selection of affordable rugs. By opting for a lower-end rug, you’ll have more flexibility to change up your decor whenever you want without feeling like you’re stuck with an expensive piece that you have to keep for years to come.
Curtains and Rods
When it comes to dressing your windows, custom options can be expensive. However, there are plenty of affordable mass-produced choices available. Stores like Anthropologie and Etsy offer a wide selection of curtain rods and panels that can fit any budget. If you have windows that aren’t a standard size, consider purchasing larger curtains and turning them up. This can be a cost-effective alternative to custom-made.
Designer Throw Pillows
Designer throw pillows can be expensive, costing upwards of $250 for just one pillow. However, there are affordable options available that can still provide a luxurious and vibrant look to your home decor. Retailers such as HomeGoods, HomeSense, or TJ Maxx offer a wide assortment of patterns and textures, with new inventory arriving daily. This is ideal for those who want to change up their pillows from season to season.
If you come across a high-end fabric that you love, but it is out of your budget, you could find a similar design at a fabric shop and create your own (or ask a friend to do it for you).
By exploring these affordable options, you can still achieve a high-end look for your home decor without breaking the bank.
Mass-Produced Artwork
Decorating your walls with mass-produced artwork can be costly, but there are ways to find affordable pieces that reflect your personality. Consider visiting thrift stores, outlets, and community art shows to find unique artwork. Alternatively, high-quality prints can be sourced from online marketplaces like Minted.
Seasonal Decor
When it comes to seasonal decor, it’s best to invest in items that can be used year-round. Rather than splurging on a life-size Santa or gilded reindeer, consider shopping post-holiday sales for decor that can be repurposed. For example, a red tablecloth can be used at Christmas, Independence Day, Valentine’s Day, or any other occasion come to that. If you can’t enjoy something all year round, it may not be worth the investment.
Hardware
When it comes to kitchen or bathroom renovations, high-end hardware can be expensive. However, there are affordable options that can get the job done just as well. Companies such as San Diego Hardware Company, Rejuvenation, and Plank Hardware, which offer knobs and pulls for $40 or less are worth considering. If you’re on a tight budget, you can also find hardware multipacks on Amazon for a great price. By opting for these affordable options, you can save money without sacrificing style or functionality.
Sconces
When it comes to lighting, sconces can be an affordable option. Unique and artisan sculpted sconces can be found for $200 to $250. Check out Lulu and Georgia for great deals on sconces.
Coffee Table Books
Coffee table books can be a great addition to your home decor, but they can also be quite expensive. Luckily, there are ways to save money on these books. Consider purchasing pre-owned versions of the books you like on Amazon or checking out garage sales, estate sales, and thrift shops for used coffee table books. This way, you can still enjoy the beauty and inspiration of these books without breaking the bank.
