We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. Iridescent privacy film that'll fill your bathroom with mini rainbows when sunlight trickles in and give you some privacy. Your window will look like an iridescent piece of art *and* prevent your neighbors from peeping in.
Promising review: "I live in an apartment that looks directly into my neighbors — I wanted to keep my window shades up to get some natural light in, but without risking my privacy. My girlfriend saw these on TikTok and she ordered them for her room, so I decided I wanted to try it in my apartment! They work perfectly to let light in, but without compromising my privacy. My cat also loves that she can sit in her hammock on the window now to watch the outside and can also attack the little mini rainbows we sometimes get." —Olivia
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 10 sizes).
2. A velvet storage ottoman so you can put away candles, remotes, and other random things in your small living space, PLUS have a comfy seating spot for guests. Another perk of this cute piece of furniture? The lid flips over and you can use it as a lil' table for drinks and food!
Promising review: "I LOVE my blue velvet seat. The storage capacity is great, the seat is COMFORTABLE, it is sturdy, and does not take up a lot of room. It is worth the money and actually a great deal. One of my best purchases on Amazon. I highly recommend." —Vanessa
BuzzFeed writer Emma Lord also swears by hers. Here's her rave review: "I recently got one of these for my new apartment to stash my candles and ~candle accessories~ in and it's pretty much become my favorite piece of furniture?? I use it to prop up my feet during work hours and sometimes if I want to eat on my couch I'll use it as a tray. It's also sturdy enough to sit on, if I ever wanted to have guests over and needed an extra chair. It was RIDICULOUSLY easy to set up — I had it done in less than 10 minutes, and probably didn't even need the directions. It also just looks so darn cute (and comes in so many colors that I'm tempted to buy another!)."
Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (available in five colors).
3. Removable peel-and-stick wallpaper because it'll make redecorating any room a whole lot easier on a budget. Instead of buying a bunch of primer and paint, grab a roll of this to add a pop of color to a bare wall. Your entire space will look like an interior design magazine cover. 😍
This wallpaper is a great option for anyone living in an apartment, because it's easy to put up and take down if you have to move. You can also buy a sample first before buying a bigger role to test it in the area you'd like to update.
Tropical Workshop is a small business based in Houston, Texas specializing in peel-and-stick wallpaper. They offer rolls in so many designs, including florals, abstract patterns, and more!
Get a 24" x 76" roll from Tropical Workshop on Etsy for $57+ (available in four sizes and three materials).
4. Or a tile peel-and-stick wallpaper if you'd like to level up a kitchen corner or the area above a bathroom sink. Your apartment will look like a mini Mediterranean villa, and you'll breathe a sigh of relief knowing you didn't have to splurge on actual tile for a DIY project. It's also removable, making it a great pick for folks who are renting!
Promising review: "I am IN LOVE. I bought this to use as a backsplash in my rented studio apartment kitchen, which has potential to be pretty but really needs some help. I ordered two rolls thinking that if I liked it in my kitchen, I’d order more to use on the wall behind my bar cart. I loved it so much when it came in that I decided to go ahead and put it up on the big wall and deal with the kitchen later.
The pattern is so easy to line up and it looks so good! My tiny dark apartment instantly looked bigger and brighter. Even up close I can’t tell where the seams are. It was super easy to put up by myself, though I would recommend having another person to help if possible because it would have taken a lot less time if I’d had someone to hold it steady while I lined up the edges." —Lizzy
Get a roll (measures 198" x 20.5") from Amazon for $31.87+ (available in three colors).
5. A decorative seashell pillow so cute, Ariel from The Little Mermaid would probably have one in her home too. You may not live in the ocean, but you can still make your bed, couch, or desk chair look pretty with one of these beauties.
Promising review: "This thing is so soft and so pretty and the color is so rich! I thought I'd be throwing it off the bed like, well, a throw pillow (I just got why they're called that), but I end up essentially snuggling it like a stuffed animal because it's so comfortable. It adds the right amount of '60s/'70s campy hotel kitsch to my room." —Ashley Diamond
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in two sizes and 13 colors).
6. A rotating digital alarm clock with thousands of likes on TikTok for a reason: it has a sleek appearance thanks to a mirrored screen and comes with a wake-up alarm and two USB ports to charge your gadgets. Excuse me while I add this cool gadget to my apartment wishlist...
See it in action on TikTok here.
Promising review: "I love this TikTok clock. Here’s another 'TikTok/BuzzFeed brought me here' post. The clock is adorable and a modern thin clock that doesn’t look cheap, even though it is." —Tanitha Gaither
Get it from Amazon for $16.47 (available in seven colors).
7. A set of thick velvet slip covers that'll instantly change your dull sofa into a nice place to sit/lounge/nap. If your couch is covered in stains or looks a little worn, just place a couple of these on top for a jaw-dropping transformation that takes little time and effort.
This set also comes with nonslip straps that'll prevent your "seats" from shifting out of place. It's also available in a bunch of colors, in case you want to do a total makeover, as shown in the review picture above.
Promising review: "I was hesitant about getting these because I just thought it look cheap and obvious, or that it wouldn’t fit right. I am so glad I got them! I can’t speak for durability or how they hold up after a few washings because I just got them, but my couch looks so nice. My couch was getting ratty looking because of the fabric. I have always wanted a velvet fabric sofa in a bold color but was afraid to spend the money on one incase I got sick of it. This is a great way to change it up! It was easy to put on, it is so soft, and the color is a beautiful jewel tone. the stock photos don’t do this color justice. If you’re on the fence, go for it! —Jenna D
Get it from Amazon for $47.49+ (available in five sizes and 10 colors).
8. A full-length arch floor mirror so you can take in all the stunning views of your living space — even if it's not large. Prop this stunner against a wall in your bedroom or living room and you'll probably forget that you didn't hire an interior designer to decorate.
Promising review: "My boyfriend hooked it to the wall and I added lights behind it. I meant to get it in gold, but I accidentally ordered it in wood. I don't even care since it's such a small frame being shown. It's so, so, so, beyond gorgeous! Previously I had a dinky little rectangular Target mirror that I had to bend down to use. This arched mirror really elevated my small New York apartment. I love it so much :) Definitely buy it." —Alisa Smith
Get it from Amazon for $179.99 (available in multiple colors).
9. An abstract shower curtain for your apartment bathroom that needs a cheery update: it has a bold print with colors like yellow, green, and pink, that'll change the entire vibe of your once-boring space.
Promising review: "I purchased this shower curtain for my new apartment and I am in love with it. I wanted minimalist, boho chic, but also wanted to incorporate enough color. I think this is a great balance. I will say that it looks way more pink in the photo but it’s actually a pale peach color. It paired well with my light wooden shelves and sink cabinet. It’s water-resistant and it’s not see-through. The material appears to be thick enough for a shower curtain and looks like really good quality." —Ines
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in four sizes).
10. A curtain of twinkle lights to complete your cozy apartment aesthetic. They'll be so pretty to look at while you lay down in bed and read a book. Plus, you can hang them on a wall or in front of a curtain — so many decorating options!
Promising review: "I moved into my college apartment today and have already gotten SO MANY COMPLIMENTS on these lights!! I bought two boxes and hung them with small, clear Command hooks. Only problem was that there’s a plug in where you can connect multiple sets together, and then didn’t work for my lights. However, the two sets both work when they’re both individually plugged in rather than connected together, so it wasn’t really an issue for me. They really bring some life to my college apartment. I am in love." —Leighton R.
Get it from Amazon for $18.89+ (available in five colors).
11. Gold-tone pulls that'll add a fancy touch to kitchen cabinets or any bedroom dresser. Switch out your plain ones with these luxe-looking beauties that'll score you tons of compliments whenever someone visits your new place.
Promising review: "If you have any doubts in your mind about these handle pulls....don't!!! They are absolutely stunning in person. They are heavy and have a luxe weighted feel and look to them. The brushed brass gleams the perfect amount. I truly get so happy every time I walk into my kitchen. These handle pulls make it magnificent. They're like jewelry for your kitchen. I couldn't be happier with them." —Ravi S
Get a set of 10 five-inch pulls from Amazon for $56.82.
12. A TikTok famous cloud magnetic key holder to place on the wall near your bed, desk, or hallway. It can hold up to three key rings at a time and it'll look so cute in your living space! Avoid the annoying problem of "where the heck are my keys?" if you're rushing out the door.
Check it out on TikTok here.
Promising review: "I bought this product almost two years ago for my college apartment and it's the best thing I ever bought! Perfect place to hang my keys up when I get home and I never lose them! It also looks very cute and simple. The adhesive is really strong and the magnet in it super strong as well. It holds up my apartment keys, my car keys, and my boyfriend's heavy Audi keys perfectly fine. Love it." —Meghan Consadene
Get it from Amazon for $8.98.
13. A convertible futon that'll create a cozy reading nook *and* sleeping space in your basically non-existent living room. This sofa easily folds into a sleeper and also looks gorgeous angled against a wall or window.
Promising review: "Moved across the country and bought all new furniture. We have a one bedroom apartment and wanted something trendy and cheap to fill the space. Assembly was super simple and it’s actually a pretty sturdy couch for the price. Love that it folds flat for when people come visit! That being said: it’s comfy for watching a quick TV show or hanging out with friends. Overall really happy with this purchase" —John B.
Get it from Novogratz on Amazon for $324.99+ (available in 11 colors).
14. Digital art prints guaranteed to brighten up the wall behind your couch or kitchen table. Inspired by global flowers and fruits, this colorful set has six designs you can arrange any way you like. Just download, print, and place inside frames for a wowworthy display.
April Lane Art is a small business that sells printable art, including pretty gallery wall sets featuring global destinations, mixed drinks, and plants!
Note: Each digital print comes with five PNG files that you can change to different sizes, which is helpful if you'd like to create a gallery wall with smaller or larger frames.
Promising review: "I printed these out and hung them from gold/acrylic clipboards in my cubicle, and they turned out so cute!" —Etsy Customer
Get a six-pack from April Lane Art on Etsy for $18.
15. And Command picture hanging strips to help you create a cool gallery wall. Four of these damage-free strips can hold frames up to 4 pounds (max. frame size is 8 inches x 10 inches) and they won't leave holes, marks, or a sticky residue behind. Yes to decorating *and* getting your full security deposit back when it's time to move out. 👏
No tools are required for these strips: Just prep the wall with isopropyl rubbing alcohol, click a pair together to lock them in place, stick them on the frame, press the frame on the wall, and that's it. When it's time for removal, just gently slide the frame down, and the strips will easily come off!
Note: Even though these strips are great for hanging up picture frames, wall art, and mirrors, they're not recommended for mounting shadow boxes, shelves, or tapestry.
Promising reviews: "Hung an entire gallery wall with these and the medium-sized ones. Easy to remove and reposition with the Velcro, and they're also easy to completely remove with no marks left on walls." —Amazon Customer
Get an 18-pack from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in three styles and multi-packs).
16. A lunar garland you'll be ~over the moon~ for because you won't have to stare at a bare wall above your headboard, desk, or dresser anymore. Reviewers swear by it because it's easy to hang up and adds a cool touch to any area.
Promising reviews: "I was so excited to get this piece and add it to our new apartment. It's truly stunning! Photos do NOT do it justice. Also — I wish our apartment didn't have a vent right there on the wall where I wanted to hang this moon phases decoration. Ugh. But, alas, it's totally worth the price and it's unique and versatile." —Savana Salmon
"The wall hanging arrived in perfect packaging with every moon phase in its own plastic baggie and the chains tied to avoid tangles. It was easy to unravel and easy to put up on the wall. It looks beautiful on my bedroom wall." —Angelica
Get it from Amazon for $13.98+ (available in two sizes and three colors).
17. A pair of sheer drapes guaranteed to add a romantic feel to any window in your apartment. Leave them as is *or* tuck both behind small hooks for a simple decor update. You'll probably love all the sunlight streaming into a bedroom, kitchen, or work space thanks to these gems.
Reviewers also love adding some greenery decor to these sheer drapes, including hanging planters!
Promising review: "I have extra-tall windows in my sunroom. I decided to order ten of these panels because they were so inexpensive and because the print would add a nice touch to all the plants, white wicker, etc. I LOVE THE WAY THIS LOOKS IN A SUNROOM. The quality is what you would expect for the price, the print is great, but the seams pucker slightly. But when I put the 10 panels together, that all just worked together. My windows are now bright with leaves cascading down, and the whole room is just fantastic because of these curtains." —Janice Briggs
Get them from Amazon for $11.16+ (available in three sizes and five colors).
18. A pretty seating set, so you can turn your bleak balcony into a little bistro nook that looks like something straight out of Paris. It comes with two folding chairs and a small table that'll be perfect for times when you want to eat a meal and chat outside.
Promising review: "So I have this tiny balcony for a studio apartment and I wanted something cute to fill up the space. This set is the most affordable and there were so many choices of colors. When I went for a walk around my apartment complex, I noticed some of the neighbors have the exact same set. Since my balcony is so small and I rarely have visitors, I only set up one of the chairs. I plan to get a small succulent next to decorate it." —Bunny
Get it from Amazon for $119.99 (available in nine colors).
19. A colorful area rug you'll immediately want to lay down on a hardwood floor when you move in. No matter what type of furniture you have, this decor essential will go with it! Plus if your apartment has heavy foot traffic, you can vacuum it and gently blot out small stains with a carpet cleaner.
Promising review: "Quite simply, I am in love with this rug. This is one of those rare instances in which the product looks way better in real life than it does in the online photos. The colors are beautiful — warm and soft at the same time. For such a flat rug, it's got a luxurious, cushy feel to it. And there was absolutely no shedding whatsoever after I unfurled it. Fantastic rug at an incredibly reasonable price. I am delighted." –Adam J. Sank
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in 26 sizes and seven patterns).
20. A row of cut-up books because with them, you won't have a view of your Wi-Fi router, tangled wires, and charging cords when you're sitting at your tiny desk. This piece of decor will cleverly hide all your e-clutter, so you can answer emails and hop on video calls in a neater space.
Here's how it's made: The spines of the books are attached together and have all the pages and covers cut out of them, except two covers on the ends. You can customize how long you would like it to be and choose a color scheme.
Covogoods is a small business based in Utah that specializes in hidden storage and home decor goods.
Promising review: "I’m pretty sure I’ve never loved a purchase from Amazon as much as I love this one, and I’ve been a Prime member since Day 1. This product is EXTREMELY well made and very unique. Plus, it does the job of hiding the ugly routers and cords. And the customer service was great and responsive. I was a little hesitant to spend the money on this but after years of living with the husband’s pile of technology, the money was well spent!" —AmazonEmme
Get one from Covogoods on Etsy for $27+ (available in 14 different lengths and 16 colors schemes) or Amazon Handmade for $29+.
21. A pretty utility cart with so many storage possibilities — need an accessible spot for your kitchen utensils and mixing bowls? How about all the laundry supplies that you don't have a shelf for? It'll be great for both scenarios! Plus, it easily fits in an unused apartment corner.
Promising review: "This cart was purchased for some extra storage in a laundry closet where there was no space to install shelves. This cart fit perfectly in between the stackable washer/dryer and hot water heaters in my daughters apartment. It's being used to store laundry supplies and extra household necessities like light bulbs, duster pads, and so forth. It's pretty sturdy and was fairly easy to put together. I'm thinking about buying a second one for myself for use in my walk-in food pantry." —Michelle L. Holtmann
Get it from Amazon for $42.97 (available in four colors and with or without expert assembly).
22. An "invisible" shelf for your favorite reads and tiny knickknacks. It makes a great replacement for a bulky bookcase and will look great in that awkward corner between your living room and entryway.
23. A cheeky doormat to make visitors chuckle and subtly remind them to wipe down their shoes. Plus, it'll help cover up any scuff marks in the hallway outside your front door.
Hamlin Row Shop is a South Carolina-based small business known for their fun and customizable doormats!
Get it from Hamlin Row Shop on Etsy for $39.60+ (available in four sizes).
24. A compact garment rack that'll help you arrange your clothes, shoes, and accessories in an Instaworthy display. You can easily access your wardrobe essentials and creatively show off your style at the same time if you don't have a big closet.
Promising review: "I’m a college student living in a room with a small closet and a lot of clothes. This rack provides a convenient storage option for smaller spaces. The rack gives me plenty of space for my clothes and the wood shelving is a nice touch to store things or decorate! The quality is great for the price! I enjoy how it makes my simple, minimal room look very stylish. In short, I do recommend this item for those on a budget that need a nice organizing piece or enjoy the minimalistic style." —Megan
Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in two colors, six styles, and with or without expert assembly).
25. A folding desk you'll adore if you don't like to work in one spot in your apartment — it comes with a storage shelf that'll easily fit a laptop and small drawer for writing supplies. If you'd like to switch up your WFH view, just fold it up and move it to a new corner!
Promising review: "I love this desk so much. It is the perfect size for my makeshift work from home space!! It’s perfect for apartment spaces or if you want something that won’t take up too much space. LOVE!" —Urban Outfitters Customer
Get it from Urban Outfitters for $249.
26. And a velvet desk chair because with it, you'll feel a little fancy while you're all curled up with a cup of coffee, a laptop, and your mini side table during work hours.
Promising review: "I initially came across this chair, mainly because my home’s decor is all pink and gold. When I got this delivered, it was so easy to put together and now it’s my favorite sitting chair. I love how sleek the upholstery is and it was such a good value, plus, the design works well for anyone’s tastes. Definitely recommend it for your office or bedroom." —Remy
Get it from Amazon for $139.99+ (available in 24 colors).
27. Stick-on lights that'll give your kitchen a soothing glow, no matter what time of day it is. The cabinets above your appliances and counters will be *chef's kiss* amazing with a little illuminating.
This kit includes a remote that can adjust the brightness!
Promising review: "These lights made a HUGE difference in our new kitchen! In the before picture (editor's note: see photo above), the counters are dark and dreary, and with the lights, it’s bright and inviting! I LOVE them! And I love that they are electric and not battery operated! Perfect!!" —Dawn M
Get the six-piece kit from Amazon for $17.84 (available in three light colors).
28. And a surface cover to make your boring countertops look *way better* than they did before. Everyone will be asking, "Did you redo part of your kitchen?!" when IRL, you just stuck on this marble-print adhesive and didn't get expensive renovations.
This marble-print surface cover is so easy to use: measure your kitchen countertop, cut the amount you'll need, peel off the adhesive liner, and stick it on! Some reviewers also recommend using a credit card to gently smooth out any bubbles that may pop up in the process.
If you want to spruce up other areas around home, this cover also works great for cabinets and other pieces of furniture (bookcases, desks, dressers, and more).
Promising review: "I ordered this contact paper a while ago as a project to upgrade the dingy look of the bathroom counter in my rental. I needed a solution that I can easily remove without damaging the property when it's time to move out. THIS IS THE GREATEST STUFF EVER. I have just purchased two more rolls to give an old desk a little sprucing up. I would highly recommend this product. Friends have now purchased this and feel the same love that I do for this product! :)" —ErinReneeee
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in five sizes).
29. Minimal hooks because there's never enough room to stash your everyday coat, purse, and beanies in the closet. They don't take long to mount on a wall and make organizing accessories and outerwear a breeze.
Promising review: "I am chronically cold and have a bunch of very nice knit cardigans. I usually end up leaving them laying over chair backs or recliners and cluttering things up, so I bought these to have a good place to hang them. The thick wood prevents stretching damage from the weight of the sweaters, and not using a hook prevents damage and holes in the knit. Definitely worth the upgrade." —Lynn M
Get a set of two from Amazon for $17.99 (also available in wood beech).
30. A darling bud vase that'll add a cheery vibe to any apartment area. It comes in cool designs, including gumdrop-like dots, rainbows, and colorful squiggles that'll look stunning on a bookshelf or desk.
Sun Sprinkles Shop is a small business based in Michigan. They sell handmade jewelry and lots of retro-inspired home decor, including bud vases and planter pots.
Promising review: "This shop is so awesome! I loved my baby vase and bought it to put on my desk. It’s so cute and the perfect size! Also, really high quality, the effort put into this piece is amazing!" —Etsy Customer
Get it from Sun Sprinkles Shop on Etsy for $49+ (available in five designs).
31. Or an abstract ceramic vase for your coffee table in need of a cool centerpiece that's not a pile of mail or apartment keys.
Promising review: "This is my favorite vase! It's beautiful for a centerpiece on my dining table. Love the print, the quality, and the size. Very unique. Already received tons of compliments." —Laura Demetrious
Get it from Amazon for $25.99.
32. And a dried floral arrangement to place in any vase — if you need something that'll stand out with your plant babies, this bouquet will be IT. And, everyone will be asking, "where did you get them?!" when they stop by.
Everlasting Lil Things is a small business based in Los Angeles. This shop sells bridal bouquets, boutonnières, accessories, and decorative bouquets with colorful dried flowers.
Promising review: "This was exactly what I wanted! Looks so cute and I feel like it is very good quality. The flowers didn’t immediately feel like if I touched them they would disintegrate. The bud vase is so cute too!" —Claire Eagle
Get it from Everlasting Lil Things on Etsy for $27.
33. The Novogratz's "Room in a Box" that'll help you decorate your apartment for a fraction of the price. Browse different room options, select the one you like the best, and items shown in the room's picture will be shipped to you. Your living space will look like a staged open house, and you won't have to spend hours shopping for home decor or furniture.
34. And a plug-in wall sconce to place on the side of your bed. It takes up half the space of a typical table lamp, doesn't require a rewiring job around your compact room, and provides plenty of light when you want to curl under a blanket and read a book.
Promising review: "These are perfect. They look great, work exactly like I need them to, and in our apartment, enable us to have reading lamps without a rewiring job since they just plug in. They also came with cute Edison-looking bulbs that fit in the sconce perfectly and match the look of the light very nicely. We're super pleased." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $35.56+ (available in three finishes).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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