9 Home Items You Should Never Spend More Than $30 For

Decorating your home can be one of the most creative activities you take on — and fortunately, it’s one that doesn’t need to break the bank to be done well.

While it’s tempting to go out of your budget when shopping for home décor, there are many aesthetically pleasing and high quality items you can find that won’t cost a fortune.

“You know plant pots are essential for adding greenery to your home, but don’t fall into the trap of spending a fortune on them,” said Jonathan Faccone, real estate investor and managing member of Halo Homebuyers.

“With a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can customize plain, inexpensive plant pots with paint or other materials to make them unique and stylish.”

For this, he suggests browsing thrift stores or garage sales for affordable options. “Remember, it’s not about how much you spend on plant pots, but how you display them in your home.”

“I personally feel that spending more than $30 on a single throw pillow is unnecessary,” said Faccone.

“It’s important to invest in quality and comfortable pillows, but there are plenty of affordable options out there,” he explained. “You can find budget-friendly throw pillows at discount stores like HomeGoods or online retailers like Amazon.”

“And if you’re feeling crafty, you can even make your own throw pillow covers using inexpensive fabric and sewing supplies,” he added.

“I would suggest mixing and matching different textures, patterns and colors to create a unique and eye-catching display on your couch or bed. This will help you save money while adding a personal touch to your home décor.”

“I’ve learned how to make the most of a budget when it comes to home décor,” said Kevin McLaughlin, home improvement specialist and owner of Heritage Exteriors LLC. “One item I believe you should never spend more than $30 on is wall-mounted shelves. You can find sleek and functional shelves at big-box retailers or even thrift stores.”

He said these can be used to showcase books, plants or decorative items, adding a touch of personalization without a hefty price tag.

Another décor item to save on is accent rugs, said McLaughlin. “While high-end boutiques may offer pricey options, stores like Target or HomeGoods often have stylish and durable rugs for under $30.”

He added that an accent rug can easily refresh a living room or bedroom and provides texture and warmth to your space.

“Don’t overspend on decorative storage baskets,” McLaughlin said.

He suggested searching discount stores, like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, for “practical and stylish” options “under a modest budget.”

“They are perfect for decluttering spaces while adding an aesthetic element to your home,” he added.

“Picture frames are a home décor essential where you can save a lot,” said McLaughlin.

He explained that high-quality frames can be found on sale at craft stores or online.

“Use them to create a gallery wall with family photos or affordable prints,” he suggested. “The frames add character and warmth to any room, and, with some strategic shopping, you won’t have to spend a fortune.”

Yosef Adde, real estate expert and owner of I Buy LA, agreed that you shouldn’t overspend when it comes to picture frames and wall art.

“Art can be expensive, but with a little ingenuity and bargain-savvy shopping, you’ll find something that doesn’t cost an arm and leg,” he said. “Prints from up-and-coming artists will work just as well, or even DIY some art if you dare. IKEA and Target have frames available that will let you show off your art in style for less than $30.”

“Lighting creates the ambiance in a room,” said Adde.

For “stylish and functional” lamps that complement your tables, he suggested Target’s Room Essentials and Threshold lines for options under $30. “Such pieces may easily reflect touches of class and warmth.”

According to Adde, area rugs or doormats define a personal location and its coziness. “It can be bought on sale or cheaply from Target or Walmart.”

He said a small to medium-size rug can make a big difference at the entryway or beside your bed.

“Do not forget the kitchen in your decorating on a shoestring strategy,” said Adde.

He explained that some items, such as stylish utensil holders, decorative dish towels and fashionably made cutting boards can be purchased for under $30.

“Little additions to the kitchen will make it look more finished without breaking the bank.”