10 ways to refresh a room without spending more than $50

Sometimes a room feels off and you don’t need a full renovation—you just need a reset. With the right changes, you can breathe new life into a space without spending much at all. These ideas are quick, affordable, and actually make a difference in how your home looks and feels.

Rearrange the furniture

You don’t need to buy anything new to make a room feel different. Moving furniture around—even slightly—can give you a fresh perspective and help with flow. Try pulling pieces off the wall or rethinking how the space is used.

Swap out throw pillow covers

New covers are cheaper than buying all-new pillows and make just as much of an impact. Stick with the same inserts and pick a new color or pattern for the season. It’s a fast way to change the feel of a couch or bed.

Add a new lamp or change the shade

Lighting affects everything. Swapping a harsh bulb for a warm one or adding a new lamp can completely change the mood of the room. If a new lamp isn’t in the budget, updating the shade can still give it a fresh look.

Update your frames

Changing out artwork, photos, or even just the frames themselves makes walls feel more intentional. You can find affordable frames at thrift stores or swap artwork between rooms to give everything new energy.

Bring in a plant or two

Even one live plant can make a space feel more lived-in and refreshed. Snake plants, pothos, or even cut greenery from the yard in a jar can add life and color without needing to shop.

Declutter surfaces

Clearing off tables, counters, and shelves makes an instant difference. When everything has a little breathing room, the whole room feels more put together—even without changing anything else.

Hang a mirror

Mirrors make rooms feel bigger and brighter, especially in small or dark areas. You can find basic ones under $50, and even leaning one on a shelf or dresser can give you the effect without committing to hanging it.

Layer in a new rug—or flip the one you have

Small accent rugs are often affordable and can define a space fast. If you’re not buying new, try flipping or rotating the rug you already have to shift wear patterns and give it a different look.

Switch out hardware on a dresser or cabinet

New knobs or handles are one of the easiest ways to upgrade furniture you already own. It can turn an old piece into something that feels custom, and you can usually do the whole thing for under $50.

Add texture with baskets or throws

Textiles make a space feel more finished. A new throw blanket, basket, or textured pillow can help layer in some warmth and personality without needing a full style overhaul.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.