11 Things That Instantly Make Your Home Look Cheap

As a mom who’s navigated the tricky waters of home decor on a budget, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Let’s be honest, I wasn’t always the savviest when it came to sprucing up my space, but necessity is the mother of invention—quite literally in my case.

Over time, I’ve learned that making your home look chic doesn’t have to break the bank or feel overwhelming. From ditching the popcorn ceilings to saying goodbye to those ever-peeling vinyl quotes, here are 11 tips I’ve gathered to help you elevate your home’s style without it looking, well, cheap—even if the price tags are!

Vinyl Wall Quotes

Vinyl wall quotes had their moment, especially in dorm rooms and first apartments. They’re easy to slap up, and who doesn’t like a daily dose of inspiration?

But let’s be real: they don’t always age well. After a while, you might notice the edges peeling or the letters bubbling, which can really take away from the look you were going for.

If you love having words on your walls, consider upgrading to sturdier, more stylish options like framed typography prints or custom-painted signs. These alternatives will last longer and keep your space looking sharp.

Generic Gallery Walls

Throwing up a gallery wall can instantly perk up your space, but there’s a fine line between eclectic and hectic. When planning your gallery wall, think beyond just filling up blank spaces.

Those generic prints from the store might fit the bill size-wise, but do they say anything about you?

Instead, choose pieces that have a bit more soul—maybe some local art, a few personal photos, and a quirky find or two. This way, your wall doesn’t just fill space, it tells your story.

A Crowded Entryway

Walking into a home should feel welcoming, not like dodging obstacles in an obstacle course. If your entryway is drowning under a pile of shoes, coats, and whatnot, it’s time to declutter.

Think about using smart storage solutions that hide the mess but keep everything handy. A few hooks for coats, a shoe rack, and maybe a small table for keys and mail can transform your entryway from chaotic to calm without much fuss. Remember, your entryway sets the tone for your entire home—make it count!

Popcorn Ceilings

Ah, popcorn ceilings—the bane of many a homeowner’s existence. Sure, they might have been all the rage once upon a time, but now they’re mostly just a pain in the neck (literally, if you’ve ever tried to clean them).

If you’re up for a weekend project, scraping off that popcorn is well worth the effort. It’s messy, sure, but what you’ll get in return is a smooth ceiling that can make your whole room feel fresher and more up-to-date. Just remember to wear a mask and maybe call in a buddy for this one—it’s a dusty job!

Phrase Art

“Live, laugh, love”—sweet, but for the love of all that is good, don’t put it on your walls. Decorating with words can be cool, but the key is to keep it meaningful and unique.

If you love the idea of words on your walls, why not pick a quote that really speaks to you personally, or better yet, try your hand at making some art yourself?

Lack of Personality

Ever walked through a home and felt like you were on a bit of a rollercoaster, decor-wise? One room is sleek and modern, the next is Bohemian. While it’s nice to explore different styles, too much variety can make your space feel disjointed, almost like you couldn’t decide on one theme.

Aim for a thread of continuity that connects each room subtly. Maybe it’s a color, a material, or a style theme that makes your whole house feel like it belongs together without being a carbon copy from room to room.

Chevron Patterns

Remember when Chevron patterns were everywhere? Yeah, that ship has pretty much sailed. They had their moment, but plastering Chevron all over your space today can make it feel dated and a bit overwhelming.

If you’re looking for patterns that won’t tire, think simpler lines or even textured solids that add interest without dominating the room. Choose designs that complement rather than command the space.

DIY Furniture Overload

We all get a kick out of a weekend DIY project. That handmade end table? Looks awesome and tells a story. But when every piece in your room screams DIY, it might start to feel like you’ve gone overboard.

It’s cool to showcase your craftiness, but mixing in some store-bought pieces can keep your space from looking like a workshop. It’s all about balance—let your DIY stars shine without overwhelming your space.

Trendy Decor Overload

Jumping on every trend can be tempting, especially when you see all those perfect rooms on Instagram. But today’s must-have is often tomorrow’s outdated. If you’re constantly chasing the latest look, your home can quickly feel like it’s trying too hard.

Stick with a few timeless pieces that ground your decor. It’s fine to sprinkle in some trendy bits—just don’t let them take over. That way, you keep your space feeling fresh without the need for a total overhaul every season.

Clutter

Let’s face it, clutter happens to the best of us. You might have the sleekest sofa or the coolest coffee table, but if they’re buried under piles of stuff, your place just looks messy. Good news, though—tidying up isn’t rocket science.

A few intentionally placed baskets here and a shelf there can make a world of difference. Keeping things clean isn’t just about impressing guests, it’s about creating a space where you can actually relax and enjoy your home.

Bad Lighting

Lighting sets the entire atmosphere of your room. Too bright, and your living room feels like a doctor’s office. Too dim, and you might as well be in a cave.

So, what’s the fix? Play around with different lights. Throw in a couple of soft lamps or change up your bulbs to something warmer. It’s amazing how a simple switch can turn a space from ‘meh’ to ‘wow’.