Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
  • Holidays
  • Gardening
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Shop
  • Rooms
  • News
  • Beauty & Style
  • Health & Family
  • Pets
  • Local Services

Profile Menu

My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Insider
  • BH&G Magazine Archive
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 19 Vintage Christmas Decor Ideas That Are Giving Us Major Holiday Nostalgia

      Read More Next
    • 23 of Our Test Kitchen's Best Cookie Recipes of All Time

      We reach for them after school and after dinner. They're essential to holidays and casual gatherings. Homemade cookies are always a welcome treat. Whether it's a tried-and-true 1940s BH&G cookie recipe or a unique twist on sugar cookies, our Test Kitchen's compiled a lot of favorite cookie recipes over the years. Grab a glass of milk because we're about to dunk peanut butter cookies, oatmeal-raisin cookies, snickerdoodle cookies, and many more of our all-time favorite cookie recipes. Read More Next
    • Conquer Holiday Cooking with This Meat Roasting Guide

      All the times and temperatures you need to know to roast turkey, chicken, beef, and pork for your feast. Read More Next
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See all Holidays

    The CDC Just Updated Its Thanksgiving Safety Guidelines—Here's What You Need To Know

    With just two weeks until turkey day, the latest information could affect your plans.
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • Hanukkah
    • New Year's
    • Halloween
    • Valentine's Day
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
    • Father's Day
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See all Gardening

    5 Simple Ways to Prepare Your Garden for Winter

    Depending on what's growing in your garden, there's a lot you can do to get your ornamental plants ready for the colder months. We've got the low-down on how to make sure everything from your perennials to your roses are ready when the snow flies.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See all Recipes and Cooking

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you’re a beginner baker who’s just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We’ll help you set up a baking kit for beginners with 21 essential tools. For those who already own these tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflé dish. Building your essential baking toolbox starts here!
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See all Decorating

    9 Ways to Decorate Your Front Door for the Holidays

    This winter front door display is layered with holiday cheer. See how you can personalize your home's entrance with holiday front door decorations, including evergreen wreaths, garlands, pinecones, and pops of plaid.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See all Home Improvement Ideas

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 Most Popular House Styles Explained

    With so many types of house styles, narrowing the list down to your favorite can be overwhelming. We'll show you the top 10 most popular house styles, including Cape Cod, country French, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, cottage, Mediterranean, ranch, and contemporary. Here's how to tell the differences between each architectural style.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See all Cleaning and Organizing

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Shop
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See all Rooms

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • News
  • Beauty & Style

    Beauty & Style

    See all Beauty & Style

    Call Your Stylist: These Hair Colors Will Be Everywhere This Spring

    Deep brunettes, sandy blondes, and bold reds are in this year.
    • Anti-Aging
    • Hair
    • Skin Care
    • Makeup
    • Style
    • Nails
  • Health & Family

    Health & Family

    See all Health & Family

    7 Small But Impactful Ways to Fit Self-Care Into Your Day Right Now

    Staying atop of your wellbeing is a must, especially during uncertain, stressful times. These tips will help you make time for self-care for a mental health boost every day.
    • Family Activities
    • Reunions
    • Conditions
    • Parenting Skills
  • Pets

    Pets

    See all Pets

    Luna Is the Most Popular Female Cat Name for the Second Year in a Row

    Plus, check out the other top options that owners are calling their pandemic pets.
    • Dogs and Puppies
    • Cats
    • Caring for Your Pet
  • Local Services

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Insider
  • BH&G Magazine Archive
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Home Improvement Ideas
  3. Home Remodeling
  4. Remodeling on a Budget
  5. 30 Home Improvement Ideas You Can Accomplish for Less Than $150

30 Home Improvement Ideas You Can Accomplish for Less Than $150

By Kristina McGuirk
Updated March 17, 2020
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Credit: Dustin Halleck
Tackle common home improvement projects and transform often-overlooked spaces with simple and budget-friendly updates. You’ll be surprised at what a big impact these changes can have on the style and function of a room. Try one (or a few) of these affordable mini makeovers to help your home look better and work harder.
Start Slideshow

1 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Boost Accessible Kitchen Storage

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Whether your kitchen is large or small, ample storage is always a selling point. Take advantage of an unclaimed wall or corner space with open shelves to keep dishes, spices, and frequently used cookware within easy reach. If you’re an entertainer, consider mounting a wine rack next to or under upper cabinets.

1 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Embellish the Entrance

Credit: Werner Straube

Millwork adds rich character to rooms throughout your home, so why not use it to dress up your curb appeal, too? Pull elements of indoor style outdoors to give your exterior a sophisticated look. Frame your front door with millwork, and paint it to coordinate with your home exterior.

2 of 30

3 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Restore Shine to a Wood Floor

Credit: James Nathan Schroder

The versatility and warmth of wood are incomparable to other flooring materials, but regular exposure to dirt, dust, and high foot traffic can leave it looking dull and distressed. Restore your floor's shine factor by polishing with a product that is specifically designed for hardwood floors. A wooden floor should be polished once a year and every four to six months in high-traffic areas of the home.

3 of 30

Advertisement

4 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Give the Fireplace a Facelift

Credit: Stacey Brandford

Give a boring brick fireplace a modern makeover with a fresh coat of paint. Before you begin this home improvement project, thoroughly clean the fireplace to loosen grime. Apply a stain-blocking primer to the clean fireplace before you paint to help cover any soot stains. Consider a high-gloss paint for a beautiful, contemporary look.

4 of 30

5 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Try a New Hue

With the simple addition of color, you can give your bathroom cabinets a brand new look. All you need are the right tools, a bit of time, and a paint color that inspires you. Watch and learn how to paint cabinets like a pro.

5 of 30

6 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Stop Clutter at the Door

Credit: Nathan Schroder

As one of the first rooms guests see, the entryway has a big job to do: make a good first impression and keep drop zone items tidy. Outfit your entryway with added function by creating a do-it-all storage system. Enlist the help of furniture to perform double duty, such as a bench that also acts as a shoe caddy. The right combination of storage solutions (including wall hooks, lockers, and cubbies) will help your entryway stay organized and inviting.

6 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Highlight Your Space with Lighting

Credit: Ann VanderWiel Wilde

Beautiful light fixtures can go a long way in energizing or soothing a space, and smart designs can ease eye-intensive tasks. Successfully light a room by creating layers of light with task, accent, and ambient lighting. An interesting pendant, sconce, or chandelier instantly boosts a room’s sophistication. Here, an industrial fixture not only makes a style statement, but it also provides a targeted light source for the table.

7 of 30

8 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Banish Closet Clutter

Credit: Brie Williams

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to how you use your closet storage. Before rushing off to the store for new closet organizers, measure your closet space, take an inventory of what’s being stored, and consider your current and future lifestyle. Once you know for certain what’s supposed to be in there, hit the store and look for ways to maximize your closet capacity. Cut the clutter to make the space work better for both your routine and your stuff.

8 of 30

9 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Add a Sink Filter

Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

An undersink filter gives you clean, great-tasting water without cluttering your sink or countertop space. Even better, you can easily install a water filter without hiring a professional. Before starting your project, make sure the undersink space is large enough to accommodate a water filter system.

9 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Go Modular with Shelving

Credit: Brie Williams

If space is at a premium in your humble abode, boost a blank wall's style and storage capacity with a modular shelving unit. Available in all shapes and sizes, they're sure to fit almost any willing space. Books and display pieces can add colorful interest to open shelves, while cubbies are also a perfect fit for baskets, boxes, and bins for accessible yet out of sight storage.

10 of 30

11 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Accessorize Your Entrance

Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Polish the look of your front door with small accessories that pack a big punch. Details such as house numbers, outdoor lighting, and a letterbox can make a lasting impression and give your exterior a distinct personality. Matching finishes on these accessories will give you a tailored look, while mix-and-match accessories, such as vintage or upcycled fixtures, will create a one-of-a-kind aesthetic.

11 of 30

12 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Build Your Own Entry Organizer

Transform a bookcase into a versatile entryway organizer. The best units are those with adjustable shelves that let you utilize space how you need it: slim slots for shoes and an open area for coat storage, for example. You can add additional function with hooks in just the right places. A simple, inexpensive, box-store bookcase may do the trick, or an older unused cabinet could be the perfect fit. In either case, you can increase the style with eye-catching paint and accessories.

12 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Have Carpets Professionally Cleaned

Credit: James Nathan Schroder

When was the last time your carpets were cleaned; like really cleaned? For a little bit of money, you can revive the look of your carpets and improve your family's health with a professional carpet cleaning. Weekly vacuuming removes topical dirt, dust, and hair, but a carpet-cleaning service will remove stains, allergens, dust mites, and grit. If you have carpet in high-humidity areas of your home, start there, as carpet cleaning will also fight mold and mildew growth. A good deep clean will help carpets wear better and last longer.

13 of 30

14 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Add a Backsplash for Less

Credit: Dustin Halleck

A backsplash not only contributes a dose of character to a kitchen, but it also protects walls from splashes and spills. Beaded-board panels and decorative tile backsplashes are easy to install and can be done without the help of a professional. Even someone new to remodeling can do it! Use our step-by-step guide to learn how to tile your own backsplash in a weekend or less.

14 of 30

15 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Accentuate with Crown Molding

Credit: Werner Straube

Trimwork and crown molding are jewelry for walls, doors, and windows. Whether you’re replacing old trim or adorning your walls for the first time, you can transform a room with trim in just a weekend. Give your home a complete look for less with affordable, off-the-rack moldings from a local home improvement center. For a deluxe custom look, you can layer pieces of crown molding around entryways and ceilings.

15 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Make a Roman Shade

Credit: Werner Straube

Give windows a custom look at a cheaper price using DIY window treatments. With a mini blind and midweight upholstery fabric, you can create a charming Roman shade to block out the sun and boost your color scheme. Choose fabric in an eye-catching complementary pattern to make the window a focal point.

16 of 30

17 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Add Some Greenery

Credit: Laurie Black

A landscaped walkway suggests an inviting home. Create natural beauty and texture with an assortment of perennials. Whether you’re putting them in the ground, potted, or a mix of both, you can install an enticing introduction to your home in one afternoon with a quick trip to a local home improvement center, greenhouse, or farmers’ market.

17 of 30

18 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Replace a Shower Head

Credit: Julie Soefer

Start your day with the perfect shower experience by switching out your shower head. A multi-function shower head will give you a more customized experience: an invigorating pulse to wake you up, or maybe a concentrated stream to clean up after outdoor activities. A handheld or sliding bar model is easy to adjust for different heights, whether for tall adults, small children, or pets. Plus, newer models are typically more water-efficient. Choose a model that matches your current plumbing for a quick home upgrade.

18 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Create a Hub for Entertaining

Credit: Richard Leo Johnson

An unused hutch, armoire, or bookcase can quickly transform into an entertaining or beverage station with a little creativity and organization. Store bottles and beverage glasses on open shelves for easy access, or free up space by outfitting the underside of a shelf with hanging storage for wine glasses. Use drawers or cabinets for serving trays, utensils, and linens.

19 of 30

20 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Encourage Hassle-Free Game Time

Credit: Werner Straube

Designate a zone to serve as a central area for often-used games and media. A dedicated cabinet, closet, or other storage space keeps family members from having to search for games, toys, and other accessories. Divided shelves and a combination of shallow baskets, bins, and photo organizers help the space stay organized. Labels make sure things go back to the right place.

Editor's Tip: Face DVD or video game spines outward so they are readable at a glance.

20 of 30

21 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Build an Outdoor Path

Credit: Rinne Allen

Savor warmer seasons with a simple path that leads the way through your yard or garden. An understated path of irregular-shape flagstones creates a casual, welcoming atmosphere. If you’re feeling crafty, outline a path with painted stones, bricks, or old garden edging.

21 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

22 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Install a Bathroom Vent Fan

Credit: Edmund Barr

If mold creeps into your shower stall or your bathroom mirror is consistently foggy, it might be time to replace your bathroom vent fan. You can install new ventilation in about three hours, and the outcome will leave your bathroom dry and odor-free. To learn how to install a bathroom vent fan, see our step-by-step guide.

22 of 30

23 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Create a Small Appliance Hideaway

Credit: Emily Followill

Small appliances like stand mixers, slow cookers, and food processors can end up on the countertop because they’re heavy and awkward to move when needed. If you’re tired of wasting valuable countertop space on these appliances, install an appliance lift in a base cabinet. Fancier models with soft-close and lift-assist features could put this project out of your budget, but the basic spring-loaded hardware and required wood supports should be just right. And it’s not only for unused or cumbersome appliances; when countertop space is at a premium, it’s a smart solution for things like toasters and coffeemakers, too!

23 of 30

24 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Add Window Boxes

Credit: Ann VanderWiel Wilde

Window boxes have a little something for everyone: They add color to the exterior of your home and attract birds and butterflies that can be admired from indoors. There are a ton of window boxes and baskets available, so you’ll easily find something that fits your style. But if you’ve got tools and materials already, build a window box and save the project money for creating a floral showstopper.

24 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

25 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Upgrade a Small Appliance

Credit: Brie Williams

Small, accessible appliances lend a big hand in the kitchen. Streamline efficiency at the hub of your home with a new small appliance, such as a toaster, blender, coffee machine or electric kettle. Replace one of your current appliances that's underperforming, or purchase a new gadget your kitchen routine would benefit from incorporating. (Just remember to make room for it before it comes home!)

25 of 30

26 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Pay Attention to Details

Credit: David Tsay

Details make the difference, and you can prove it with high-impact, low-effort improvements that you’ll enjoy every day. Upgrade builder-basic outlet covers, light switches, or door knobs with something that better fits the overall character of your home or the fixtures in the room. These small changes won’t go unnoticed by you or your guests.

26 of 30

27 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Prep for Additional Home Improvement Projects

Credit: Marty Baldwin

Once you get started, it’s hard to stop identifying places around the home that need a little TLC. To make things easier on yourself, organize your home improvement supplies with common household items. For example, repurpose spice containers or mason jars for storage of pesky pieces like screws and nails. Although you can purchase these for cheap at the store, you might already have some at home to get you started. Use these ideas for garage storage and organization (many of which can be adapted to basements, potting sheds, and other home improvement spaces) to inspire you.

27 of 30

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

28 of 30

Save Pin FB
Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Simplify Laundry Day