Decorating a rental can be challenging when you’re working with restrictions that prevent you from painting, drilling, or making permanent changes. But fear not! There are plenty of creative and damage-free ways to make your rental feel like home while keeping your landlord happy.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 tips for decorating a rental without damaging the walls, so you can personalize your space without risking your security deposit.
1. Use Removable Wallpaper or Decals
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Removable wallpaper and decals are easy to apply and peel off without leaving residue, making them ideal for adding color and pattern to your walls.
How to Use It:
- Accent Walls: Cover one wall with removable wallpaper for a bold statement.
- Small Spaces: Use decals to create patterns or designs in areas like entryways or bathrooms.
- Temporary Artwork: Cut wallpaper into smaller pieces and frame them for instant wall art.
Pro Tip:
Choose high-quality removable wallpaper to avoid tearing or difficulty during removal.
2. Add Command Hooks and Strips
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Command hooks and strips are damage-free, leaving no marks or holes behind when removed.
How to Use Them:
- Hang Artwork: Use Command picture-hanging strips to display framed photos, prints, or canvases.
- Organize: Install hooks for hanging keys, bags, or lightweight shelves.
- Decorate: Use hooks to hang string lights, garlands, or seasonal decor.
Pro Tip:
Check the weight capacity of the hooks or strips before hanging heavier items.
3. Lean Artwork or Mirrors Against Walls
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Leaning large artwork or mirrors against the wall eliminates the need for nails while adding a stylish, casual vibe.
How to Use It:
- Oversized Pieces: Place a large mirror or artwork on the floor, leaning against the wall in a living room or bedroom.
- Layer Smaller Items: Lean framed photos or artwork on shelves, dressers, or mantels for a gallery-like effect.
Pro Tip:
Use rubber stoppers or anti-slip pads under frames to prevent sliding or scratching.
4. Install Tension Rods for Curtains or Dividers
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Tension rods require no drilling and can be used for everything from hanging curtains to creating temporary room dividers.
How to Use Them:
- Windows: Hang sheer or blackout curtains for privacy and style.
- Closets: Use a tension rod to add extra storage space for clothes or shoes.
- Room Dividers: Hang a curtain to section off spaces in a studio apartment or shared bedroom.
Pro Tip:
Choose rods with decorative end caps to enhance the look.
5. Opt for Peel-and-Stick Tiles or Backsplashes
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Peel-and-stick tiles mimic the look of traditional tiles and are perfect for adding character to kitchens or bathrooms without permanent changes.
How to Use Them:
- Kitchen: Apply peel-and-stick tiles to create a temporary backsplash behind your stove or sink.
- Bathroom: Use tiles to freshen up a plain vanity area.
- Decorative Accents: Cut tiles into smaller shapes to create decorative borders or designs.
Pro Tip:
Test a small area first to ensure the tiles stick well and are easy to remove.
6. Use Rugs to Cover Floors and Walls
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Rugs are versatile and can be used to cover unsightly floors or even serve as wall hangings for added texture and warmth.
How to Use Them:
- Floor Covering: Place area rugs over hardwood, tile, or carpet to add color and style.
- Wall Hangings: Use lightweight rugs or tapestries as wall decor by attaching them with Command hooks.
- Layering: Layer smaller rugs over larger ones for a boho or eclectic look.
Pro Tip:
Choose washable rugs for high-traffic areas to make cleaning easier.
7. Incorporate Freestanding Furniture and Shelves
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Freestanding pieces don’t require wall mounting, making them a great option for storage and display.
How to Use Them:
- Bookshelves: Use tall bookshelves or ladder shelves to display books, plants, and decor.
- Bar Carts: Add a chic bar cart to store glassware and beverages without taking up wall space.
- Storage: Opt for cabinets or sideboards with closed storage to keep items organized and out of sight.
Pro Tip:
Arrange furniture strategically to hide unattractive features like old radiators or uneven walls.
8. Embrace Temporary Wall Art Options
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
You don’t need nails or permanent adhesives to decorate your walls with temporary art solutions.
How to Use Them:
- Washi Tape Frames: Use colorful washi tape to “frame” prints or photos directly on the wall.
- Fabric Panels: Stretch patterned fabric over lightweight frames or use tension rods to hang them like banners.
- Posters and Prints: Attach prints with removable adhesive putty or Command strips.
Pro Tip:
Create a gallery wall by grouping multiple small prints or photos for visual impact.
9. Decorate with Plants and Greenery
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Plants add life and color to your space without requiring any wall damage.
How to Use Them:
- Floor Plants: Use large pots to display statement plants like fiddle-leaf figs or monstera.
- Hanging Plants: Install hanging planters using Command hooks or tension rods.
- Window Sills: Arrange small pots of herbs, succulents, or flowers on windowsills for a natural touch.
Pro Tip:
Use macramé hangers or baskets to add texture and style to your plant displays.
10. Incorporate Decorative Storage Solutions
Why It’s Perfect for Rentals:
Storage pieces like baskets, crates, and bins not only keep your space organized but also double as decor.
How to Use Them:
- Entryway: Use a woven basket for shoes or umbrellas by the door.
- Living Room: Store throw blankets in a chic storage ottoman or wicker basket.
- Bedroom: Use decorative trunks or storage benches at the foot of your bed for extra linens.
Pro Tip:
Choose storage options that match your color scheme or add visual interest through texture and material.
FAQs: Decorating a Rental Without Damaging the Walls
1. How can I add color to my rental without painting the walls?
Use removable wallpaper, colorful rugs, vibrant artwork, or bold furniture to introduce color without permanent changes.
2. Are removable wallpapers really damage-free?
Yes, high-quality removable wallpapers are designed to peel off cleanly, but always test a small section first to be sure.
3. What’s the best way to hang heavy items in a rental?
Use Command picture-hanging strips rated for heavy items, or lean items like mirrors and large frames against the wall.
4. Can I change the lighting in a rental?
Yes! Swap out light fixtures (save the originals to reinstall when you move) or use plug-in pendant lights for a stylish upgrade.
5. How do I make a rental feel more personal?
Add family photos, meaningful artwork, and decor items that reflect your personality to make the space feel like home.
6. Are there ways to hide ugly rental features?
Yes! Use large furniture pieces, like bookcases or storage units, to cover unsightly walls or features. Rugs can also disguise unattractive flooring.
7. Can I hang curtains without drilling?
Yes! Tension rods or Command curtain rod hooks are excellent for hanging curtains without damaging walls.
8. How do I decorate a small rental space without overwhelming it?
Stick to multifunctional decor and storage solutions, use mirrors to reflect light, and keep the color palette cohesive for a spacious feel.
9. Are there any rules for using Command hooks or strips?
Follow the instructions carefully, clean the surface before applying, and check the weight limits to avoid damage.
10. What’s the easiest way to switch up a rental’s decor seasonally?
Swap out textiles like pillow covers, rugs, and tablecloths, and add seasonal decor like wreaths, garlands, or flowers.
With these 10 tips for decorating a rental without damaging the walls, you can make your space feel cozy, stylish, and uniquely yours. From creative wall solutions to decorative furniture and plants, you’ll have plenty of ways to add personality and functionality to your rental home—all while keeping your landlord happy!