10 Products That Upgrade Your Home for Less Than $45

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woman installing new hardware on a cabinet door
ALPA PROD / Shutterstock.com

After spending the last few months inside, perhaps you’ve noticed certain areas of your home look a little rough around the edges.

The upside to a prolonged pandemic is you now may have more time to tackle those home projects – and you can do it without breaking the bank.

From press-on stainless steel to a water-saving shower head, we’ve got some low-cost ways to upgrade your home.

All of these items get at least four stars from reviewers on Amazon. We do, however, suggest you compare prices around the web before buying to make sure you’re getting the deepest discount available at that time.

Also, note that although prices you see here will almost always be accurate, they do sometimes differ slightly from what you will find at Amazon.

1. Water-saving shower head

ShowerStart LLC shower head on Amazon
ShowerStart LLC / Amazon

Each time you start to run a shower, you have to stand around waiting for the water to heat up. But this shower head promises to end that delay.

You turn on the water, and it runs until the cold water runs out. Once the water temperature reaches 95 degrees Fahrenheit, the water slows to a trickle. Then, the water waits until you pull the cord.

You can do other tasks — such as shaving or brushing your teeth — and step into the shower when ready, knowing the water will be warm.

2. Deck stain

SaverSystems deck stain on Amazon
SaverSystems / Amazon

Staining a deck can be a multi-day project, but SaverSystems' No. 1 Deck Premium Wood Stain promises to speed up the process.

This semi-transparent, water-based solution is designed to work well on damp wood, thereby reducing the wait time between cleaning and staining. It also acts as a sealant.

3. Tub refinishing kit

Rust-Oleum tub and tile refinishing kit on Amazon
Rust-Oleum / Amazon

If your tub is looking a little grungy, pep it up with the Rust-Oleum 2-Part Tub Tile Refinishing Kit.

With this kit, you can prepare the surface and paint the same day. The two-part epoxy acrylic formula fights moisture and resists corrosion.

4. Cabinet hardware

SUNRIVER cabinet hardware on Amazon
SUNRIVER / Amazon

As elegant as it is, antique brass hardware will date a kitchen or bathroom. The good news is you can easily upgrade to this stainless steel set.

The pack includes 26 cabinet pulls and 10 drawer knobs — enough to redo a large kitchen. The pieces are made with a brushed nickel finish.

5. Plate covers

SLEEKLIGHTING outlet covers on Amazon
SLEEKLIGHTING / Amazon

You don’t have to settle for plain white, plastic outlet covers. This four-pack offers a more decorative aesthetic.

Made with bamboo fiber, these plate covers are resistant to impact and abrasions. The high-gloss mahogany brown finish also makes them easier to clean.

6. Front-door paint

Modern Masters front door paint on Amazon
Modern Masters / Amazon

Make a statement to everyone who visits your home by transforming your front door with a new paint color.

Available in various colors, this paint from Modern Masters features “Never-Fade technology” designed to keep the hues vibrant. The paint requires a two-coat application, but has a quick-dry formula that promises to dry the same day you paint.

7. ‘Stainless steel’ wrap

Livelynine stainless steel wallpaper on Amazon
Livelynine / Amazon

Get the look of stainless steel appliances without the price tag.

This peel-and-stick vinyl wrap is designed to be oil-proof and waterproof. It also features trimming gridlines to help you transform kitchen appliances, countertops, trash cans, backsplashes and more.

8. LED bulbs

Sylvania General Lighting LED bulbs on Amazon
SYLVANIA General Lighting / Amazon

No matter how many light fixtures you have, it’s time to rethink your source of energy.

These Sylvania General Lighting LED Bulbs can replace the standard 60-watt incandescent bulbs, while using much less energy. Each bulb can provide up to 11,000 hours of soft white light and last up to 10 years.

9. Sofa slipcover

Easy-Going sofa slipcover on Amazon
Easy-Going / Amazon

Whether your pets have destroyed the fabric or you’re simply craving a new look, a couch cover is an inexpensive way to go.

This microfiber slipcover comes with three fitted cushion covers and one base cover. Each piece is made of 85% polyester and 15% spandex for stretch and comfort. Choose from a variety of colors.

10. Table lamps

HAITRAL table lamp set on Amazon
HAITRAL / Amazon

Adding light not only brightens the mood, but makes your home more functional. Determine where you have dark spots and fill them in with this set of two petite table lamps.

At 15 inches tall, these lamps should fit on any nightstand, desk, dresser or end table. They’re made with a black metal base and classic linen lamp shade.

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