Walking into a home is like meeting someone for the first time. The living room is where your guests make their first impression of your lovely abode. If you have old and worn-out couch pillows, you could be sending the wrong message to your guests.
Need some tips on how to spruce up your living room without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered.
Decorating your home doesn’t require name-brand throw rugs or the most expensive furniture. In fact, some of the cutest pieces in your home could be from the hole-in-the-wall thrift shop down the street or a weekend do-it-yourself project you did with your husband.
Here is our list of the top budget-friendly stores to shop at for a quick home decor fix. Decorating your home on a budget should be fun, not scary.
1. HomeGoods
HomeGoods is the top on our list because it has absolutely everything you need at an affordable price. Another great thing about HomeGoods is they carry name-brand decor at a fraction of the price. Guaranteed, $20 can score you some good finds. Whether your shopping for bedding, the bathroom, the living room, or little nooks and crannies to hang on the wall, HomeGoods is sure to be your “savings” grace.
2. World Market
Prepare for an international touch when you walk into this marketplace. World Market has a plethora of inventory to choose from and carries some of the coolest items. Although their stock is constantly changing, you’re sure to find a budget-friendly treasure. Chances are good that you’ll bag an international goodie, like a hand-woven basket from Bali, an African tribal sculpture or Portuguese pottery.
3. Big Lots
Big Lots is a family favorite because it not only sells budget-friendly home decor but everything in between—groceries, furniture, toys, electronics and more. If you walk into Big Lots, you’re definitely going to need a shopping cart. You may even get lost. They don’t call it “Big Lots” for no reason.
4. Thrift stores
Thrift stores are not just for your grandpa anymore according to Macklemore. Places like Goodwill and Hospice Thrift Store offer great finds all at affordable prices. The great thing about these stores is that everything is donated, so the price is never too much. Looking to stock that book shelf of yours but never have the budget to buy books? Goodwill offers novels for as low as 50 cents a book. Big into DIY projects? Both thrift stores get new inventory weekly so you’re sure to run into an old kitchen table or something relevant to use your creative imagination on.
5. Yard sales
Ever heard the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure?” This couldn’t be more true for yard sales. Be sure to bring cash and a pick-up truck because yard sales are a great score for furniture. People are usually ready to just get rid of their “old junk” at a yard sale, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for a lower price if there’s something you really want. Chances are they’ll sell it to you at your price just to get it out of the garage.
6. Kohl’s
Kohl’s is a great place to go shopping on a budget, especially if you keep up with their sales. Opt-in for their weekly emails; they list out all of the great specials going on that week. This is the kind of store where you not only can buy home decor, but also things such as clothing apparel, jewelry, accessories and more.
7. Craigslist
Do you want to really score a deal? Check out craigslist.com in your area and surf under the “Free” section. People are always giving away old furniture they don’t have room for anymore. This is a great place to find a new DIY project.
Although this is only a small list of budget-friendly home decor suggestions, we hope that it can shed light on the fact that decorating your home should not break the bank. Before you decide to make that big purchase from Bed Bath and Beyond, shop around. Online stores are also the big hit these days since they offer the convenience of shopping from home.
What’s your favorite store to shop at on a budget? We love hearing from you!
