4 Inexpensive Ways to Upgrade Your Home
1. SCENTED OIL DIFFUSERS
Reed oil diffusers are a great way to fill a room with an indulgent scent, without having to burn a candle unattended for hours. Your home will smell fantastic 24/7 until the oil runs out, which typically takes months. They also look great mixed in with your decor (we’ve come a long way since the days of dusty potpourri bowls).
Cons: You have to keep them out of reach of children and pets, so they’re best placed on a tall shelf or mantle (which still may not be out of reach of a cat).
2. MOTION SENSOR LIGHTS
Battery operated motion sensor lights are an inexpensive way to provide light to a dark closet, or under a cabinet. They attach to a magnetic bar which is adhered to your ceiling/cabinetry. The light will turn on as soon as the sensor detects movement.
Cons: They need to be recharged every few months. And since many of them are made with cheap parts overseas, it might be hit or miss with the quality - you might not get long term functionality out of them.
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3. DIMMER SWITCHES
Your standard light switches can be replaced with dimmer switches if you would like more control over the brightness in a room. Dimmers also allow you to adjust the light levels according to your needs during different times of day – for instance, you may need brighter light for completing tasks, and ambient light for relaxation time.
Cons: You may need to hire an electrician or handyman to install the new switches. Also, your bulbs and your light fixture will need to be dimmable. Many light fixtures are dimmable, but some are not.
4. SINK GRIDS
Sink grids elevate your dishes off the bottom of your sink basin, which helps the water and food flow easily towards the drain. They also help to prevent breakage of glassware if a glass falls over.
Cons: These get pretty gross after being splattered with food residue for a week or two, and will need to be scrubbed clean. If your grid is small enough though, you may be able to fit it in your dishwasher for easier cleaning, as long as it’s “dishwasher safe” and you remove the rubber bumpers.
Product Link:
Kraus Stainless Steel Grid
(Note: you have to find one that is the right size for your sink, but here is a larger one from Kraus, which is a good brand)
Have any tips on other low cost home upgrades? Drop a comment below.
