Designers Say You Should Never Make These 50 Common Mistakes At Home — & Here's What To Do Instead

"A common design mistake is not using a rug pad under rugs on hard surfaces. Not only does it affect the longevity of the rug but aids in acoustics and heat control in a space,” wrote Sarah Latham, principal of Latham Interiors. Instead, check out this one that is made from a combination of recycled felt and rubber for non-slip comfort and insulation. It comes in ample sizes and thickness options.

• Available sizes: 1'10" x 2'10" — 12' x 15'
• Available styles: 4

"The most common mistake I see in homes is art hung all wrong,” wrote Carla Bast, owner of Carla Bast Interior Design and interior designer with over 25 years of experience. “It's either too high, or it isn't arranged correctly. It's very common to make mistakes in this area and leave a lot of holes and damage to repair.” Bast recommends this picture hanging template, which is a gridded guide that lets you outline your items and hang them on the wall as marked. It’s especially helpful for collages.

"Small holes from nails or picture hangers can make a space look unfinished,” wrote Kerrie Kelly, kitchen expert and interior designer at Katie Brockman & Co. According to Kelly, 3M’s High Strength Small Hole Repair Kit is “easy to use, dries fast, and will make your walls look smooth and ready for a fresh coat of paint.” This set includes 8 ounces of spackling compound, a putty knife, a sanding sponge, and a self-adhesive patch.

"A doormat is one of the first things guests see, so a faded or frayed one can leave a bad impression,” wrote Kelly, who recommends this monogrammed doormat that has coco coir on top and non-slip vinyl on the back. Choose from six designs and four sizes before customizing it with any letter. “It’s affordable, durable, and instantly elevates your entryway,” wrote Kelly.

• Available sizes: 14" x 22" — 38" x 60"
• Available styles: 6

According to Kelly, "a collection of mismatched dishes can make your kitchen feel chaotic and uncoordinated,” but a “simple, cohesive set of dinnerware in neutral tones like white or beige [can] easily mix with other pieces and create a more polished look.” Kelly recommends this affordable stoneware dinner set, which serves four and has organic curved edges with a versatile white glaze over microwave-safe clay.

• Available sizes: 12pcs — 16pcs
• Available styles: 16

“Flat, mismatched, or overly decorative throw pillows can instantly age your living room. Refresh your space by swapping them out for modern, textured pillows in a consistent color palette,” wrote Kelly, who recommends these velvet throw pillow covers because they “offer a luxe look without the hefty price tag.” Get them in 10 sizes and dozens of color options.

• Available sizes: 12x12 Inch — 26x26 Inch
• Available styles: 40+

Malak Bellajdel, in-house interior design expert at Interior Moderna, also warns against busy, clashing throw pillows: “An easy fix is to stick to a cohesive color scheme or pattern family. You don’t even need to buy new pillows, just get new covers,” wrote Bellajdel, who loves these plush pillow covers that add depth and texture. “They have a variety of beautiful colors to choose from so you can easily match them with your space’s color palette."

• Available sizes: 16 x 16 Inch — 24 x 24 Inch
• Available styles: 8

“Surprisingly, a lot of homes still only rely on overhead lighting which can be unflattering and harsh,” wrote Bellajdel, “This modern floor lamp from Amazon is just under $50 and adds both style and soft, warm lighting." Its arc-shaped neck rotates 360 degrees, its convenient foot switch lets you turn it on and off, and its magnetic remote allows you to adjust the color temperature, brightness, and automatic timers.

• Available sizes: 60” — 78”

“You can add warmth to your space by including ambient lighting with table lamps and floor lamps,” continued Bellajdel. This bedside lamp doubles as an art piece with its 3-D printed lampshade, which softens the room with mesmerizing, organic curves. It’s made from corn stalk materials and is USB-powered with three temperature settings and nine brightness levels.

• Available sizes: Medium — Large
• Available styles: 4

If a lack of outlets is stopping you from adding more ambient lighting, opt for a cordless rechargeable lamp. This one has a 6000mAh battery that lasts for up to 60 hours. Plus, it’s waterproof and made from metal so you can use it outside. The touch-dimmable switch allows you to adjust the brightness and color temperature.

• Available styles: 20

Visible cords from electronics “create visual clutter and can make a room feel messy and chaotic,” wrote Bellajdel, but a cord management box provides an easy fix: “Amazon has a modern cord management box that comes in a lovely sage green but you can always paint it to match your space." It’s large enough to house most power strips, has slits to feed cords through, and includes wire ties, fastener straps, and cable clips.

• Available sizes: Large — Extra Large
• Available styles: 2

Similarly, wires from lamps, televisions, and computers can also be an eyesore, wrote Kelly: “Use cord management solutions like the JOTO cable management sleeve to keep them organized and out of sight. It’s an inexpensive way to tidy up your space and give it a more streamlined appearance,” especially since the zippered design lets you add or remove wires as needed.

• Available styles: 2

Laura Williams, interior designer at ATX Interior Design, sees plenty of cluttered vanity tops. “Instead, keep toiletry organizers in your drawer," wrote Williams, who recommends these vanity organizer trays. They’re clear to match any decor, shallow enough to fit in most drawers, and come in various sizes to help you organize tools, cosmetics, palettes, facial towels, and supplies.

• Available sizes: 6 Pack — 26 Pack

Your entryway can easily become “a catch-all for mess, backpacks, purses, jackets,” wrote Williams. “By hanging a rack by the door, these items will all have a place." This coat rack has four dual metal hooks on a walnut beam, so it can support up to 45 pounds while looking sleek and modern. According to reviewers, it’s also a breeze to install.

• Available styles: 4 Hooks — 5 Hooks

Stephanie Mahaney, founder of Stephanie Rae Interiors, came across this hack in her mother-in-law’s house: “Toilet paper storage in a bathroom is tricky and there aren’t very many ‘pretty’ options. She used a glass/acrylic vase and stacked extra toilet paper in each bathroom that way. Very simple and looks great when preparing for guests in your home!” By Mahaney’s measurements, this glass cylinder vase fits three rolls perfectly.

• Available sizes: 6"x4"H — 6"x26"H

“It’s nice to have tissues available for guests, especially in a powder room,” wrote Mahaney — but the cardboard designs can clash with your decor, so Mahaney uses Jacarda Living tissue box covers. Made from a blend of linen and cotton they come in a variety of nautical designs for an elevated way to tie your tissues into your decor.

Alternatively, these aesthetic square covers elevate your tissue boxes with texture. Available in rattan, lattice, basketweave, metallic, and faux leather designs in a wide variety of shades, they give your tissues an upscale feel — but at $10 apiece, they only look expensive.

• Available sizes: 1 — 2
• Available styles: 20

"Harsh lighting is a common homeowner gripe,” wrote Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director at ARCHIVE by Dan Mazzarini, but “2700k LEDs are a great option.” These frosted LED bulbs give off a warm glow to soften your space, plus they’re energy-efficient and designed to last for up to seven years.

Similarly, especially when paired with a decorative lighting fixture, “Edison bulbs can cast a warm glow that instantly softens a space,” wrote Mazzarini. These incandescent Edison bulbs are dimmable with an antique-style filament, so they double as lighting and decor. You can use them inside or out.

• Available sizes: 4 ct — 12 ct
• Available styles: 9

Another solution for harsh, cold lighting? “Swap out your bulbs and install dimmers for a quick, easy fix,” wrote Mazzarini. These slide-dimmer switches work with dimmable LEDs, halogens, and incandescent bulbs. With a slim design that fits most wall boxes, they replace standard switches using your existing wiring. According to reviewers, they’re easy to install, but when in doubt, “have an electrician swap out your switches,” Mazzarini wrote.

Finally, for floor and desk lamps that plug into outlets, Mazzarini recommends these plug-in dimmer switches, which allow you to customize the brightness levels of any dimmable LEDs and incandescent bulbs. The sliding switch is easy to use, resists flickering, and has non-slip grips on the back for secure placement on a side table.

• Available sizes: 5 Ft — 6.6 ft

According to Damla Turgut, founder and creative director of Otto Tiles & Design, even high-quality grout can flake, discolor, and develop mold over time. “To ensure this doesn't detract from your tiles and interior decor, invest in a grout repair kit. These are low cost and easy to use.” Plus, they come in a variety of colors, wrote Turgut. This recommended set includes pre-mixed grout, a removal tool, a spatula, gloves, and sandpaper.

• Available sizes:
• Available styles: 4

“Once repaired, ensure you seal your grout for added future protection,” wrote Turgut, who recommends this grout sealer spray. The clear, water-based formula prevents the absorption of moisture and stains to keep your grout looking new for years to come. It’s also low-odor and dries within a few hours. Added bonus? You can use it indoors or out.

"Mold spots in bathrooms or kitchens can be a common issue,” wrote Janice Page — interior designer, certified kitchen designer, and owner of PKsurroundings. “A practical solution is using RMR-86 instant mold and mildew stain remover. This product is highly effective at removing mold and mildew stains on contact. Simply spray it on and watch the spots disappear, leaving your space looking fresh and clean.”

• Available sizes: 32 Fl Oz — 2.5 Gallon

According to Page, "Updating your lighting is a simple way to refresh the look of a room. Consider switching out old or dated light fixtures with more modern options,” like this industrial semi-flush ceiling fixture, which “is a stylish and affordable choice. Its black metal finish and clear glass shade add a contemporary touch, and it's easy to install,” Page wrote. It even comes with an 800-lumen clear LED bulb.

• Available styles: 8

Pamela O'Brien of Pamela Hope Designs recommends covering unsightly bed frames and under-bed clutter with a bed skirt, which will “elevate the look of your bedroom instantly.” O'Brien recommends this wrap-around bed skirt, which “hangs in soft folds” to disguise eyesores and clutter, comes “in many colors and various drops to fit a variety of beds,” and is “easy to install” thanks to its elastic band.

• Available sizes: 20+
• Available styles: 25

Amber Mundy, interior designer and Home Improvement Specialist at Build and Renovate, wrote that poorly scaled furniture — “furniture that's too large or small for the space” — is a common mistake. An easy, affordable fix? “Add or remove legs to adjust furniture height.” These metal hairpin legs come in tons of sizes to add height and mid-century modern style to your dressers, coffee tables, consoles, stools, bookcases, or side tables.

• Available sizes: 4-Inch — 36-Inch

If you have a sofa, ottoman, or armchair that feels too small or outdated for your space, you can use these wooden furniture legs to adjust the height and update them. They’re made from durable rubberwood and come with installation hardware and scratch-resistant rubber pads. Get them in four heights and two designs.

• Available sizes: 4” — 10”
• Available styles: 2

If you’re short on shelves and closets, under-furniture storage is a great alternative. These 4-inch furniture risers allow you to stash clutter under beds and sofas. You can also use them to raise coffee tables, desks, and side tables so they’re at a more functional height. Since they’re made from solid wood with rubber pads, they’re stylish, non-slip, and designed to support up to 6,000 pounds.

• Available styles: 2

According to Mundy, you can also “rearrange existing pieces for better flow.” These two-in-one furniture sliders have a rounded plastic underside that effortlessly slides along carpet — or you can use the plush covers to prevent scuffs and scratches on hard floors. Either way, they protect your flooring while making it much easier to experiment with different arrangements.

• Available sizes: 2.5-inch — 5-inch

“Use slipcovers to visually resize bulky furniture,” wrote Mundy. This stretchy slipcover is a best-seller that has earned over 48,000 five-star ratings from reviewers. Made from soft fabric, it comes in several sizes and colors to suit most pieces of furniture, plus it has anti-slip foam strips, an elastic bottom, and plenty of spandex to ensure a smooth, secure fit.

• Available sizes: Small Chair — XX-Large Sofa
• Available styles: 33

Clashing metal finishes can “create visual discord,” wrote Mundy — but replacing all of your fixtures is a pricey endeavor. Mundy’s suggestion for a low-cost alternative: “Use spray paint to unify metal finishes.” I’ve used this Rust-Oleum metallic spray on my outdoor metal chairs. It’s easy to apply, long-lasting, and resists rust and fading — even though it’s exposed to the elements year-round.

• Available styles: 9

On a similar note, if you have wooden furniture that clashes, you can “add wood stain to match varying wood tones,” wrote Mundy. Available in over 20 colors, this water-based, non-toxic stain works for bare or sanded wood to restore tired finishes and create a comprehensive palette throughout your home. The formula is fast-drying, low-odor, and easy to rinse off your brushes.

• Available sizes: 8.5oz — 170 oz
• Available styles: 22

“Too much stuff makes rooms feel chaotic,” wrote Mundy, but some “attractive storage baskets and boxes” can make a huge difference. It not only helps you better organize your belongings, but disguises your clutter as decor. These handwoven rattan baskets have a metal frame for durability, a lid for stacking and protection, and interchangeable liner bags so you can choose between one or two sections.

• Available sizes: 35L — 160L
• Available styles: 3

Reviewers have used this baby organizer caddy to store and transport crafting supplies, towels, car essentials, beach items, throw blankets, and other odds and ends you need but don’t want out in the open. Since it has dividers, handles, and a two-tone rope construction, it’s functional, portable, and stylish.

• Available styles: 7

Mundy also recommends creating “designated ‘homes’ for commonly used objects,” like keys, jewelry, and devices. These storage boxes are made from paperboard and faux leather with a fluted texture that makes them look way more expensive than they are. Since they come in a set of three sizes, you’ll find plenty of uses for them in your closet, on your vanity, or in your entryway.

• Available styles: 6

“Do a thorough purge of unnecessary items,” Mundy wrote. For seasonal clothing or things you plan on donating, these collapsible storage boxes keep them dry, fresh, and protected while in storage. They’re made from moisture-resistant Oxford fabric with a sturdy, stackable design and handles for improved grip. They also fold flat when they’re not in use.

• Available sizes: Small — Large
• Available styles: 3

“Blank walls make a space feel unfinished,” wrote Mundy, but removable wallpaper is an easy, affordable way to add visual interest. This mid-century modern design comes in three colors and has a self-adhesive backing and seamless line-ups for simple, mess-free application. Since it’s removable and moisture-resistant, it’s suitable for renters and you can use it in the kitchen or bathroom.

• Available styles: 3

According to Bellajdel, bare walls aren’t always a bad thing, but they can make a space feel sterile. They offer another solution: “Create a gallery wall using photo ledges. You can easily swap out art or photos without making new holes in the wall,” wrote Bellajdel, who recommends these floating ledge shelves because they’re the ideal size for art, and they cost less than $30 for a set of six.

• Available styles: 3

Rugs and throw pillows add warmth to the bottom half of your space, but what about the top half? To dress up a blank wall, you can also “hang tapestries or fabric as wall art,” according to Mundy. This handwoven tapestry combines clay, cream, and beige colors for an organic modern palette — and with its tassels and intricate patterns, it adds plenty of cozy texture, too.

• Available styles: 4

Your decor can be pretty and practical at the same time. Take this macrame plant holder, for example; per Mundy’s advice, it warms up your walls with soft textures, but per Bellajdel’s advice, it also functions as a beechwood shelf where you can swap out art, decor, and plants — without making new holes.

According to Ben Soreff, a professional organizer with House To Home Organizing, most households accumulate excessive furniture over the years, which makes a space look small and cluttered. Instead, get rid of the pieces you don’t use regularly and “think frequency of use,” Soreff wrote. These stackable modern dining chairs take up less space than bulky seats. Plus, they’re lightweight so you can store them away until you have company.

• Available styles: 9

"When all the surfaces in a room are covered, it looks dark, uninviting, and cramped,” wrote Soreff, who recommends ditching the heavy rugs and curtains. Instead, opt for light, airy fabrics, like these sheer linen curtains that come in ample sizes and colors. While their flax-like texture lets plenty of light through, they also offer warmth and privacy, and they’re easy to hang thanks to their metal grommets.

• Available sizes: W36 x L48 — W70 x L96
• Available styles: 28

"One common eyesore I often encounter is mismatched or overly cluttered countertops,” wrote interior and fashion designer Aleena Khan. “A simple fix is to invest in uniform, stylish storage containers or trays” like these bamboo organizers, which can “streamline the look of your kitchen or bathroom for under $50.” They’re shallow enough to fit in most drawers, but chic enough to leave out on countertops.

• Available sizes: 3 Boxes — 8 Boxes

According to Matthew Coates, a Seattle-based architect and interior design expert, mismatched electrical outlets and switch covers are a common eyesore: “Opt for paintable outlet and switch covers. These covers are designed to be easily painted to match the exact color of your walls, blending in effortlessly and helping to maintain the room's cohesion.” Made from zinc alloy and available in dozens of designs for plugs and switches, this decorative wall plate is durable and re-paintable.

• Available sizes: 20+
• Available styles: 3

One thing you shouldn’t match? “Living room sets,” wrote Williams, who notes that having the same pattern on your sofa, loveseat, and armchair can make a room look dated. “Instead, keep the sofa and opt for a visually interesting accent chair like this one,” Williams wrote. This swivel chair has a modern barrel shape and dense foam cushions which make it stylish and comfortable.

• Available styles: 2

If you have a small or walkthrough living space, a bulky armchair will overwhelm the room and block your path. In that case, opt for a compact accent chair that still makes a statement. This one has a padded upholstered seat with wooden legs, and since it swivels 360 degrees, it doubles as a desk or vanity chair.

• Available styles: 4

A common mistake in most homes? “Area rugs that are not the right size,” Williams wrote. “In a standard living room, you want an area rug that your pieces will sit halfway on with room for a coffee table and side table.” Williams loves this classic area rug that comes “in an assortment of sizes for different spacial needs." Its small-scale motif adds color and depth while its durable construction can withstand high traffic.

• Available sizes: 2.5’ x 8’ — 11.5’ x 15.5’
• Available styles: 6

"For a dining room, you want to ensure all your chairs fit on the rug but there is still a walkway around it within the space,” Williams wrote. “For instance, for a standard 72-inch table, I recommend an 8-by-10 rug, like this one." It has a timeless pattern and since it’s power-loomed with a low pile, it’s stain-resistant, non-shedding, and suitable for high-traffic areas.

• Available sizes: 2.6’ x 4’ — 11.5’ x 15.5’
• Available styles: 7

Whenever you buy a new piece of decor, ask yourself, “Does this suit my lifestyle long-term?” For busy households with kids and pets, a machine-washable area rug will be much easier to maintain down the line. This one has a low but soft pile, and it comes in plenty of sizes and colors to suit any room of the house.

• Available sizes: 2’x3’ — 10’x12’
• Available styles: 8