Designers Swear By These Absurdly Clever Things Under $30 On Amazon

Consider these stackable organizers for streamlining your surfaces. “Nothing ruins a design aesthetic like unnecessary countertop clutter,” Abbott says. “This under-cabinet organizer is sleek and unobtrusive to hold your spices, coffee cups, canisters and other clutter that always seems to be in the way,” she explains. These organizers have sturdy metal legs and can nest underneath each other to customize your storage needs. Use them inside your cabinets, too.

• Available colors: 6

“Two-in-one items are always a win in my book and these stackable cactus glasses from Amazon definitely fit the bill,” Coddington says, adding, “Not only do they add a pop of color to your kitchen or bar, but they are also perfect for saving cabinet space.” They add a totally unique look to any table or bar setup, and the cactus arms double as functional handles.

Alanna Murray, interior designer with Murray Craft Builders, is here to help you rethink your ambient lighting. “I’m obsessed with these weird and wonderful Grecian bust candles,” she says, adding that they effortlessly blend whimsy and sophistication. “They are the perfect sculptural piece for a mantel or to break up a row of books on a bookshelf. I’ve also seen them used as planters, so they have a second life when the candle burns out,” Murray notes. This bust comes with a lovely, soothing lavender-scented candle that’s sure to put you at ease.

• Available colors: 2

According to Coddington, throw pillows can amp up the style factor of any space, and this knot pillow is no exception due in part to its unexpected shape. “Why settle for plain square or rectangular pillows when you can have cute and unique knot pillows?” she asks, adding, “These trendy pillows come in various colors and sizes, so you can mix and match them to create a cozy and eclectic look for your couch or bed.” Their plush velvet surface makes them feel extra luxurious, too.

• Available colors: 17

“Another game changer are these dimmable LED cabinet lights with a built-in motion sensor,” Hinds says. With foolproof installation thanks to the adhesive backing, they make it so easy to see in dim areas, providing a range of functional uses that aren’t relegated to just cabinets, since they’re excellent in areas like closets, too. “The sensor automatically turns them on when you open the cabinet — it's like having a personal assistant,” Hinds adds. These lights run on USB-rechargeable batteries and can last for up to five hours on a charge.

This beaded tray is where practicality and style meet. “Decorative trays are not merely functional,” Scippo explains, “They are artful displays that curate and elevate everyday objects, turning them into focal points of beauty and interest. Their ability to unify disparate items on a cohesive platform makes them indispensable in thoughtful interior design.” And if all that sounds compelling to you, check out the curved edges and beaded trim on this wooden tray. It has elevated legs that give it just a bit of height and it comes in four colors. Use it for serving apps at your next party, too.

• Available colors: 4

“To tame messy junk drawers, I'm obsessed with these bamboo drawer dividers,” Hinds says. “They're so easy to adjust to fit different sizes and instantly organize all the odds and ends,” she continues. Each divider expands from 17.5 to 22 inches to custom-fit your drawers. The ends are also coated in a soft foam to not only help keep them in place but to shield your furniture from damage, too.

• Available colors: 4

Amanda Wyatt, founder of Design Insider, is a big fan of this multipack of bud vases. She explains, “I love setting these glass bud vases around any house that I am styling. They are beautiful, inexpensive, and come in a variety of colors — pop one or two stems in each vase and you’re all set!” These set includes several heights ranging from roughly 3 inches to 6 inches tall, in a multitude of silhouettes to create lots of visual interest. Place them on a mantel or use them as an eclectic dining table centerpiece.

• Available colors: 8

Amber Mundy, interior designer at Build and Renovate in New Zealand, recommends a toile print wallpaper like this one. Peel-and-stick wallpapers are super easy to install, and this one comes in five different size options and five different colors, to match your space perfectly. Use this on a statement wall, on the interior of your large cabinet, or use it to outfit an entire room.

• Available colors: 5
• Available colors: 5

Mundy loves these pendant lights, which plug in to an outlet, no wiring required. These come with all of the mounting hardware you need and an easy-to-flip switch to turn them on. Or connect them to a smart plug, and you can control them with your phone. If black is not your color, these come in a beautiful gold hue, as well.

Ana Coddington, lead interior designer for Archival Designs, sees lots of value in these food huggers, which she recommends for covering leftovers over single-use plastic wrap. “If you cook your own food at home, then you know how often you end up with half-used fruits and vegetables,” she explains. These covers are made from flexible silicone and easily shield your half-used produce or opened jars for simple storage. They’re even dishwasher safe.

• Available colors: 4

Don’t overlook simple fixes for small spaces, like this over-door shoe organizer, which has way more benefits than you might think at first glance. Coddington advises, “While it's usually used for shoes, I've found it to be versatile for many other items as well. You can use it for stuff like adapters, chargers, scarves, sunglasses, and beauty products.” The transparent construction makes it simple to spot your items right away and the sturdy hooks secure it in place over your door with ease.

• Available colors: 7

This washable entry rug is another recommendation from Mundy, and it’s such an eye-catching piece to have right when people enter your home. It’s available in a few different floral prints and runner sizes, as well. The best part? When it starts to look dull or dirty, this rug can go right in your washing machine.

• Available colors: 6
• Available sizes: 6

For a useful kitchen tool with tons of charm, look no further than the Nessie ladle — named after the Loch Ness monster. “It’s fun and functional — the best of both worlds!” Murray says. Because it’s heat resistant and has four “legs,” this ladle can stand up right in your soups and stews for easy stirring and mess-free countertops. Plus, seeing its little prehistoric head poking out of your pots is just too charming.

Why settle for standard glasses when you can have these beaded tumblers instead? “These tumblers are perfect for deck cocktails. I love this muted neutral color selection. They look much more expensive than they are,” Murray says. They hold 11 ounces each and boast a beaded design on the surface, which — besides looking chic — also gives your fingers a tight grip. There are also other options available for flutes, martini glasses, and more.

• Available styles: 7

Nichole Abbott, interior designer at FLOOR360 in Madison, Wisconsin, recommends this decorative soapstone bowl for storing your essentials. “[It] can function as a catchall placed on a sofa table or entryway table,” she says, adding, “The old-world texture and material make it a valuable addition to a homeowner curating an eclectic aesthetic.” The bowl is encircled with a floral design and because it’s sculpted from stone, each one will be unique.

If you struggle to find aesthetically pleasing storage, Abbott suggests this folding storage bin. “This indoor-outdoor storage bin has some design appeal beyond the clear plastic containers usually seen on three-season porches, patios, home offices, or closets. This is perfect for homes with a rustic vibe,” she says. It doesn’t require any tools for assembly and folds nearly completely flat when not in use, too.

• Available colors: 2

Abbott describes this glass apothecary jar as “a fun vintage piece,” that mixes well with modern design. And indeed, the curved silhouette adds a nice contrast to clean, spare lines. Made from hand-blown glass, this jar and lid come in a range of shapes and sizes. Looking for insight into how to style it? “Place it in the kitchen, bathroom, or living room with other vintage and modern decor pieces,” Abbott advises.

The next time you find yourself staring at a blank wall, try these botanical prints. “A group of six prints that seem like a thrift shop find provides a design focal point in homes that need neutral-color artwork that seems vintage. Hang these in modern-farmhouse, modern-vintage, cottage-style, or Victorian spaces,” Abbott says. Emulating the look of antique botany illustration, these delicate floral drawings are printed on thick, cloth-like paper, making them seem more expensive than they are.

This essential oil diffuser slowly releases moisture and an essential oil of your choice into your space. Mundy recommends this brand, and this 300-milliliter size is the perfect bedside or deskside option. This one can be set to one of seven different LED color lights, and has multiple misting modes. This chic diffuser will look great in your space, and leave your room smelling wonderful.

These concrete bookends are an elevated option for any bookshelf. Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at online interior design service Decorilla, notes, “I think [concrete] adds sophistication yet a rustic feel, and that brutalist factor that makes it stand out. It’s definitely one of my favorite materials and this bookend showcases that. Having these L-shaped bookends will add refinement but also life with the artificial grass.” These bookends are equipped with nonslip padding on the bottom to keep them sturdy on your furniture. They also come available in a succulent version as well as the grass option pictured here.

Samantha Smith, founder of One Smith Studio, a boutique interior design studio, says, “I'm always drawn to pottery. The organic shapes and handcrafted nature can do wonders for a tablescape or shelf display.” With their rounded shape and sandy marble exterior, these tiny ceramic bowls will look so natural and organic in your space. You can use these for so many purposes — plop a small tea light candle in each and use them as votives, plant tiny succulents in each, or use them to collect keys and other small items in your entryway. The possibilities are endless.

You can never go wrong adding more greenery to a space, and these ceramic vases do the trick — and they look just as great on their own, too. “In my personal style, I’m very into neutrals, and ivory is one of my go-to shades,” Shaffer says, adding, “This set of vases can be used on their own, but also with faux flowers or even fresh ones. They are chic and subtle, yet give any room elegance and serenity.” This set features three different sizes and shapes of vases for visual variety wherever you place them.

Giovanni Scippo, Director at 3D Lines, an architectural rendering service, loves a woven basket for a variety of purposes. “Woven baskets serve as versatile storage solutions that blend seamlessly with various decor themes, from rustic to modern, enhancing the space with their texture and warmth,” he says, adding, “They embody practicality and style, making them essential for decluttering elegantly.” This particular basket features a stylish color-block design with convenient handles for easy maneuvering. It comes in a small handful of colors, and can be used as a hamper, to store linens, or as a place for extra throw blankets and pillows. It even folds flat when not in use.

• Available colors: 4

“Bookends offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal, elegantly organizing literature while adding a touch of sophistication to any shelf or mantel,” Scippo says, and this pair of chess bookends is no exception. These sturdy bookends are made from resin and iron and measure 7 inches high. They have a matte black finish that gives them a sleek, modern feel.

“Fairy lights introduce an ethereal ambience to interiors, casting a soft, inviting glow that transforms spaces into cozy havens,” Scippo says. This set offers 10 feet of LED bulbs and gives off a soothing, warm white glow. “Their delicate illumination is perfect for creating intimate settings and adding a whimsical touch to the decor,” Scippo adds, and thankfully, because they’re waterproof, you can create those settings inside or outside.

• Available colors: 9

“Spice racks, while primarily utilitarian, can also serve as a visual delight, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures of various spices,” Scippo says, and this hanging spice rack can do exactly that. “[A spice rack’s] presence in a kitchen not only promotes culinary creativity but also adds an element of decor through their orderly display,” he adds. This rack, made from durable carbon steel, can turn the outside or inside of a door into such a display. Plus, it’ll streamline meal prep, given how easy it is to spot the spices you’ll need thanks to its open construction.

• Available colors: 3

Amber Mundy, home improvement specialist at Build and Renovate, recommends items that have multiple functions, like these bristled dishwashing gloves. “[They] are a game-changer, combining the functionality of scrubbers with the protection of gloves to make cleaning dishes feel like less of a chore,” she explains. These gloves are heat resistant up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, so they’re great for handling hot dishes out of the microwave. Their bristles are also ideal for lathering up and brushing pets’ fur during at-home grooming as well.

• Available colors: 6

Mundy describes these charcoal air-purifying bags as “an unassuming yet powerful solution for maintaining a fresh and odor-free home environment naturally.” They’re made with an eco-friendly bamboo covering and work by absorbing moisture and odors that can make your home feel less inviting. Each bag can last for up to two years, and all it needs is a few hours in the sun each month to strengthen the charcoal’s absorbent properties. Put them in closets, bathrooms, or even inside shoes.

“For those looking to add a touch of greenery without the hassle of maintenance, a set of faux succulents offers a lifelike and vibrant addition to any room,” Mundy says. The succulents come in matching textured pots with grooves along the sides for a pinch of visual interest. Their compact size makes them an excellent finishing touch on bookshelves, dressers, and decorative trays, but you can also group them together as a centerpiece.

• Available colors: 4

“An innovative find is this clip-on strainer, which fits nearly any pot, pan, or bowl for hassle-free draining,” Mundy says. Thanks to its flexible silicone construction, it’s compatible with both large and small pots, and allows you to pour off excess liquid with one hand. It’s heat resistant up to 440 degrees Fahrenheit, so it can stand up to steamy cooking conditions well.

• Available colors: 5

“The magnetic wristband tool holder is a quirky yet invaluable tool for the DIY enthusiast, keeping screws, nails, and bits within easy reach during projects,” Mundy says. It fits a variety of wrist sizes, thanks to the adjustable closure, and boasts 10 built-in magnets to hold all your loose metal bits tight. And because the exterior is made from durable nylon, you can be sure it’ll hold up to all your home repair challenges.

Raf Michalowski, designer and founder of Meble Furniture, swears by hanging baskets. “It adds a touch of bohemian charm to any room and can be used as a decorative wall hanging or storage solution for small items like keys, jewelry, or even plants,” he says. This pair of is made from natural-looking jute and each one features a removable faux leather strap, so you can suspend it from a rack or hook of your choosing. They also look right at home sitting on a table or entryway console.

• Available colors: 2

For an alternative hanging storage solution, these cascading baskets also let you make the most of Michalowski’s advice. This version features three baskets for extra storage and can be easily suspended with the included door hooks. The baskets are made from a cotton-jute blend and feature rustic wooden toggles to keep them closed and secure.

• Available colors: 5

When it comes to dressing up your greenery, Michalowski likes these ceramic plant pots. “The modern geometric design and neutral color make them versatile for any interior style, and the drainage holes ensure that your plants stay healthy and happy,” he says. The set comes with three pots in graduated sizes to provide visual variety to any plantscape.

• Available colors: 2

Smith says, “Most people don't realize how much greenery can bring life into a room!” This plant stand is the perfect place to put that plant you picked up at your local gardener center or Home Depot. The adjustable height and width make it super customizable, and the bamboo material has a neutral and natural look that will work in any space.

Chenise Hinds, interior designer, home stager, and senior contributor at Momooze, is obsessed with this chic terazzo soap dispenser. “With its artsy, marbleized pattern in soothing blush tones, it's like a little pop of modern art for your kitchen sink,” she says, adding, “I just love how it classes up an everyday utilitarian piece.” It’s made from durable ceramic, and even though it has a charming little shape, it can hold a generous 11 ounces. You can even use it for hand sanitizer or lotion.

• Available colors: 7

Placing greenery in a room really adds life to the space. “While I always prefer real plants, I'll opt for faux in spaces like a finished basement,” says Smith. This artificial Monstera plant is super lifelike, but requires none of the upkeep, or the light and temperature that you might need to keep a real plant alive. At under $20 for a 28-inch faux plant, this is a truly great deal.

And if you prefer a scene over geometric designs, this woven wall tapestry is bound to delight. The macramé tapestry features an art deco meets Miami-chic vibe that evokes calm energy, while still infusing your space with personal style. It has fringed rope trim at the bottom and also comes available in other options, including a vibrant rainbow and a bold cactus graphic.

• Available colors: 38

“Perfectly poached eggs are a must,” according to Hines, and this clever microwave breakfast set can help streamline the process. It comes with two items: one that allows you to crack and poach eggs two at a time in a microwavable tray, and a cooker that makes perfectly round scrambled egg discs for sandwiches. Better yet, it’s BPA-free for peace of mind.

David Mason, interior designer and the founder of home hardware and accessory business Knobs.co, advises, “I encourage you to add a touch of whimsy to your home decor with decorative succulent cactus candles that resemble real plants and create a cozy ambience when lit.” Each candle comes in a rustic aluminum cup that resembles an outdoor planter. And since they can burn for up to five hours each, the price tag is even more enticing. “It strikes me as a perfect way to add some personality and fun to any room in your home,” Mason adds.

Mason says, “I suggest you keep your essentials within reach with an adjustable bedside caddy organizer that hangs from the side of your bed and provides storage pockets for books, tablets, phones, glasses, and more, keeping your nightstand clutter-free.” This version works well for beds, but can also be installed under a couch cushion for living room storage, too, so you’ll never have to wonder where the remote’s gone again. Made from sturdy felt, it can store an impressive 20 pounds of weight, and comes in chic neutral colors.

• Available colors: 3

One more tip from Smith? “You can also include art or photos of florals and landscapes to bring in the natural elements,” she says. If plants seem hard to keep up with and faux plants feel like one more piece of clutter in your space, consider bringing florals and nature to your walls. This fun print takes its inspiration from a fall farmer’s market. Imagine how great it’ll look in your kitchen. Note: The frame is not included.

Smith offers a genius piece of advice: “Shop your own home and try moving items from one room to another. You might find things that you'd tired of suddenly feel totally different and bring you new joy when you put them in a fresh setting.” While it can seem intimidating to move large furniture (especially if you live alone), these furniture sliders make it simple to slide your furniture into new rooms or new positions in your space. Simply lift the legs of your furniture up and put these puck sliders underneath each corner.

Bob Berriz, creative director at Berriz Design Build, recommends sticky photo frames for when you want to feature pictures without hammering into your walls. “These adhesive frames can display photos or artwork, making it easy to update wall art as frequently as desired, perfect for keeping the home's decor fresh and engaging,” he says. These frames come five to a pack and measure 4 by 6 inches. All you have to do is slip your photos inside and swap them out when you’re ready for a change.

• Available colors: 2

Niki Tashe, professional interior designer with a Singapore-based renovation company, Kitchen Renovations Singpore, recommends “using inexpensive fabric or wallpaper samples to create unique wall art or cover small surfaces like shelves or drawer fronts.” So take a peak around your house (or visit a local store and see if there are any samples available), and then flex your creativity. This fabric cutting mat is flexible, but the perfect base for whatever projects you have planned.

For bathroom organization, look no further than these shower shelves “[This] is another personal favorite for maximizing small spaces, particularly in bathrooms. It keeps personal care products organized and within reach without requiring permanent fixtures, a boon for both aesthetics and functionality in bathroom design,” Berriz explains. They’re made from durable stainless steel that can stand up to rust, and since they can hold up to 20 pounds of weight each, they’re sturdy enough to support whatever you can throw at them.

• Available colors: 2

Tashe says, “I also enjoy incorporating unexpected elements, like repurposing vintage suitcases as side tables or using ladders as towel racks in bathrooms.” This ladder is perfect for blankets in your living room or towels in your bathroom. Prop it against a wall, and it will store a bunch of linens at the ready. It even comes with four removable hooks, so you can hook things from the ladder, as well.

Houna Bech, professional interior designer and founder of lifestyle site With Houna, shares one brand she loves. She says, “On Amazon, the Bloomingville is a favorite go-to.” This stoneware fluted vase from Bloomingville is so stunning, and can house flowers or dried plants. This neutral black is so timeless, but the vase also comes in white and a bright orange glaze.

Bech recommends their planters, and says, “The handmade ceramic design with chic speckled glaze is so stylish but only $20. I use these planters in projects over and over — they work with any decor style from modern to traditional.” This stoneware planter has a textured look with semi circles adhered to the exterior. It’s such a unique piece.