Best & Worst DIY Rental-Friendly Upgrades: Peel & Stick + More

1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: Best and Worst

Peel-and-stick wallpaper has revolutionized the way renters can decorate their walls. It comes in various patterns and colors, making it an appealing choice for renters looking for a pop of style. But is it worth it?

Best: Customizable and Removable

Peel-and-stick wallpaper can instantly change the look of any room. It’s easy to apply, relatively affordable, and most importantly—removable. If you’re in a rental with plain white walls, peel-and-stick wallpaper offers the perfect way to inject some color and texture.

Brands like Society6 and Chasing Paper offer high-quality peel-and-stick wallpapers that are designed for easy removal. In most cases, you can peel the wallpaper off without damaging the wall, leaving no trace behind when your lease ends.

Worst: Not Always Foolproof

However, not all peel-and-stick wallpapers are as rental-friendly as they claim. If your walls weren’t properly primed before being painted, the adhesive can peel away layers of paint during removal. Also, if you apply the wallpaper in humid areas like bathrooms, the moisture can cause the paper to stick more firmly or even bubble.



Pro Tip: Test a small patch first. Check if the paint comes off when you peel back the wallpaper, and look for reviews to ensure others have had success with that specific brand in similar conditions.

2. Peel-and-Stick Floor Tiles: Best

Next up, we have peel-and-stick floor tiles, and unlike wallpaper, this rental-friendly upgrade tends to be a huge hit. Whether you’re covering up outdated linoleum or dull tile, peel-and-stick flooring gives you the power to refresh your space with minimal effort.

Why It’s the Best

Peel-and-stick floor tiles can transform a space without needing to rip out old flooring. They’re available in trendy patterns—like faux-marble or geometric designs—giving your rental an updated look without the high cost of new flooring.

Longevity: In my experience, peel-and-stick floor tiles last much longer than most temporary décor solutions. For example, I used them in my apartment’s bathroom and hallway, and they held up for over three years without peeling or shifting.

Maintenance: They’re also relatively easy to clean and maintain. You can sweep and mop just like you would with any traditional tile, making them a practical solution for high-traffic areas.

Possible Downsides

When removing peel-and-stick floor tiles, some adhesive residue may be left behind. This can usually be removed with a product like Goo Gone, but it's important to check your lease to ensure your landlord permits temporary flooring.

3. Peel-and-Stick Backsplash: Worst

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are a quick way to revamp your kitchen or bathroom, but they can be hit or miss.

Why It’s the Worst

Peel-and-stick backsplash can look fantastic at first, but depending on the surface, they may not adhere properly. If your kitchen or bathroom has textured or porous walls, the adhesive won’t stick well, causing tiles to peel over time. Additionally, many peel-and-stick backsplashes can be difficult to remove cleanly, especially if applied to glossy or highly polished surfaces.

Where It Works Best



If you apply peel-and-stick backsplash to a flat, non-porous surface, like glossy tiles, it can work wonderfully. But avoid applying it directly to painted walls or rough surfaces, as removal can cause extensive damage.

4. Command Hooks: Best

Command hooks have become a rental décor staple, and for good reason. They allow you to hang artwork, mirrors, or even small shelves without drilling holes into the wall.

Why It’s the Best

Command hooks are easy to install and just as easy to remove. They don’t damage walls as long as they’re used correctly, making them perfect for renters who want to personalize their space without risking their security deposit.

Top Pick: I personally recommend using the Command hooks with wire hooks. These offer better durability and strength for hanging heavier items.

Avoid This Mistake

Make sure your walls are fully cured if freshly painted. Applying command strips to paint that hasn’t dried for at least 30 days can cause peeling. Also, don’t overload the hooks. Exceeding the weight limit can cause the strips to rip off paint or drywall.

5. Contact Paper for Countertops: Worst

Contact paper is a quick solution for covering unsightly countertops, but it’s rarely a good long-term fix, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms.

Why It’s the Worst

While contact paper looks great on camera, it’s often tricky to apply perfectly. You’ll encounter air bubbles and wrinkles, especially around corners or edges. Even when applied smoothly, contact paper doesn’t hold up well to wear and tear. In kitchens, heat from appliances like toasters or dishwashers can cause it to peel, while moisture in bathrooms makes it prone to bubbling.



Tip: If you absolutely must use contact paper, try it on small surfaces, like a side table, rather than countertops.

6. Replacing Light Fixtures: Best

Swapping out generic or outdated light fixtures is one of the most transformative upgrades you can make in a rental, and it’s relatively easy to do.

Why It’s the Best

Changing light fixtures gives your space a custom, high-end feel without permanent damage. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and stylish lamps can dramatically change the mood of a room. You can find affordable, trendy light fixtures on websites like Amazon or second-hand on Facebook Marketplace.

Installation



If you’re handy, you can change out the fixture yourself, but make sure to store the original in a safe place to re-install when your lease is up. It’s a great way to personalize your home while keeping things temporary and move-out friendly.

7. Swapping Cabinet Hardware: Best

Updating cabinet knobs or drawer pulls is another easy, renter-friendly upgrade that makes a big difference in the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom.

Why It’s the Best

It’s a small detail, but it has a major impact. You can swap out plain or outdated hardware with something more stylish and personal, like brass handles or quirky knobs. This quick DIY is fully reversible, just keep the original hardware to reinstall before you move out.

8. Curtains and Window Treatments: Best

Another great DIY upgrade is changing up your curtains or blinds. Store-bought curtains and custom rods can add height, texture, and color to any room, making it feel more polished and cohesive.

Why It’s the Best

Curtains are a low-cost solution that can make your space look taller and more sophisticated. Install curtain rods higher above your windows to give the illusion of taller ceilings.

Tip: Use blackout curtains for more privacy and better sleep, especially if you live in a city with bright streetlights.

Final Thoughts: Rental-Friendly Upgrades That Transform

When you’re living in a rental, it’s natural to want to add your personal touch while keeping your landlord happy. With DIY rental-friendly upgrades like peel-and-stick tiles, Command hooks, and updated lighting, you can transform your space without worrying about long-term consequences.

However, not all upgrades are created equal. Be cautious with contact paper and peel-and-stick backsplashes—both can be difficult to remove and may not hold up in high-traffic areas.

Ready for More Rental Tips?

At Enigma Properties, we understand the needs of renters in Milwaukee and beyond. If you’re looking for more ways to enhance your apartment without breaking the rules, check out our latest article, Renting vs. Buying a Home: What NOBODY Is Telling You, and discover the pros and cons of each option. We manage properties across Milwaukee and offer the support you need to find the perfect rental. Visit Enigma Properties today to learn more about our available apartments and expert property management services!