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Budget-Friendly: Refresh Your Small Kitchen for Under $100
A small kitchen can feel brand new without a renovation. These 12 budget-friendly ways to refresh your small kitchen for under $100 focus on low-cost, high-impact changes, most of which can be finished in a weekend with basic tools and a little patience.
Where to spend a small budget
| Item | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Hardware | New handles or knobs |
| Surfaces | Peel-and-stick backsplash |
| Colour | A tin of cabinet or wall paint |
| Light | Battery LED under-cabinet strips |
| Styling | Plants, jars and a runner |
Quick cosmetic updates
- Swap cabinet handles for brass, black or wooden pulls.
- Apply a peel-and-stick backsplash over plain walls.
- Paint one wall or the inside of open shelves.
- Paint the cabinet plinths a darker shade to ground the room.
Light and storage
- Add rechargeable LED strips under wall cabinets.
- Fit a single floating shelf for everyday mugs and jars.
- Use over-door racks inside cupboards for lids and wraps.
- Decant dry goods into matching jars.
Styling and habits
- Clear the worktops and keep only daily essentials out.
- Add a herb pot or two on the windowsill.
- Lay a washable runner in front of the sink.
- Swap tea towels and a soap dispenser for a coordinated look.
Tip: Use paint designed for kitchens or cabinets and ventilate well while painting. Keep peel-and-stick tiles and shelves away from the hob unless rated for heat, choose rugs with non-slip backing, and check for pipes and cables before drilling any new fixings.
FAQ
How can I update my kitchen cheaply?
New handles, paint, a peel-and-stick backsplash and better lighting give the biggest change for the least money.
Is peel-and-stick backsplash durable?
Good-quality versions are wipeable and last well away from direct heat.
Can renters refresh a kitchen?
Yes, removable backsplash, battery lights and swappable handles are renter-friendly.
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