Rental-Friendly Decor Ideas That Won’t Cost You Your Deposit

You know how landlords say, “Feel free to decorate, just don’t change anything”? Yes. That. So you’re stuck trying to add personality to your space without offending the walls, floors, or your deposit.

But just because you don’t own the space doesn’t mean it can’t feel like you. Here are some simple, rental-friendly décor ideas that won’t leave you broke or beefing with your caretaker.

READ ALSO: Creative Ideas to Transform a Blank Wall into a Masterpiece

1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Wallpapers are one of the simplest yet most transformative ways to upgrade your space. They add character, colour, and texture without the long-term commitment, which is a win when you’re renting. 

The beauty of peel-and-stick wallpaper is that it’s completely removable, meaning you get all the visual impact without risking your deposit. No drills, no hammers, and definitely no fundi needed. Just pick a design that speaks to you, peel, and stick. 

Whether you use it to create an accent wall, add charm behind your bed, or breathe life into a plain kitchen corner, it instantly changes the feel of the room. And when it’s time to move? Just peel it off, no stains, no stories, no evidence you were ever there (except the good vibes).

2. Lights That Set the Mood (Not the Meter)

The right kind of lighting does more than just brighten a room, it sets the tone, the mood, and sometimes, even your state of mind. But let’s be honest, most landlords do the bare minimum. You’ll usually find a single overhead fixture fitted with a bright, cold bulb that just lights the room and nothing more. Functional? Yes. Inviting? Not quite.

But a house should feel like a home and part of that feeling comes from the emotional response your space gives you. Personally, I love warm lighting in the evenings. There’s something deeply comforting about that soft yellow glow. It calms me, helps me wind down, and makes my space feel safe and lived in.

For someone else, it might be soft white lights for a clean, fresh vibe. Either way, adding a few thoughtful lighting touches like table lamps, fairy lights, or LED strips can completely shift the atmosphere. Plug-in wall sconces are another renter-friendly option if you’re avoiding holes in the wall.

With the right lighting, even the simplest bedsitter starts to feel like a cozy boutique Airbnb.

3. Rugs or Carpets That Do More Than Cover the Floor

Let’s face it — when it comes to rentals, you don’t get to choose your floors. You walk in and find whatever the developer or previous tenant left behind. Sometimes it’s decent; other times… let’s just say you need to get creative. Whether it’s cold tiles, aging parquet, or those mysterious cement patches that look like they’ve seen things, a good rug is your saving grace.

Rugs do more than just hide what you don’t like. They soften up the space, add texture, bring in colour, and help define different areas, especially in a bedsitter or open-plan setup. That one rug can be the difference between “just a room” and “this is my cosy little corner.”

And the best part? No commitment. You lay it down, enjoy the comfort, then roll it up and move on when you need to — no damage, no fuss, no landlord side-eyes.

4. Command Hooks (Yes, Those Sticky Heroes)

If you’ve ever stood staring at a beautiful painting or mirror, wondering whether your caretaker will charge you for a single nail hole — this one’s for you.

Command hooks and adhesive strips are a game-changer for renters. No drills, no nails, no drama. Just peel, stick, hang… and breathe easy. You can finally put up that gallery wall, hang your keys neatly by the door, or even suspend light baskets for your kitchen herbs — all without calling your fundi or leaving marks behind.

They’re especially handy in bedsitters or apartments where landlords take “don’t interfere with the walls” very seriously. And when it’s time to move out, you just pull them off — no plastering needed, and your full deposit is still intact.

Honestly, these little things deserve a shoutout. They’re small, but mighty.

5. Curtains That Speak for You

If walls could talk, your curtains would be the voice. They’re one of the easiest ways to bring personality into a rental without touching a single inch of paint.

Most rental units come with those short, basic sheers that barely cover the window. But the right curtains — long, flowing, and in a colour or pattern that reflects you — can completely elevate the space. Think of them as the outfit your house wears: they can be bold, calm, classic, or fun.

And you don’t even have to break the bank. Head to Eastleigh, Gikomba, or even your local market and you’ll be surprised what gems you can find. For a unique twist, even a kikoi or leso can be transformed into a beautiful curtain. Add a simple rod (tension rods if you’re avoiding drilling), and just like that, your space feels softer, warmer, and more you.

Curtains not only frame your windows — they frame your vibe.

6. Mirrors & Plants

Let’s start with mirrors. These beauties do more than just show you how good you look before leaving the house. A well-placed mirror can open up your space, bounce around natural light, and make even the tiniest room feel brighter and bigger. And guess what? You don’t have to hang it, just lean it against a wall for that effortlessly stylish look. No nails, no issues.

Now, plants. Real or fake, plants breathe life into a space — literally and visually. A leafy corner plant, a tiny succulent on the windowsill, or even a reused tin with some rosemary on your kitchen ledge… all of it adds freshness. And if you’re not blessed with a green thumb (no judgement), the faux ones these days look so real, even your auntie might try to water them.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, your rental may come with limits — no painting, no drilling, no “permanent changes.” But that doesn’t mean it has to feel temporary. With a few smart, stylish, and deposit-friendly choices, you can turn any space into a place that feels like you. Whether it’s the warm glow of a lamp, the softness of a rug, or the comfort of curtains that actually touch the floor — it’s all in the details. So go ahead, decorate boldly and responsibly. Your home should feel like home, even if you’re just passing through.

READ ALSO: Lighting in Home Decor: Painting with Shadows and Light