10 Easy Ways to Make Your Rented Space Feel Like Home (Without Losing Your Deposit)

Moving into a rental can feel a bit temporary, bland walls, standard-issue furniture and strict tenancy rules don’t exactly scream “home sweet home.” Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean you can’t make your space feel like yours. With a few smart ideas and renter-friendly touches, you can create a home that reflects your personality, without risking your deposit.

Here are 10 easy, non-permanent ways to turn your rental into a cosy haven.

1. Set the Tone with Rugs

Let’s start from the ground up. Flooring in rental homes isn’t always the most inviting, especially if it’s cold tile, scuffed wood or tired laminate. Rugs are a brilliant solution; not only do they add warmth and comfort, but they also define different zones in open-plan spaces.

Choose a large rug for your living area, a runner for the hallway, or a soft bedside rug to give bare floors a welcoming feel. Best of all, they protect the flooring underneath, ideal for keeping your landlord happy.

2. Light It Your Way

Lighting can completely change the mood of a room, but most rentals come with stark, overhead fittings. If that’s not your vibe, don’t worry, there’s plenty you can do without touching the electrics.

Layer in lamps, fairy lights or LED strip lighting to soften the feel of a room. Use warmer-toned bulbs to create a cosier glow and place lights at different heights to add depth and ambience. Floor lamps are especially useful if you’re trying to avoid drilling into walls or ceilings.

3. Dress It Up with Soft Furnishings

Once your lighting is sorted, it’s time to cosy things up. Soft furnishings are your secret weapon when it comes to adding colour, texture and comfort. Think cushions, throws, curtains, bedding, anything that makes the space feel more like you.

If your place is furnished but not quite your style, use textiles to mask what you don’t love. A big throw over a tired sofa, new cushions to freshen up the bedroom, or full-length curtains to soften harsh blinds, it all helps build a space you’ll actually enjoy spending time in.

4. Get Creative with Removable Decor

You don’t need permission to add personality. These days, there’s a whole world of removable décor that sticks when you need it and peels off clean when you don’t.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is perfect for a feature wall. Wall decals can add character to bedrooms or playrooms. Washi tape is a renter’s dream, ideal for DIY wall art, borders or even faux headboards. And if you want to hang frames or art, damage-free adhesive hooks are your best friend.

5. Make It Green with Houseplants

Few things bring life to a space quite like plants. Whether you’re working with a windowsill or a full sunny lounge, there’s a plant for every space and every level of experience.

Start with easy-care options like snake plants, pothos or peace lilies. You can add trailing plants to bookshelves, place tall ones in corners, or group small pots together for a mini indoor jungle. No need for any drilling or permanent fixtures, just a few stylish plant stands and you’re sorted.

6. Add Art – Without the Nails

Blank walls aren’t very inspiring, but drilling holes isn’t usually an option in rentals. Luckily, there are loads of ways to hang artwork without reaching for a hammer.

Use Command strips to hang prints and canvases, or lean larger framed pieces against the wall on shelves or consoles for a laid-back look. You could even get creative with clipboards, photo grids or cork boards to display photos, postcards and notes, easy to change up and move around.

7. Create Spaces That Work for You

Not every rental is laid out perfectly, especially smaller flats or house shares. If you’re short on space, use furniture to define different zones and make each area work harder.

Open shelving can act as a stylish room divider, while a fold-down desk turns any corner into a home office. Need a reading nook? Pop a chair next to a lamp and throw over a cosy blanket. Don’t let the layout limit you, small changes can make a big difference to how the space feels and functions.

8. Store Smart Without the Screws

Lacking built-in storage? You’re not alone. Freestanding storage solutions are a lifesaver, with no need for drilling or fitting shelves.

Use cube units, ladder shelves or drawer towers to keep things tidy and accessible. Over-the-door hooks are great for bathrooms or bedrooms and under-bed boxes can store seasonal clothes or spare bedding. It’s all about keeping clutter at bay without touching the walls.

9. Bring in Your Favourite Scents

This might sound simple, but scent plays a huge role in making somewhere feel like home. A familiar smell can instantly relax you and create a sense of comfort.

Candles, wax melts, essential oil diffusers or room sprays can help you set the mood, whether it’s fresh and energising in the morning or calm and cosy in the evening. Just be sure to keep candles safe and well away from soft furnishings or fire alarms.

10. Plan Ahead for Moving Out

When the time comes to move on, you’ll want to leave your place in great condition, not just for your deposit, but to keep the process smooth. Before you make any changes, take photos of each room so you have a clear record of the original condition.

Keep track of anything you’ve added or changed and make a plan to reverse those updates before you go. That means removing decals, filling tiny marks if needed and giving everything a proper clean.

Moving In? Let On The Dot Removals Help You Start Right

Creating a homey space starts with a smooth move and that’s where we come in. At On The Dot Removals, we understand how important it is to protect your rental property from day one.

We handle every move with care and respect, protecting flooring, walls and communal spaces during the process. Our professional packing services can also help you avoid scuffs and scratches, giving you peace of mind from the very start.

Whether you’re moving into a compact city flat or a shared home, we’ve got the experience, local knowledge and friendly team to make moving day feel effortless.

Final Thoughts

Turning a rental into a true home isn’t about big renovations or bold changes; it’s about adding personality in thoughtful, temporary ways. With these simple tips, you can create a space that feels just right, without breaking any rules (or losing your deposit).And when you’re ready to make your next move, contact our team and we’ll help you get there without the stress.