Refreshing your home does not always have to mean a major renovation or a major dent in your budget. Five Below continues to surprise shoppers with décor and everyday essentials that look far more expensive than they are.
For pre-retirees and retirees watching their spending, these small upgrades can make a home feel warmer, more organized, and more enjoyable without triggering buyer's remorse. From cozy blankets to practical storage and charming accents, these picks prove that there is still a great way to save more money while keeping your space comfortable and inviting.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
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Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Ceramic Swan Trinket Tray
Price: $4
This ceramic swan trinket tray is equal parts decorative and useful. It is perfect for holding rings, earrings, or spare change on a dresser or bathroom counter, keeping small essentials from getting lost.
Other decorative swan trinket dishes with similar charm often sell for $15 or more at stores like Home Depot, making this an elegant steal.
Luxe Collection Jacquard Cable Knit Blanket
Price: $7
This cable knit blanket adds texture and warmth without feeling overly bulky or too cheap. Draped over a sofa or folded at the foot of a bed, it instantly makes a room feel more finished.
Comparable knit throws at department stores like Macy's frequently cost $50 to $90, so this Five Below version delivers cozy style at a fraction of the price.
Woven Paper Storage Bin
Price: $5.55
Stylish storage is one of the easiest ways to make a home feel calmer. This woven paper bin is lightweight yet sturdy enough to hold blankets, magazines, or craft supplies. For reference, woven bins at stores like Walmart can run $15 or more. This is an affordable solution for everyday clutter.
Vanilla Sugar Bows Scented Candle
Price: $5.55
This candle offers a soft, sweet vanilla scent that feels cozy without being overpowering. The decorative bow-themed jar makes it attractive enough to display, not hide.
Similar bow candles can sell for around $24 at name-brand stores like Urban Outfitters, making Five Below the more budget-conscious option.
Ribbed Soap Pump
Price: $5
Swapping out disposable soap bottles for a reusable pump instantly upgrades any sink area. This ribbed soap pump has a clean, modern look that works well in both kitchens and bathrooms.
At retailers like Walmart, you'll find options that cost $7 or more, making this a Five Below version a simple but effective upgrade that makes every penny count.
Super Shaggy Rug
Price: $7
This super shaggy rug has a softness underfoot that is especially great in bedrooms or beside the couch. It adds warmth and comfort without committing to a large area rug purchase.
Plush rugs of this style and similar size commonly sell for $35 at stores like Target, meaning this is a low-risk way to add coziness to your home.
Food Storage Set
Price: $5.55
This food storage set is a practical staple for anyone trying to stay organized and reduce waste. The containers are perfect for leftovers, meal prep, or pantry organization.
Some storage sets at big-box retailers like Target can cost nearly $90 and have fewer pieces in them, making this an easy, budget-friendly home upgrade.
Tiered Bow Tray
Price: $5
A tiered tray is a décor staple that has many uses, and this bow-accented version adds a playful touch. It works well for organizing jewelry, bathroom essentials, or even small snacks on the dining table when entertaining guests.
Tiered trays at stores like IKEA can sell for over $22, making this an impressive value with a cute design.
Fur Bow Pillow
Price: $5.55
This fur bow pillow adds a playful but cozy touch to sofas, chairs, or beds. It is soft enough for lounging but decorative enough to act as an accent piece. To compare, similar bow-themed pillows with faux fur details often cost $20 or more at stores like Walmart, making this one an easy, low-risk home refresh.
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Colored Mushroom Touch Lamp
Price: $7
Saving the best for last, the colored mushroom touch lamp has become a favorite for good reason. Its soft glow creates cozy lighting for bedrooms, reading nooks, or side tables, while the touch feature makes it easy to use.
Similar mushroom lamps at stores like Kohl's often cost $30 or more. As a result, this $7 version feels like a true shopping win.
Bottom line
Five Below continues to prove that thoughtful home upgrades don't have to strain your budget. Mixing a few decorative pieces with practical essentials can refresh a space without leading to buyer's remorse.
Another simple way to stretch your dollars is to use rewards wisely. Paying with one of the best cash back credit cards can quietly return value on everyday purchases, making even small home refreshes feel like smarter financial choices over time.
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If you're a loyal Amazon Prime member and you love getting cash back rewards on your purchases, the Prime Visa is a fantastic option. You can earn big rewards with this card, and it comes with some other valuable perks as well.
With the Prime Visa card, you get a $250 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members (limited-time offer). Plus, cardmembers earn a whopping
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The Prime Visa also comes with some great travel protections that you rarely see with a no-annual-fee card. It offers lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, travel accident insurance, and travel and emergency assistance.
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment.
Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
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