Rugs a little ratty?
Bedding that says ick instead of ahhhh?
There are smart ways to style up your decor without breaking the bank.
A good place to start: discount home goods stores.
How do you figure out when its worth opening your wallet and whats best left on the shelf?
We asked interior designers and home stagers what they look for when shopping for top-notch items on the cheap.
check that a lamp is sturdy with a solid switch and a securely attached cord, Kropovinsky says.
That goes for the lampshade too, he adds.
It needs to be well-stitched and made of durable material to withstand heat from the bulb.
Easy DIY Home Staging.
Look closely at the finish, Hathaway adds.
Opt for a solid color instead.
First thing: Check the corners.
A rugs binding can be another good giveaway when it comes to quality, Hathaway says.
Thats a clue that its not well-made.
Density is another way to check a rugs structural quality.
Decent rugs should have 150 knots per square inch.
Look carefully at the fibers or strands of the carpet; they should be thick and plush.
