Refreshing your home does not always mean buying something new.

In many cases, the most effective updates are small, practical changes that improve how existing items look and function.

According to Neluka Dunning, owner of The Zip Yard, some of the simplest alterations can transform a space for less than £30.

“People are starting to realise they do not need to replace things to refresh their homes,” she says. “A small, well-done repair or update can make a big visual difference.”

Making more of what you already have

Across The Zip Yard’s network, demand for homeware repairs has grown alongside clothing alterations.

Last year alone, over 417,000 items were worked on, including nearly 188,000 repairs, with more customers bringing in household items to be refreshed rather than replaced.

It reflects a wider shift towards making better use of what we already own, whether for cost reasons, sustainability, or simply convenience.

Five simple home updates under £30

If you are looking for an easy way to refresh your space, these small changes can make an immediate difference.

Curtain adjustments

Shortening or reshaping curtains can instantly make a room feel neater and more considered.

Cushion updates

Adding trims such as piping or fringing is a simple way to update soft furnishings without replacing them.

Pet bed repairs

Reinforcing seams or repairing worn areas can extend the life of pet beds at a fraction of the cost of buying new ones.

Fabric tear repairs

Fixing small splits in covers or furnishings early helps prevent more expensive damage later.

Resizing household fabrics

Altering tablecloths, throws or covers ensures they fit properly and are used more often.

A smarter way to refresh

“These are small, affordable changes, but they can have a big impact,” Neluka adds. “It is about making the most of what you already have.”

As household costs continue to rise, these kinds of updates offer a practical way to improve your home without unnecessary spending. 

They also support a more sustainable approach to everyday living by reducing waste and extending the life of items that would otherwise be discarded.

As with your wardrobe, the same rule applies at home.

Before you replace it, consider whether you can repair it.