Ideas · Kitchen
9 Renter-Friendly Kitchen Upgrades (No Drilling)
Removable backsplash, adhesive hooks, magnetic strips and over-door holders that make a rental kitchen work better and come off when you move out.
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A rental kitchen usually comes with the wrong backsplash, too few hooks and a landlord who doesn't want holes in the tile. You can still make it more useful.
Everything here sticks, clips, hangs or magnets on. Always test adhesives on a hidden spot, check the weight limit and keep anything sticky away from the stove.
1. A removable tile backsplash
Peel-and-stick tiles add pattern behind the sink and protect the wall underneath. Test on a hidden area first.
2. A temporary panel behind the prep area
A lease-friendly removable panel protects the wall behind your prep zone from splashes. Keep it away from heat and remove as directed.
3. Removable hooks for light utensils
Hooks on smooth tile can hold light tools and free the counter. Space them by tool and stay within the weight limit.
4. Measuring cups on a short peg rail
Hanging measuring cups on a little rail keeps them out of the utensil drawer and right where you bake.
5. A row of adhesive hooks for measuring cups
On a smooth pantry wall, small adhesive hooks hold clean, dry cups. Remove them by stretching the tab as directed.
6. An oven mitt station on the cabinet side
Adhesive hooks on the side of a cabinet, away from the oven, keep mitts handy without filling a drawer.
7. An apron clip
A small adhesive clip on the cabinet side holds a dry apron so it stops tangling with the dish towels.
8. A magnetic note strip on the fridge
A magnetic strip on the fridge side holds use-by reminders or spice notes where you'll see them. Keep vents clear.
9. An over-cabinet cookbook holder
A padded holder that hooks over a cabinet door holds the recipe book at eye level. Take it off after cooking.
Before you buy anything
- Read your lease and keep photos of the kitchen from move-in day.
- Adhesives need a clean, dry, smooth surface and usually 24 hours before loading.
Questions people ask
How can I upgrade a rental kitchen without drilling?
Use peel-and-stick backsplash, removable adhesive hooks, magnetic racks on the fridge and holders that hang over cabinet doors.
Will peel-and-stick backsplash damage the wall?
It can on some paints. Test a small hidden area first and follow the removal directions.
