As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
On the JJ Barnes Blog, I share top tips for rent friendly Christmas decorating so you can make your home look festive without losing your deposit!
The festive season is upon us, and it’s time to transform your home into a winter wonderland. But what if you’re a renter like me? Fear not! You can still deck the halls without risking your security deposit.
With the help of Mystudenthalls and interior expert Molly Woodward-Moor from Stone Superstore, I’ll share some renter-friendly tips to create a festive atmosphere without damaging your home so you can keep your landlord happy!
Top Tips For Rent Friendly Christmas Decorating
Keep Walls Damage-Free
Temporary décor is the safest way to bring festive cheer without damaging walls or fixtures.
Door Hangers
Festive door hangers are the perfect way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your home without damaging your doors. Simply hang them over your door handle or use a removable adhesive hook for a secure and damage-free display.
Battery-Operated Lights
Battery-operated lights offer a versatile and damage-free way to illuminate your space for the holidays. Simply drape them around your mantel, windows, or Christmas tree without the need for nails, tape, or electrical outlets.
Stick-On Decals
These removable decals are a fantastic way to add a festive touch to your walls and windows without causing damage. Simply peel and stick them to your desired surface, and remove them easily when the holiday season is over.
Tabletop Trees
Miniature trees are a charming and space-saving way to add a touch of Christmas magic to your home. Place them on tables, shelves, or windowsills to create a festive atmosphere without taking up too much room.
Table Runners and Placemats
Elevate your dining table with festive table runners and placemats. These easy-to-remove accessories can instantly transform your table setting, adding a touch of holiday cheer. Simply lay them out before your holiday meal and store them away when the festivities are over.
Use removable hooks or adhesive strips to hang stockings, wreaths, or fairy lights on walls. They’re a great way to display decorations without leaving nail holes or marks that could cost you your deposit.
Freestanding décor, such as mini trees, garlands on shelves, or decorative bowls filled with ornaments, adds festive charm without any risk of causing damage. You can also drape garlands along furniture edges or stair bannisters for a classic, non-invasive look.
-Molly Woodward-Moor
Be Cautious with Candle Displays
Candles can add a warm and inviting ambiance to your holiday décor, but they must be used with caution. Always place candles in glass holders on stable surfaces, away from flammable materials like curtains and decorations. For a safer alternative, consider using LED candles or string lights. These energy-efficient options can mimic the warm glow of traditional candles without the fire risk.
Here are some additional tips for using candles and lights safely:
Never leave burning candles unattended.
Extinguish candles before going to bed or leaving the room.
Keep candles away from drafts to prevent accidental fires.
Use battery-operated candles for a truly flame-free experience.
Choose LED string lights for energy efficiency and durability.
Inspect lights for any damaged cords or bulbs before use.
Turn off all lights and unplug them when not in use.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the festive glow of candles and lights without compromising safety.
Always place candles in glass holders on stable surfaces away from curtains or anything flammable. For a safer alternative, consider LED candles or string lights, which mimic the warmth of candlelight without fire risk.
-Molly Woodward-Moor
Protect Floors and Surfaces
If you’re adding a Christmas tree to your rental, it’s essential to protect your floors from potential damage.
Use a Tree Mat
To protect your floors from water spills, sap drips, and scratches, place your Christmas tree on a waterproof mat. These mats are specifically designed to absorb moisture and prevent damage to your flooring. They come in various sizes and styles to suit your tree and decor.
Choose a Tree Skirt
A tree skirt not only adds a festive touch to your Christmas tree but also serves a practical purpose. It helps to catch fallen needles, making cleanup easier and preventing them from scattering across your floor and potentially damaging your flooring. Choose a tree skirt that complements your holiday decor and provides ample coverage for your tree.
Use a Tree Stand
To ensure the safety of your Christmas tree and prevent accidents, it’s important to secure it properly. Choose a sturdy tree stand that can be firmly anchored to the floor. This will help to stabilize the tree and reduce the risk of tipping, especially in homes with pets or young children.
Place your tree on a mat to protect the flooring from water spills or sap. If you’re worried about needles shedding from a real tree, a large tree skirt can catch them, keeping cleanup easy and damage-free.
-Molly Woodward-Moor
Go Big on Soft Décor
Soft furnishings are a fantastic way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your rental home without causing damage. By layering cozy textures and festive colors, you can transform your space into a warm and inviting winter wonderland.
Here are some ideas:
Rugs
A festive rug can instantly transform a room, adding a pop of color and texture. Consider placing a small rug in your living room or bedroom to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Look for rugs with Christmas-themed patterns or colors to complement your overall decor.
Festive Throws and Blankets
Drape a cozy throw over your sofa or bed to add a touch of holiday warmth and comfort. Choose a throw with a festive pattern or color, such as red, green, or gold, to enhance the holiday atmosphere. You can also use a throw to add a pop of color to a neutral-colored sofa or bed.
Christmas-Themed Cushions
Add a festive touch to your living space with decorative pillows featuring holiday patterns or motifs. Place them on your couch, bed, or chairs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Look for pillows with designs such as snowflakes, reindeer, or Christmas trees to complement your holiday decor.
Layering your living space with cosy textures in holiday colours transforms the room without touching a single wall. Plus, it’s renter-friendly and can be used year after year.
-Molly Woodward-Moor
Avoid Tape and Permanent Adhesives
When decorating a rental property, it’s important to avoid damaging the walls and surfaces. Using tape or strong adhesives can peel paint or leave a sticky residue, which may jeopardize your security deposit.
Instead, opt for damage-free decorating techniques:
Embrace Tabletop Decor
Tabletop decorations are a fantastic way to add a festive touch to your rental home without causing any damage. Centerpieces, candles, and small figurines can be easily moved and stored, making them perfect for renters.
Utilize Command Hooks
Command hooks are a renter’s dream! These versatile hooks can be easily attached to walls, doors, or other surfaces without damaging the paint or leaving behind any residue. Simply peel off the adhesive backing and press the hook firmly onto the desired surface.
Once the holidays are over, you can easily remove the hook without leaving any marks. Use command hooks to hang ornaments, stockings, or small wreaths to add a festive touch to your rental home.
You can display ornaments on shelves, hang stockings on furniture, or even create a Christmas corner with festive items arranged on a table or windowsill.
-Molly Woodward-Moor
Top Tips for Safe, Damage-Free Decorating
Dan Roberts, Director of Mystudenthalls, reminds renters of a few extra ways to decorate safely while preserving the rental property:
• Skip Ceiling Décor: Avoid hanging items from the ceiling, as it’s challenging to remove these without leaving marks or holes.
• Be Mindful with Lighting: If you’re adding outdoor or indoor lights, make sure to avoid creating any holes for wiring or nails. Instead, opt for battery-powered lights or those that can be positioned around surfaces without being attached.
• Check Your Tenancy Agreement: Before going big on holiday decorating, check your lease for any restrictions on modifications. Some agreements specifically prohibit changes like adhesive hooks or extra nails, even if they’re temporary.
By following these renter-friendly decorating tips, you can enjoy a beautifully decorated home for Christmas without worrying about risking your deposit.
About Molly Woodward-Moor
Interior Designer, and creative director at Stone Superstore, Molly Woodward-Moor has a wealth of design and home development expertise alongside her First Class BA (Honours) degree in Interior Design. Molly has been instrumental in crafting visuals and innovative marketing content for esteemed retail giants such as John Lewis, The White Company, Magnet Kitchens, and Wickes and currently at. She has a keen eye for tiles, palettes, and trends along with a passion for interior design and can offer insightful perspectives and expert advice for enthusiasts eager to transform their spaces.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.
