I'm a veteran DIYer and these are the 12 best rental-friendly hacks to upgrade your apartment and still get your security deposit back

Swap out the showerhead

A good showerhead can elevate a daily routine to a spa-like experience. Showerheads are easy to replace. With a wrench, you just need to unscrew the existing showerhead from the pipe affixed to the wall and screw on the new one.

Upgrade cabinet hardware

Replacing dated cabinet hardware is one of the easiest and highest-impact upgrades you can make to a rental. Just unscrew the pulls or knobs with a screwdriver or drill, and screw on the new ones. I saved all the original cabinet hardware in my apartment in a zip-top bag, so when it's time to move out, I can put the old ones back and bring the new ones with me.

Add a peel-and-stick backsplash

Whether your rental kitchen has an unsightly backsplash or is without one entirely, a peel-and-stick backsplash is a temporary way to customize your kitchen. These backsplashes are typically made of thick vinyl so you can easily trim them with a pair of scissors.

If you're installing the backsplash near the stove, it should be rated for long-term heat exposure or placed 15 inches above the stovetop for breathing room. To prevent mold from accumulating behind the peel-and-stick tile, make sure the surface is completely dry before installation and keep moisture away from the finished project.

When it comes time to remove the backsplash, apply heat with a heat gun or hair dryer while peeling it off to ensure the adhesive isn't left behind. For any stubborn residue, wipe it clean with Goo Gone or a similar product.

Replace builder-grade door knobs

Replacing door knobs is a little more involved than cabinet knobs or pulls, but if you closely follow the instructions included in the replacement knob package, you'll be good to go.

First, you'll need to unscrew the existing door knob and remove any plates along with the locking mechanism. Then install your new knob according to the manufacturer's directions. Before you order, measure the door knob diameter and door depth to ensure you're choosing the correct size.

Paint the walls

Not every lease allows painting, but in my experience, asking your landlord if you're able to paint usually results in a "sure, as long as you paint it back before you leave." Paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make a big impact in your home, and it's just as easy to paint it back white when you leave. You'll need a paint roller, a small brush, a paint dish, and a good playlist to get the job done.

Use Command hooks to hang cafe curtains

While you can always install curtains and patch the holes when you leave, it's easier to play it safe with this genius Command hack that employs two Command hooks, a small rod, and curtain clips to create a cafe rod that hangs halfway down your window. The hooks hold the rod horizontally across the window, and the clips make it easy to attach curtains or tea towels.

Trade 'boob lights' for thoughtful fixtures

I've changed out lots of light fixtures in my previous apartments and my current one. Purposefully chosen lights instantly elevate a home and are an easy fix for the dreaded boob light.

If you've never changed a light fixture before, I recommend watching a number of YouTube tutorials. Always double-check that you've turned off the breaker. You can also hire a professional to do a couple at once.

Mount sconces without hardwiring them in the wall

If you have a space that's begging for accent lighting but don't have the ability to hardwire it, a corded sconce or a puck light hack may work for your space.

If there's a sconce you really love, you can insert a battery-operated puck light where the lightbulb would go. Mount the sconce according to the manufacturer's directions, and stick the puck light in by resting it where the lightbulb would go or by securing it with a Command strip.

Sconce lights with cords that plug right into a wall outlet are also gaining popularity. They're perfect for mounting above your nightstands.

Cover the walls in peel-and-stick wallpaper

If you're afraid to paint but still want to add some character to your walls, peel-and-stick wallpaper is an excellent alternative. Applying wallpaper can be a tedious process since you'll have to match up the pattern, applying it panel by panel, but the impact is worth it. Pro tip: Smooth the paper down as you go with a plastic bench scraper, and pop any stubborn bubbles with a pin.

Opt for more attractive switch plates

You might not think twice about the switch plates or outlet plates in your rental, but this is actually a place to make a statement. Since switch plates are used daily, and often by guests, they're a high-reward area to add some style and cohesion, whether they're a bright pop of color, a detailed piece of art, or just a fresh white plate that hasn't been painted over countless times. They couldn't be easier to swap out either.

Cover unsightly floors with peel-and-stick tile

If there's one thing I know about rentals, it's that they almost always have less-than-ideal flooring. Whether the builder or landlord installed the cheapest available product or the floors are simply outdated, peel-and-stick flooring is a reversible way to update your flooring.

When installing the tile, be sure to thoroughly wipe down your existing floor, then cut pieces of peel-and-stick to fit with scissors or a utility knife, making templates out of paper for hard-to-fit places as you go along.

Invest in LED smart bulbs

If you're not ready to swap out entire light fixtures, consider replacing the bulbs in your existing fixtures with smart LEDs. Not only do they use less power than traditional incandescent bulbs, but they can also be controlled with your phone or by voice with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.