Crummy Cabinets
Whether they are dinged and dented or simply unattractive, bad kitchen cabinets are one of a renter’s biggest woes. If you aren't allowed to paint, cover them in removable contact paper so you can leave them in their original (albeit ugly) condition when you move out. Or create open shelving by removing the doors entirely—just be sure to reattach them when you break your lease.
Related: Painted Cabinets: 14 Reasons to Transform Yours Now
Panhandling
If you have lots of cooking supplies, chances are you are not going to like the storage options that your rental kitchen has to offer. Free up valuable storage space by hanging your pots and pans, or prop up a pegboard to easily hang kitchen gadgets.
Floor Faux Pas
Unsightly linoleum or tile plagues plenty of kitchens, and replacing it isn’t an option as a renter. Instead, distract from it by putting down colorful rugs and runners. They also help cushion aching feet during long hours spent over a stove.
Under Prepared
When counter space is at a premium you could have to choose between chopping vegetables and a place to put the coffee pot. To expand your prep area, buy cutting boards you can place over a stove or the kitchen sink.
Related: Spreading Out: 14 Ways to Get More Counter Space
Lack of Light
Dark kitchens feel dingy and can even be unsafe. Brighten up your space by using task lamps and under cabinet lights. Be sure to use LED bulbs where possible to decrease energy costs.
Cringe-worthy Countertops
Most kitchen countertops in rental apartments are laminate. And since they're usually beige, they can easily stain and yellow over time. You can cover your counters with decorative contact paper; just remove it with the aid of a hairdryer when you're ready to move out.
Not Enough Drawer Space
Outsmart your storage-starved kitchen by moving some of your utensils into jars on the countertop or magnetic strips on the walls. Drawer organizers can maximize your space and decrease clutter in the precious few drawers you have.
Accentuate the Positive
Never underestimate the power of color in transforming a space. Pick one or two unifying colors, then coordinate your accents and knickknacks with your cabinetry or window treatments. The sum is greater than its parts; even mismatched pieces in the same color can look like a set and tie a potentially awkward rental kitchen together.
Back to the Future
Updating a backsplash is well within reach for renters; there are plenty of non-permanent ways to do it. Ceiling tiles make great removable backsplashes. Or if you prefer tile, mount them to panels that you can stick in place with Command strips or other temporary adhesives.
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