8 Things You Should Always Buy at Five Below, According to Designers
These home deals are too good to pass up.
Home decor items can be pricey, but luckily, there are ways to save on home finds if you know exactly where to look. One retailer that's worth keeping on your radar? Five Below. Whether you shop online or in-store (there are more than 1,600 locations across the U.S., by the way), you can expect a surprising assortment of budget-friendly decor, from rechargeable lamps to kid-friendly picks (don't miss out on the fun throw pillows).
“I love popping in for decorative trays, baskets, and seasonal accents that add personality and warmth to a space,” says Chicago-based designer Meghan Jay. “It's an easy way to refresh a room, experiment with a trend, or layer in a fun finishing touch without spending a fortune.”
Ahead, Jay and two other design pros share some of the best decor buys at Five Below right now. Plus, you'll learn how to make them work in your space.
If you ask Jay, one of the best ways to make a home feel more welcoming is with great lighting. “A small rechargeable lamp can have a surprisingly big impact,” says Jay, who uses them on kitchen counters, bookshelves, and outdoor dining tables. “It creates that cozy, layered glow that makes a space feel layered and thoughtfully designed.”
RELATED: The Secret Lighting Rule Designers Always Follow
This rug (it's 30 in. x 50 in.) is another top pick for Jay. It can easily add a jolt of personality to an entryway, bedroom, or even a bathroom. “The bright pink is a fun pop of color that can instantly liven up a space, while the woven texture gives it the look and feel of a much more expensive piece,” she says.
Adding a throw blanket to your couch or bed can give it an extra dose of color, texture, and coziness. For just $5, a blanket like this one is worth it, especially if you’re looking for a simple way to elevate your space.
"This woven blanket would go great in any room and could look especially nice on a living room couch or bed. I love the look of a woven blanket to add texture and this price is great,” says Sara Chiodo, interior designer and founder of Functional For You. However, if you’re looking for a specific feel, shopping in person is always the best option. Chiodo also warns that a blanket at this price may not wash as well as something a bit heftier.
RELATED: The Best Throw Blankets for a Cozy Space
Saving money when it comes to the basics seems like a no brainer. These flocked hangers, which come in a pack of 20, is the key to more visually pleasing organization.
“I am spending more time styling closets in our projects, instead of just leaving them for the client to fill up. Using these color-coded flocked hangers can decipher pants from tops,” says Raili Clasen, interior designer and founder of RailiCA Design.
RELATED: Best Closet Organization Ideas to Improve Your Morning Routine
When it comes to storage, Jay enjoys saving on bins and baskets as they often play more of a supporting role in decorating the house. "I found countless storage options—from clear bins to decorative baskets. And while I wish I could splurge on every item in my home, it just isn't possible. Nor is it worthwhile. I purchased a few of these baskets to organize the toys in a client's playroom," says Jay.
Whether in the closet, under the kitchen sink or inside cabinets, storage bins almost always come in handy. At this price point, there’s no harm in testing these budget-friendly bins to see if they could work in your home.
“I have bins just like this all through our house for storage in closets, pantry, laundry, etc. Make sure to check the size to know exactly what you're getting. But you can save so much money sourcing bins like this at stores known for bargains,” says Chiodo.
Decorating kids' rooms can be stressful, especially knowing that they go through phases with hobbies. Five Below is a great place to find affordable yet functional design picks for playrooms or children's bedrooms, according to designers.
“With kids, it often pains me to spend a lot of money on styling given their needs and interests change so quickly. But Five Below has so many adorable accessories that are reasonably priced,” says Jay.
On the smaller side, this glass lamp adds a pop of color and ambient light to any room while being light enough to bring with you around the house. For $5, it's a great accent piece.
“I love placing portable lamps on bookshelves. They're perfect when you don't have an outlet nearby but would like a bit of light. This one is a classic retro style and will offer just a hint of a glow,” says Jay.
RELATED: 27 Best Table Lamps to Make Your Space Shine
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
Laura Millar (she/her) is a freelance lifestyle journalist for Good Housekeeping. She holds a degree in Film, TV & Media from the University of Michigan, and was previously the assistant lifestyle editor for GH, where she covered home design. Her byline has appeared in NBC's TODAY.com, PEOPLE, Real Simple, and Business Insider.
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