5 easy and inexpensive ways to decorate for fall

Decorating your house for fall doesn't have to be expensive. Here are five simple and cheap fall decor ideas to embrace the season's colors and more.

Dried wreath hanging on entryway hooks
(Image credit: Dori Turner)

Fall is my favorite time of year! Cooler weather, cozy sweaters and boots, the smell of apple cider heating on the stove, not to mention the decor – it’s magical! 

I love for the inside of my house to reflect what’s going on outside with the changing seasons. And, contrary to what you may think, the loveliest fall decorating ideas can be easily achieved, without being costly either! Each year I purchase a fall decor item or two to add to my collection. It’s easy to add some fall touches without breaking the bank by just switching out a few accents here and there.

Here are five cheap fall decor ideas that will have your home looking great all season long.

1. Throw pillows

Throw cushions on cream couch

(Image credit: Dori Turner)

Switching out the throw pillows on your sofa, accent chairs or entryway bench is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to add some fall touches to your home.

You can also mix some throw pillows in with fall bedding for a cozy feel. If you purchase pillow inserts, you can just switch out the covers with the different seasons saving money in the process! 

Check IKEA for great prices on pillow inserts and covers. Amazon and Facebook Marketplace are also great options for affordable pillow covers. 

I love retailers like TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, and Hobby Lobby for affordable throw pillows, as well.

2. Cozy blankets

Throw with mustard stripes and pom pom detail hanging on wooden rack

(Image credit: Dori Turner)

Everyone loves a comfy blanket to snuggle up with during those chilly fall evenings.

Curling up on the sofa with a cup of coffee and a book in hand with a cozy blanket is hard to beat. I always make sure to have some cute fall-colored throws draped over the sofa or hanging from the blanket ladder for easy access. The fact that they also look great for decor is a win.

Place one on the end of your bed or drape one over a large wicker basket in the corner to add some fall flair to your home.

3. Wood signs

Wooden mantle fall note

(Image credit: Doi Turner)

I love using wood signs featuring words and phrases to express the feel of the season. Since they come in all sizes they’re easy to incorporate into your existing decor. 

I enjoy displaying larger signs on my buffet or built-in hutch and using smaller signs as accents in tiered trays or on bookshelves. Some of my favorites for fall feature words like 'thankful,' or 'grateful.' 

Any sign that highlights pumpkins, leaves, or autumn quotes from classic books has me hooked! I’ve collected many wood signs over the years and my favorite time to shop for them is at the end of the season when they’re on sale. But I’ve also found great deals at discount home decor stores!

4. Wreaths and other fall foliage

Candlesticks with dried leaves on mantle

(Image credit: Dori Turner)

One of the best aspects of fall is the beautiful foliage! The trees changing colors from green to yellow to different shades of red is simply breathtaking. Porches decorated with pumpkins, gourds and mums are so inviting. 

I love to bring that look inside with faux garlands hung from my fireplace and banisters, wreaths placed on doors or old farmhouse windows, and fall stems placed in vases. 

A bowl with a potpourri of mini pumpkins, acorns and pinecones on an entryway table or buffet also adds a nice touch! Purchase a new wreath or a few stems each year for a budget-friendly way to build your collection. You can find affordable fall wreaths at dollar stores and discount home decor stores or you can DIY fall wreaths yourself to save even more cash!

5. Seasonally scented candles

Pumpkin spice candle burning with wick trimmer

(Image credit: Dori Turner)

Just like a cozy fire burning in the fireplace, one of the quickest and most affordable ways to give your home the crisp feeling of fall is by lighting a scented candle. 

Some of my favorites have notes of cinnamon, pumpkin spice, apple, and vanilla. My husband loves the outdoorsy scents like autumn leaves. No matter your preference, lighting one of your best candles with your favorite scents brings the homey warmth of fall and is easy on the wallet! 

How do you decorate for fall on a budget? 

Getting your home ready for fall doesn’t have to break the bank. Remember to shop end-of-season sales and discount home decor stores and just purchase a few things to gradually build your collection each year! It's all about working with what you have, any freebies (from nature!) and getting a little creative with your crafts and DIY.

Dori Turner

Dori Turner writes blog posts and feature articles on affordable design and DIY from her home in the heart of Oklahoma. She has a passion for teaching others how they can transform their home on a budget.

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