Here’s How to Shop Home Depot Like an Apartment Therapy Editor
For plenty of people, hardware stores are like a second home—full of inspiration and supplies for your next DIY or project. But if you haven’t broken into this world, walking inside can feel a little intimidating (kind of like wandering into a group fitness class when you haven’t worked out for a long time). Not to worry: we went to the Home Depot, and pulled together some of our favorite tips. Check out the video above, and read on for more.
1. Start With the Plants
This tip consistently gets audible gasps when I share it: If you buy a plant at The Home Depot and it dies within a year, you can return it. The policy applies to tropical, house, and landscape plants (only perennials, trees, and shrubs), according to their team. You do need to have an original receipt to get your replacement or refund. So if you’re still, er, cultivating your green thumb, this is a great place to start.
2. Check Out the Home Decor
You might think this is a place for hard core supplies, but THD also has some great decor. Some locations are better stocked than others, but the one I visited had a good selection of lamps and rugs. See what you can find, or shop online (you can also find your items online and pick it up in two hours for free if it’s in stock to avoid roaming the aisles).
3. Try a Small-Scale DIY
If you aren’t ready for a big DIY project, start small. Here’s one of my favorites: if your light switch plates are looking a little dingy, un-screw them on your way out the door, and bring them with you. Match them up to the same sizes in the store, and freshen up your look or choose a new color. Then screw them on when you’re back home. Instant update!
Find more tips, including the best time to save on paint and a tool renting hack, in the video above.