8 Easy Kitchen Upgrades Under $40

I’m already a homebody, but with temperatures dropping rapidly overnight, I’m ready to respectfully decline all upcoming social engagements and simply hibernate for the season. As I prepare to spend more time at home making soup with my immersion blender and baking sourdough loaves in my Dutch oven, I’m looking to give my kitchen a fall refresh. I’ve set out with a $200 budget to add new decor and clever kitchen organization tools that will make being home even cozier (and perhaps more efficient). From this sleek sink caddie to a shopper-loved automatic soap dispenser, all my quick, easy kitchen upgrades are highly rated and under $40. 

Fall Kitchen Refresh Picks Under $40

• SpaceAid Wide Kitchen Shelf Organizer for Stove, $18, originally $25
• Pzotruf Automatic Soap Dispenser, $26, originally $30
• Cisily Sponge Holder for Kitchen Sink, $20, originally $25
• Songmics Cabinet Organizer Shelf, Set of 2, $29, originally $31
• Mefirt Fruit Basket, Set of 2, $34, originally $46
• Jilitse Tree Shape Trivet Coaster Set, $18, originally $22
• Wiselife Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat, $16, originally $36
• Puiluo Under 2-Tier Sink Sliding Basket Organizer, $18, originally $22

SpaceAid Wide Kitchen Shelf Organizer for Stove

There are essential spices and oils I go to the pantry for every day while cooking, and I often wish they could be within arm’s reach (without having to sacrifice counter space). When I saw this stove organizer shelf, I knew it would be the answer to my need. I like that I could keep my favorite spice mixes on the shelf and that it utilizes an otherwise wasted space in my kitchen. The magnetic bottom also keeps it stable on top of the stove.

Pzotruf Automatic Soap Dispenser

Grimy buildup on dish soap bottles is one of my kitchen pet peeves, so I’m quite tempted by this automatic soap dispenser. It’s only $26 (a fraction of the price compared to models from brands like Simplehuman) and has five dispensing levels. One buyer called it “a game changer” for busy kitchens and loved that it’s consistent in dispensing “the right amount of soap every time.”

Cisily Sponge Holder for Kitchen Sink

Speaking of sink hygiene, I’ve wanted to get a sponge holder for ages so I don’t have to leave my soggy sponge lying around the sink after I do the dishes. This sleek caddy has plenty of room for sponges and brushes that need to dry. It also has an adjustable spout that funnels water back into the sink.

Songmics Cabinet Organizer Shelf, Set of 2

Since moving into my house, I’ve accumulated quite a bit of new dishware. I love all of my plates and bowls, but they can get unruly in the cabinets, especially if I need to use a particular one that’s buried somewhere under a pile of dishes. I love the look of this minimal set of shelves that maximizes vertical space inside cabinets. The bamboo top brings a touch of warmth, and at about $15 apiece, the shelves are a steal.

Mefirt Fruit Basket, Set of 2

If you haven’t picked up on it, we’re officially in apple season. While my fridge is overrun with apples, I like to keep some on the counter to snack on throughout the day. This set of two fruit baskets is ideal for a snack-centric person like myself who likes to keep my kitchen filled with fruits and vegetables. These wire baskets are easily stackable and can even be mounted on the wall. I also love that they come with hooks for hanging up my banana bunches.

Jilitse Tree Shape Trivet Coaster Set

When I first saw these coasters that stack onto a wooden stand to become a miniature pine tree, I knew I had to get them for fall and winter. All of my coasters are a little worse for wear anyway, so this small upgrade will likely stay out year-round, long after the holidays have come and gone. 

Wiselife Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat

I used to have an anti-fatigue kitchen mat that I loved, but it got lost in the shuffle when I moved. Now that I’m refreshing my kitchen for the season, I’m considering picking up a new mat to put in front of my sink. The cushion makes a big difference in staying comfortable while doing dishes or other extended kitchen tasks, and at $16, I may have to get another to place in front of the stove.

Puiluo Under 2-Tier Sliding Basket Organizer

I’ve ignored the growing mess under my sink for far too long. This fall, I’m finally going to organize everything with this two-tier basket organizer that slides out for easy access. I love that there’s no drilling required, so I can make use of it straight from the box.