As a short-term rental (STR) host, you’re juggling comfort, durability, and style, all without going over budget. Luckily, Amazon is full of hidden gems that look high-end and function like a charm, often for under $100. I’ve curated 10 designer-approved finds that are not just affordable, but smart investments for your rental. These picks will help you create a space that feels cohesive, elevated, and guest-ready, whether you’re outfitting a vacation getaway or a city studio.
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10 Designer-Approved Amazon Finds Under $100
Here are 10 Amazon items (or sets) in approximately the $75–$100 range that combine great design + smart function for STRs. (Prices may fluctuate, so double-check before buying.)
Touch Bedside Table Lamp (Set of 2)
- Why designers like it: This lamp has a clean, modern design, and you can choose your own light bulb to adjust the style to your preference. With several color options to choose from, this lamp pair works across many design aesthetics.
- STR function: Gives guests soft, warm light that’s perfect for reading or winding down, and it’s easy for them to control without fumbling for a switch. AND! comes with a USB port for easy device charging, right at the guest’s fingertips.
- Tip for hosts: Place it on a bedside table so that guests can dim it gently without disturbing anyone else; it feels intentional, not an afterthought.
Cordless LED Table Lamps (Set of 2)
- Why designers like it: These cordless, rechargeable lamps offer a minimalist silhouette and two color temperatures, all wrapped in a sleek metal frame with tons of color options.
- STR function: Zero cord mess, and they can easily be moved anywhere – great for patios, shelves, or even a portable night light.
- Tip for hosts: Charge them fully and leave a note in your guest guidebook: “Plug me in here when you arrive so I’m ready for cozy evening lighting.”
Sliding Tambour Round Coffee Table
- Why designers like it: This round coffee table features a tambour-wood sliding door, giving it a sculptural look that feels both warm and refined. The natural wood finish adds texture without overwhelming a space, making it ideal for a variety of design styles, from Scandinavian to modern boho.
- STR function: The built-in storage compartment under the sliding door provides a discreet spot for guests to stash magazines, board games, extra throw blankets, or remote controls, helping keep the living area clutter-free between stays.
- Tip for hosts: Place the table in your main living area and use the storage chamber to provide a guest “library” of coffee table books or local guides. That way, guests feel like you’ve thought of the little things, and the surface stays tidy and welcoming. Find more pieces here that coordinate!
- Why designers like it: The soft curve gives visual interest without overwhelming a space, making it both sculptural and functional. With three frame colors and several size options, this mirror works well in tons of different spaces.
- STR function: Helps make smaller rooms feel bigger and brighter, and gives guests additional places to “get ready.”
- Tip for hosts: Hang it opposite a window (if possible) to reflect natural light and create an open, airy feel.
- Why designers love it: A warm wood finish with clean lines gives this shelf modern yet natural appeal. It’s minimal but sculptural, blending into a variety of design themes: Scandi, farmhouse, mid-century.
- STR function: This makes an ideal “drop zone” near the front door, where guests can leave keys, sunglasses, mail, or small accessories when they arrive. It’s more inviting than a cluttered entry ledge and helps keep your space feeling intentional.
- Tip for hosts: Mount the shelf at a height where it’s easy to reach (about waist level), and pair it with a small tray or bowl on top to corral guest items – this helps keep the area tidy but still practical.
- Why designers like it: This tray feels elegant with its marbled surface and comes in several different color/finish options, including a fun terrazzo!
- STR function: Perfect catch-all for guest amenities like keys, soap, perfume, or jewelry. It’s super versatile and can be used in bathrooms for travel sized shampoos and soaps (so hotel like!), or in the kitchen to corral the hand and dish soap bottles on the countertop,
- Tip for hosts: Place it on the bathroom vanity or dresser and style it with mini bottles, a candle, or a small plant for a boutique‑hotel feel.
Cuisinart Compact Electric Kettle (1 L)
- Why designers love it: A sleek warm neutral design feels elevated, and not like your basic plastic kettle. It looks good on a countertop and blends into both modern and classic kitchens.
- STR function: Guests who want to make tea, instant coffee, or boil water quickly will appreciate a quality kettle. It’s faster than using the stove, safer for guests, and ideal for short-term stays.
- Tip for hosts: Leave a small note in your welcome guide or on a coaster next to the kettle with “Tea & Coffee Recommendations.” You can suggest a local tea brand or coffee roast for a personalized host touch.
Set of Rustic Ceramic Vases (3‑Piece)
- Why designers like it: The organic shape and subtle texture make them feel handmade and artisan, not machine-made.
- STR function: Use them as decor or fill them with faux foliage (no watering required) for low-maintenance styling.
- Tip for hosts: Place one on a bedside table, one on a shelf, and one on a dining table to create a cohesive but understated look.
15 Pc Non Toxic, Non Stick Ceramic Cookware Set
- Why designers like it: This set is beautiful and elegant without being too over-the-top.
- STR function: Durable, non-toxic, and non-stick make this cookware a 5-star experience for guests who enjoy cooking, even while on vacation. With several color/finish options, there is one to complement every short term rental’s style.
- Tip for hosts: These don’t need to be hidden away in a cabinet – they are almost art pieces themselves!
- Why designers like it: The olive tree combines a natural-looking trunk, leaves in muted olive green, and an elegant tapered shape that mimics a real olive tree without looking plastic or overly “fake chic.” Designers love its sculptural silhouette, which brings organic warmth, height, and texture to a room without the risk of wilting.
- STR function: In a short-term rental, this tree provides a lush, botanical focal point that doesn’t require watering, pruning, or sunlight – making it perfect for suites, living rooms, or entryways where care is minimal but style matters. It also helps soften empty corners, making your space feel more intentional and guest-ready.
- Tip for hosts: Place the tree in a well-lit corner (even if it’s artificial lighting) to create an “indoor meets outdoor” feel; then use a simple, chic planter or basket (think neutral textured woven rattan or ceramic) to ground it. That makes the piece feel like a design choice, not just a filler.
Why These Picks Work So Well for Short-Term Rentals
- Guest comfort meets design: These items strike the sweet spot between practical necessity (lamps, trays, mirrors) and thoughtful aesthetics.
- Durable + stylish: Designers love pieces that look good but won’t look cheap or fragile after a few guests. Under $100, these are easy to replace or scale.
- Easy upgrades: Most are plug-and-play (or cordless!), so you don’t have to rip out old fixtures or hire an electrician.
Design Tips for Hosts Using These Items
- Layer your lighting: Use the cordless lamps + floor lamp + table lamp to create soft, layered light instead of a harsh overhead bulb.
- Use mirrors strategically: Mirrors like the arch wall mirror or curved arch make spaces feel larger – a must for cozy STRs.
- Curate functional decor: Items like the tray and vases serve a purpose and elevate your styling, making simple objects feel intentional.
- Consistency matters: Choose a design theme (modern, boho, minimal) and pick pieces that speak the same visual language. It’s okay if they aren’t from the same brand; cohesion comes from tonality.
Parting Thoughts
Outfitting your short-term rental doesn’t mean splurging on designer brands or spending thousands. With these 10 Amazon finds under $100, you can deliver an elevated, thoughtful guest experience at a fraction of the cost. These pieces don’t just look good – they perform well under guest use, making them both beautiful and practical.
For more Elevated Comfort ideas, read my article “Elevated Comfort: The Secret Ingredient to Airbnb Guest Satisfaction.”
