14 Underrated HomeGoods Items You Should Stop Overlooking, According To Designers

From viral TikToks of customers spoofing obscure finds to its legion of celebrity fans, HomeGoods has certainly made a name for itself in pop culture. And given its business model, it's no surprise. The store offers items at discounted prices and turns over inventory so regularly that every visit is a new adventure. So, it's not shocking that industry experts swear by the retailer to source items for the client's homes — and their own!

House Digest spoke exclusively to several interior designers about their experiences at HomeGoods. They gave us keen insight into what items stop them in their tracks and cause them to abruptly brake their beige shopping carts. From functional to decorative, they look for many of these items thanks to the impressive quality and the unique selection that the store provides. So, on your next visit, take their advice, and you might just discover an item (or three) that you didn't realize your space was craving.

Layered lighting makes a room feel custom and curated. And there are three types of lights you should have in every room. Of course, you'll want task lighting for functionality, and ambient lighting for overall illumination. However, accent lighting is what truly helps to create those cozy, welcoming vibes. From sconces to table lamps, these add both character and a warm glow to a space. However, you don't have to spend a ton to create a lighting scheme that feels curated. Craig Gritzen, founder of Curated Style Collective, exclusively tells House Digest that accent lighting is a must-visit section on any trip to HomeGoods.

The principal designer explains, "HomeGoods often has a great selection of lamps that feel more collected than you would find at big-box stores, and the ever-changing inventory makes it easier to find one that works with your space. I recommend looking for small ceramic lamps, ones with a sculptural feel, and options with linen shades." Depending on your style, also look for other high-quality materials like stone, glass, and solid wood. And keep in mind, even if you find a base that you love for a steal, but the shade is damaged, you can swap it out with a new one. This is also a great chance to ask a store employee for a steeper discount. Oftentimes, they will give you an extra percentage off imperfect items.

Small, flexible seating like benches and stools can improve the layout of any room of the house. As Gritzen points out, "These are the kind of pieces that help your space function better, from a bench at the end of a bed or a stool tucked under a console." The store is known to carry a range of options from playful, viral fruit stools to luxe, velvet storage benches. Kritzen continues, "The selection is often great at HomeGoods, and you can find different finish options like wood, leather, and antique-inspired fabrics that meet your taste and budget." 

However, you don't want to take home a piece that just won't work in your space. So, measure the areas where you could use some extra seating, and keep a note in your phone so you know what dimensions are doable. You also want to make sure you are getting an actual steal by taking a hard look at the piece before heading to the checkout. Gritzen explains, "I recommend homeowners check the scale, fabric quality, and leg construction before buying. This is a great way to find a quality piece at a good price."

The right table linens can make or break a tablescape and are a must for decorating a dining table or hosting a backyard party. However, they can cost a pretty penny at high-end home stores. But Gritzen explains that they are the most underrated thing to snag at HomeGoods. He says, "I'm always on the hunt for cloth napkins, runners, and placemats. These are the small details that can completely change the look and feel of an eat-in kitchen or dining room."

The retailer often carries a ton of seasonal table linens in bright colors and festive patterns. But if you really want to create a sophisticated look, narrow your search to certain options. Gritzen specifies, "I recommend looking for muted tones, block prints, or anything that would help bring that high-end restaurant feeling into your home." And check the care tag before buying. You don't want to be in for more maintenance than you expected when it's time to wash away debris from Sunday's brunch.

When you're decorating a space, little stylish accent pieces can add character and set the mood. However, these are also items that many people swap out often, so you don't want to invest a ton in them. So, Cara Woodhouse, founder of Cara Woodhouse Interiors, explains exclusively to House Digest that decorative trays and sculptural accessories are items that she always hunts for at HomeGoods. The interior designer and author of "It's a Mood" notes, "You can find pieces with really interesting shapes, textures, and materials that feel far more elevated than their price point. I especially love mixing these finds into luxury interiors because they add personality without everything feeling overly sourced or expected."

She adds, "HomeGoods tends to rotate inventory constantly, so there's a sense of discovery there that you don't always get from more mainstream retailers." But if you're looking for the perfect piece, keep in mind that the early bird gets the worm. New inventory is often stocked overnight or early in the morning, so get there close to opening time to get the best pick.

Books are one of those functional items that do double-duty as decor. As Woodhouse points out, "Books are one of the easiest ways to make a space feel layered and lived in, and HomeGoods consistently has a strong selection that feels curated rather than generic." But whether you're a bibliophile or don't even plan to peek at a page, you probably don't want to overspend on them.

So, on your next trip to the retailer, check out the literary aisle. Woodhouse explains, "HomeGoods is actually one of my favorite places to source oversized coffee table books for styling. They often carry beautiful fashion, travel, art, and architecture books at a fraction of the normal retail cost." Even if you find a book you love, but the color doesn't match your space, you can still make it work. Check under the jacket to see if the hue of the actual book would be a better look. If not, rewrap the book in a neutral-colored paper or reverse the jacket so the white side faces outward.

Few things add character to a space like the right textiles. When it comes to decorating homes with throw blankets, Woodhouse tells us, "I often use them to add warmth and dimension to modern interiors." These blankets are also a great way to inject color, pattern, and texture into a room without a ton of commitment or investment.

Woodhouse continues, "I think HomeGoods is underrated for throw blankets, especially chunky knits, faux fur, or textured neutral styles. The quality can be surprisingly good compared to similarly priced options elsewhere, and they're an easy way to soften a room and make it feel more inviting." The store often has seasonal options as well, allowing you to customize your space for the time of year at a low cost. So in the summer, lean into lightweight cotton or linen options. Then, when winter rolls around, check the aisles for heavier options like cozy wool and plush synthetic fur. However, with any textiles, check the care tag to make sure you know what the washing and drying requirements will be.

Statement-making planters and towering vases can add sophistication and a luxe vibe to a home. However, that statement often comes with a hefty price tag. As Woodhouse explains, "Oversized accessories can become very expensive at higher-end retailers, but HomeGoods often carries statement pieces with beautiful finishes that feel impactful without the luxury markup."

Browse the aisles and look for pieces that can make a big impact. Woodhouse continues, "They're great for adding height, texture, and visual weight to a room." Plus, they're super fun to style. Once you find your just right piece, head over to the store's greenery aisle to see if there are stems or artificial plants that can finish the look. If plants aren't your thing, get creative with other ways to fill your container. Dried driftwood works well in spaces with coastal decor, while pampas grass perfectly fits the boho aesthetic. Or keep the container empty and allow it to speak for itself in modern or minimalist rooms.

When it comes to styling a bedroom, nightstands can make or break the functionality. However, it's also key that they fit your style and work with the rest of the furniture in the room. HomeGoods might just be the spot for a great find. Lori Miller, interior designer and president of LGC Interior Designs, explains exclusively to House Digest, "From wood tones to painted styles, the selections are cost-effective and offered in a multitude of styles. The selection and quality of the items are better than anywhere else, and they are available off the shelf."

Just keep in mind that selecting the right nightstand for your bedroom can be tough since they come in a very wide range of sizes. So, measuring your space before you hit the aisles is key. Scale comes into play, and it's important to choose one that makes sense for the size of your bed. For full or queen beds, nightstands that are about 21 to 29 inches wide typically work well. You'll want to go a bit narrower for a twin, and a bit wider for a king bed. Just make sure to measure how high your mattress is as well to find a nightstand that's a similar height.

The right mirror is one of those invaluable interior design tricks that can make or break a space. However, they are often very expensive. Depending on how and where you are looking to add a mirror, your local HomeGoods may have some good picks. As Miller tells us, "I have not found a larger selection of mirrors anywhere else, and the prices are very reasonable. From wall mirrors to larger floor mirrors, they have it all."

The way mirrors are styled and placed can make it even more effective. They can visually widen a hallway or a narrow entryway to make it feel more spacious. Placing one across from a window can amplify natural light and illuminate a dim space. No matter what, plan to hang or place your mirror at eye level while standing for the most natural feel and greatest impact.

Flickering candles inject cozy vibes, and some even add a welcoming fragrance to a room. However, adding them to candlesticks or holders makes them look finished and decorative. Burcu Ercetin of Design & Curations exclusively tells House Digest that she shops for these at HomeGoods for their ability to layer warmth and infuse a bit of ambiance at a low price. The designer also touts them as a budget-friendly way to add seasonal decor. 

She explains, "I love checking HomeGoods for styling pieces because it has such a good balance of quality, price, and variety." These decorative accents can even make flameless LED candles look more realistic while avoiding safety risks. Candlesticks can be filled with flameless options like Homemory's Battery-Operated Candles. More compact holders can be filled with smaller versions like Amagic's Flameless Tealight Candles.

The discount retailer is a great place to pick up storage boxes in a variety of designs and materials. These are super versatile containers, from pretty cardboard ones that elevate gift presentation to rustic wooden ones to house jewelry. HomeGoods carries these in a variety of sizes and price points, too.

Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studio, explains exclusively to House Digest, "Whether crafted in faux shagreen, lacquer, woven materials, or linen, they offer an easy way to conceal everyday clutter while adding texture and polish to a room. I often recommend using them on bookshelves, consoles, and coffee tables because they deliver both beauty and function." You just may have to hunt to find the perfect box for your needs. Sometimes they are stocked near the storage and gift areas. However, ones that fit certain seasonal color schemes or themes are often nestled in tabletop displays or on end caps throughout the store.

Another of Kelly's favorite items also happens to be super versatile. She explained why she loves plant stools, saying, "They can function as side tables, extra seating, plant stands, or decorative accents both indoors and out." Their compact size means that they can add storage to a tight corner or an unused nook. Weatherproof ones are perfect for bathtub side tables, and sturdy models can be used in kids' rooms as an extra play surface.

The store's constantly revolving inventory means that you'll likely find one that fits your home's aesthetic. Kelly explains, "HomeGoods consistently carries a wide variety of ceramic and glazed options in different colors, patterns, and finishes. Because these pieces are often purchased individually rather than as part of a larger furniture collection, shoppers can find unique designs that feel collected rather than mass-produced."

Baskets are one of the most popular organizational and clutter-hiding strategies. Kelly explains that the storage workhorses are a great buy at HomeGoods. She says, "They provide concealed storage for throws, toys, magazines, pet supplies, and everyday essentials while contributing warmth and texture to a space. HomeGoods tends to offer a broader assortment of woven styles, materials, and sizes than many traditional retailers."

Baskets are about form as much as functionality, injecting texture into a space as well. Kelly notes, "The ability to mix natural fibers, shapes, and finishes allows homeowners to create a more layered and personalized look." However, like boxes, you may have to be a bit more diligent and browse outside the basket aisle to find the perfect one. Make sure to measure shelves, cubbies, or any other place you plan to place the baskets before you leave home. And if you're mixing and matching styles in one spot, choose at least one cohesive element (like the color, material, or shape) for a polished look.

When choosing the best artwork for your home, it's important to think about the presentation. This is just as true for family photos as it is for a prized limited-edition print. The frame you choose can make or break your display, so it's important to choose a quality one that accents the piece well. Kelly reveals, "HomeGoods frequently carries frames in materials and finishes that would cost significantly more through specialty retailers." So, browse the store's frame aisles for options that stick to your budget without sacrificing craftsmanship.

HomeGoods is also a good place to hunt for that statement-making way to display artwork. Kelly continues, "I particularly appreciate that shoppers can often find oversized frames, unique profiles, and higher-end finishes that make inexpensive artwork feel custom and intentional." If you spot an awesome frame that you don't already have a use for, get creative and look for a low-cost artwork alternative to fill it in other areas of the store. Pretty greeting cards, a bold fabric napkin, or a stunning wrapping paper can all make impressive, unconventional art displays.