Shop These Interior Designer–Approved Décor Swaps for Fall from $9

Some people get excited about fall foliage. Others, a pumpkin spice latte. Me, on the other hand? Fall décor. But I admittedly need some help when it comes to creating the dreamiest fall ambience, and I know others can find it overwhelming, too. 

So I decided to tap experts on how to transition our homes for fall. And it turns out making a few simple swaps is all you need for an autumnal oasis.

“My essentials for creating peak fall energy at home start with cosy textiles. Layering your space with natural materials like wool and felt instantly adds warmth,” Gabriel Jacka, founder of Jacka Designs, tells PEOPLE. Instead of relying too heavily on artificial décor, Jacka explains that the secret to a fall-ready home is embracing organic textures and materials, bringing the outdoors in for a rustic vibe. “I love using dried leaves, pinecones, and evergreen cuttings for a touch of the forest floor,” he says. 

Whether you’re setting up for Halloween movie marathons or prepping for holiday entertaining this season, Amazon is packed with seasonal swaps guaranteed to impress your guests starting at just $9.

Fall Décor Swaps at Amazon

Swap Out Lightweight Blankets, Swap in Plush Knits

“When fall rolls around, I love swapping out lightweight summer fabrics for richer, cozier textures,” Drew Micheal Scott of Lone Fox tells PEOPLE. “I usually update my throw pillows and blankets with plush fabrics like knits, velvets, or faux fur.” Scott says this gives the room an instant seasonal refresh without requiring a full makeover. “And of course, you can never go wrong with a classic plaid!”

Swap Out Summer Scents, Swap in Cozy Candles

To mark the change of seasons, Scott always starts with candles, like this pumpkin scent available on Amazon. “There’s just something about curling up with your favorite movie or show while a cozy, rich candle burns nearby,” he says. “Whether it’s on the coffee table or your nightstand, it instantly sets the mood and brings all the fall vibes into your space.” 

Swap Out Coastal Accents, Swap in Matte and Wood Décor

Tuck away pastel dishware and breezy coastal accents in the home, Kerrie Kelly, American Society of Interior Designers fellow, tells PEOPLE. “Bring in matte ceramics, wood serving boards, or copper cookware — pieces that add both beauty and function to the season.” Bonus: This large cutting board also doubles as a cheese serving dish you can pull out at your holiday parties.

Swap Out Citrus Hues, Swap in Earth Tones

Kelly recommends packing away your lightweight linens, bright citrus hues, and breezy cottons. Instead, “bring in moody jewel tones” and textures such as reclaimed wood, hammered metals, and leather.” With a wine red finish, grape vine base, and realistic leaves, this autumn wreath is an easy fall décor piece that’s inviting whether you have it in your entryway or above a fireplace. 

Swap Out Florals, Swap in Textured Pillows

A low-cost, no-effort way to decorate your home is with throw pillows, like this $9 cover with an autumnal print. “Incorporating textured fabrics, warm earthy tones, and a few metallic accents can really transform a room without much effort,” Scott shared. “Think cozy throws, pillow covers, and touches like brass candleholders or dried florals. These simple details add richness and depth, creating a space that feels seasonal but still personal and elevated.”

Swap Out Summer Soaps, Swap in Autumn Scents

Kelly explains that bathrooms tend to be overlooked when decorating, and a simple way to create a cozy fall space is by ditching lemon, orange, and bright soap scents in favor of autumnal ones like apple, cinnamon, pumpkin, and spice. You can even include some dark amber soap dispensers next to mini boucle pumpkins for instant fall vibes.

Swap Out Fresh Plants, Swap in Dried Branches

Jacka notes that the entryway is typically forgotten when it comes to fall decorating, but it’s the “perfect spot” to create small seasonal moments. “Add a natural jute rug and a vase of twisted willow or dried branches to your entrance for a rustic welcome,” he shared. 

Swap Out Kitchen Clutter, Swap in Tonal Ceramics

“It’s all about elevating the everyday,” Jacka says. “Swap out your usual kitchen counter clutter with curated groupings of tonal ceramics, wooden spoons, and natural materials, like stoneware bowls, chopping boards, and warm timber.” These items are not only practical in the kitchen, but they can also double as fall décor. “You can even style a few dried herbs or branches in a vessel for a subtle seasonal nod.”

Swap Out Halloween Decor, Swap in Seasonal Elements

“Personally, I’ve moved away from the more traditional spooky decor like skeletons and cobwebs and lean more into cozy, seasonal elements that feel timeless,” Scott shares. “But if going all-out with Halloween makes you happy, go for it! It should feel fun, not forced.” 

Overall, there’s no “right way” to decorate for fall, Scott says. “It’s totally personal, especially if you have kids who are excited for Halloween. The key is finding a balance that feels authentic to you.” 

Find more seasonal pieces recommended by interior designers below. 

Miulee Decorative Linen Sham, $20 with coupon

Lamplust Plush Pumpkins

Bobby Creativity Natural Wooden Spoons

Kate Aspen Ribbed Retro Arch Glasses

Creative Co-Op Small Boucle Velvet Pumpkins

Smiletag Ceramic Modern Vase Set